10A NCAC 09 .0902 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2026 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 4/23/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 05:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on May 20, 2025. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of April 21, 2026. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. We reviewed the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to the facility phone number, fax number, email address, web address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a facility operating under a four or five star license and serving children who are four and five years of age. The license, NC Summary of Child Care Law poster, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, and emergency phone numbers were posted as required. The most recent fire inspection was dated February 24, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 27, 2025 with a Superior classification and eleven demerits. The lead water test results dated February 12, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing and are waiting on the survey results. Fire drills were up to date, completed monthly, and documented on the Fire Drill Log. Emergency drills were documented on the Emergency Drill Log. The last emergency drill was a lockdown drill. A current and posted menu documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals and snacks were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Milk and cold food items were stored in a commercial refrigerator at a temperature of forty degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s meals met meal pattern requirements. I completed a walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment. Preschool-age children played in activity areas in the classrooms and participated in teacher-directed small activities that included crafts and water play. Toddler-age children played with materials in the classrooms, participated in teacher-directed small group activities that included crafts, and participated in teacher-lead whole group activities that included read-alouds of children’s books. Infant-age children played with materials in the classrooms while interacting with teachers. Children of all ages transitioned to outdoor play, played outside, attended to personal care needs, transitioned to indoor activities, ate lunch, napped, ate snack, and departed. You stated no school-aged children were enrolled at this time. Supervision, adequate approved enhanced space use, capacity, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced group size, and permit restrictions were maintained during today’s visit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records, children’s records, and a portion of staff records today. Due to time constraints and four new staff members not being listed on the Staff and Training (S&T) Worksheet, a review of staff records was not completed today. I will return to the facility on April 28, 2026 to complete the staff record review. Please have the all staff listed on the S&T worksheet and have all the information documented as requested. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 434 The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. .0604(q) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. .0606(b) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. One staff member assigned to work in the room with infants with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 12/27/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. The administrator with a date of employment of 07/17/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 10/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. This is a violation of a requirement in .1102(f). .1102(f) 1314 Emergency information did not name child's health care professional. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child. .0802(c)(2) 1317 Authorization for emergency medical care information was not signed by child's parent. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. .0802(d) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. .0801(a)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1864 Outdoor play equipment was not age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. .0605(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), a current schedule should be posted for each group of children for reference by parents and by caregivers. In Space 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. To correct this violation, a daily schedule should be created for Space 2 and 5 that reflects the daily routines of the staff and the teacher. This daily schedule should be written and posted in the classroom where it can be easily referenced by staff and parents. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review the items required to be posted in each classroom and make routine inspections of the classrooms to ensure these items are posted and current at all times. 2. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), activity plans should be current and posted. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. The teachers stated that they had not completed an activity plan for this week, and the activities observed during today’s visit to the classrooms did not reflect the theme for last week. To correct this violation, a current activity plan should be created and posted in each classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you require activity plans be turned in to you for review prior to Fridays and then require staff to post the new activity plan at the end of the operating day on Friday evenings. I further suggest that you monitor each classroom on Monday morning to ensure a current activity plan has been posted in each classroom. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2), the materials and equipment indoors and outdoors should be sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. Children were also running and playing with leaves and sticks, but no additional outdoor play equipment or teacher-provided materials were available to the children. To correct this violation, I suggest you add materials/toys to each of these classrooms and the outdoor learning environment to provide a sufficient of amount of materials/toys for the number of children enrolled and a variety of materials/toys to promote development across all developmental domains. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you print the suggested materials list found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents” and ask each classroom teacher to provide a monthly inventory of the materials in their classroom. I suggest you use these monthly inventory lists to determine the materials that need to be purchased on a monthly or quarterly basis as needed. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a), each child less than fifteen months of age should have an individual feeding plan on file and posted in the classroom the child is attending. The written feeding plan should be modified as the child's needs changed. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. To correct this violation, an individual feeding plan should be posted in Space 5 for each of the children enrolled in the classroom. A copy may be kept on file in the office, but the original should be posted in the classroom were modifications can be documented as each child’s feeding plan changes with their developmental growth. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you revise your enrollment process to include posting the individual feeding plan in the classroom on or before the first day the child attends the center. I also suggest you review this child care requirement with the your staff members who provide care to children less than fifteen months of age. 5. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2806(f)(h)(2), each refrigerator or cooler used to store food or beverage served to the children should be equipped with a working thermometer and should maintain a temperature of at least forty-five degrees Fahrenheit. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. To correct this violation, I suggest you place a thermometer in the refrigerator in Space 5. To maintain compliance with this sanitation rule, I suggest you review this sanitation requirement with your staff members and make routine inspections of the refrigerators throughout the center to ensure a working thermometer is present in each and every refrigerator in the center. I also suggest you purchase and keep on hand extra refrigerator thermometers so that you always have a backup just in case a thermometer goes missing or stops working properly. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a), the fence surrounding the outdoor play area should be in good repair and barbs should not be protruding on the top or the bottom of the fence. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you repair the bottom of the fence on Outdoor Space 1 that will cover the barbs on the bottom of the fence and repair the holes along the back fence line on Outdoor Space 1 and 5. 7. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b), all cleaning supplies, aerosol cans, and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. To correct this violation, these aerosol cans should be removed from the classroom or stored within the classroom in cabinets with working locks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review this sanitation and child care requirement with your staff and conduct routine inspections of each classroom to ensure hazardous items are stored as required. 8. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the over the counter diaper creams and ointments to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule with staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 9. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. The teachers in the classroom moved the bags to a locked cabinet unit in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review these rules and the other rules with your staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 10. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b), the center's safe sleep policy should be posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. Teachers stated that the center’s safe sleep policy had not been posted when the infant room was opened for operation a few months ago. To correct this violation, print and post a copy of the center’s safe sleep policy in the classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you create a checklist that includes all the required postings for each classroom and give this to the staff so they can have a list of the postings they should maintain in their classroom. 11. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f), child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, should complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment, child care administrators should complete the ITS-SIDS training within ninety days of employment, and one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training should be present in the infant room while children are in care. While reviewing staff records, I observed one new staff member with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 who did not have documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training due by 01/27/2026. I observed that the administrator with a date of employment 07/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026 with no documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training prior to this date. To correct this violation, an ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the staff member hired on 10/27/2025 and an expired ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the administrator to support that the administrator had a valid ITS-SIDS training certificate prior to 01/26/2026. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest when faced with hiring and training new teachers to care for infant-age children, you temporarily assign a staff member who has completed ITS-SIDS training to the infant room and attempt to find an ITS-SIDS class either in or outside the county for these the new staff members within two months as required. 12. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(c)(2), emergency information should include the name of a health care professional for the child. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child.. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent write in the name of a health care professional such as a family physician, a pediatrician, a local urgent care center, or a local health department. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each child enrollment application upon receipt to ensure all required information has been completed and provided by the parent. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 13. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(d), authorization for emergency medical care should be signed by the parent of each child. An authorization for emergency medical care statement is included on the “Child’s Application For Enrollment” form provided by DCDEE and used by this center. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. To correct this violation, I suggest you request that the parent sign the authorization for emergency medical care statement on the application form. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each application for enrollment when it is received and note any missing information. Then have the parent add the missing information on the first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 14. Per NC General Statute 110-91(1), each child should have a children’s medical report and immunization record on file on or before the child’s first day of attendance but no later than 30 days after enrollment. While reviewing child records, one child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. To correct this violation, I suggest you request an immunization record from the parent. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you establish a tracking tool and/or system to assist you with maintaining the thirty day due date for medical reports and immunizations for children. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child record files to ensure that each child has a medical health assessment report and immunization record on file. 15. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0801(a), each child’s application for enrollment should include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. While reviewing child records, three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent answer each of the questions in the health care needs section by adding relative information to be shared or writing “NA” or “NONE” to indicate that no information needs to be shared. To maintain compliance this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 16. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. To correct this violation, please follow the instructions below: 1. You will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. 2. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. 3. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. 4. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, be sure to update this information in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. Should you need assistance with any of this process, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 17. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), emergency drills (shelter-in-place or lockdown drills) should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. To correct this violation, a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill should be conducted and recorded within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone to conduct a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill every three months and continue to record the drill on the emergency drill log. 18. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(a), outdoor play equipment should be age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. To correct this violation, no children under the age of five years should be allowed to play on the stationary climbing piece installed on Outdoor Space 5. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff and encourage them to use only the outdoor space designated for their age group. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, I will return to complete the review of staff records. If additional violations are cited during the staff record review, those violations will be added to this visit and documented on a “Visit Documentation Addendum” form and included with the visit summary that day. 2. As discussed today, due to the number of violations cited during the visit, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 (2), the citation of sixteen or more violations of separate rules in a single visit may result in the issuance of an administrative action. 4. Please sure to send new fire inspection reports to me by email within one week of their completion. 5. Please be mindful of the cleanliness of walls, doors, door facings, windowsills, shelves, cubbies, exterior door metal seals, and rug/carpets as build up and soiling becomes concerning when these areas are not cleaned routinely. 6. Per NC General Statute 110-102, the current version of Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law should be posted in a prominent place in the facility and included in the enrollment packet to be given to parents prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in November 2025. Today, I observed the date of the posted Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was September 2023 and February 2025. Please print the updated version, post it in your lobby, and add it to your new enrollment packets. I also suggest you regularly check the DCDEE website for updated versions and especially when you receive notification of child care or sanitation rule updates. 7. As discussed today, the manufacturer labels on the stationary climbing structure on Outdoor Space 5 had been painted over. Please notify the appropriate corporate representative and request that manufacturer labels be left unpainted in the future so that the information on the manufacturer label maintains its integrity and usefulness. 8. When and if you update your fire evacuation route, shelter-in-place, and/or lock-down drill plan, you need to have the fire department approve the your plan first BEFORE you put it in your EPR plan as an update. 9. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website at this link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization to learn more now. 10. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project offers coaching for child care providers who would like support managing challenging classroom behaviors. The goal is to empower teachers to create learning environments that promote pro-social skills, like self-control and problem solving. Support is available by phone at 888-600-1685, Option 1 or by email at HSB@childcareresourcesinc.org. 11. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 12. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Child-Care-Rules-Law-and-Public-Information Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization 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 13. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 14. If you would like an electronic link to any of the links shared above, please send me an email requesting the links that you wish to receive, and I will be glad to send the hyperlinks to you by email. RATED LICENSE CONSULTATION During a technical assistance visit on November 5, 2025, we discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. Today, you shared that the KinderCare corporation is moving toward accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and should be completing that accreditation process before December 2026. I requested that you keep you updated with this accreditation process and reminded you that DCDEE plans for all permits/licenses to be updated by December 2026. While this facility may initiate the rated license assessment process at any time by submitting the “Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers”, I suggest you submit your application based on the following dates depending on your assessment option choice: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, May 1, 2026. • Immediately begin your three-month self-study using the ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care as soon as you complete the three-month study. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, June 1, 2026. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum for all ages served.) • Arrange coaching or training options for the administrator and lead teachers if applicable. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, October 1, 2026. • Ensure all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Please be reminded the facility will be required to maintain the staff to child ratio and group sizes required by the accrediting organization and these requirements must be verified by your child care consultant prior to the license being issued. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. CONSULTATION FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL RATING SCALE (ERS) ASSESSMENT (if applicable): 1. Remember that the ECERS-3 assessment will be completed in three hours with no interview process. If the assessors do not observe an indicator in action or posted as required, there will be no opportunity to explain the omission. 2. If your current classroom schedule and routine allows for outside play after 11am, you may want to revise your classroom schedule to include outside play in the first three hours of the school day. If you choose to make a schedule change, I suggest you make those changes as soon as possible and to begin to train the children and staff in the new routine. 3. Allow bleach water to sit on surfaces at least two minutes before wiping off or using the surface. 4. Ensure that children wash hands upon arrival, before and after water play, after messy art/play dough play, after coming in from outside, before eating, after toileting/diapering and after coughing/sneezing, etc. 5. Ensure that learning centers are accessible a substantial portion of the day and that your daily schedule reflects it. Areas that must be made available for a minimum of 2hrs and 10 minutes to meet the “Substantial Portion of the Day” requirement are: Fine Motor, Art, Blocks, Dramatic Play, Nature/Science/Exploration, Math/Numbers, and Books. 6. Ensure that children go outside every day weather permitting. 7. Ensure that your block centers are protected from foot traffic, large enough for three children to build a sizeable structure and enough blocks for three children to build. 8. Ensure that books and materials are in good repair and no books depict violent images (guns, swords, teeth bearing). 9. Ensure that the majority of direction/redirection is positive instead of negative. 10. Ensure that staff member's pocket books are stored in locked storage since they almost always contain medications or lotions that must be inaccessible to children. 11. Ensure that staff are interacting with children, engaging in meaningful conversations, and helping children work through altercations and conflicts as they occur. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item numbers 841 and 858 corrected during today’s visit since I documented the steps taken to correct these violations in today’s visit summary. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting Documentation: 1. Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. 2. Please DO NOT send copies of health related information by email or mail. If needed, I will verify these documents are on file during the next monitoring visit. I should receive your compliance letter no later than May 7, 2026. 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Due to time constraints created by the number of violations cited today, a handwritten visit summary was prepared, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. A computer-generated visit summary was prepared and sent to you by email on April 24, 2026. When I return to complete the staff record review, a printed copy of the visit summary will be given to and reviewed with you at that time. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at 828.493.6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov. or you may contact Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you do to serve the children and families in your community. 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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0302 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2026 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 4/23/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 05:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on May 20, 2025. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of April 21, 2026. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. We reviewed the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to the facility phone number, fax number, email address, web address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a facility operating under a four or five star license and serving children who are four and five years of age. The license, NC Summary of Child Care Law poster, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, and emergency phone numbers were posted as required. The most recent fire inspection was dated February 24, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 27, 2025 with a Superior classification and eleven demerits. The lead water test results dated February 12, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing and are waiting on the survey results. Fire drills were up to date, completed monthly, and documented on the Fire Drill Log. Emergency drills were documented on the Emergency Drill Log. The last emergency drill was a lockdown drill. A current and posted menu documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals and snacks were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Milk and cold food items were stored in a commercial refrigerator at a temperature of forty degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s meals met meal pattern requirements. I completed a walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment. Preschool-age children played in activity areas in the classrooms and participated in teacher-directed small activities that included crafts and water play. Toddler-age children played with materials in the classrooms, participated in teacher-directed small group activities that included crafts, and participated in teacher-lead whole group activities that included read-alouds of children’s books. Infant-age children played with materials in the classrooms while interacting with teachers. Children of all ages transitioned to outdoor play, played outside, attended to personal care needs, transitioned to indoor activities, ate lunch, napped, ate snack, and departed. You stated no school-aged children were enrolled at this time. Supervision, adequate approved enhanced space use, capacity, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced group size, and permit restrictions were maintained during today’s visit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records, children’s records, and a portion of staff records today. Due to time constraints and four new staff members not being listed on the Staff and Training (S&T) Worksheet, a review of staff records was not completed today. I will return to the facility on April 28, 2026 to complete the staff record review. Please have the all staff listed on the S&T worksheet and have all the information documented as requested. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 434 The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. .0604(q) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. .0606(b) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. One staff member assigned to work in the room with infants with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 12/27/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. The administrator with a date of employment of 07/17/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 10/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. This is a violation of a requirement in .1102(f). .1102(f) 1314 Emergency information did not name child's health care professional. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child. .0802(c)(2) 1317 Authorization for emergency medical care information was not signed by child's parent. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. .0802(d) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. .0801(a)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1864 Outdoor play equipment was not age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. .0605(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), a current schedule should be posted for each group of children for reference by parents and by caregivers. In Space 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. To correct this violation, a daily schedule should be created for Space 2 and 5 that reflects the daily routines of the staff and the teacher. This daily schedule should be written and posted in the classroom where it can be easily referenced by staff and parents. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review the items required to be posted in each classroom and make routine inspections of the classrooms to ensure these items are posted and current at all times. 2. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), activity plans should be current and posted. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. The teachers stated that they had not completed an activity plan for this week, and the activities observed during today’s visit to the classrooms did not reflect the theme for last week. To correct this violation, a current activity plan should be created and posted in each classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you require activity plans be turned in to you for review prior to Fridays and then require staff to post the new activity plan at the end of the operating day on Friday evenings. I further suggest that you monitor each classroom on Monday morning to ensure a current activity plan has been posted in each classroom. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2), the materials and equipment indoors and outdoors should be sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. Children were also running and playing with leaves and sticks, but no additional outdoor play equipment or teacher-provided materials were available to the children. To correct this violation, I suggest you add materials/toys to each of these classrooms and the outdoor learning environment to provide a sufficient of amount of materials/toys for the number of children enrolled and a variety of materials/toys to promote development across all developmental domains. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you print the suggested materials list found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents” and ask each classroom teacher to provide a monthly inventory of the materials in their classroom. I suggest you use these monthly inventory lists to determine the materials that need to be purchased on a monthly or quarterly basis as needed. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a), each child less than fifteen months of age should have an individual feeding plan on file and posted in the classroom the child is attending. The written feeding plan should be modified as the child's needs changed. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. To correct this violation, an individual feeding plan should be posted in Space 5 for each of the children enrolled in the classroom. A copy may be kept on file in the office, but the original should be posted in the classroom were modifications can be documented as each child’s feeding plan changes with their developmental growth. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you revise your enrollment process to include posting the individual feeding plan in the classroom on or before the first day the child attends the center. I also suggest you review this child care requirement with the your staff members who provide care to children less than fifteen months of age. 5. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2806(f)(h)(2), each refrigerator or cooler used to store food or beverage served to the children should be equipped with a working thermometer and should maintain a temperature of at least forty-five degrees Fahrenheit. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. To correct this violation, I suggest you place a thermometer in the refrigerator in Space 5. To maintain compliance with this sanitation rule, I suggest you review this sanitation requirement with your staff members and make routine inspections of the refrigerators throughout the center to ensure a working thermometer is present in each and every refrigerator in the center. I also suggest you purchase and keep on hand extra refrigerator thermometers so that you always have a backup just in case a thermometer goes missing or stops working properly. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a), the fence surrounding the outdoor play area should be in good repair and barbs should not be protruding on the top or the bottom of the fence. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you repair the bottom of the fence on Outdoor Space 1 that will cover the barbs on the bottom of the fence and repair the holes along the back fence line on Outdoor Space 1 and 5. 7. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b), all cleaning supplies, aerosol cans, and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. To correct this violation, these aerosol cans should be removed from the classroom or stored within the classroom in cabinets with working locks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review this sanitation and child care requirement with your staff and conduct routine inspections of each classroom to ensure hazardous items are stored as required. 8. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the over the counter diaper creams and ointments to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule with staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 9. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. The teachers in the classroom moved the bags to a locked cabinet unit in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review these rules and the other rules with your staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 10. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b), the center's safe sleep policy should be posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. Teachers stated that the center’s safe sleep policy had not been posted when the infant room was opened for operation a few months ago. To correct this violation, print and post a copy of the center’s safe sleep policy in the classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you create a checklist that includes all the required postings for each classroom and give this to the staff so they can have a list of the postings they should maintain in their classroom. 11. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f), child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, should complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment, child care administrators should complete the ITS-SIDS training within ninety days of employment, and one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training should be present in the infant room while children are in care. While reviewing staff records, I observed one new staff member with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 who did not have documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training due by 01/27/2026. I observed that the administrator with a date of employment 07/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026 with no documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training prior to this date. To correct this violation, an ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the staff member hired on 10/27/2025 and an expired ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the administrator to support that the administrator had a valid ITS-SIDS training certificate prior to 01/26/2026. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest when faced with hiring and training new teachers to care for infant-age children, you temporarily assign a staff member who has completed ITS-SIDS training to the infant room and attempt to find an ITS-SIDS class either in or outside the county for these the new staff members within two months as required. 12. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(c)(2), emergency information should include the name of a health care professional for the child. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child.. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent write in the name of a health care professional such as a family physician, a pediatrician, a local urgent care center, or a local health department. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each child enrollment application upon receipt to ensure all required information has been completed and provided by the parent. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 13. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(d), authorization for emergency medical care should be signed by the parent of each child. An authorization for emergency medical care statement is included on the “Child’s Application For Enrollment” form provided by DCDEE and used by this center. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. To correct this violation, I suggest you request that the parent sign the authorization for emergency medical care statement on the application form. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each application for enrollment when it is received and note any missing information. Then have the parent add the missing information on the first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 14. Per NC General Statute 110-91(1), each child should have a children’s medical report and immunization record on file on or before the child’s first day of attendance but no later than 30 days after enrollment. While reviewing child records, one child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. To correct this violation, I suggest you request an immunization record from the parent. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you establish a tracking tool and/or system to assist you with maintaining the thirty day due date for medical reports and immunizations for children. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child record files to ensure that each child has a medical health assessment report and immunization record on file. 15. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0801(a), each child’s application for enrollment should include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. While reviewing child records, three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent answer each of the questions in the health care needs section by adding relative information to be shared or writing “NA” or “NONE” to indicate that no information needs to be shared. To maintain compliance this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 16. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. To correct this violation, please follow the instructions below: 1. You will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. 2. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. 3. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. 4. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, be sure to update this information in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. Should you need assistance with any of this process, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 17. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), emergency drills (shelter-in-place or lockdown drills) should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. To correct this violation, a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill should be conducted and recorded within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone to conduct a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill every three months and continue to record the drill on the emergency drill log. 18. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(a), outdoor play equipment should be age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. To correct this violation, no children under the age of five years should be allowed to play on the stationary climbing piece installed on Outdoor Space 5. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff and encourage them to use only the outdoor space designated for their age group. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, I will return to complete the review of staff records. If additional violations are cited during the staff record review, those violations will be added to this visit and documented on a “Visit Documentation Addendum” form and included with the visit summary that day. 2. As discussed today, due to the number of violations cited during the visit, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 (2), the citation of sixteen or more violations of separate rules in a single visit may result in the issuance of an administrative action. 4. Please sure to send new fire inspection reports to me by email within one week of their completion. 5. Please be mindful of the cleanliness of walls, doors, door facings, windowsills, shelves, cubbies, exterior door metal seals, and rug/carpets as build up and soiling becomes concerning when these areas are not cleaned routinely. 6. Per NC General Statute 110-102, the current version of Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law should be posted in a prominent place in the facility and included in the enrollment packet to be given to parents prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in November 2025. Today, I observed the date of the posted Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was September 2023 and February 2025. Please print the updated version, post it in your lobby, and add it to your new enrollment packets. I also suggest you regularly check the DCDEE website for updated versions and especially when you receive notification of child care or sanitation rule updates. 7. As discussed today, the manufacturer labels on the stationary climbing structure on Outdoor Space 5 had been painted over. Please notify the appropriate corporate representative and request that manufacturer labels be left unpainted in the future so that the information on the manufacturer label maintains its integrity and usefulness. 8. When and if you update your fire evacuation route, shelter-in-place, and/or lock-down drill plan, you need to have the fire department approve the your plan first BEFORE you put it in your EPR plan as an update. 9. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website at this link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization to learn more now. 10. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project offers coaching for child care providers who would like support managing challenging classroom behaviors. The goal is to empower teachers to create learning environments that promote pro-social skills, like self-control and problem solving. Support is available by phone at 888-600-1685, Option 1 or by email at HSB@childcareresourcesinc.org. 11. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 12. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Child-Care-Rules-Law-and-Public-Information Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization 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 13. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 14. If you would like an electronic link to any of the links shared above, please send me an email requesting the links that you wish to receive, and I will be glad to send the hyperlinks to you by email. RATED LICENSE CONSULTATION During a technical assistance visit on November 5, 2025, we discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. Today, you shared that the KinderCare corporation is moving toward accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and should be completing that accreditation process before December 2026. I requested that you keep you updated with this accreditation process and reminded you that DCDEE plans for all permits/licenses to be updated by December 2026. While this facility may initiate the rated license assessment process at any time by submitting the “Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers”, I suggest you submit your application based on the following dates depending on your assessment option choice: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, May 1, 2026. • Immediately begin your three-month self-study using the ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care as soon as you complete the three-month study. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, June 1, 2026. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum for all ages served.) • Arrange coaching or training options for the administrator and lead teachers if applicable. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, October 1, 2026. • Ensure all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Please be reminded the facility will be required to maintain the staff to child ratio and group sizes required by the accrediting organization and these requirements must be verified by your child care consultant prior to the license being issued. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. CONSULTATION FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL RATING SCALE (ERS) ASSESSMENT (if applicable): 1. Remember that the ECERS-3 assessment will be completed in three hours with no interview process. If the assessors do not observe an indicator in action or posted as required, there will be no opportunity to explain the omission. 2. If your current classroom schedule and routine allows for outside play after 11am, you may want to revise your classroom schedule to include outside play in the first three hours of the school day. If you choose to make a schedule change, I suggest you make those changes as soon as possible and to begin to train the children and staff in the new routine. 3. Allow bleach water to sit on surfaces at least two minutes before wiping off or using the surface. 4. Ensure that children wash hands upon arrival, before and after water play, after messy art/play dough play, after coming in from outside, before eating, after toileting/diapering and after coughing/sneezing, etc. 5. Ensure that learning centers are accessible a substantial portion of the day and that your daily schedule reflects it. Areas that must be made available for a minimum of 2hrs and 10 minutes to meet the “Substantial Portion of the Day” requirement are: Fine Motor, Art, Blocks, Dramatic Play, Nature/Science/Exploration, Math/Numbers, and Books. 6. Ensure that children go outside every day weather permitting. 7. Ensure that your block centers are protected from foot traffic, large enough for three children to build a sizeable structure and enough blocks for three children to build. 8. Ensure that books and materials are in good repair and no books depict violent images (guns, swords, teeth bearing). 9. Ensure that the majority of direction/redirection is positive instead of negative. 10. Ensure that staff member's pocket books are stored in locked storage since they almost always contain medications or lotions that must be inaccessible to children. 11. Ensure that staff are interacting with children, engaging in meaningful conversations, and helping children work through altercations and conflicts as they occur. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item numbers 841 and 858 corrected during today’s visit since I documented the steps taken to correct these violations in today’s visit summary. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting Documentation: 1. Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. 2. Please DO NOT send copies of health related information by email or mail. If needed, I will verify these documents are on file during the next monitoring visit. I should receive your compliance letter no later than May 7, 2026. 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Due to time constraints created by the number of violations cited today, a handwritten visit summary was prepared, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. A computer-generated visit summary was prepared and sent to you by email on April 24, 2026. When I return to complete the staff record review, a printed copy of the visit summary will be given to and reviewed with you at that time. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at 828.493.6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov. or you may contact Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you do to serve the children and families in your community. 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 .0508 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2026 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 4/23/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 05:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on May 20, 2025. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of April 21, 2026. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. We reviewed the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to the facility phone number, fax number, email address, web address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a facility operating under a four or five star license and serving children who are four and five years of age. The license, NC Summary of Child Care Law poster, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, and emergency phone numbers were posted as required. The most recent fire inspection was dated February 24, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 27, 2025 with a Superior classification and eleven demerits. The lead water test results dated February 12, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing and are waiting on the survey results. Fire drills were up to date, completed monthly, and documented on the Fire Drill Log. Emergency drills were documented on the Emergency Drill Log. The last emergency drill was a lockdown drill. A current and posted menu documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals and snacks were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Milk and cold food items were stored in a commercial refrigerator at a temperature of forty degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s meals met meal pattern requirements. I completed a walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment. Preschool-age children played in activity areas in the classrooms and participated in teacher-directed small activities that included crafts and water play. Toddler-age children played with materials in the classrooms, participated in teacher-directed small group activities that included crafts, and participated in teacher-lead whole group activities that included read-alouds of children’s books. Infant-age children played with materials in the classrooms while interacting with teachers. Children of all ages transitioned to outdoor play, played outside, attended to personal care needs, transitioned to indoor activities, ate lunch, napped, ate snack, and departed. You stated no school-aged children were enrolled at this time. Supervision, adequate approved enhanced space use, capacity, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced group size, and permit restrictions were maintained during today’s visit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records, children’s records, and a portion of staff records today. Due to time constraints and four new staff members not being listed on the Staff and Training (S&T) Worksheet, a review of staff records was not completed today. I will return to the facility on April 28, 2026 to complete the staff record review. Please have the all staff listed on the S&T worksheet and have all the information documented as requested. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 434 The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. .0604(q) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. .0606(b) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. One staff member assigned to work in the room with infants with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 12/27/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. The administrator with a date of employment of 07/17/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 10/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. This is a violation of a requirement in .1102(f). .1102(f) 1314 Emergency information did not name child's health care professional. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child. .0802(c)(2) 1317 Authorization for emergency medical care information was not signed by child's parent. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. .0802(d) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. .0801(a)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1864 Outdoor play equipment was not age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. .0605(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), a current schedule should be posted for each group of children for reference by parents and by caregivers. In Space 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. To correct this violation, a daily schedule should be created for Space 2 and 5 that reflects the daily routines of the staff and the teacher. This daily schedule should be written and posted in the classroom where it can be easily referenced by staff and parents. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review the items required to be posted in each classroom and make routine inspections of the classrooms to ensure these items are posted and current at all times. 2. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), activity plans should be current and posted. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. The teachers stated that they had not completed an activity plan for this week, and the activities observed during today’s visit to the classrooms did not reflect the theme for last week. To correct this violation, a current activity plan should be created and posted in each classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you require activity plans be turned in to you for review prior to Fridays and then require staff to post the new activity plan at the end of the operating day on Friday evenings. I further suggest that you monitor each classroom on Monday morning to ensure a current activity plan has been posted in each classroom. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2), the materials and equipment indoors and outdoors should be sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. Children were also running and playing with leaves and sticks, but no additional outdoor play equipment or teacher-provided materials were available to the children. To correct this violation, I suggest you add materials/toys to each of these classrooms and the outdoor learning environment to provide a sufficient of amount of materials/toys for the number of children enrolled and a variety of materials/toys to promote development across all developmental domains. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you print the suggested materials list found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents” and ask each classroom teacher to provide a monthly inventory of the materials in their classroom. I suggest you use these monthly inventory lists to determine the materials that need to be purchased on a monthly or quarterly basis as needed. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a), each child less than fifteen months of age should have an individual feeding plan on file and posted in the classroom the child is attending. The written feeding plan should be modified as the child's needs changed. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. To correct this violation, an individual feeding plan should be posted in Space 5 for each of the children enrolled in the classroom. A copy may be kept on file in the office, but the original should be posted in the classroom were modifications can be documented as each child’s feeding plan changes with their developmental growth. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you revise your enrollment process to include posting the individual feeding plan in the classroom on or before the first day the child attends the center. I also suggest you review this child care requirement with the your staff members who provide care to children less than fifteen months of age. 5. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2806(f)(h)(2), each refrigerator or cooler used to store food or beverage served to the children should be equipped with a working thermometer and should maintain a temperature of at least forty-five degrees Fahrenheit. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. To correct this violation, I suggest you place a thermometer in the refrigerator in Space 5. To maintain compliance with this sanitation rule, I suggest you review this sanitation requirement with your staff members and make routine inspections of the refrigerators throughout the center to ensure a working thermometer is present in each and every refrigerator in the center. I also suggest you purchase and keep on hand extra refrigerator thermometers so that you always have a backup just in case a thermometer goes missing or stops working properly. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a), the fence surrounding the outdoor play area should be in good repair and barbs should not be protruding on the top or the bottom of the fence. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you repair the bottom of the fence on Outdoor Space 1 that will cover the barbs on the bottom of the fence and repair the holes along the back fence line on Outdoor Space 1 and 5. 7. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b), all cleaning supplies, aerosol cans, and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. To correct this violation, these aerosol cans should be removed from the classroom or stored within the classroom in cabinets with working locks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review this sanitation and child care requirement with your staff and conduct routine inspections of each classroom to ensure hazardous items are stored as required. 8. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the over the counter diaper creams and ointments to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule with staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 9. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. The teachers in the classroom moved the bags to a locked cabinet unit in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review these rules and the other rules with your staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 10. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b), the center's safe sleep policy should be posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. Teachers stated that the center’s safe sleep policy had not been posted when the infant room was opened for operation a few months ago. To correct this violation, print and post a copy of the center’s safe sleep policy in the classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you create a checklist that includes all the required postings for each classroom and give this to the staff so they can have a list of the postings they should maintain in their classroom. 11. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f), child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, should complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment, child care administrators should complete the ITS-SIDS training within ninety days of employment, and one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training should be present in the infant room while children are in care. While reviewing staff records, I observed one new staff member with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 who did not have documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training due by 01/27/2026. I observed that the administrator with a date of employment 07/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026 with no documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training prior to this date. To correct this violation, an ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the staff member hired on 10/27/2025 and an expired ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the administrator to support that the administrator had a valid ITS-SIDS training certificate prior to 01/26/2026. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest when faced with hiring and training new teachers to care for infant-age children, you temporarily assign a staff member who has completed ITS-SIDS training to the infant room and attempt to find an ITS-SIDS class either in or outside the county for these the new staff members within two months as required. 12. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(c)(2), emergency information should include the name of a health care professional for the child. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child.. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent write in the name of a health care professional such as a family physician, a pediatrician, a local urgent care center, or a local health department. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each child enrollment application upon receipt to ensure all required information has been completed and provided by the parent. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 13. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(d), authorization for emergency medical care should be signed by the parent of each child. An authorization for emergency medical care statement is included on the “Child’s Application For Enrollment” form provided by DCDEE and used by this center. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. To correct this violation, I suggest you request that the parent sign the authorization for emergency medical care statement on the application form. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each application for enrollment when it is received and note any missing information. Then have the parent add the missing information on the first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 14. Per NC General Statute 110-91(1), each child should have a children’s medical report and immunization record on file on or before the child’s first day of attendance but no later than 30 days after enrollment. While reviewing child records, one child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. To correct this violation, I suggest you request an immunization record from the parent. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you establish a tracking tool and/or system to assist you with maintaining the thirty day due date for medical reports and immunizations for children. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child record files to ensure that each child has a medical health assessment report and immunization record on file. 15. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0801(a), each child’s application for enrollment should include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. While reviewing child records, three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent answer each of the questions in the health care needs section by adding relative information to be shared or writing “NA” or “NONE” to indicate that no information needs to be shared. To maintain compliance this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 16. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. To correct this violation, please follow the instructions below: 1. You will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. 2. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. 3. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. 4. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, be sure to update this information in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. Should you need assistance with any of this process, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 17. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), emergency drills (shelter-in-place or lockdown drills) should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. To correct this violation, a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill should be conducted and recorded within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone to conduct a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill every three months and continue to record the drill on the emergency drill log. 18. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(a), outdoor play equipment should be age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. To correct this violation, no children under the age of five years should be allowed to play on the stationary climbing piece installed on Outdoor Space 5. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff and encourage them to use only the outdoor space designated for their age group. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, I will return to complete the review of staff records. If additional violations are cited during the staff record review, those violations will be added to this visit and documented on a “Visit Documentation Addendum” form and included with the visit summary that day. 2. As discussed today, due to the number of violations cited during the visit, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 (2), the citation of sixteen or more violations of separate rules in a single visit may result in the issuance of an administrative action. 4. Please sure to send new fire inspection reports to me by email within one week of their completion. 5. Please be mindful of the cleanliness of walls, doors, door facings, windowsills, shelves, cubbies, exterior door metal seals, and rug/carpets as build up and soiling becomes concerning when these areas are not cleaned routinely. 6. Per NC General Statute 110-102, the current version of Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law should be posted in a prominent place in the facility and included in the enrollment packet to be given to parents prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in November 2025. Today, I observed the date of the posted Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was September 2023 and February 2025. Please print the updated version, post it in your lobby, and add it to your new enrollment packets. I also suggest you regularly check the DCDEE website for updated versions and especially when you receive notification of child care or sanitation rule updates. 7. As discussed today, the manufacturer labels on the stationary climbing structure on Outdoor Space 5 had been painted over. Please notify the appropriate corporate representative and request that manufacturer labels be left unpainted in the future so that the information on the manufacturer label maintains its integrity and usefulness. 8. When and if you update your fire evacuation route, shelter-in-place, and/or lock-down drill plan, you need to have the fire department approve the your plan first BEFORE you put it in your EPR plan as an update. 9. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website at this link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization to learn more now. 10. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project offers coaching for child care providers who would like support managing challenging classroom behaviors. The goal is to empower teachers to create learning environments that promote pro-social skills, like self-control and problem solving. Support is available by phone at 888-600-1685, Option 1 or by email at HSB@childcareresourcesinc.org. 11. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 12. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Child-Care-Rules-Law-and-Public-Information Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization 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 13. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 14. If you would like an electronic link to any of the links shared above, please send me an email requesting the links that you wish to receive, and I will be glad to send the hyperlinks to you by email. RATED LICENSE CONSULTATION During a technical assistance visit on November 5, 2025, we discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. Today, you shared that the KinderCare corporation is moving toward accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and should be completing that accreditation process before December 2026. I requested that you keep you updated with this accreditation process and reminded you that DCDEE plans for all permits/licenses to be updated by December 2026. While this facility may initiate the rated license assessment process at any time by submitting the “Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers”, I suggest you submit your application based on the following dates depending on your assessment option choice: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, May 1, 2026. • Immediately begin your three-month self-study using the ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care as soon as you complete the three-month study. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, June 1, 2026. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum for all ages served.) • Arrange coaching or training options for the administrator and lead teachers if applicable. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, October 1, 2026. • Ensure all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Please be reminded the facility will be required to maintain the staff to child ratio and group sizes required by the accrediting organization and these requirements must be verified by your child care consultant prior to the license being issued. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. CONSULTATION FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL RATING SCALE (ERS) ASSESSMENT (if applicable): 1. Remember that the ECERS-3 assessment will be completed in three hours with no interview process. If the assessors do not observe an indicator in action or posted as required, there will be no opportunity to explain the omission. 2. If your current classroom schedule and routine allows for outside play after 11am, you may want to revise your classroom schedule to include outside play in the first three hours of the school day. If you choose to make a schedule change, I suggest you make those changes as soon as possible and to begin to train the children and staff in the new routine. 3. Allow bleach water to sit on surfaces at least two minutes before wiping off or using the surface. 4. Ensure that children wash hands upon arrival, before and after water play, after messy art/play dough play, after coming in from outside, before eating, after toileting/diapering and after coughing/sneezing, etc. 5. Ensure that learning centers are accessible a substantial portion of the day and that your daily schedule reflects it. Areas that must be made available for a minimum of 2hrs and 10 minutes to meet the “Substantial Portion of the Day” requirement are: Fine Motor, Art, Blocks, Dramatic Play, Nature/Science/Exploration, Math/Numbers, and Books. 6. Ensure that children go outside every day weather permitting. 7. Ensure that your block centers are protected from foot traffic, large enough for three children to build a sizeable structure and enough blocks for three children to build. 8. Ensure that books and materials are in good repair and no books depict violent images (guns, swords, teeth bearing). 9. Ensure that the majority of direction/redirection is positive instead of negative. 10. Ensure that staff member's pocket books are stored in locked storage since they almost always contain medications or lotions that must be inaccessible to children. 11. Ensure that staff are interacting with children, engaging in meaningful conversations, and helping children work through altercations and conflicts as they occur. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item numbers 841 and 858 corrected during today’s visit since I documented the steps taken to correct these violations in today’s visit summary. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting Documentation: 1. Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. 2. Please DO NOT send copies of health related information by email or mail. If needed, I will verify these documents are on file during the next monitoring visit. I should receive your compliance letter no later than May 7, 2026. 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Due to time constraints created by the number of violations cited today, a handwritten visit summary was prepared, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. A computer-generated visit summary was prepared and sent to you by email on April 24, 2026. When I return to complete the staff record review, a printed copy of the visit summary will be given to and reviewed with you at that time. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at 828.493.6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov. or you may contact Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you do to serve the children and families in your community. 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 .0509 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2026 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 4/23/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 05:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on May 20, 2025. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of April 21, 2026. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. We reviewed the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to the facility phone number, fax number, email address, web address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a facility operating under a four or five star license and serving children who are four and five years of age. The license, NC Summary of Child Care Law poster, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, and emergency phone numbers were posted as required. The most recent fire inspection was dated February 24, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 27, 2025 with a Superior classification and eleven demerits. The lead water test results dated February 12, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing and are waiting on the survey results. Fire drills were up to date, completed monthly, and documented on the Fire Drill Log. Emergency drills were documented on the Emergency Drill Log. The last emergency drill was a lockdown drill. A current and posted menu documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals and snacks were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Milk and cold food items were stored in a commercial refrigerator at a temperature of forty degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s meals met meal pattern requirements. I completed a walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment. Preschool-age children played in activity areas in the classrooms and participated in teacher-directed small activities that included crafts and water play. Toddler-age children played with materials in the classrooms, participated in teacher-directed small group activities that included crafts, and participated in teacher-lead whole group activities that included read-alouds of children’s books. Infant-age children played with materials in the classrooms while interacting with teachers. Children of all ages transitioned to outdoor play, played outside, attended to personal care needs, transitioned to indoor activities, ate lunch, napped, ate snack, and departed. You stated no school-aged children were enrolled at this time. Supervision, adequate approved enhanced space use, capacity, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced group size, and permit restrictions were maintained during today’s visit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records, children’s records, and a portion of staff records today. Due to time constraints and four new staff members not being listed on the Staff and Training (S&T) Worksheet, a review of staff records was not completed today. I will return to the facility on April 28, 2026 to complete the staff record review. Please have the all staff listed on the S&T worksheet and have all the information documented as requested. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 434 The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. .0604(q) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. .0606(b) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. One staff member assigned to work in the room with infants with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 12/27/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. The administrator with a date of employment of 07/17/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 10/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. This is a violation of a requirement in .1102(f). .1102(f) 1314 Emergency information did not name child's health care professional. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child. .0802(c)(2) 1317 Authorization for emergency medical care information was not signed by child's parent. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. .0802(d) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. .0801(a)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1864 Outdoor play equipment was not age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. .0605(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), a current schedule should be posted for each group of children for reference by parents and by caregivers. In Space 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. To correct this violation, a daily schedule should be created for Space 2 and 5 that reflects the daily routines of the staff and the teacher. This daily schedule should be written and posted in the classroom where it can be easily referenced by staff and parents. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review the items required to be posted in each classroom and make routine inspections of the classrooms to ensure these items are posted and current at all times. 2. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), activity plans should be current and posted. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. The teachers stated that they had not completed an activity plan for this week, and the activities observed during today’s visit to the classrooms did not reflect the theme for last week. To correct this violation, a current activity plan should be created and posted in each classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you require activity plans be turned in to you for review prior to Fridays and then require staff to post the new activity plan at the end of the operating day on Friday evenings. I further suggest that you monitor each classroom on Monday morning to ensure a current activity plan has been posted in each classroom. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2), the materials and equipment indoors and outdoors should be sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. Children were also running and playing with leaves and sticks, but no additional outdoor play equipment or teacher-provided materials were available to the children. To correct this violation, I suggest you add materials/toys to each of these classrooms and the outdoor learning environment to provide a sufficient of amount of materials/toys for the number of children enrolled and a variety of materials/toys to promote development across all developmental domains. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you print the suggested materials list found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents” and ask each classroom teacher to provide a monthly inventory of the materials in their classroom. I suggest you use these monthly inventory lists to determine the materials that need to be purchased on a monthly or quarterly basis as needed. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a), each child less than fifteen months of age should have an individual feeding plan on file and posted in the classroom the child is attending. The written feeding plan should be modified as the child's needs changed. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. To correct this violation, an individual feeding plan should be posted in Space 5 for each of the children enrolled in the classroom. A copy may be kept on file in the office, but the original should be posted in the classroom were modifications can be documented as each child’s feeding plan changes with their developmental growth. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you revise your enrollment process to include posting the individual feeding plan in the classroom on or before the first day the child attends the center. I also suggest you review this child care requirement with the your staff members who provide care to children less than fifteen months of age. 5. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2806(f)(h)(2), each refrigerator or cooler used to store food or beverage served to the children should be equipped with a working thermometer and should maintain a temperature of at least forty-five degrees Fahrenheit. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. To correct this violation, I suggest you place a thermometer in the refrigerator in Space 5. To maintain compliance with this sanitation rule, I suggest you review this sanitation requirement with your staff members and make routine inspections of the refrigerators throughout the center to ensure a working thermometer is present in each and every refrigerator in the center. I also suggest you purchase and keep on hand extra refrigerator thermometers so that you always have a backup just in case a thermometer goes missing or stops working properly. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a), the fence surrounding the outdoor play area should be in good repair and barbs should not be protruding on the top or the bottom of the fence. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you repair the bottom of the fence on Outdoor Space 1 that will cover the barbs on the bottom of the fence and repair the holes along the back fence line on Outdoor Space 1 and 5. 7. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b), all cleaning supplies, aerosol cans, and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. To correct this violation, these aerosol cans should be removed from the classroom or stored within the classroom in cabinets with working locks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review this sanitation and child care requirement with your staff and conduct routine inspections of each classroom to ensure hazardous items are stored as required. 8. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the over the counter diaper creams and ointments to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule with staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 9. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. The teachers in the classroom moved the bags to a locked cabinet unit in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review these rules and the other rules with your staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 10. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b), the center's safe sleep policy should be posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. Teachers stated that the center’s safe sleep policy had not been posted when the infant room was opened for operation a few months ago. To correct this violation, print and post a copy of the center’s safe sleep policy in the classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you create a checklist that includes all the required postings for each classroom and give this to the staff so they can have a list of the postings they should maintain in their classroom. 11. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f), child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, should complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment, child care administrators should complete the ITS-SIDS training within ninety days of employment, and one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training should be present in the infant room while children are in care. While reviewing staff records, I observed one new staff member with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 who did not have documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training due by 01/27/2026. I observed that the administrator with a date of employment 07/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026 with no documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training prior to this date. To correct this violation, an ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the staff member hired on 10/27/2025 and an expired ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the administrator to support that the administrator had a valid ITS-SIDS training certificate prior to 01/26/2026. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest when faced with hiring and training new teachers to care for infant-age children, you temporarily assign a staff member who has completed ITS-SIDS training to the infant room and attempt to find an ITS-SIDS class either in or outside the county for these the new staff members within two months as required. 12. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(c)(2), emergency information should include the name of a health care professional for the child. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child.. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent write in the name of a health care professional such as a family physician, a pediatrician, a local urgent care center, or a local health department. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each child enrollment application upon receipt to ensure all required information has been completed and provided by the parent. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 13. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(d), authorization for emergency medical care should be signed by the parent of each child. An authorization for emergency medical care statement is included on the “Child’s Application For Enrollment” form provided by DCDEE and used by this center. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. To correct this violation, I suggest you request that the parent sign the authorization for emergency medical care statement on the application form. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each application for enrollment when it is received and note any missing information. Then have the parent add the missing information on the first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 14. Per NC General Statute 110-91(1), each child should have a children’s medical report and immunization record on file on or before the child’s first day of attendance but no later than 30 days after enrollment. While reviewing child records, one child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. To correct this violation, I suggest you request an immunization record from the parent. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you establish a tracking tool and/or system to assist you with maintaining the thirty day due date for medical reports and immunizations for children. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child record files to ensure that each child has a medical health assessment report and immunization record on file. 15. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0801(a), each child’s application for enrollment should include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. While reviewing child records, three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent answer each of the questions in the health care needs section by adding relative information to be shared or writing “NA” or “NONE” to indicate that no information needs to be shared. To maintain compliance this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 16. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. To correct this violation, please follow the instructions below: 1. You will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. 2. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. 3. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. 4. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, be sure to update this information in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. Should you need assistance with any of this process, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 17. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), emergency drills (shelter-in-place or lockdown drills) should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. To correct this violation, a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill should be conducted and recorded within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone to conduct a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill every three months and continue to record the drill on the emergency drill log. 18. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(a), outdoor play equipment should be age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. To correct this violation, no children under the age of five years should be allowed to play on the stationary climbing piece installed on Outdoor Space 5. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff and encourage them to use only the outdoor space designated for their age group. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, I will return to complete the review of staff records. If additional violations are cited during the staff record review, those violations will be added to this visit and documented on a “Visit Documentation Addendum” form and included with the visit summary that day. 2. As discussed today, due to the number of violations cited during the visit, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 (2), the citation of sixteen or more violations of separate rules in a single visit may result in the issuance of an administrative action. 4. Please sure to send new fire inspection reports to me by email within one week of their completion. 5. Please be mindful of the cleanliness of walls, doors, door facings, windowsills, shelves, cubbies, exterior door metal seals, and rug/carpets as build up and soiling becomes concerning when these areas are not cleaned routinely. 6. Per NC General Statute 110-102, the current version of Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law should be posted in a prominent place in the facility and included in the enrollment packet to be given to parents prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in November 2025. Today, I observed the date of the posted Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was September 2023 and February 2025. Please print the updated version, post it in your lobby, and add it to your new enrollment packets. I also suggest you regularly check the DCDEE website for updated versions and especially when you receive notification of child care or sanitation rule updates. 7. As discussed today, the manufacturer labels on the stationary climbing structure on Outdoor Space 5 had been painted over. Please notify the appropriate corporate representative and request that manufacturer labels be left unpainted in the future so that the information on the manufacturer label maintains its integrity and usefulness. 8. When and if you update your fire evacuation route, shelter-in-place, and/or lock-down drill plan, you need to have the fire department approve the your plan first BEFORE you put it in your EPR plan as an update. 9. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website at this link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization to learn more now. 10. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project offers coaching for child care providers who would like support managing challenging classroom behaviors. The goal is to empower teachers to create learning environments that promote pro-social skills, like self-control and problem solving. Support is available by phone at 888-600-1685, Option 1 or by email at HSB@childcareresourcesinc.org. 11. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 12. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Child-Care-Rules-Law-and-Public-Information Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization 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 13. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 14. If you would like an electronic link to any of the links shared above, please send me an email requesting the links that you wish to receive, and I will be glad to send the hyperlinks to you by email. RATED LICENSE CONSULTATION During a technical assistance visit on November 5, 2025, we discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. Today, you shared that the KinderCare corporation is moving toward accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and should be completing that accreditation process before December 2026. I requested that you keep you updated with this accreditation process and reminded you that DCDEE plans for all permits/licenses to be updated by December 2026. While this facility may initiate the rated license assessment process at any time by submitting the “Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers”, I suggest you submit your application based on the following dates depending on your assessment option choice: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, May 1, 2026. • Immediately begin your three-month self-study using the ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care as soon as you complete the three-month study. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, June 1, 2026. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum for all ages served.) • Arrange coaching or training options for the administrator and lead teachers if applicable. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, October 1, 2026. • Ensure all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Please be reminded the facility will be required to maintain the staff to child ratio and group sizes required by the accrediting organization and these requirements must be verified by your child care consultant prior to the license being issued. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. CONSULTATION FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL RATING SCALE (ERS) ASSESSMENT (if applicable): 1. Remember that the ECERS-3 assessment will be completed in three hours with no interview process. If the assessors do not observe an indicator in action or posted as required, there will be no opportunity to explain the omission. 2. If your current classroom schedule and routine allows for outside play after 11am, you may want to revise your classroom schedule to include outside play in the first three hours of the school day. If you choose to make a schedule change, I suggest you make those changes as soon as possible and to begin to train the children and staff in the new routine. 3. Allow bleach water to sit on surfaces at least two minutes before wiping off or using the surface. 4. Ensure that children wash hands upon arrival, before and after water play, after messy art/play dough play, after coming in from outside, before eating, after toileting/diapering and after coughing/sneezing, etc. 5. Ensure that learning centers are accessible a substantial portion of the day and that your daily schedule reflects it. Areas that must be made available for a minimum of 2hrs and 10 minutes to meet the “Substantial Portion of the Day” requirement are: Fine Motor, Art, Blocks, Dramatic Play, Nature/Science/Exploration, Math/Numbers, and Books. 6. Ensure that children go outside every day weather permitting. 7. Ensure that your block centers are protected from foot traffic, large enough for three children to build a sizeable structure and enough blocks for three children to build. 8. Ensure that books and materials are in good repair and no books depict violent images (guns, swords, teeth bearing). 9. Ensure that the majority of direction/redirection is positive instead of negative. 10. Ensure that staff member's pocket books are stored in locked storage since they almost always contain medications or lotions that must be inaccessible to children. 11. Ensure that staff are interacting with children, engaging in meaningful conversations, and helping children work through altercations and conflicts as they occur. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item numbers 841 and 858 corrected during today’s visit since I documented the steps taken to correct these violations in today’s visit summary. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting Documentation: 1. Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. 2. Please DO NOT send copies of health related information by email or mail. If needed, I will verify these documents are on file during the next monitoring visit. I should receive your compliance letter no later than May 7, 2026. 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Due to time constraints created by the number of violations cited today, a handwritten visit summary was prepared, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. A computer-generated visit summary was prepared and sent to you by email on April 24, 2026. When I return to complete the staff record review, a printed copy of the visit summary will be given to and reviewed with you at that time. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at 828.493.6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov. or you may contact Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you do to serve the children and families in your community. 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 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2026 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 4/23/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 05:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on May 20, 2025. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of April 21, 2026. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. We reviewed the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to the facility phone number, fax number, email address, web address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a facility operating under a four or five star license and serving children who are four and five years of age. The license, NC Summary of Child Care Law poster, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, and emergency phone numbers were posted as required. The most recent fire inspection was dated February 24, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 27, 2025 with a Superior classification and eleven demerits. The lead water test results dated February 12, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing and are waiting on the survey results. Fire drills were up to date, completed monthly, and documented on the Fire Drill Log. Emergency drills were documented on the Emergency Drill Log. The last emergency drill was a lockdown drill. A current and posted menu documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals and snacks were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Milk and cold food items were stored in a commercial refrigerator at a temperature of forty degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s meals met meal pattern requirements. I completed a walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment. Preschool-age children played in activity areas in the classrooms and participated in teacher-directed small activities that included crafts and water play. Toddler-age children played with materials in the classrooms, participated in teacher-directed small group activities that included crafts, and participated in teacher-lead whole group activities that included read-alouds of children’s books. Infant-age children played with materials in the classrooms while interacting with teachers. Children of all ages transitioned to outdoor play, played outside, attended to personal care needs, transitioned to indoor activities, ate lunch, napped, ate snack, and departed. You stated no school-aged children were enrolled at this time. Supervision, adequate approved enhanced space use, capacity, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced group size, and permit restrictions were maintained during today’s visit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records, children’s records, and a portion of staff records today. Due to time constraints and four new staff members not being listed on the Staff and Training (S&T) Worksheet, a review of staff records was not completed today. I will return to the facility on April 28, 2026 to complete the staff record review. Please have the all staff listed on the S&T worksheet and have all the information documented as requested. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 434 The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. .0604(q) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. .0606(b) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. One staff member assigned to work in the room with infants with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 12/27/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. The administrator with a date of employment of 07/17/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 10/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. This is a violation of a requirement in .1102(f). .1102(f) 1314 Emergency information did not name child's health care professional. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child. .0802(c)(2) 1317 Authorization for emergency medical care information was not signed by child's parent. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. .0802(d) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. .0801(a)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1864 Outdoor play equipment was not age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. .0605(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), a current schedule should be posted for each group of children for reference by parents and by caregivers. In Space 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. To correct this violation, a daily schedule should be created for Space 2 and 5 that reflects the daily routines of the staff and the teacher. This daily schedule should be written and posted in the classroom where it can be easily referenced by staff and parents. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review the items required to be posted in each classroom and make routine inspections of the classrooms to ensure these items are posted and current at all times. 2. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), activity plans should be current and posted. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. The teachers stated that they had not completed an activity plan for this week, and the activities observed during today’s visit to the classrooms did not reflect the theme for last week. To correct this violation, a current activity plan should be created and posted in each classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you require activity plans be turned in to you for review prior to Fridays and then require staff to post the new activity plan at the end of the operating day on Friday evenings. I further suggest that you monitor each classroom on Monday morning to ensure a current activity plan has been posted in each classroom. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2), the materials and equipment indoors and outdoors should be sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. Children were also running and playing with leaves and sticks, but no additional outdoor play equipment or teacher-provided materials were available to the children. To correct this violation, I suggest you add materials/toys to each of these classrooms and the outdoor learning environment to provide a sufficient of amount of materials/toys for the number of children enrolled and a variety of materials/toys to promote development across all developmental domains. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you print the suggested materials list found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents” and ask each classroom teacher to provide a monthly inventory of the materials in their classroom. I suggest you use these monthly inventory lists to determine the materials that need to be purchased on a monthly or quarterly basis as needed. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a), each child less than fifteen months of age should have an individual feeding plan on file and posted in the classroom the child is attending. The written feeding plan should be modified as the child's needs changed. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. To correct this violation, an individual feeding plan should be posted in Space 5 for each of the children enrolled in the classroom. A copy may be kept on file in the office, but the original should be posted in the classroom were modifications can be documented as each child’s feeding plan changes with their developmental growth. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you revise your enrollment process to include posting the individual feeding plan in the classroom on or before the first day the child attends the center. I also suggest you review this child care requirement with the your staff members who provide care to children less than fifteen months of age. 5. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2806(f)(h)(2), each refrigerator or cooler used to store food or beverage served to the children should be equipped with a working thermometer and should maintain a temperature of at least forty-five degrees Fahrenheit. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. To correct this violation, I suggest you place a thermometer in the refrigerator in Space 5. To maintain compliance with this sanitation rule, I suggest you review this sanitation requirement with your staff members and make routine inspections of the refrigerators throughout the center to ensure a working thermometer is present in each and every refrigerator in the center. I also suggest you purchase and keep on hand extra refrigerator thermometers so that you always have a backup just in case a thermometer goes missing or stops working properly. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a), the fence surrounding the outdoor play area should be in good repair and barbs should not be protruding on the top or the bottom of the fence. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you repair the bottom of the fence on Outdoor Space 1 that will cover the barbs on the bottom of the fence and repair the holes along the back fence line on Outdoor Space 1 and 5. 7. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b), all cleaning supplies, aerosol cans, and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. To correct this violation, these aerosol cans should be removed from the classroom or stored within the classroom in cabinets with working locks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review this sanitation and child care requirement with your staff and conduct routine inspections of each classroom to ensure hazardous items are stored as required. 8. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the over the counter diaper creams and ointments to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule with staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 9. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. The teachers in the classroom moved the bags to a locked cabinet unit in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review these rules and the other rules with your staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 10. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b), the center's safe sleep policy should be posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. Teachers stated that the center’s safe sleep policy had not been posted when the infant room was opened for operation a few months ago. To correct this violation, print and post a copy of the center’s safe sleep policy in the classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you create a checklist that includes all the required postings for each classroom and give this to the staff so they can have a list of the postings they should maintain in their classroom. 11. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f), child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, should complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment, child care administrators should complete the ITS-SIDS training within ninety days of employment, and one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training should be present in the infant room while children are in care. While reviewing staff records, I observed one new staff member with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 who did not have documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training due by 01/27/2026. I observed that the administrator with a date of employment 07/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026 with no documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training prior to this date. To correct this violation, an ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the staff member hired on 10/27/2025 and an expired ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the administrator to support that the administrator had a valid ITS-SIDS training certificate prior to 01/26/2026. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest when faced with hiring and training new teachers to care for infant-age children, you temporarily assign a staff member who has completed ITS-SIDS training to the infant room and attempt to find an ITS-SIDS class either in or outside the county for these the new staff members within two months as required. 12. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(c)(2), emergency information should include the name of a health care professional for the child. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child.. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent write in the name of a health care professional such as a family physician, a pediatrician, a local urgent care center, or a local health department. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each child enrollment application upon receipt to ensure all required information has been completed and provided by the parent. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 13. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(d), authorization for emergency medical care should be signed by the parent of each child. An authorization for emergency medical care statement is included on the “Child’s Application For Enrollment” form provided by DCDEE and used by this center. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. To correct this violation, I suggest you request that the parent sign the authorization for emergency medical care statement on the application form. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each application for enrollment when it is received and note any missing information. Then have the parent add the missing information on the first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 14. Per NC General Statute 110-91(1), each child should have a children’s medical report and immunization record on file on or before the child’s first day of attendance but no later than 30 days after enrollment. While reviewing child records, one child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. To correct this violation, I suggest you request an immunization record from the parent. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you establish a tracking tool and/or system to assist you with maintaining the thirty day due date for medical reports and immunizations for children. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child record files to ensure that each child has a medical health assessment report and immunization record on file. 15. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0801(a), each child’s application for enrollment should include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. While reviewing child records, three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent answer each of the questions in the health care needs section by adding relative information to be shared or writing “NA” or “NONE” to indicate that no information needs to be shared. To maintain compliance this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 16. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. To correct this violation, please follow the instructions below: 1. You will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. 2. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. 3. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. 4. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, be sure to update this information in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. Should you need assistance with any of this process, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 17. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), emergency drills (shelter-in-place or lockdown drills) should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. To correct this violation, a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill should be conducted and recorded within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone to conduct a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill every three months and continue to record the drill on the emergency drill log. 18. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(a), outdoor play equipment should be age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. To correct this violation, no children under the age of five years should be allowed to play on the stationary climbing piece installed on Outdoor Space 5. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff and encourage them to use only the outdoor space designated for their age group. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, I will return to complete the review of staff records. If additional violations are cited during the staff record review, those violations will be added to this visit and documented on a “Visit Documentation Addendum” form and included with the visit summary that day. 2. As discussed today, due to the number of violations cited during the visit, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 (2), the citation of sixteen or more violations of separate rules in a single visit may result in the issuance of an administrative action. 4. Please sure to send new fire inspection reports to me by email within one week of their completion. 5. Please be mindful of the cleanliness of walls, doors, door facings, windowsills, shelves, cubbies, exterior door metal seals, and rug/carpets as build up and soiling becomes concerning when these areas are not cleaned routinely. 6. Per NC General Statute 110-102, the current version of Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law should be posted in a prominent place in the facility and included in the enrollment packet to be given to parents prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in November 2025. Today, I observed the date of the posted Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was September 2023 and February 2025. Please print the updated version, post it in your lobby, and add it to your new enrollment packets. I also suggest you regularly check the DCDEE website for updated versions and especially when you receive notification of child care or sanitation rule updates. 7. As discussed today, the manufacturer labels on the stationary climbing structure on Outdoor Space 5 had been painted over. Please notify the appropriate corporate representative and request that manufacturer labels be left unpainted in the future so that the information on the manufacturer label maintains its integrity and usefulness. 8. When and if you update your fire evacuation route, shelter-in-place, and/or lock-down drill plan, you need to have the fire department approve the your plan first BEFORE you put it in your EPR plan as an update. 9. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website at this link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization to learn more now. 10. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project offers coaching for child care providers who would like support managing challenging classroom behaviors. The goal is to empower teachers to create learning environments that promote pro-social skills, like self-control and problem solving. Support is available by phone at 888-600-1685, Option 1 or by email at HSB@childcareresourcesinc.org. 11. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 12. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Child-Care-Rules-Law-and-Public-Information Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization 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 13. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 14. If you would like an electronic link to any of the links shared above, please send me an email requesting the links that you wish to receive, and I will be glad to send the hyperlinks to you by email. RATED LICENSE CONSULTATION During a technical assistance visit on November 5, 2025, we discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. Today, you shared that the KinderCare corporation is moving toward accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and should be completing that accreditation process before December 2026. I requested that you keep you updated with this accreditation process and reminded you that DCDEE plans for all permits/licenses to be updated by December 2026. While this facility may initiate the rated license assessment process at any time by submitting the “Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers”, I suggest you submit your application based on the following dates depending on your assessment option choice: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, May 1, 2026. • Immediately begin your three-month self-study using the ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care as soon as you complete the three-month study. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, June 1, 2026. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum for all ages served.) • Arrange coaching or training options for the administrator and lead teachers if applicable. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, October 1, 2026. • Ensure all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Please be reminded the facility will be required to maintain the staff to child ratio and group sizes required by the accrediting organization and these requirements must be verified by your child care consultant prior to the license being issued. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. CONSULTATION FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL RATING SCALE (ERS) ASSESSMENT (if applicable): 1. Remember that the ECERS-3 assessment will be completed in three hours with no interview process. If the assessors do not observe an indicator in action or posted as required, there will be no opportunity to explain the omission. 2. If your current classroom schedule and routine allows for outside play after 11am, you may want to revise your classroom schedule to include outside play in the first three hours of the school day. If you choose to make a schedule change, I suggest you make those changes as soon as possible and to begin to train the children and staff in the new routine. 3. Allow bleach water to sit on surfaces at least two minutes before wiping off or using the surface. 4. Ensure that children wash hands upon arrival, before and after water play, after messy art/play dough play, after coming in from outside, before eating, after toileting/diapering and after coughing/sneezing, etc. 5. Ensure that learning centers are accessible a substantial portion of the day and that your daily schedule reflects it. Areas that must be made available for a minimum of 2hrs and 10 minutes to meet the “Substantial Portion of the Day” requirement are: Fine Motor, Art, Blocks, Dramatic Play, Nature/Science/Exploration, Math/Numbers, and Books. 6. Ensure that children go outside every day weather permitting. 7. Ensure that your block centers are protected from foot traffic, large enough for three children to build a sizeable structure and enough blocks for three children to build. 8. Ensure that books and materials are in good repair and no books depict violent images (guns, swords, teeth bearing). 9. Ensure that the majority of direction/redirection is positive instead of negative. 10. Ensure that staff member's pocket books are stored in locked storage since they almost always contain medications or lotions that must be inaccessible to children. 11. Ensure that staff are interacting with children, engaging in meaningful conversations, and helping children work through altercations and conflicts as they occur. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item numbers 841 and 858 corrected during today’s visit since I documented the steps taken to correct these violations in today’s visit summary. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting Documentation: 1. Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. 2. Please DO NOT send copies of health related information by email or mail. If needed, I will verify these documents are on file during the next monitoring visit. I should receive your compliance letter no later than May 7, 2026. 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Due to time constraints created by the number of violations cited today, a handwritten visit summary was prepared, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. A computer-generated visit summary was prepared and sent to you by email on April 24, 2026. When I return to complete the staff record review, a printed copy of the visit summary will be given to and reviewed with you at that time. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at 828.493.6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov. or you may contact Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you do to serve the children and families in your community. 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 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2026 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 4/23/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 05:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on May 20, 2025. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of April 21, 2026. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. We reviewed the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to the facility phone number, fax number, email address, web address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a facility operating under a four or five star license and serving children who are four and five years of age. The license, NC Summary of Child Care Law poster, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, and emergency phone numbers were posted as required. The most recent fire inspection was dated February 24, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 27, 2025 with a Superior classification and eleven demerits. The lead water test results dated February 12, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing and are waiting on the survey results. Fire drills were up to date, completed monthly, and documented on the Fire Drill Log. Emergency drills were documented on the Emergency Drill Log. The last emergency drill was a lockdown drill. A current and posted menu documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals and snacks were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Milk and cold food items were stored in a commercial refrigerator at a temperature of forty degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s meals met meal pattern requirements. I completed a walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment. Preschool-age children played in activity areas in the classrooms and participated in teacher-directed small activities that included crafts and water play. Toddler-age children played with materials in the classrooms, participated in teacher-directed small group activities that included crafts, and participated in teacher-lead whole group activities that included read-alouds of children’s books. Infant-age children played with materials in the classrooms while interacting with teachers. Children of all ages transitioned to outdoor play, played outside, attended to personal care needs, transitioned to indoor activities, ate lunch, napped, ate snack, and departed. You stated no school-aged children were enrolled at this time. Supervision, adequate approved enhanced space use, capacity, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced group size, and permit restrictions were maintained during today’s visit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records, children’s records, and a portion of staff records today. Due to time constraints and four new staff members not being listed on the Staff and Training (S&T) Worksheet, a review of staff records was not completed today. I will return to the facility on April 28, 2026 to complete the staff record review. Please have the all staff listed on the S&T worksheet and have all the information documented as requested. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 434 The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. .0604(q) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. .0606(b) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. One staff member assigned to work in the room with infants with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 12/27/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. The administrator with a date of employment of 07/17/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 10/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. This is a violation of a requirement in .1102(f). .1102(f) 1314 Emergency information did not name child's health care professional. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child. .0802(c)(2) 1317 Authorization for emergency medical care information was not signed by child's parent. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. .0802(d) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. .0801(a)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1864 Outdoor play equipment was not age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. .0605(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), a current schedule should be posted for each group of children for reference by parents and by caregivers. In Space 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. To correct this violation, a daily schedule should be created for Space 2 and 5 that reflects the daily routines of the staff and the teacher. This daily schedule should be written and posted in the classroom where it can be easily referenced by staff and parents. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review the items required to be posted in each classroom and make routine inspections of the classrooms to ensure these items are posted and current at all times. 2. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), activity plans should be current and posted. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. The teachers stated that they had not completed an activity plan for this week, and the activities observed during today’s visit to the classrooms did not reflect the theme for last week. To correct this violation, a current activity plan should be created and posted in each classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you require activity plans be turned in to you for review prior to Fridays and then require staff to post the new activity plan at the end of the operating day on Friday evenings. I further suggest that you monitor each classroom on Monday morning to ensure a current activity plan has been posted in each classroom. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2), the materials and equipment indoors and outdoors should be sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. Children were also running and playing with leaves and sticks, but no additional outdoor play equipment or teacher-provided materials were available to the children. To correct this violation, I suggest you add materials/toys to each of these classrooms and the outdoor learning environment to provide a sufficient of amount of materials/toys for the number of children enrolled and a variety of materials/toys to promote development across all developmental domains. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you print the suggested materials list found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents” and ask each classroom teacher to provide a monthly inventory of the materials in their classroom. I suggest you use these monthly inventory lists to determine the materials that need to be purchased on a monthly or quarterly basis as needed. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a), each child less than fifteen months of age should have an individual feeding plan on file and posted in the classroom the child is attending. The written feeding plan should be modified as the child's needs changed. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. To correct this violation, an individual feeding plan should be posted in Space 5 for each of the children enrolled in the classroom. A copy may be kept on file in the office, but the original should be posted in the classroom were modifications can be documented as each child’s feeding plan changes with their developmental growth. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you revise your enrollment process to include posting the individual feeding plan in the classroom on or before the first day the child attends the center. I also suggest you review this child care requirement with the your staff members who provide care to children less than fifteen months of age. 5. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2806(f)(h)(2), each refrigerator or cooler used to store food or beverage served to the children should be equipped with a working thermometer and should maintain a temperature of at least forty-five degrees Fahrenheit. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. To correct this violation, I suggest you place a thermometer in the refrigerator in Space 5. To maintain compliance with this sanitation rule, I suggest you review this sanitation requirement with your staff members and make routine inspections of the refrigerators throughout the center to ensure a working thermometer is present in each and every refrigerator in the center. I also suggest you purchase and keep on hand extra refrigerator thermometers so that you always have a backup just in case a thermometer goes missing or stops working properly. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a), the fence surrounding the outdoor play area should be in good repair and barbs should not be protruding on the top or the bottom of the fence. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you repair the bottom of the fence on Outdoor Space 1 that will cover the barbs on the bottom of the fence and repair the holes along the back fence line on Outdoor Space 1 and 5. 7. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b), all cleaning supplies, aerosol cans, and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. To correct this violation, these aerosol cans should be removed from the classroom or stored within the classroom in cabinets with working locks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review this sanitation and child care requirement with your staff and conduct routine inspections of each classroom to ensure hazardous items are stored as required. 8. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the over the counter diaper creams and ointments to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule with staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 9. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. The teachers in the classroom moved the bags to a locked cabinet unit in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review these rules and the other rules with your staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 10. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b), the center's safe sleep policy should be posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. Teachers stated that the center’s safe sleep policy had not been posted when the infant room was opened for operation a few months ago. To correct this violation, print and post a copy of the center’s safe sleep policy in the classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you create a checklist that includes all the required postings for each classroom and give this to the staff so they can have a list of the postings they should maintain in their classroom. 11. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f), child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, should complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment, child care administrators should complete the ITS-SIDS training within ninety days of employment, and one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training should be present in the infant room while children are in care. While reviewing staff records, I observed one new staff member with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 who did not have documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training due by 01/27/2026. I observed that the administrator with a date of employment 07/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026 with no documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training prior to this date. To correct this violation, an ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the staff member hired on 10/27/2025 and an expired ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the administrator to support that the administrator had a valid ITS-SIDS training certificate prior to 01/26/2026. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest when faced with hiring and training new teachers to care for infant-age children, you temporarily assign a staff member who has completed ITS-SIDS training to the infant room and attempt to find an ITS-SIDS class either in or outside the county for these the new staff members within two months as required. 12. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(c)(2), emergency information should include the name of a health care professional for the child. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child.. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent write in the name of a health care professional such as a family physician, a pediatrician, a local urgent care center, or a local health department. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each child enrollment application upon receipt to ensure all required information has been completed and provided by the parent. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 13. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(d), authorization for emergency medical care should be signed by the parent of each child. An authorization for emergency medical care statement is included on the “Child’s Application For Enrollment” form provided by DCDEE and used by this center. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. To correct this violation, I suggest you request that the parent sign the authorization for emergency medical care statement on the application form. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each application for enrollment when it is received and note any missing information. Then have the parent add the missing information on the first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 14. Per NC General Statute 110-91(1), each child should have a children’s medical report and immunization record on file on or before the child’s first day of attendance but no later than 30 days after enrollment. While reviewing child records, one child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. To correct this violation, I suggest you request an immunization record from the parent. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you establish a tracking tool and/or system to assist you with maintaining the thirty day due date for medical reports and immunizations for children. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child record files to ensure that each child has a medical health assessment report and immunization record on file. 15. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0801(a), each child’s application for enrollment should include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. While reviewing child records, three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent answer each of the questions in the health care needs section by adding relative information to be shared or writing “NA” or “NONE” to indicate that no information needs to be shared. To maintain compliance this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 16. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. To correct this violation, please follow the instructions below: 1. You will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. 2. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. 3. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. 4. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, be sure to update this information in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. Should you need assistance with any of this process, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 17. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), emergency drills (shelter-in-place or lockdown drills) should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. To correct this violation, a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill should be conducted and recorded within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone to conduct a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill every three months and continue to record the drill on the emergency drill log. 18. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(a), outdoor play equipment should be age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. To correct this violation, no children under the age of five years should be allowed to play on the stationary climbing piece installed on Outdoor Space 5. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff and encourage them to use only the outdoor space designated for their age group. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, I will return to complete the review of staff records. If additional violations are cited during the staff record review, those violations will be added to this visit and documented on a “Visit Documentation Addendum” form and included with the visit summary that day. 2. As discussed today, due to the number of violations cited during the visit, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 (2), the citation of sixteen or more violations of separate rules in a single visit may result in the issuance of an administrative action. 4. Please sure to send new fire inspection reports to me by email within one week of their completion. 5. Please be mindful of the cleanliness of walls, doors, door facings, windowsills, shelves, cubbies, exterior door metal seals, and rug/carpets as build up and soiling becomes concerning when these areas are not cleaned routinely. 6. Per NC General Statute 110-102, the current version of Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law should be posted in a prominent place in the facility and included in the enrollment packet to be given to parents prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in November 2025. Today, I observed the date of the posted Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was September 2023 and February 2025. Please print the updated version, post it in your lobby, and add it to your new enrollment packets. I also suggest you regularly check the DCDEE website for updated versions and especially when you receive notification of child care or sanitation rule updates. 7. As discussed today, the manufacturer labels on the stationary climbing structure on Outdoor Space 5 had been painted over. Please notify the appropriate corporate representative and request that manufacturer labels be left unpainted in the future so that the information on the manufacturer label maintains its integrity and usefulness. 8. When and if you update your fire evacuation route, shelter-in-place, and/or lock-down drill plan, you need to have the fire department approve the your plan first BEFORE you put it in your EPR plan as an update. 9. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website at this link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization to learn more now. 10. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project offers coaching for child care providers who would like support managing challenging classroom behaviors. The goal is to empower teachers to create learning environments that promote pro-social skills, like self-control and problem solving. Support is available by phone at 888-600-1685, Option 1 or by email at HSB@childcareresourcesinc.org. 11. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 12. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Child-Care-Rules-Law-and-Public-Information Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization 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 13. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 14. If you would like an electronic link to any of the links shared above, please send me an email requesting the links that you wish to receive, and I will be glad to send the hyperlinks to you by email. RATED LICENSE CONSULTATION During a technical assistance visit on November 5, 2025, we discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. Today, you shared that the KinderCare corporation is moving toward accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and should be completing that accreditation process before December 2026. I requested that you keep you updated with this accreditation process and reminded you that DCDEE plans for all permits/licenses to be updated by December 2026. While this facility may initiate the rated license assessment process at any time by submitting the “Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers”, I suggest you submit your application based on the following dates depending on your assessment option choice: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, May 1, 2026. • Immediately begin your three-month self-study using the ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care as soon as you complete the three-month study. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, June 1, 2026. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum for all ages served.) • Arrange coaching or training options for the administrator and lead teachers if applicable. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, October 1, 2026. • Ensure all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Please be reminded the facility will be required to maintain the staff to child ratio and group sizes required by the accrediting organization and these requirements must be verified by your child care consultant prior to the license being issued. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. CONSULTATION FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL RATING SCALE (ERS) ASSESSMENT (if applicable): 1. Remember that the ECERS-3 assessment will be completed in three hours with no interview process. If the assessors do not observe an indicator in action or posted as required, there will be no opportunity to explain the omission. 2. If your current classroom schedule and routine allows for outside play after 11am, you may want to revise your classroom schedule to include outside play in the first three hours of the school day. If you choose to make a schedule change, I suggest you make those changes as soon as possible and to begin to train the children and staff in the new routine. 3. Allow bleach water to sit on surfaces at least two minutes before wiping off or using the surface. 4. Ensure that children wash hands upon arrival, before and after water play, after messy art/play dough play, after coming in from outside, before eating, after toileting/diapering and after coughing/sneezing, etc. 5. Ensure that learning centers are accessible a substantial portion of the day and that your daily schedule reflects it. Areas that must be made available for a minimum of 2hrs and 10 minutes to meet the “Substantial Portion of the Day” requirement are: Fine Motor, Art, Blocks, Dramatic Play, Nature/Science/Exploration, Math/Numbers, and Books. 6. Ensure that children go outside every day weather permitting. 7. Ensure that your block centers are protected from foot traffic, large enough for three children to build a sizeable structure and enough blocks for three children to build. 8. Ensure that books and materials are in good repair and no books depict violent images (guns, swords, teeth bearing). 9. Ensure that the majority of direction/redirection is positive instead of negative. 10. Ensure that staff member's pocket books are stored in locked storage since they almost always contain medications or lotions that must be inaccessible to children. 11. Ensure that staff are interacting with children, engaging in meaningful conversations, and helping children work through altercations and conflicts as they occur. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item numbers 841 and 858 corrected during today’s visit since I documented the steps taken to correct these violations in today’s visit summary. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting Documentation: 1. Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. 2. Please DO NOT send copies of health related information by email or mail. If needed, I will verify these documents are on file during the next monitoring visit. I should receive your compliance letter no later than May 7, 2026. 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Due to time constraints created by the number of violations cited today, a handwritten visit summary was prepared, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. A computer-generated visit summary was prepared and sent to you by email on April 24, 2026. When I return to complete the staff record review, a printed copy of the visit summary will be given to and reviewed with you at that time. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at 828.493.6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov. or you may contact Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you do to serve the children and families in your community. 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 .0605 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2026 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 4/23/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 05:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on May 20, 2025. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of April 21, 2026. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. We reviewed the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to the facility phone number, fax number, email address, web address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a facility operating under a four or five star license and serving children who are four and five years of age. The license, NC Summary of Child Care Law poster, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, and emergency phone numbers were posted as required. The most recent fire inspection was dated February 24, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 27, 2025 with a Superior classification and eleven demerits. The lead water test results dated February 12, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing and are waiting on the survey results. Fire drills were up to date, completed monthly, and documented on the Fire Drill Log. Emergency drills were documented on the Emergency Drill Log. The last emergency drill was a lockdown drill. A current and posted menu documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals and snacks were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Milk and cold food items were stored in a commercial refrigerator at a temperature of forty degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s meals met meal pattern requirements. I completed a walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment. Preschool-age children played in activity areas in the classrooms and participated in teacher-directed small activities that included crafts and water play. Toddler-age children played with materials in the classrooms, participated in teacher-directed small group activities that included crafts, and participated in teacher-lead whole group activities that included read-alouds of children’s books. Infant-age children played with materials in the classrooms while interacting with teachers. Children of all ages transitioned to outdoor play, played outside, attended to personal care needs, transitioned to indoor activities, ate lunch, napped, ate snack, and departed. You stated no school-aged children were enrolled at this time. Supervision, adequate approved enhanced space use, capacity, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced group size, and permit restrictions were maintained during today’s visit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records, children’s records, and a portion of staff records today. Due to time constraints and four new staff members not being listed on the Staff and Training (S&T) Worksheet, a review of staff records was not completed today. I will return to the facility on April 28, 2026 to complete the staff record review. Please have the all staff listed on the S&T worksheet and have all the information documented as requested. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 434 The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. .0604(q) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. .0606(b) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. One staff member assigned to work in the room with infants with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 12/27/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. The administrator with a date of employment of 07/17/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 10/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. This is a violation of a requirement in .1102(f). .1102(f) 1314 Emergency information did not name child's health care professional. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child. .0802(c)(2) 1317 Authorization for emergency medical care information was not signed by child's parent. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. .0802(d) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. .0801(a)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1864 Outdoor play equipment was not age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. .0605(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), a current schedule should be posted for each group of children for reference by parents and by caregivers. In Space 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. To correct this violation, a daily schedule should be created for Space 2 and 5 that reflects the daily routines of the staff and the teacher. This daily schedule should be written and posted in the classroom where it can be easily referenced by staff and parents. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review the items required to be posted in each classroom and make routine inspections of the classrooms to ensure these items are posted and current at all times. 2. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), activity plans should be current and posted. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. The teachers stated that they had not completed an activity plan for this week, and the activities observed during today’s visit to the classrooms did not reflect the theme for last week. To correct this violation, a current activity plan should be created and posted in each classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you require activity plans be turned in to you for review prior to Fridays and then require staff to post the new activity plan at the end of the operating day on Friday evenings. I further suggest that you monitor each classroom on Monday morning to ensure a current activity plan has been posted in each classroom. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2), the materials and equipment indoors and outdoors should be sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. Children were also running and playing with leaves and sticks, but no additional outdoor play equipment or teacher-provided materials were available to the children. To correct this violation, I suggest you add materials/toys to each of these classrooms and the outdoor learning environment to provide a sufficient of amount of materials/toys for the number of children enrolled and a variety of materials/toys to promote development across all developmental domains. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you print the suggested materials list found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents” and ask each classroom teacher to provide a monthly inventory of the materials in their classroom. I suggest you use these monthly inventory lists to determine the materials that need to be purchased on a monthly or quarterly basis as needed. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a), each child less than fifteen months of age should have an individual feeding plan on file and posted in the classroom the child is attending. The written feeding plan should be modified as the child's needs changed. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. To correct this violation, an individual feeding plan should be posted in Space 5 for each of the children enrolled in the classroom. A copy may be kept on file in the office, but the original should be posted in the classroom were modifications can be documented as each child’s feeding plan changes with their developmental growth. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you revise your enrollment process to include posting the individual feeding plan in the classroom on or before the first day the child attends the center. I also suggest you review this child care requirement with the your staff members who provide care to children less than fifteen months of age. 5. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2806(f)(h)(2), each refrigerator or cooler used to store food or beverage served to the children should be equipped with a working thermometer and should maintain a temperature of at least forty-five degrees Fahrenheit. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. To correct this violation, I suggest you place a thermometer in the refrigerator in Space 5. To maintain compliance with this sanitation rule, I suggest you review this sanitation requirement with your staff members and make routine inspections of the refrigerators throughout the center to ensure a working thermometer is present in each and every refrigerator in the center. I also suggest you purchase and keep on hand extra refrigerator thermometers so that you always have a backup just in case a thermometer goes missing or stops working properly. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a), the fence surrounding the outdoor play area should be in good repair and barbs should not be protruding on the top or the bottom of the fence. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you repair the bottom of the fence on Outdoor Space 1 that will cover the barbs on the bottom of the fence and repair the holes along the back fence line on Outdoor Space 1 and 5. 7. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b), all cleaning supplies, aerosol cans, and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. To correct this violation, these aerosol cans should be removed from the classroom or stored within the classroom in cabinets with working locks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review this sanitation and child care requirement with your staff and conduct routine inspections of each classroom to ensure hazardous items are stored as required. 8. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the over the counter diaper creams and ointments to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule with staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 9. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. The teachers in the classroom moved the bags to a locked cabinet unit in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review these rules and the other rules with your staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 10. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b), the center's safe sleep policy should be posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. Teachers stated that the center’s safe sleep policy had not been posted when the infant room was opened for operation a few months ago. To correct this violation, print and post a copy of the center’s safe sleep policy in the classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you create a checklist that includes all the required postings for each classroom and give this to the staff so they can have a list of the postings they should maintain in their classroom. 11. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f), child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, should complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment, child care administrators should complete the ITS-SIDS training within ninety days of employment, and one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training should be present in the infant room while children are in care. While reviewing staff records, I observed one new staff member with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 who did not have documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training due by 01/27/2026. I observed that the administrator with a date of employment 07/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026 with no documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training prior to this date. To correct this violation, an ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the staff member hired on 10/27/2025 and an expired ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the administrator to support that the administrator had a valid ITS-SIDS training certificate prior to 01/26/2026. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest when faced with hiring and training new teachers to care for infant-age children, you temporarily assign a staff member who has completed ITS-SIDS training to the infant room and attempt to find an ITS-SIDS class either in or outside the county for these the new staff members within two months as required. 12. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(c)(2), emergency information should include the name of a health care professional for the child. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child.. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent write in the name of a health care professional such as a family physician, a pediatrician, a local urgent care center, or a local health department. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each child enrollment application upon receipt to ensure all required information has been completed and provided by the parent. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 13. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(d), authorization for emergency medical care should be signed by the parent of each child. An authorization for emergency medical care statement is included on the “Child’s Application For Enrollment” form provided by DCDEE and used by this center. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. To correct this violation, I suggest you request that the parent sign the authorization for emergency medical care statement on the application form. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each application for enrollment when it is received and note any missing information. Then have the parent add the missing information on the first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 14. Per NC General Statute 110-91(1), each child should have a children’s medical report and immunization record on file on or before the child’s first day of attendance but no later than 30 days after enrollment. While reviewing child records, one child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. To correct this violation, I suggest you request an immunization record from the parent. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you establish a tracking tool and/or system to assist you with maintaining the thirty day due date for medical reports and immunizations for children. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child record files to ensure that each child has a medical health assessment report and immunization record on file. 15. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0801(a), each child’s application for enrollment should include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. While reviewing child records, three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent answer each of the questions in the health care needs section by adding relative information to be shared or writing “NA” or “NONE” to indicate that no information needs to be shared. To maintain compliance this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 16. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. To correct this violation, please follow the instructions below: 1. You will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. 2. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. 3. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. 4. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, be sure to update this information in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. Should you need assistance with any of this process, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 17. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), emergency drills (shelter-in-place or lockdown drills) should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. To correct this violation, a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill should be conducted and recorded within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone to conduct a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill every three months and continue to record the drill on the emergency drill log. 18. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(a), outdoor play equipment should be age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. To correct this violation, no children under the age of five years should be allowed to play on the stationary climbing piece installed on Outdoor Space 5. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff and encourage them to use only the outdoor space designated for their age group. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, I will return to complete the review of staff records. If additional violations are cited during the staff record review, those violations will be added to this visit and documented on a “Visit Documentation Addendum” form and included with the visit summary that day. 2. As discussed today, due to the number of violations cited during the visit, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 (2), the citation of sixteen or more violations of separate rules in a single visit may result in the issuance of an administrative action. 4. Please sure to send new fire inspection reports to me by email within one week of their completion. 5. Please be mindful of the cleanliness of walls, doors, door facings, windowsills, shelves, cubbies, exterior door metal seals, and rug/carpets as build up and soiling becomes concerning when these areas are not cleaned routinely. 6. Per NC General Statute 110-102, the current version of Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law should be posted in a prominent place in the facility and included in the enrollment packet to be given to parents prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in November 2025. Today, I observed the date of the posted Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was September 2023 and February 2025. Please print the updated version, post it in your lobby, and add it to your new enrollment packets. I also suggest you regularly check the DCDEE website for updated versions and especially when you receive notification of child care or sanitation rule updates. 7. As discussed today, the manufacturer labels on the stationary climbing structure on Outdoor Space 5 had been painted over. Please notify the appropriate corporate representative and request that manufacturer labels be left unpainted in the future so that the information on the manufacturer label maintains its integrity and usefulness. 8. When and if you update your fire evacuation route, shelter-in-place, and/or lock-down drill plan, you need to have the fire department approve the your plan first BEFORE you put it in your EPR plan as an update. 9. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website at this link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization to learn more now. 10. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project offers coaching for child care providers who would like support managing challenging classroom behaviors. The goal is to empower teachers to create learning environments that promote pro-social skills, like self-control and problem solving. Support is available by phone at 888-600-1685, Option 1 or by email at HSB@childcareresourcesinc.org. 11. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 12. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Child-Care-Rules-Law-and-Public-Information Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization 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 13. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 14. If you would like an electronic link to any of the links shared above, please send me an email requesting the links that you wish to receive, and I will be glad to send the hyperlinks to you by email. RATED LICENSE CONSULTATION During a technical assistance visit on November 5, 2025, we discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. Today, you shared that the KinderCare corporation is moving toward accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and should be completing that accreditation process before December 2026. I requested that you keep you updated with this accreditation process and reminded you that DCDEE plans for all permits/licenses to be updated by December 2026. While this facility may initiate the rated license assessment process at any time by submitting the “Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers”, I suggest you submit your application based on the following dates depending on your assessment option choice: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, May 1, 2026. • Immediately begin your three-month self-study using the ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care as soon as you complete the three-month study. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, June 1, 2026. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum for all ages served.) • Arrange coaching or training options for the administrator and lead teachers if applicable. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, October 1, 2026. • Ensure all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Please be reminded the facility will be required to maintain the staff to child ratio and group sizes required by the accrediting organization and these requirements must be verified by your child care consultant prior to the license being issued. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. CONSULTATION FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL RATING SCALE (ERS) ASSESSMENT (if applicable): 1. Remember that the ECERS-3 assessment will be completed in three hours with no interview process. If the assessors do not observe an indicator in action or posted as required, there will be no opportunity to explain the omission. 2. If your current classroom schedule and routine allows for outside play after 11am, you may want to revise your classroom schedule to include outside play in the first three hours of the school day. If you choose to make a schedule change, I suggest you make those changes as soon as possible and to begin to train the children and staff in the new routine. 3. Allow bleach water to sit on surfaces at least two minutes before wiping off or using the surface. 4. Ensure that children wash hands upon arrival, before and after water play, after messy art/play dough play, after coming in from outside, before eating, after toileting/diapering and after coughing/sneezing, etc. 5. Ensure that learning centers are accessible a substantial portion of the day and that your daily schedule reflects it. Areas that must be made available for a minimum of 2hrs and 10 minutes to meet the “Substantial Portion of the Day” requirement are: Fine Motor, Art, Blocks, Dramatic Play, Nature/Science/Exploration, Math/Numbers, and Books. 6. Ensure that children go outside every day weather permitting. 7. Ensure that your block centers are protected from foot traffic, large enough for three children to build a sizeable structure and enough blocks for three children to build. 8. Ensure that books and materials are in good repair and no books depict violent images (guns, swords, teeth bearing). 9. Ensure that the majority of direction/redirection is positive instead of negative. 10. Ensure that staff member's pocket books are stored in locked storage since they almost always contain medications or lotions that must be inaccessible to children. 11. Ensure that staff are interacting with children, engaging in meaningful conversations, and helping children work through altercations and conflicts as they occur. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item numbers 841 and 858 corrected during today’s visit since I documented the steps taken to correct these violations in today’s visit summary. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting Documentation: 1. Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. 2. Please DO NOT send copies of health related information by email or mail. If needed, I will verify these documents are on file during the next monitoring visit. I should receive your compliance letter no later than May 7, 2026. 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Due to time constraints created by the number of violations cited today, a handwritten visit summary was prepared, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. A computer-generated visit summary was prepared and sent to you by email on April 24, 2026. When I return to complete the staff record review, a printed copy of the visit summary will be given to and reviewed with you at that time. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at 828.493.6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov. or you may contact Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you do to serve the children and families in your community. 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 .0606 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2026 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 4/23/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 05:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on May 20, 2025. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of April 21, 2026. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. We reviewed the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to the facility phone number, fax number, email address, web address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a facility operating under a four or five star license and serving children who are four and five years of age. The license, NC Summary of Child Care Law poster, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, and emergency phone numbers were posted as required. The most recent fire inspection was dated February 24, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 27, 2025 with a Superior classification and eleven demerits. The lead water test results dated February 12, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing and are waiting on the survey results. Fire drills were up to date, completed monthly, and documented on the Fire Drill Log. Emergency drills were documented on the Emergency Drill Log. The last emergency drill was a lockdown drill. A current and posted menu documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals and snacks were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Milk and cold food items were stored in a commercial refrigerator at a temperature of forty degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s meals met meal pattern requirements. I completed a walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment. Preschool-age children played in activity areas in the classrooms and participated in teacher-directed small activities that included crafts and water play. Toddler-age children played with materials in the classrooms, participated in teacher-directed small group activities that included crafts, and participated in teacher-lead whole group activities that included read-alouds of children’s books. Infant-age children played with materials in the classrooms while interacting with teachers. Children of all ages transitioned to outdoor play, played outside, attended to personal care needs, transitioned to indoor activities, ate lunch, napped, ate snack, and departed. You stated no school-aged children were enrolled at this time. Supervision, adequate approved enhanced space use, capacity, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced group size, and permit restrictions were maintained during today’s visit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records, children’s records, and a portion of staff records today. Due to time constraints and four new staff members not being listed on the Staff and Training (S&T) Worksheet, a review of staff records was not completed today. I will return to the facility on April 28, 2026 to complete the staff record review. Please have the all staff listed on the S&T worksheet and have all the information documented as requested. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 434 The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. .0604(q) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. .0606(b) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. One staff member assigned to work in the room with infants with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 12/27/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. The administrator with a date of employment of 07/17/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 10/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. This is a violation of a requirement in .1102(f). .1102(f) 1314 Emergency information did not name child's health care professional. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child. .0802(c)(2) 1317 Authorization for emergency medical care information was not signed by child's parent. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. .0802(d) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. .0801(a)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1864 Outdoor play equipment was not age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. .0605(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), a current schedule should be posted for each group of children for reference by parents and by caregivers. In Space 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. To correct this violation, a daily schedule should be created for Space 2 and 5 that reflects the daily routines of the staff and the teacher. This daily schedule should be written and posted in the classroom where it can be easily referenced by staff and parents. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review the items required to be posted in each classroom and make routine inspections of the classrooms to ensure these items are posted and current at all times. 2. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), activity plans should be current and posted. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. The teachers stated that they had not completed an activity plan for this week, and the activities observed during today’s visit to the classrooms did not reflect the theme for last week. To correct this violation, a current activity plan should be created and posted in each classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you require activity plans be turned in to you for review prior to Fridays and then require staff to post the new activity plan at the end of the operating day on Friday evenings. I further suggest that you monitor each classroom on Monday morning to ensure a current activity plan has been posted in each classroom. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2), the materials and equipment indoors and outdoors should be sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. Children were also running and playing with leaves and sticks, but no additional outdoor play equipment or teacher-provided materials were available to the children. To correct this violation, I suggest you add materials/toys to each of these classrooms and the outdoor learning environment to provide a sufficient of amount of materials/toys for the number of children enrolled and a variety of materials/toys to promote development across all developmental domains. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you print the suggested materials list found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents” and ask each classroom teacher to provide a monthly inventory of the materials in their classroom. I suggest you use these monthly inventory lists to determine the materials that need to be purchased on a monthly or quarterly basis as needed. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a), each child less than fifteen months of age should have an individual feeding plan on file and posted in the classroom the child is attending. The written feeding plan should be modified as the child's needs changed. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. To correct this violation, an individual feeding plan should be posted in Space 5 for each of the children enrolled in the classroom. A copy may be kept on file in the office, but the original should be posted in the classroom were modifications can be documented as each child’s feeding plan changes with their developmental growth. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you revise your enrollment process to include posting the individual feeding plan in the classroom on or before the first day the child attends the center. I also suggest you review this child care requirement with the your staff members who provide care to children less than fifteen months of age. 5. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2806(f)(h)(2), each refrigerator or cooler used to store food or beverage served to the children should be equipped with a working thermometer and should maintain a temperature of at least forty-five degrees Fahrenheit. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. To correct this violation, I suggest you place a thermometer in the refrigerator in Space 5. To maintain compliance with this sanitation rule, I suggest you review this sanitation requirement with your staff members and make routine inspections of the refrigerators throughout the center to ensure a working thermometer is present in each and every refrigerator in the center. I also suggest you purchase and keep on hand extra refrigerator thermometers so that you always have a backup just in case a thermometer goes missing or stops working properly. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a), the fence surrounding the outdoor play area should be in good repair and barbs should not be protruding on the top or the bottom of the fence. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you repair the bottom of the fence on Outdoor Space 1 that will cover the barbs on the bottom of the fence and repair the holes along the back fence line on Outdoor Space 1 and 5. 7. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b), all cleaning supplies, aerosol cans, and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. To correct this violation, these aerosol cans should be removed from the classroom or stored within the classroom in cabinets with working locks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review this sanitation and child care requirement with your staff and conduct routine inspections of each classroom to ensure hazardous items are stored as required. 8. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the over the counter diaper creams and ointments to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule with staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 9. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. The teachers in the classroom moved the bags to a locked cabinet unit in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review these rules and the other rules with your staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 10. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b), the center's safe sleep policy should be posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. Teachers stated that the center’s safe sleep policy had not been posted when the infant room was opened for operation a few months ago. To correct this violation, print and post a copy of the center’s safe sleep policy in the classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you create a checklist that includes all the required postings for each classroom and give this to the staff so they can have a list of the postings they should maintain in their classroom. 11. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f), child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, should complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment, child care administrators should complete the ITS-SIDS training within ninety days of employment, and one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training should be present in the infant room while children are in care. While reviewing staff records, I observed one new staff member with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 who did not have documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training due by 01/27/2026. I observed that the administrator with a date of employment 07/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026 with no documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training prior to this date. To correct this violation, an ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the staff member hired on 10/27/2025 and an expired ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the administrator to support that the administrator had a valid ITS-SIDS training certificate prior to 01/26/2026. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest when faced with hiring and training new teachers to care for infant-age children, you temporarily assign a staff member who has completed ITS-SIDS training to the infant room and attempt to find an ITS-SIDS class either in or outside the county for these the new staff members within two months as required. 12. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(c)(2), emergency information should include the name of a health care professional for the child. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child.. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent write in the name of a health care professional such as a family physician, a pediatrician, a local urgent care center, or a local health department. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each child enrollment application upon receipt to ensure all required information has been completed and provided by the parent. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 13. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(d), authorization for emergency medical care should be signed by the parent of each child. An authorization for emergency medical care statement is included on the “Child’s Application For Enrollment” form provided by DCDEE and used by this center. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. To correct this violation, I suggest you request that the parent sign the authorization for emergency medical care statement on the application form. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each application for enrollment when it is received and note any missing information. Then have the parent add the missing information on the first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 14. Per NC General Statute 110-91(1), each child should have a children’s medical report and immunization record on file on or before the child’s first day of attendance but no later than 30 days after enrollment. While reviewing child records, one child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. To correct this violation, I suggest you request an immunization record from the parent. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you establish a tracking tool and/or system to assist you with maintaining the thirty day due date for medical reports and immunizations for children. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child record files to ensure that each child has a medical health assessment report and immunization record on file. 15. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0801(a), each child’s application for enrollment should include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. While reviewing child records, three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent answer each of the questions in the health care needs section by adding relative information to be shared or writing “NA” or “NONE” to indicate that no information needs to be shared. To maintain compliance this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 16. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. To correct this violation, please follow the instructions below: 1. You will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. 2. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. 3. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. 4. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, be sure to update this information in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. Should you need assistance with any of this process, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 17. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), emergency drills (shelter-in-place or lockdown drills) should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. To correct this violation, a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill should be conducted and recorded within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone to conduct a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill every three months and continue to record the drill on the emergency drill log. 18. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(a), outdoor play equipment should be age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. To correct this violation, no children under the age of five years should be allowed to play on the stationary climbing piece installed on Outdoor Space 5. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff and encourage them to use only the outdoor space designated for their age group. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, I will return to complete the review of staff records. If additional violations are cited during the staff record review, those violations will be added to this visit and documented on a “Visit Documentation Addendum” form and included with the visit summary that day. 2. As discussed today, due to the number of violations cited during the visit, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 (2), the citation of sixteen or more violations of separate rules in a single visit may result in the issuance of an administrative action. 4. Please sure to send new fire inspection reports to me by email within one week of their completion. 5. Please be mindful of the cleanliness of walls, doors, door facings, windowsills, shelves, cubbies, exterior door metal seals, and rug/carpets as build up and soiling becomes concerning when these areas are not cleaned routinely. 6. Per NC General Statute 110-102, the current version of Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law should be posted in a prominent place in the facility and included in the enrollment packet to be given to parents prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in November 2025. Today, I observed the date of the posted Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was September 2023 and February 2025. Please print the updated version, post it in your lobby, and add it to your new enrollment packets. I also suggest you regularly check the DCDEE website for updated versions and especially when you receive notification of child care or sanitation rule updates. 7. As discussed today, the manufacturer labels on the stationary climbing structure on Outdoor Space 5 had been painted over. Please notify the appropriate corporate representative and request that manufacturer labels be left unpainted in the future so that the information on the manufacturer label maintains its integrity and usefulness. 8. When and if you update your fire evacuation route, shelter-in-place, and/or lock-down drill plan, you need to have the fire department approve the your plan first BEFORE you put it in your EPR plan as an update. 9. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website at this link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization to learn more now. 10. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project offers coaching for child care providers who would like support managing challenging classroom behaviors. The goal is to empower teachers to create learning environments that promote pro-social skills, like self-control and problem solving. Support is available by phone at 888-600-1685, Option 1 or by email at HSB@childcareresourcesinc.org. 11. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 12. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Child-Care-Rules-Law-and-Public-Information Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization 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 13. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 14. If you would like an electronic link to any of the links shared above, please send me an email requesting the links that you wish to receive, and I will be glad to send the hyperlinks to you by email. RATED LICENSE CONSULTATION During a technical assistance visit on November 5, 2025, we discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. Today, you shared that the KinderCare corporation is moving toward accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and should be completing that accreditation process before December 2026. I requested that you keep you updated with this accreditation process and reminded you that DCDEE plans for all permits/licenses to be updated by December 2026. While this facility may initiate the rated license assessment process at any time by submitting the “Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers”, I suggest you submit your application based on the following dates depending on your assessment option choice: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, May 1, 2026. • Immediately begin your three-month self-study using the ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care as soon as you complete the three-month study. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, June 1, 2026. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum for all ages served.) • Arrange coaching or training options for the administrator and lead teachers if applicable. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, October 1, 2026. • Ensure all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Please be reminded the facility will be required to maintain the staff to child ratio and group sizes required by the accrediting organization and these requirements must be verified by your child care consultant prior to the license being issued. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. CONSULTATION FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL RATING SCALE (ERS) ASSESSMENT (if applicable): 1. Remember that the ECERS-3 assessment will be completed in three hours with no interview process. If the assessors do not observe an indicator in action or posted as required, there will be no opportunity to explain the omission. 2. If your current classroom schedule and routine allows for outside play after 11am, you may want to revise your classroom schedule to include outside play in the first three hours of the school day. If you choose to make a schedule change, I suggest you make those changes as soon as possible and to begin to train the children and staff in the new routine. 3. Allow bleach water to sit on surfaces at least two minutes before wiping off or using the surface. 4. Ensure that children wash hands upon arrival, before and after water play, after messy art/play dough play, after coming in from outside, before eating, after toileting/diapering and after coughing/sneezing, etc. 5. Ensure that learning centers are accessible a substantial portion of the day and that your daily schedule reflects it. Areas that must be made available for a minimum of 2hrs and 10 minutes to meet the “Substantial Portion of the Day” requirement are: Fine Motor, Art, Blocks, Dramatic Play, Nature/Science/Exploration, Math/Numbers, and Books. 6. Ensure that children go outside every day weather permitting. 7. Ensure that your block centers are protected from foot traffic, large enough for three children to build a sizeable structure and enough blocks for three children to build. 8. Ensure that books and materials are in good repair and no books depict violent images (guns, swords, teeth bearing). 9. Ensure that the majority of direction/redirection is positive instead of negative. 10. Ensure that staff member's pocket books are stored in locked storage since they almost always contain medications or lotions that must be inaccessible to children. 11. Ensure that staff are interacting with children, engaging in meaningful conversations, and helping children work through altercations and conflicts as they occur. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item numbers 841 and 858 corrected during today’s visit since I documented the steps taken to correct these violations in today’s visit summary. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting Documentation: 1. Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. 2. Please DO NOT send copies of health related information by email or mail. If needed, I will verify these documents are on file during the next monitoring visit. I should receive your compliance letter no later than May 7, 2026. 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Due to time constraints created by the number of violations cited today, a handwritten visit summary was prepared, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. A computer-generated visit summary was prepared and sent to you by email on April 24, 2026. When I return to complete the staff record review, a printed copy of the visit summary will be given to and reviewed with you at that time. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at 828.493.6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov. or you may contact Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you do to serve the children and families in your community. 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 .0801 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2026 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 4/23/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 05:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on May 20, 2025. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of April 21, 2026. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. We reviewed the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to the facility phone number, fax number, email address, web address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a facility operating under a four or five star license and serving children who are four and five years of age. The license, NC Summary of Child Care Law poster, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, and emergency phone numbers were posted as required. The most recent fire inspection was dated February 24, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 27, 2025 with a Superior classification and eleven demerits. The lead water test results dated February 12, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing and are waiting on the survey results. Fire drills were up to date, completed monthly, and documented on the Fire Drill Log. Emergency drills were documented on the Emergency Drill Log. The last emergency drill was a lockdown drill. A current and posted menu documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals and snacks were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Milk and cold food items were stored in a commercial refrigerator at a temperature of forty degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s meals met meal pattern requirements. I completed a walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment. Preschool-age children played in activity areas in the classrooms and participated in teacher-directed small activities that included crafts and water play. Toddler-age children played with materials in the classrooms, participated in teacher-directed small group activities that included crafts, and participated in teacher-lead whole group activities that included read-alouds of children’s books. Infant-age children played with materials in the classrooms while interacting with teachers. Children of all ages transitioned to outdoor play, played outside, attended to personal care needs, transitioned to indoor activities, ate lunch, napped, ate snack, and departed. You stated no school-aged children were enrolled at this time. Supervision, adequate approved enhanced space use, capacity, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced group size, and permit restrictions were maintained during today’s visit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records, children’s records, and a portion of staff records today. Due to time constraints and four new staff members not being listed on the Staff and Training (S&T) Worksheet, a review of staff records was not completed today. I will return to the facility on April 28, 2026 to complete the staff record review. Please have the all staff listed on the S&T worksheet and have all the information documented as requested. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 434 The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. .0604(q) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. .0606(b) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. One staff member assigned to work in the room with infants with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 12/27/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. The administrator with a date of employment of 07/17/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 10/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. This is a violation of a requirement in .1102(f). .1102(f) 1314 Emergency information did not name child's health care professional. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child. .0802(c)(2) 1317 Authorization for emergency medical care information was not signed by child's parent. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. .0802(d) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. .0801(a)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1864 Outdoor play equipment was not age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. .0605(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), a current schedule should be posted for each group of children for reference by parents and by caregivers. In Space 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. To correct this violation, a daily schedule should be created for Space 2 and 5 that reflects the daily routines of the staff and the teacher. This daily schedule should be written and posted in the classroom where it can be easily referenced by staff and parents. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review the items required to be posted in each classroom and make routine inspections of the classrooms to ensure these items are posted and current at all times. 2. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), activity plans should be current and posted. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. The teachers stated that they had not completed an activity plan for this week, and the activities observed during today’s visit to the classrooms did not reflect the theme for last week. To correct this violation, a current activity plan should be created and posted in each classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you require activity plans be turned in to you for review prior to Fridays and then require staff to post the new activity plan at the end of the operating day on Friday evenings. I further suggest that you monitor each classroom on Monday morning to ensure a current activity plan has been posted in each classroom. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2), the materials and equipment indoors and outdoors should be sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. Children were also running and playing with leaves and sticks, but no additional outdoor play equipment or teacher-provided materials were available to the children. To correct this violation, I suggest you add materials/toys to each of these classrooms and the outdoor learning environment to provide a sufficient of amount of materials/toys for the number of children enrolled and a variety of materials/toys to promote development across all developmental domains. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you print the suggested materials list found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents” and ask each classroom teacher to provide a monthly inventory of the materials in their classroom. I suggest you use these monthly inventory lists to determine the materials that need to be purchased on a monthly or quarterly basis as needed. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a), each child less than fifteen months of age should have an individual feeding plan on file and posted in the classroom the child is attending. The written feeding plan should be modified as the child's needs changed. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. To correct this violation, an individual feeding plan should be posted in Space 5 for each of the children enrolled in the classroom. A copy may be kept on file in the office, but the original should be posted in the classroom were modifications can be documented as each child’s feeding plan changes with their developmental growth. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you revise your enrollment process to include posting the individual feeding plan in the classroom on or before the first day the child attends the center. I also suggest you review this child care requirement with the your staff members who provide care to children less than fifteen months of age. 5. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2806(f)(h)(2), each refrigerator or cooler used to store food or beverage served to the children should be equipped with a working thermometer and should maintain a temperature of at least forty-five degrees Fahrenheit. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. To correct this violation, I suggest you place a thermometer in the refrigerator in Space 5. To maintain compliance with this sanitation rule, I suggest you review this sanitation requirement with your staff members and make routine inspections of the refrigerators throughout the center to ensure a working thermometer is present in each and every refrigerator in the center. I also suggest you purchase and keep on hand extra refrigerator thermometers so that you always have a backup just in case a thermometer goes missing or stops working properly. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a), the fence surrounding the outdoor play area should be in good repair and barbs should not be protruding on the top or the bottom of the fence. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you repair the bottom of the fence on Outdoor Space 1 that will cover the barbs on the bottom of the fence and repair the holes along the back fence line on Outdoor Space 1 and 5. 7. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b), all cleaning supplies, aerosol cans, and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. To correct this violation, these aerosol cans should be removed from the classroom or stored within the classroom in cabinets with working locks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review this sanitation and child care requirement with your staff and conduct routine inspections of each classroom to ensure hazardous items are stored as required. 8. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the over the counter diaper creams and ointments to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule with staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 9. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. The teachers in the classroom moved the bags to a locked cabinet unit in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review these rules and the other rules with your staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 10. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b), the center's safe sleep policy should be posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. Teachers stated that the center’s safe sleep policy had not been posted when the infant room was opened for operation a few months ago. To correct this violation, print and post a copy of the center’s safe sleep policy in the classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you create a checklist that includes all the required postings for each classroom and give this to the staff so they can have a list of the postings they should maintain in their classroom. 11. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f), child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, should complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment, child care administrators should complete the ITS-SIDS training within ninety days of employment, and one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training should be present in the infant room while children are in care. While reviewing staff records, I observed one new staff member with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 who did not have documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training due by 01/27/2026. I observed that the administrator with a date of employment 07/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026 with no documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training prior to this date. To correct this violation, an ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the staff member hired on 10/27/2025 and an expired ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the administrator to support that the administrator had a valid ITS-SIDS training certificate prior to 01/26/2026. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest when faced with hiring and training new teachers to care for infant-age children, you temporarily assign a staff member who has completed ITS-SIDS training to the infant room and attempt to find an ITS-SIDS class either in or outside the county for these the new staff members within two months as required. 12. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(c)(2), emergency information should include the name of a health care professional for the child. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child.. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent write in the name of a health care professional such as a family physician, a pediatrician, a local urgent care center, or a local health department. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each child enrollment application upon receipt to ensure all required information has been completed and provided by the parent. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 13. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(d), authorization for emergency medical care should be signed by the parent of each child. An authorization for emergency medical care statement is included on the “Child’s Application For Enrollment” form provided by DCDEE and used by this center. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. To correct this violation, I suggest you request that the parent sign the authorization for emergency medical care statement on the application form. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each application for enrollment when it is received and note any missing information. Then have the parent add the missing information on the first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 14. Per NC General Statute 110-91(1), each child should have a children’s medical report and immunization record on file on or before the child’s first day of attendance but no later than 30 days after enrollment. While reviewing child records, one child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. To correct this violation, I suggest you request an immunization record from the parent. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you establish a tracking tool and/or system to assist you with maintaining the thirty day due date for medical reports and immunizations for children. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child record files to ensure that each child has a medical health assessment report and immunization record on file. 15. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0801(a), each child’s application for enrollment should include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. While reviewing child records, three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent answer each of the questions in the health care needs section by adding relative information to be shared or writing “NA” or “NONE” to indicate that no information needs to be shared. To maintain compliance this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 16. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. To correct this violation, please follow the instructions below: 1. You will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. 2. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. 3. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. 4. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, be sure to update this information in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. Should you need assistance with any of this process, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 17. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), emergency drills (shelter-in-place or lockdown drills) should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. To correct this violation, a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill should be conducted and recorded within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone to conduct a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill every three months and continue to record the drill on the emergency drill log. 18. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(a), outdoor play equipment should be age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. To correct this violation, no children under the age of five years should be allowed to play on the stationary climbing piece installed on Outdoor Space 5. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff and encourage them to use only the outdoor space designated for their age group. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, I will return to complete the review of staff records. If additional violations are cited during the staff record review, those violations will be added to this visit and documented on a “Visit Documentation Addendum” form and included with the visit summary that day. 2. As discussed today, due to the number of violations cited during the visit, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 (2), the citation of sixteen or more violations of separate rules in a single visit may result in the issuance of an administrative action. 4. Please sure to send new fire inspection reports to me by email within one week of their completion. 5. Please be mindful of the cleanliness of walls, doors, door facings, windowsills, shelves, cubbies, exterior door metal seals, and rug/carpets as build up and soiling becomes concerning when these areas are not cleaned routinely. 6. Per NC General Statute 110-102, the current version of Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law should be posted in a prominent place in the facility and included in the enrollment packet to be given to parents prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in November 2025. Today, I observed the date of the posted Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was September 2023 and February 2025. Please print the updated version, post it in your lobby, and add it to your new enrollment packets. I also suggest you regularly check the DCDEE website for updated versions and especially when you receive notification of child care or sanitation rule updates. 7. As discussed today, the manufacturer labels on the stationary climbing structure on Outdoor Space 5 had been painted over. Please notify the appropriate corporate representative and request that manufacturer labels be left unpainted in the future so that the information on the manufacturer label maintains its integrity and usefulness. 8. When and if you update your fire evacuation route, shelter-in-place, and/or lock-down drill plan, you need to have the fire department approve the your plan first BEFORE you put it in your EPR plan as an update. 9. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website at this link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization to learn more now. 10. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project offers coaching for child care providers who would like support managing challenging classroom behaviors. The goal is to empower teachers to create learning environments that promote pro-social skills, like self-control and problem solving. Support is available by phone at 888-600-1685, Option 1 or by email at HSB@childcareresourcesinc.org. 11. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 12. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Child-Care-Rules-Law-and-Public-Information Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization 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 13. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 14. If you would like an electronic link to any of the links shared above, please send me an email requesting the links that you wish to receive, and I will be glad to send the hyperlinks to you by email. RATED LICENSE CONSULTATION During a technical assistance visit on November 5, 2025, we discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. Today, you shared that the KinderCare corporation is moving toward accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and should be completing that accreditation process before December 2026. I requested that you keep you updated with this accreditation process and reminded you that DCDEE plans for all permits/licenses to be updated by December 2026. While this facility may initiate the rated license assessment process at any time by submitting the “Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers”, I suggest you submit your application based on the following dates depending on your assessment option choice: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, May 1, 2026. • Immediately begin your three-month self-study using the ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care as soon as you complete the three-month study. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, June 1, 2026. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum for all ages served.) • Arrange coaching or training options for the administrator and lead teachers if applicable. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, October 1, 2026. • Ensure all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Please be reminded the facility will be required to maintain the staff to child ratio and group sizes required by the accrediting organization and these requirements must be verified by your child care consultant prior to the license being issued. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. CONSULTATION FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL RATING SCALE (ERS) ASSESSMENT (if applicable): 1. Remember that the ECERS-3 assessment will be completed in three hours with no interview process. If the assessors do not observe an indicator in action or posted as required, there will be no opportunity to explain the omission. 2. If your current classroom schedule and routine allows for outside play after 11am, you may want to revise your classroom schedule to include outside play in the first three hours of the school day. If you choose to make a schedule change, I suggest you make those changes as soon as possible and to begin to train the children and staff in the new routine. 3. Allow bleach water to sit on surfaces at least two minutes before wiping off or using the surface. 4. Ensure that children wash hands upon arrival, before and after water play, after messy art/play dough play, after coming in from outside, before eating, after toileting/diapering and after coughing/sneezing, etc. 5. Ensure that learning centers are accessible a substantial portion of the day and that your daily schedule reflects it. Areas that must be made available for a minimum of 2hrs and 10 minutes to meet the “Substantial Portion of the Day” requirement are: Fine Motor, Art, Blocks, Dramatic Play, Nature/Science/Exploration, Math/Numbers, and Books. 6. Ensure that children go outside every day weather permitting. 7. Ensure that your block centers are protected from foot traffic, large enough for three children to build a sizeable structure and enough blocks for three children to build. 8. Ensure that books and materials are in good repair and no books depict violent images (guns, swords, teeth bearing). 9. Ensure that the majority of direction/redirection is positive instead of negative. 10. Ensure that staff member's pocket books are stored in locked storage since they almost always contain medications or lotions that must be inaccessible to children. 11. Ensure that staff are interacting with children, engaging in meaningful conversations, and helping children work through altercations and conflicts as they occur. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item numbers 841 and 858 corrected during today’s visit since I documented the steps taken to correct these violations in today’s visit summary. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting Documentation: 1. Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. 2. Please DO NOT send copies of health related information by email or mail. If needed, I will verify these documents are on file during the next monitoring visit. I should receive your compliance letter no later than May 7, 2026. 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Due to time constraints created by the number of violations cited today, a handwritten visit summary was prepared, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. A computer-generated visit summary was prepared and sent to you by email on April 24, 2026. When I return to complete the staff record review, a printed copy of the visit summary will be given to and reviewed with you at that time. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at 828.493.6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov. or you may contact Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you do to serve the children and families in your community. 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 .0802 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2026 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 4/23/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 05:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on May 20, 2025. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of April 21, 2026. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. We reviewed the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to the facility phone number, fax number, email address, web address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a facility operating under a four or five star license and serving children who are four and five years of age. The license, NC Summary of Child Care Law poster, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, and emergency phone numbers were posted as required. The most recent fire inspection was dated February 24, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 27, 2025 with a Superior classification and eleven demerits. The lead water test results dated February 12, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing and are waiting on the survey results. Fire drills were up to date, completed monthly, and documented on the Fire Drill Log. Emergency drills were documented on the Emergency Drill Log. The last emergency drill was a lockdown drill. A current and posted menu documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals and snacks were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Milk and cold food items were stored in a commercial refrigerator at a temperature of forty degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s meals met meal pattern requirements. I completed a walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment. Preschool-age children played in activity areas in the classrooms and participated in teacher-directed small activities that included crafts and water play. Toddler-age children played with materials in the classrooms, participated in teacher-directed small group activities that included crafts, and participated in teacher-lead whole group activities that included read-alouds of children’s books. Infant-age children played with materials in the classrooms while interacting with teachers. Children of all ages transitioned to outdoor play, played outside, attended to personal care needs, transitioned to indoor activities, ate lunch, napped, ate snack, and departed. You stated no school-aged children were enrolled at this time. Supervision, adequate approved enhanced space use, capacity, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced group size, and permit restrictions were maintained during today’s visit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records, children’s records, and a portion of staff records today. Due to time constraints and four new staff members not being listed on the Staff and Training (S&T) Worksheet, a review of staff records was not completed today. I will return to the facility on April 28, 2026 to complete the staff record review. Please have the all staff listed on the S&T worksheet and have all the information documented as requested. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 434 The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. .0604(q) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. .0606(b) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. One staff member assigned to work in the room with infants with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 12/27/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. The administrator with a date of employment of 07/17/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 10/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. This is a violation of a requirement in .1102(f). .1102(f) 1314 Emergency information did not name child's health care professional. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child. .0802(c)(2) 1317 Authorization for emergency medical care information was not signed by child's parent. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. .0802(d) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. .0801(a)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1864 Outdoor play equipment was not age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. .0605(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), a current schedule should be posted for each group of children for reference by parents and by caregivers. In Space 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. To correct this violation, a daily schedule should be created for Space 2 and 5 that reflects the daily routines of the staff and the teacher. This daily schedule should be written and posted in the classroom where it can be easily referenced by staff and parents. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review the items required to be posted in each classroom and make routine inspections of the classrooms to ensure these items are posted and current at all times. 2. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), activity plans should be current and posted. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. The teachers stated that they had not completed an activity plan for this week, and the activities observed during today’s visit to the classrooms did not reflect the theme for last week. To correct this violation, a current activity plan should be created and posted in each classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you require activity plans be turned in to you for review prior to Fridays and then require staff to post the new activity plan at the end of the operating day on Friday evenings. I further suggest that you monitor each classroom on Monday morning to ensure a current activity plan has been posted in each classroom. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2), the materials and equipment indoors and outdoors should be sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. Children were also running and playing with leaves and sticks, but no additional outdoor play equipment or teacher-provided materials were available to the children. To correct this violation, I suggest you add materials/toys to each of these classrooms and the outdoor learning environment to provide a sufficient of amount of materials/toys for the number of children enrolled and a variety of materials/toys to promote development across all developmental domains. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you print the suggested materials list found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents” and ask each classroom teacher to provide a monthly inventory of the materials in their classroom. I suggest you use these monthly inventory lists to determine the materials that need to be purchased on a monthly or quarterly basis as needed. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a), each child less than fifteen months of age should have an individual feeding plan on file and posted in the classroom the child is attending. The written feeding plan should be modified as the child's needs changed. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. To correct this violation, an individual feeding plan should be posted in Space 5 for each of the children enrolled in the classroom. A copy may be kept on file in the office, but the original should be posted in the classroom were modifications can be documented as each child’s feeding plan changes with their developmental growth. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you revise your enrollment process to include posting the individual feeding plan in the classroom on or before the first day the child attends the center. I also suggest you review this child care requirement with the your staff members who provide care to children less than fifteen months of age. 5. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2806(f)(h)(2), each refrigerator or cooler used to store food or beverage served to the children should be equipped with a working thermometer and should maintain a temperature of at least forty-five degrees Fahrenheit. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. To correct this violation, I suggest you place a thermometer in the refrigerator in Space 5. To maintain compliance with this sanitation rule, I suggest you review this sanitation requirement with your staff members and make routine inspections of the refrigerators throughout the center to ensure a working thermometer is present in each and every refrigerator in the center. I also suggest you purchase and keep on hand extra refrigerator thermometers so that you always have a backup just in case a thermometer goes missing or stops working properly. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a), the fence surrounding the outdoor play area should be in good repair and barbs should not be protruding on the top or the bottom of the fence. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you repair the bottom of the fence on Outdoor Space 1 that will cover the barbs on the bottom of the fence and repair the holes along the back fence line on Outdoor Space 1 and 5. 7. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b), all cleaning supplies, aerosol cans, and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. To correct this violation, these aerosol cans should be removed from the classroom or stored within the classroom in cabinets with working locks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review this sanitation and child care requirement with your staff and conduct routine inspections of each classroom to ensure hazardous items are stored as required. 8. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the over the counter diaper creams and ointments to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule with staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 9. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. The teachers in the classroom moved the bags to a locked cabinet unit in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review these rules and the other rules with your staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 10. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b), the center's safe sleep policy should be posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. Teachers stated that the center’s safe sleep policy had not been posted when the infant room was opened for operation a few months ago. To correct this violation, print and post a copy of the center’s safe sleep policy in the classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you create a checklist that includes all the required postings for each classroom and give this to the staff so they can have a list of the postings they should maintain in their classroom. 11. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f), child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, should complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment, child care administrators should complete the ITS-SIDS training within ninety days of employment, and one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training should be present in the infant room while children are in care. While reviewing staff records, I observed one new staff member with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 who did not have documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training due by 01/27/2026. I observed that the administrator with a date of employment 07/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026 with no documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training prior to this date. To correct this violation, an ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the staff member hired on 10/27/2025 and an expired ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the administrator to support that the administrator had a valid ITS-SIDS training certificate prior to 01/26/2026. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest when faced with hiring and training new teachers to care for infant-age children, you temporarily assign a staff member who has completed ITS-SIDS training to the infant room and attempt to find an ITS-SIDS class either in or outside the county for these the new staff members within two months as required. 12. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(c)(2), emergency information should include the name of a health care professional for the child. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child.. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent write in the name of a health care professional such as a family physician, a pediatrician, a local urgent care center, or a local health department. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each child enrollment application upon receipt to ensure all required information has been completed and provided by the parent. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 13. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(d), authorization for emergency medical care should be signed by the parent of each child. An authorization for emergency medical care statement is included on the “Child’s Application For Enrollment” form provided by DCDEE and used by this center. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. To correct this violation, I suggest you request that the parent sign the authorization for emergency medical care statement on the application form. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each application for enrollment when it is received and note any missing information. Then have the parent add the missing information on the first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 14. Per NC General Statute 110-91(1), each child should have a children’s medical report and immunization record on file on or before the child’s first day of attendance but no later than 30 days after enrollment. While reviewing child records, one child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. To correct this violation, I suggest you request an immunization record from the parent. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you establish a tracking tool and/or system to assist you with maintaining the thirty day due date for medical reports and immunizations for children. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child record files to ensure that each child has a medical health assessment report and immunization record on file. 15. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0801(a), each child’s application for enrollment should include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. While reviewing child records, three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent answer each of the questions in the health care needs section by adding relative information to be shared or writing “NA” or “NONE” to indicate that no information needs to be shared. To maintain compliance this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 16. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. To correct this violation, please follow the instructions below: 1. You will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. 2. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. 3. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. 4. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, be sure to update this information in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. Should you need assistance with any of this process, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 17. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), emergency drills (shelter-in-place or lockdown drills) should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. To correct this violation, a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill should be conducted and recorded within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone to conduct a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill every three months and continue to record the drill on the emergency drill log. 18. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(a), outdoor play equipment should be age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. To correct this violation, no children under the age of five years should be allowed to play on the stationary climbing piece installed on Outdoor Space 5. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff and encourage them to use only the outdoor space designated for their age group. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, I will return to complete the review of staff records. If additional violations are cited during the staff record review, those violations will be added to this visit and documented on a “Visit Documentation Addendum” form and included with the visit summary that day. 2. As discussed today, due to the number of violations cited during the visit, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 (2), the citation of sixteen or more violations of separate rules in a single visit may result in the issuance of an administrative action. 4. Please sure to send new fire inspection reports to me by email within one week of their completion. 5. Please be mindful of the cleanliness of walls, doors, door facings, windowsills, shelves, cubbies, exterior door metal seals, and rug/carpets as build up and soiling becomes concerning when these areas are not cleaned routinely. 6. Per NC General Statute 110-102, the current version of Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law should be posted in a prominent place in the facility and included in the enrollment packet to be given to parents prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in November 2025. Today, I observed the date of the posted Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was September 2023 and February 2025. Please print the updated version, post it in your lobby, and add it to your new enrollment packets. I also suggest you regularly check the DCDEE website for updated versions and especially when you receive notification of child care or sanitation rule updates. 7. As discussed today, the manufacturer labels on the stationary climbing structure on Outdoor Space 5 had been painted over. Please notify the appropriate corporate representative and request that manufacturer labels be left unpainted in the future so that the information on the manufacturer label maintains its integrity and usefulness. 8. When and if you update your fire evacuation route, shelter-in-place, and/or lock-down drill plan, you need to have the fire department approve the your plan first BEFORE you put it in your EPR plan as an update. 9. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website at this link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization to learn more now. 10. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project offers coaching for child care providers who would like support managing challenging classroom behaviors. The goal is to empower teachers to create learning environments that promote pro-social skills, like self-control and problem solving. Support is available by phone at 888-600-1685, Option 1 or by email at HSB@childcareresourcesinc.org. 11. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 12. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Child-Care-Rules-Law-and-Public-Information Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization 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 13. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 14. If you would like an electronic link to any of the links shared above, please send me an email requesting the links that you wish to receive, and I will be glad to send the hyperlinks to you by email. RATED LICENSE CONSULTATION During a technical assistance visit on November 5, 2025, we discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. Today, you shared that the KinderCare corporation is moving toward accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and should be completing that accreditation process before December 2026. I requested that you keep you updated with this accreditation process and reminded you that DCDEE plans for all permits/licenses to be updated by December 2026. While this facility may initiate the rated license assessment process at any time by submitting the “Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers”, I suggest you submit your application based on the following dates depending on your assessment option choice: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, May 1, 2026. • Immediately begin your three-month self-study using the ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care as soon as you complete the three-month study. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, June 1, 2026. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum for all ages served.) • Arrange coaching or training options for the administrator and lead teachers if applicable. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, October 1, 2026. • Ensure all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Please be reminded the facility will be required to maintain the staff to child ratio and group sizes required by the accrediting organization and these requirements must be verified by your child care consultant prior to the license being issued. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. CONSULTATION FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL RATING SCALE (ERS) ASSESSMENT (if applicable): 1. Remember that the ECERS-3 assessment will be completed in three hours with no interview process. If the assessors do not observe an indicator in action or posted as required, there will be no opportunity to explain the omission. 2. If your current classroom schedule and routine allows for outside play after 11am, you may want to revise your classroom schedule to include outside play in the first three hours of the school day. If you choose to make a schedule change, I suggest you make those changes as soon as possible and to begin to train the children and staff in the new routine. 3. Allow bleach water to sit on surfaces at least two minutes before wiping off or using the surface. 4. Ensure that children wash hands upon arrival, before and after water play, after messy art/play dough play, after coming in from outside, before eating, after toileting/diapering and after coughing/sneezing, etc. 5. Ensure that learning centers are accessible a substantial portion of the day and that your daily schedule reflects it. Areas that must be made available for a minimum of 2hrs and 10 minutes to meet the “Substantial Portion of the Day” requirement are: Fine Motor, Art, Blocks, Dramatic Play, Nature/Science/Exploration, Math/Numbers, and Books. 6. Ensure that children go outside every day weather permitting. 7. Ensure that your block centers are protected from foot traffic, large enough for three children to build a sizeable structure and enough blocks for three children to build. 8. Ensure that books and materials are in good repair and no books depict violent images (guns, swords, teeth bearing). 9. Ensure that the majority of direction/redirection is positive instead of negative. 10. Ensure that staff member's pocket books are stored in locked storage since they almost always contain medications or lotions that must be inaccessible to children. 11. Ensure that staff are interacting with children, engaging in meaningful conversations, and helping children work through altercations and conflicts as they occur. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item numbers 841 and 858 corrected during today’s visit since I documented the steps taken to correct these violations in today’s visit summary. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting Documentation: 1. Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. 2. Please DO NOT send copies of health related information by email or mail. If needed, I will verify these documents are on file during the next monitoring visit. I should receive your compliance letter no later than May 7, 2026. 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Due to time constraints created by the number of violations cited today, a handwritten visit summary was prepared, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. A computer-generated visit summary was prepared and sent to you by email on April 24, 2026. When I return to complete the staff record review, a printed copy of the visit summary will be given to and reviewed with you at that time. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at 828.493.6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov. or you may contact Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you do to serve the children and families in your community. 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 .0902 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2026 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 4/23/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 05:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on May 20, 2025. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of April 21, 2026. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. We reviewed the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to the facility phone number, fax number, email address, web address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a facility operating under a four or five star license and serving children who are four and five years of age. The license, NC Summary of Child Care Law poster, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, and emergency phone numbers were posted as required. The most recent fire inspection was dated February 24, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 27, 2025 with a Superior classification and eleven demerits. The lead water test results dated February 12, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing and are waiting on the survey results. Fire drills were up to date, completed monthly, and documented on the Fire Drill Log. Emergency drills were documented on the Emergency Drill Log. The last emergency drill was a lockdown drill. A current and posted menu documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals and snacks were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Milk and cold food items were stored in a commercial refrigerator at a temperature of forty degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s meals met meal pattern requirements. I completed a walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment. Preschool-age children played in activity areas in the classrooms and participated in teacher-directed small activities that included crafts and water play. Toddler-age children played with materials in the classrooms, participated in teacher-directed small group activities that included crafts, and participated in teacher-lead whole group activities that included read-alouds of children’s books. Infant-age children played with materials in the classrooms while interacting with teachers. Children of all ages transitioned to outdoor play, played outside, attended to personal care needs, transitioned to indoor activities, ate lunch, napped, ate snack, and departed. You stated no school-aged children were enrolled at this time. Supervision, adequate approved enhanced space use, capacity, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced group size, and permit restrictions were maintained during today’s visit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records, children’s records, and a portion of staff records today. Due to time constraints and four new staff members not being listed on the Staff and Training (S&T) Worksheet, a review of staff records was not completed today. I will return to the facility on April 28, 2026 to complete the staff record review. Please have the all staff listed on the S&T worksheet and have all the information documented as requested. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 434 The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. .0604(q) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. .0606(b) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. One staff member assigned to work in the room with infants with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 12/27/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. The administrator with a date of employment of 07/17/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 10/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. This is a violation of a requirement in .1102(f). .1102(f) 1314 Emergency information did not name child's health care professional. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child. .0802(c)(2) 1317 Authorization for emergency medical care information was not signed by child's parent. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. .0802(d) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. .0801(a)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1864 Outdoor play equipment was not age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. .0605(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), a current schedule should be posted for each group of children for reference by parents and by caregivers. In Space 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. To correct this violation, a daily schedule should be created for Space 2 and 5 that reflects the daily routines of the staff and the teacher. This daily schedule should be written and posted in the classroom where it can be easily referenced by staff and parents. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review the items required to be posted in each classroom and make routine inspections of the classrooms to ensure these items are posted and current at all times. 2. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), activity plans should be current and posted. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. The teachers stated that they had not completed an activity plan for this week, and the activities observed during today’s visit to the classrooms did not reflect the theme for last week. To correct this violation, a current activity plan should be created and posted in each classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you require activity plans be turned in to you for review prior to Fridays and then require staff to post the new activity plan at the end of the operating day on Friday evenings. I further suggest that you monitor each classroom on Monday morning to ensure a current activity plan has been posted in each classroom. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2), the materials and equipment indoors and outdoors should be sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. Children were also running and playing with leaves and sticks, but no additional outdoor play equipment or teacher-provided materials were available to the children. To correct this violation, I suggest you add materials/toys to each of these classrooms and the outdoor learning environment to provide a sufficient of amount of materials/toys for the number of children enrolled and a variety of materials/toys to promote development across all developmental domains. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you print the suggested materials list found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents” and ask each classroom teacher to provide a monthly inventory of the materials in their classroom. I suggest you use these monthly inventory lists to determine the materials that need to be purchased on a monthly or quarterly basis as needed. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a), each child less than fifteen months of age should have an individual feeding plan on file and posted in the classroom the child is attending. The written feeding plan should be modified as the child's needs changed. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. To correct this violation, an individual feeding plan should be posted in Space 5 for each of the children enrolled in the classroom. A copy may be kept on file in the office, but the original should be posted in the classroom were modifications can be documented as each child’s feeding plan changes with their developmental growth. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you revise your enrollment process to include posting the individual feeding plan in the classroom on or before the first day the child attends the center. I also suggest you review this child care requirement with the your staff members who provide care to children less than fifteen months of age. 5. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2806(f)(h)(2), each refrigerator or cooler used to store food or beverage served to the children should be equipped with a working thermometer and should maintain a temperature of at least forty-five degrees Fahrenheit. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. To correct this violation, I suggest you place a thermometer in the refrigerator in Space 5. To maintain compliance with this sanitation rule, I suggest you review this sanitation requirement with your staff members and make routine inspections of the refrigerators throughout the center to ensure a working thermometer is present in each and every refrigerator in the center. I also suggest you purchase and keep on hand extra refrigerator thermometers so that you always have a backup just in case a thermometer goes missing or stops working properly. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a), the fence surrounding the outdoor play area should be in good repair and barbs should not be protruding on the top or the bottom of the fence. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you repair the bottom of the fence on Outdoor Space 1 that will cover the barbs on the bottom of the fence and repair the holes along the back fence line on Outdoor Space 1 and 5. 7. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b), all cleaning supplies, aerosol cans, and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. To correct this violation, these aerosol cans should be removed from the classroom or stored within the classroom in cabinets with working locks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review this sanitation and child care requirement with your staff and conduct routine inspections of each classroom to ensure hazardous items are stored as required. 8. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the over the counter diaper creams and ointments to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule with staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 9. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. The teachers in the classroom moved the bags to a locked cabinet unit in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review these rules and the other rules with your staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 10. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b), the center's safe sleep policy should be posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. Teachers stated that the center’s safe sleep policy had not been posted when the infant room was opened for operation a few months ago. To correct this violation, print and post a copy of the center’s safe sleep policy in the classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you create a checklist that includes all the required postings for each classroom and give this to the staff so they can have a list of the postings they should maintain in their classroom. 11. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f), child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, should complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment, child care administrators should complete the ITS-SIDS training within ninety days of employment, and one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training should be present in the infant room while children are in care. While reviewing staff records, I observed one new staff member with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 who did not have documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training due by 01/27/2026. I observed that the administrator with a date of employment 07/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026 with no documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training prior to this date. To correct this violation, an ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the staff member hired on 10/27/2025 and an expired ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the administrator to support that the administrator had a valid ITS-SIDS training certificate prior to 01/26/2026. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest when faced with hiring and training new teachers to care for infant-age children, you temporarily assign a staff member who has completed ITS-SIDS training to the infant room and attempt to find an ITS-SIDS class either in or outside the county for these the new staff members within two months as required. 12. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(c)(2), emergency information should include the name of a health care professional for the child. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child.. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent write in the name of a health care professional such as a family physician, a pediatrician, a local urgent care center, or a local health department. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each child enrollment application upon receipt to ensure all required information has been completed and provided by the parent. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 13. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(d), authorization for emergency medical care should be signed by the parent of each child. An authorization for emergency medical care statement is included on the “Child’s Application For Enrollment” form provided by DCDEE and used by this center. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. To correct this violation, I suggest you request that the parent sign the authorization for emergency medical care statement on the application form. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each application for enrollment when it is received and note any missing information. Then have the parent add the missing information on the first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 14. Per NC General Statute 110-91(1), each child should have a children’s medical report and immunization record on file on or before the child’s first day of attendance but no later than 30 days after enrollment. While reviewing child records, one child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. To correct this violation, I suggest you request an immunization record from the parent. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you establish a tracking tool and/or system to assist you with maintaining the thirty day due date for medical reports and immunizations for children. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child record files to ensure that each child has a medical health assessment report and immunization record on file. 15. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0801(a), each child’s application for enrollment should include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. While reviewing child records, three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent answer each of the questions in the health care needs section by adding relative information to be shared or writing “NA” or “NONE” to indicate that no information needs to be shared. To maintain compliance this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 16. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. To correct this violation, please follow the instructions below: 1. You will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. 2. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. 3. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. 4. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, be sure to update this information in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. Should you need assistance with any of this process, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 17. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), emergency drills (shelter-in-place or lockdown drills) should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. To correct this violation, a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill should be conducted and recorded within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone to conduct a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill every three months and continue to record the drill on the emergency drill log. 18. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(a), outdoor play equipment should be age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. To correct this violation, no children under the age of five years should be allowed to play on the stationary climbing piece installed on Outdoor Space 5. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff and encourage them to use only the outdoor space designated for their age group. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, I will return to complete the review of staff records. If additional violations are cited during the staff record review, those violations will be added to this visit and documented on a “Visit Documentation Addendum” form and included with the visit summary that day. 2. As discussed today, due to the number of violations cited during the visit, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 (2), the citation of sixteen or more violations of separate rules in a single visit may result in the issuance of an administrative action. 4. Please sure to send new fire inspection reports to me by email within one week of their completion. 5. Please be mindful of the cleanliness of walls, doors, door facings, windowsills, shelves, cubbies, exterior door metal seals, and rug/carpets as build up and soiling becomes concerning when these areas are not cleaned routinely. 6. Per NC General Statute 110-102, the current version of Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law should be posted in a prominent place in the facility and included in the enrollment packet to be given to parents prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in November 2025. Today, I observed the date of the posted Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was September 2023 and February 2025. Please print the updated version, post it in your lobby, and add it to your new enrollment packets. I also suggest you regularly check the DCDEE website for updated versions and especially when you receive notification of child care or sanitation rule updates. 7. As discussed today, the manufacturer labels on the stationary climbing structure on Outdoor Space 5 had been painted over. Please notify the appropriate corporate representative and request that manufacturer labels be left unpainted in the future so that the information on the manufacturer label maintains its integrity and usefulness. 8. When and if you update your fire evacuation route, shelter-in-place, and/or lock-down drill plan, you need to have the fire department approve the your plan first BEFORE you put it in your EPR plan as an update. 9. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website at this link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization to learn more now. 10. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project offers coaching for child care providers who would like support managing challenging classroom behaviors. The goal is to empower teachers to create learning environments that promote pro-social skills, like self-control and problem solving. Support is available by phone at 888-600-1685, Option 1 or by email at HSB@childcareresourcesinc.org. 11. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 12. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Child-Care-Rules-Law-and-Public-Information Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization 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 13. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 14. If you would like an electronic link to any of the links shared above, please send me an email requesting the links that you wish to receive, and I will be glad to send the hyperlinks to you by email. RATED LICENSE CONSULTATION During a technical assistance visit on November 5, 2025, we discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. Today, you shared that the KinderCare corporation is moving toward accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and should be completing that accreditation process before December 2026. I requested that you keep you updated with this accreditation process and reminded you that DCDEE plans for all permits/licenses to be updated by December 2026. While this facility may initiate the rated license assessment process at any time by submitting the “Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers”, I suggest you submit your application based on the following dates depending on your assessment option choice: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, May 1, 2026. • Immediately begin your three-month self-study using the ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care as soon as you complete the three-month study. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, June 1, 2026. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum for all ages served.) • Arrange coaching or training options for the administrator and lead teachers if applicable. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, October 1, 2026. • Ensure all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Please be reminded the facility will be required to maintain the staff to child ratio and group sizes required by the accrediting organization and these requirements must be verified by your child care consultant prior to the license being issued. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. CONSULTATION FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL RATING SCALE (ERS) ASSESSMENT (if applicable): 1. Remember that the ECERS-3 assessment will be completed in three hours with no interview process. If the assessors do not observe an indicator in action or posted as required, there will be no opportunity to explain the omission. 2. If your current classroom schedule and routine allows for outside play after 11am, you may want to revise your classroom schedule to include outside play in the first three hours of the school day. If you choose to make a schedule change, I suggest you make those changes as soon as possible and to begin to train the children and staff in the new routine. 3. Allow bleach water to sit on surfaces at least two minutes before wiping off or using the surface. 4. Ensure that children wash hands upon arrival, before and after water play, after messy art/play dough play, after coming in from outside, before eating, after toileting/diapering and after coughing/sneezing, etc. 5. Ensure that learning centers are accessible a substantial portion of the day and that your daily schedule reflects it. Areas that must be made available for a minimum of 2hrs and 10 minutes to meet the “Substantial Portion of the Day” requirement are: Fine Motor, Art, Blocks, Dramatic Play, Nature/Science/Exploration, Math/Numbers, and Books. 6. Ensure that children go outside every day weather permitting. 7. Ensure that your block centers are protected from foot traffic, large enough for three children to build a sizeable structure and enough blocks for three children to build. 8. Ensure that books and materials are in good repair and no books depict violent images (guns, swords, teeth bearing). 9. Ensure that the majority of direction/redirection is positive instead of negative. 10. Ensure that staff member's pocket books are stored in locked storage since they almost always contain medications or lotions that must be inaccessible to children. 11. Ensure that staff are interacting with children, engaging in meaningful conversations, and helping children work through altercations and conflicts as they occur. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item numbers 841 and 858 corrected during today’s visit since I documented the steps taken to correct these violations in today’s visit summary. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting Documentation: 1. Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. 2. Please DO NOT send copies of health related information by email or mail. If needed, I will verify these documents are on file during the next monitoring visit. I should receive your compliance letter no later than May 7, 2026. 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Due to time constraints created by the number of violations cited today, a handwritten visit summary was prepared, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. A computer-generated visit summary was prepared and sent to you by email on April 24, 2026. When I return to complete the staff record review, a printed copy of the visit summary will be given to and reviewed with you at that time. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at 828.493.6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov. or you may contact Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you do to serve the children and families in your community. 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 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2026 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 4/23/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 05:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on May 20, 2025. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of April 21, 2026. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. We reviewed the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to the facility phone number, fax number, email address, web address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a facility operating under a four or five star license and serving children who are four and five years of age. The license, NC Summary of Child Care Law poster, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, and emergency phone numbers were posted as required. The most recent fire inspection was dated February 24, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 27, 2025 with a Superior classification and eleven demerits. The lead water test results dated February 12, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing and are waiting on the survey results. Fire drills were up to date, completed monthly, and documented on the Fire Drill Log. Emergency drills were documented on the Emergency Drill Log. The last emergency drill was a lockdown drill. A current and posted menu documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals and snacks were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Milk and cold food items were stored in a commercial refrigerator at a temperature of forty degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s meals met meal pattern requirements. I completed a walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment. Preschool-age children played in activity areas in the classrooms and participated in teacher-directed small activities that included crafts and water play. Toddler-age children played with materials in the classrooms, participated in teacher-directed small group activities that included crafts, and participated in teacher-lead whole group activities that included read-alouds of children’s books. Infant-age children played with materials in the classrooms while interacting with teachers. Children of all ages transitioned to outdoor play, played outside, attended to personal care needs, transitioned to indoor activities, ate lunch, napped, ate snack, and departed. You stated no school-aged children were enrolled at this time. Supervision, adequate approved enhanced space use, capacity, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced group size, and permit restrictions were maintained during today’s visit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records, children’s records, and a portion of staff records today. Due to time constraints and four new staff members not being listed on the Staff and Training (S&T) Worksheet, a review of staff records was not completed today. I will return to the facility on April 28, 2026 to complete the staff record review. Please have the all staff listed on the S&T worksheet and have all the information documented as requested. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 434 The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. .0604(q) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. .0606(b) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. One staff member assigned to work in the room with infants with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 12/27/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. The administrator with a date of employment of 07/17/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 10/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. This is a violation of a requirement in .1102(f). .1102(f) 1314 Emergency information did not name child's health care professional. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child. .0802(c)(2) 1317 Authorization for emergency medical care information was not signed by child's parent. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. .0802(d) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. .0801(a)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1864 Outdoor play equipment was not age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. .0605(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), a current schedule should be posted for each group of children for reference by parents and by caregivers. In Space 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. To correct this violation, a daily schedule should be created for Space 2 and 5 that reflects the daily routines of the staff and the teacher. This daily schedule should be written and posted in the classroom where it can be easily referenced by staff and parents. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review the items required to be posted in each classroom and make routine inspections of the classrooms to ensure these items are posted and current at all times. 2. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), activity plans should be current and posted. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. The teachers stated that they had not completed an activity plan for this week, and the activities observed during today’s visit to the classrooms did not reflect the theme for last week. To correct this violation, a current activity plan should be created and posted in each classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you require activity plans be turned in to you for review prior to Fridays and then require staff to post the new activity plan at the end of the operating day on Friday evenings. I further suggest that you monitor each classroom on Monday morning to ensure a current activity plan has been posted in each classroom. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2), the materials and equipment indoors and outdoors should be sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. Children were also running and playing with leaves and sticks, but no additional outdoor play equipment or teacher-provided materials were available to the children. To correct this violation, I suggest you add materials/toys to each of these classrooms and the outdoor learning environment to provide a sufficient of amount of materials/toys for the number of children enrolled and a variety of materials/toys to promote development across all developmental domains. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you print the suggested materials list found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents” and ask each classroom teacher to provide a monthly inventory of the materials in their classroom. I suggest you use these monthly inventory lists to determine the materials that need to be purchased on a monthly or quarterly basis as needed. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a), each child less than fifteen months of age should have an individual feeding plan on file and posted in the classroom the child is attending. The written feeding plan should be modified as the child's needs changed. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. To correct this violation, an individual feeding plan should be posted in Space 5 for each of the children enrolled in the classroom. A copy may be kept on file in the office, but the original should be posted in the classroom were modifications can be documented as each child’s feeding plan changes with their developmental growth. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you revise your enrollment process to include posting the individual feeding plan in the classroom on or before the first day the child attends the center. I also suggest you review this child care requirement with the your staff members who provide care to children less than fifteen months of age. 5. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2806(f)(h)(2), each refrigerator or cooler used to store food or beverage served to the children should be equipped with a working thermometer and should maintain a temperature of at least forty-five degrees Fahrenheit. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. To correct this violation, I suggest you place a thermometer in the refrigerator in Space 5. To maintain compliance with this sanitation rule, I suggest you review this sanitation requirement with your staff members and make routine inspections of the refrigerators throughout the center to ensure a working thermometer is present in each and every refrigerator in the center. I also suggest you purchase and keep on hand extra refrigerator thermometers so that you always have a backup just in case a thermometer goes missing or stops working properly. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a), the fence surrounding the outdoor play area should be in good repair and barbs should not be protruding on the top or the bottom of the fence. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you repair the bottom of the fence on Outdoor Space 1 that will cover the barbs on the bottom of the fence and repair the holes along the back fence line on Outdoor Space 1 and 5. 7. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b), all cleaning supplies, aerosol cans, and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. To correct this violation, these aerosol cans should be removed from the classroom or stored within the classroom in cabinets with working locks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review this sanitation and child care requirement with your staff and conduct routine inspections of each classroom to ensure hazardous items are stored as required. 8. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the over the counter diaper creams and ointments to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule with staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 9. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. The teachers in the classroom moved the bags to a locked cabinet unit in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review these rules and the other rules with your staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 10. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b), the center's safe sleep policy should be posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. Teachers stated that the center’s safe sleep policy had not been posted when the infant room was opened for operation a few months ago. To correct this violation, print and post a copy of the center’s safe sleep policy in the classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you create a checklist that includes all the required postings for each classroom and give this to the staff so they can have a list of the postings they should maintain in their classroom. 11. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f), child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, should complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment, child care administrators should complete the ITS-SIDS training within ninety days of employment, and one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training should be present in the infant room while children are in care. While reviewing staff records, I observed one new staff member with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 who did not have documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training due by 01/27/2026. I observed that the administrator with a date of employment 07/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026 with no documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training prior to this date. To correct this violation, an ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the staff member hired on 10/27/2025 and an expired ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the administrator to support that the administrator had a valid ITS-SIDS training certificate prior to 01/26/2026. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest when faced with hiring and training new teachers to care for infant-age children, you temporarily assign a staff member who has completed ITS-SIDS training to the infant room and attempt to find an ITS-SIDS class either in or outside the county for these the new staff members within two months as required. 12. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(c)(2), emergency information should include the name of a health care professional for the child. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child.. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent write in the name of a health care professional such as a family physician, a pediatrician, a local urgent care center, or a local health department. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each child enrollment application upon receipt to ensure all required information has been completed and provided by the parent. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 13. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(d), authorization for emergency medical care should be signed by the parent of each child. An authorization for emergency medical care statement is included on the “Child’s Application For Enrollment” form provided by DCDEE and used by this center. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. To correct this violation, I suggest you request that the parent sign the authorization for emergency medical care statement on the application form. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each application for enrollment when it is received and note any missing information. Then have the parent add the missing information on the first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 14. Per NC General Statute 110-91(1), each child should have a children’s medical report and immunization record on file on or before the child’s first day of attendance but no later than 30 days after enrollment. While reviewing child records, one child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. To correct this violation, I suggest you request an immunization record from the parent. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you establish a tracking tool and/or system to assist you with maintaining the thirty day due date for medical reports and immunizations for children. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child record files to ensure that each child has a medical health assessment report and immunization record on file. 15. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0801(a), each child’s application for enrollment should include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. While reviewing child records, three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent answer each of the questions in the health care needs section by adding relative information to be shared or writing “NA” or “NONE” to indicate that no information needs to be shared. To maintain compliance this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 16. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. To correct this violation, please follow the instructions below: 1. You will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. 2. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. 3. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. 4. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, be sure to update this information in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. Should you need assistance with any of this process, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 17. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), emergency drills (shelter-in-place or lockdown drills) should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. To correct this violation, a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill should be conducted and recorded within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone to conduct a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill every three months and continue to record the drill on the emergency drill log. 18. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(a), outdoor play equipment should be age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. To correct this violation, no children under the age of five years should be allowed to play on the stationary climbing piece installed on Outdoor Space 5. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff and encourage them to use only the outdoor space designated for their age group. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, I will return to complete the review of staff records. If additional violations are cited during the staff record review, those violations will be added to this visit and documented on a “Visit Documentation Addendum” form and included with the visit summary that day. 2. As discussed today, due to the number of violations cited during the visit, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 (2), the citation of sixteen or more violations of separate rules in a single visit may result in the issuance of an administrative action. 4. Please sure to send new fire inspection reports to me by email within one week of their completion. 5. Please be mindful of the cleanliness of walls, doors, door facings, windowsills, shelves, cubbies, exterior door metal seals, and rug/carpets as build up and soiling becomes concerning when these areas are not cleaned routinely. 6. Per NC General Statute 110-102, the current version of Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law should be posted in a prominent place in the facility and included in the enrollment packet to be given to parents prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in November 2025. Today, I observed the date of the posted Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was September 2023 and February 2025. Please print the updated version, post it in your lobby, and add it to your new enrollment packets. I also suggest you regularly check the DCDEE website for updated versions and especially when you receive notification of child care or sanitation rule updates. 7. As discussed today, the manufacturer labels on the stationary climbing structure on Outdoor Space 5 had been painted over. Please notify the appropriate corporate representative and request that manufacturer labels be left unpainted in the future so that the information on the manufacturer label maintains its integrity and usefulness. 8. When and if you update your fire evacuation route, shelter-in-place, and/or lock-down drill plan, you need to have the fire department approve the your plan first BEFORE you put it in your EPR plan as an update. 9. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website at this link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization to learn more now. 10. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project offers coaching for child care providers who would like support managing challenging classroom behaviors. The goal is to empower teachers to create learning environments that promote pro-social skills, like self-control and problem solving. Support is available by phone at 888-600-1685, Option 1 or by email at HSB@childcareresourcesinc.org. 11. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 12. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Child-Care-Rules-Law-and-Public-Information Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization 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 13. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 14. If you would like an electronic link to any of the links shared above, please send me an email requesting the links that you wish to receive, and I will be glad to send the hyperlinks to you by email. RATED LICENSE CONSULTATION During a technical assistance visit on November 5, 2025, we discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. Today, you shared that the KinderCare corporation is moving toward accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and should be completing that accreditation process before December 2026. I requested that you keep you updated with this accreditation process and reminded you that DCDEE plans for all permits/licenses to be updated by December 2026. While this facility may initiate the rated license assessment process at any time by submitting the “Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers”, I suggest you submit your application based on the following dates depending on your assessment option choice: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, May 1, 2026. • Immediately begin your three-month self-study using the ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care as soon as you complete the three-month study. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, June 1, 2026. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum for all ages served.) • Arrange coaching or training options for the administrator and lead teachers if applicable. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, October 1, 2026. • Ensure all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Please be reminded the facility will be required to maintain the staff to child ratio and group sizes required by the accrediting organization and these requirements must be verified by your child care consultant prior to the license being issued. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. CONSULTATION FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL RATING SCALE (ERS) ASSESSMENT (if applicable): 1. Remember that the ECERS-3 assessment will be completed in three hours with no interview process. If the assessors do not observe an indicator in action or posted as required, there will be no opportunity to explain the omission. 2. If your current classroom schedule and routine allows for outside play after 11am, you may want to revise your classroom schedule to include outside play in the first three hours of the school day. If you choose to make a schedule change, I suggest you make those changes as soon as possible and to begin to train the children and staff in the new routine. 3. Allow bleach water to sit on surfaces at least two minutes before wiping off or using the surface. 4. Ensure that children wash hands upon arrival, before and after water play, after messy art/play dough play, after coming in from outside, before eating, after toileting/diapering and after coughing/sneezing, etc. 5. Ensure that learning centers are accessible a substantial portion of the day and that your daily schedule reflects it. Areas that must be made available for a minimum of 2hrs and 10 minutes to meet the “Substantial Portion of the Day” requirement are: Fine Motor, Art, Blocks, Dramatic Play, Nature/Science/Exploration, Math/Numbers, and Books. 6. Ensure that children go outside every day weather permitting. 7. Ensure that your block centers are protected from foot traffic, large enough for three children to build a sizeable structure and enough blocks for three children to build. 8. Ensure that books and materials are in good repair and no books depict violent images (guns, swords, teeth bearing). 9. Ensure that the majority of direction/redirection is positive instead of negative. 10. Ensure that staff member's pocket books are stored in locked storage since they almost always contain medications or lotions that must be inaccessible to children. 11. Ensure that staff are interacting with children, engaging in meaningful conversations, and helping children work through altercations and conflicts as they occur. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item numbers 841 and 858 corrected during today’s visit since I documented the steps taken to correct these violations in today’s visit summary. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting Documentation: 1. Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. 2. Please DO NOT send copies of health related information by email or mail. If needed, I will verify these documents are on file during the next monitoring visit. I should receive your compliance letter no later than May 7, 2026. 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Due to time constraints created by the number of violations cited today, a handwritten visit summary was prepared, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. A computer-generated visit summary was prepared and sent to you by email on April 24, 2026. When I return to complete the staff record review, a printed copy of the visit summary will be given to and reviewed with you at that time. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at 828.493.6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov. or you may contact Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you do to serve the children and families in your community. 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 .2203 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2026 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 4/23/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 05:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on May 20, 2025. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of April 21, 2026. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. We reviewed the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to the facility phone number, fax number, email address, web address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a facility operating under a four or five star license and serving children who are four and five years of age. The license, NC Summary of Child Care Law poster, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, and emergency phone numbers were posted as required. The most recent fire inspection was dated February 24, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 27, 2025 with a Superior classification and eleven demerits. The lead water test results dated February 12, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing and are waiting on the survey results. Fire drills were up to date, completed monthly, and documented on the Fire Drill Log. Emergency drills were documented on the Emergency Drill Log. The last emergency drill was a lockdown drill. A current and posted menu documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals and snacks were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Milk and cold food items were stored in a commercial refrigerator at a temperature of forty degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s meals met meal pattern requirements. I completed a walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment. Preschool-age children played in activity areas in the classrooms and participated in teacher-directed small activities that included crafts and water play. Toddler-age children played with materials in the classrooms, participated in teacher-directed small group activities that included crafts, and participated in teacher-lead whole group activities that included read-alouds of children’s books. Infant-age children played with materials in the classrooms while interacting with teachers. Children of all ages transitioned to outdoor play, played outside, attended to personal care needs, transitioned to indoor activities, ate lunch, napped, ate snack, and departed. You stated no school-aged children were enrolled at this time. Supervision, adequate approved enhanced space use, capacity, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced group size, and permit restrictions were maintained during today’s visit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records, children’s records, and a portion of staff records today. Due to time constraints and four new staff members not being listed on the Staff and Training (S&T) Worksheet, a review of staff records was not completed today. I will return to the facility on April 28, 2026 to complete the staff record review. Please have the all staff listed on the S&T worksheet and have all the information documented as requested. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 434 The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. .0604(q) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. .0606(b) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. One staff member assigned to work in the room with infants with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 12/27/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. The administrator with a date of employment of 07/17/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 10/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. This is a violation of a requirement in .1102(f). .1102(f) 1314 Emergency information did not name child's health care professional. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child. .0802(c)(2) 1317 Authorization for emergency medical care information was not signed by child's parent. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. .0802(d) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. .0801(a)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1864 Outdoor play equipment was not age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. .0605(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), a current schedule should be posted for each group of children for reference by parents and by caregivers. In Space 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. To correct this violation, a daily schedule should be created for Space 2 and 5 that reflects the daily routines of the staff and the teacher. This daily schedule should be written and posted in the classroom where it can be easily referenced by staff and parents. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review the items required to be posted in each classroom and make routine inspections of the classrooms to ensure these items are posted and current at all times. 2. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), activity plans should be current and posted. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. The teachers stated that they had not completed an activity plan for this week, and the activities observed during today’s visit to the classrooms did not reflect the theme for last week. To correct this violation, a current activity plan should be created and posted in each classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you require activity plans be turned in to you for review prior to Fridays and then require staff to post the new activity plan at the end of the operating day on Friday evenings. I further suggest that you monitor each classroom on Monday morning to ensure a current activity plan has been posted in each classroom. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2), the materials and equipment indoors and outdoors should be sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. Children were also running and playing with leaves and sticks, but no additional outdoor play equipment or teacher-provided materials were available to the children. To correct this violation, I suggest you add materials/toys to each of these classrooms and the outdoor learning environment to provide a sufficient of amount of materials/toys for the number of children enrolled and a variety of materials/toys to promote development across all developmental domains. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you print the suggested materials list found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents” and ask each classroom teacher to provide a monthly inventory of the materials in their classroom. I suggest you use these monthly inventory lists to determine the materials that need to be purchased on a monthly or quarterly basis as needed. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a), each child less than fifteen months of age should have an individual feeding plan on file and posted in the classroom the child is attending. The written feeding plan should be modified as the child's needs changed. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. To correct this violation, an individual feeding plan should be posted in Space 5 for each of the children enrolled in the classroom. A copy may be kept on file in the office, but the original should be posted in the classroom were modifications can be documented as each child’s feeding plan changes with their developmental growth. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you revise your enrollment process to include posting the individual feeding plan in the classroom on or before the first day the child attends the center. I also suggest you review this child care requirement with the your staff members who provide care to children less than fifteen months of age. 5. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2806(f)(h)(2), each refrigerator or cooler used to store food or beverage served to the children should be equipped with a working thermometer and should maintain a temperature of at least forty-five degrees Fahrenheit. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. To correct this violation, I suggest you place a thermometer in the refrigerator in Space 5. To maintain compliance with this sanitation rule, I suggest you review this sanitation requirement with your staff members and make routine inspections of the refrigerators throughout the center to ensure a working thermometer is present in each and every refrigerator in the center. I also suggest you purchase and keep on hand extra refrigerator thermometers so that you always have a backup just in case a thermometer goes missing or stops working properly. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a), the fence surrounding the outdoor play area should be in good repair and barbs should not be protruding on the top or the bottom of the fence. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you repair the bottom of the fence on Outdoor Space 1 that will cover the barbs on the bottom of the fence and repair the holes along the back fence line on Outdoor Space 1 and 5. 7. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b), all cleaning supplies, aerosol cans, and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. To correct this violation, these aerosol cans should be removed from the classroom or stored within the classroom in cabinets with working locks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review this sanitation and child care requirement with your staff and conduct routine inspections of each classroom to ensure hazardous items are stored as required. 8. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the over the counter diaper creams and ointments to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule with staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 9. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. The teachers in the classroom moved the bags to a locked cabinet unit in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review these rules and the other rules with your staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 10. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b), the center's safe sleep policy should be posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. Teachers stated that the center’s safe sleep policy had not been posted when the infant room was opened for operation a few months ago. To correct this violation, print and post a copy of the center’s safe sleep policy in the classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you create a checklist that includes all the required postings for each classroom and give this to the staff so they can have a list of the postings they should maintain in their classroom. 11. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f), child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, should complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment, child care administrators should complete the ITS-SIDS training within ninety days of employment, and one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training should be present in the infant room while children are in care. While reviewing staff records, I observed one new staff member with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 who did not have documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training due by 01/27/2026. I observed that the administrator with a date of employment 07/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026 with no documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training prior to this date. To correct this violation, an ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the staff member hired on 10/27/2025 and an expired ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the administrator to support that the administrator had a valid ITS-SIDS training certificate prior to 01/26/2026. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest when faced with hiring and training new teachers to care for infant-age children, you temporarily assign a staff member who has completed ITS-SIDS training to the infant room and attempt to find an ITS-SIDS class either in or outside the county for these the new staff members within two months as required. 12. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(c)(2), emergency information should include the name of a health care professional for the child. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child.. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent write in the name of a health care professional such as a family physician, a pediatrician, a local urgent care center, or a local health department. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each child enrollment application upon receipt to ensure all required information has been completed and provided by the parent. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 13. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(d), authorization for emergency medical care should be signed by the parent of each child. An authorization for emergency medical care statement is included on the “Child’s Application For Enrollment” form provided by DCDEE and used by this center. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. To correct this violation, I suggest you request that the parent sign the authorization for emergency medical care statement on the application form. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each application for enrollment when it is received and note any missing information. Then have the parent add the missing information on the first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 14. Per NC General Statute 110-91(1), each child should have a children’s medical report and immunization record on file on or before the child’s first day of attendance but no later than 30 days after enrollment. While reviewing child records, one child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. To correct this violation, I suggest you request an immunization record from the parent. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you establish a tracking tool and/or system to assist you with maintaining the thirty day due date for medical reports and immunizations for children. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child record files to ensure that each child has a medical health assessment report and immunization record on file. 15. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0801(a), each child’s application for enrollment should include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. While reviewing child records, three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent answer each of the questions in the health care needs section by adding relative information to be shared or writing “NA” or “NONE” to indicate that no information needs to be shared. To maintain compliance this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 16. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. To correct this violation, please follow the instructions below: 1. You will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. 2. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. 3. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. 4. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, be sure to update this information in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. Should you need assistance with any of this process, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 17. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), emergency drills (shelter-in-place or lockdown drills) should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. To correct this violation, a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill should be conducted and recorded within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone to conduct a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill every three months and continue to record the drill on the emergency drill log. 18. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(a), outdoor play equipment should be age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. To correct this violation, no children under the age of five years should be allowed to play on the stationary climbing piece installed on Outdoor Space 5. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff and encourage them to use only the outdoor space designated for their age group. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, I will return to complete the review of staff records. If additional violations are cited during the staff record review, those violations will be added to this visit and documented on a “Visit Documentation Addendum” form and included with the visit summary that day. 2. As discussed today, due to the number of violations cited during the visit, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 (2), the citation of sixteen or more violations of separate rules in a single visit may result in the issuance of an administrative action. 4. Please sure to send new fire inspection reports to me by email within one week of their completion. 5. Please be mindful of the cleanliness of walls, doors, door facings, windowsills, shelves, cubbies, exterior door metal seals, and rug/carpets as build up and soiling becomes concerning when these areas are not cleaned routinely. 6. Per NC General Statute 110-102, the current version of Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law should be posted in a prominent place in the facility and included in the enrollment packet to be given to parents prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in November 2025. Today, I observed the date of the posted Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was September 2023 and February 2025. Please print the updated version, post it in your lobby, and add it to your new enrollment packets. I also suggest you regularly check the DCDEE website for updated versions and especially when you receive notification of child care or sanitation rule updates. 7. As discussed today, the manufacturer labels on the stationary climbing structure on Outdoor Space 5 had been painted over. Please notify the appropriate corporate representative and request that manufacturer labels be left unpainted in the future so that the information on the manufacturer label maintains its integrity and usefulness. 8. When and if you update your fire evacuation route, shelter-in-place, and/or lock-down drill plan, you need to have the fire department approve the your plan first BEFORE you put it in your EPR plan as an update. 9. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website at this link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization to learn more now. 10. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project offers coaching for child care providers who would like support managing challenging classroom behaviors. The goal is to empower teachers to create learning environments that promote pro-social skills, like self-control and problem solving. Support is available by phone at 888-600-1685, Option 1 or by email at HSB@childcareresourcesinc.org. 11. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 12. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Child-Care-Rules-Law-and-Public-Information Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization 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 13. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 14. If you would like an electronic link to any of the links shared above, please send me an email requesting the links that you wish to receive, and I will be glad to send the hyperlinks to you by email. RATED LICENSE CONSULTATION During a technical assistance visit on November 5, 2025, we discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. Today, you shared that the KinderCare corporation is moving toward accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and should be completing that accreditation process before December 2026. I requested that you keep you updated with this accreditation process and reminded you that DCDEE plans for all permits/licenses to be updated by December 2026. While this facility may initiate the rated license assessment process at any time by submitting the “Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers”, I suggest you submit your application based on the following dates depending on your assessment option choice: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, May 1, 2026. • Immediately begin your three-month self-study using the ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care as soon as you complete the three-month study. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, June 1, 2026. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum for all ages served.) • Arrange coaching or training options for the administrator and lead teachers if applicable. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, October 1, 2026. • Ensure all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Please be reminded the facility will be required to maintain the staff to child ratio and group sizes required by the accrediting organization and these requirements must be verified by your child care consultant prior to the license being issued. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. CONSULTATION FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL RATING SCALE (ERS) ASSESSMENT (if applicable): 1. Remember that the ECERS-3 assessment will be completed in three hours with no interview process. If the assessors do not observe an indicator in action or posted as required, there will be no opportunity to explain the omission. 2. If your current classroom schedule and routine allows for outside play after 11am, you may want to revise your classroom schedule to include outside play in the first three hours of the school day. If you choose to make a schedule change, I suggest you make those changes as soon as possible and to begin to train the children and staff in the new routine. 3. Allow bleach water to sit on surfaces at least two minutes before wiping off or using the surface. 4. Ensure that children wash hands upon arrival, before and after water play, after messy art/play dough play, after coming in from outside, before eating, after toileting/diapering and after coughing/sneezing, etc. 5. Ensure that learning centers are accessible a substantial portion of the day and that your daily schedule reflects it. Areas that must be made available for a minimum of 2hrs and 10 minutes to meet the “Substantial Portion of the Day” requirement are: Fine Motor, Art, Blocks, Dramatic Play, Nature/Science/Exploration, Math/Numbers, and Books. 6. Ensure that children go outside every day weather permitting. 7. Ensure that your block centers are protected from foot traffic, large enough for three children to build a sizeable structure and enough blocks for three children to build. 8. Ensure that books and materials are in good repair and no books depict violent images (guns, swords, teeth bearing). 9. Ensure that the majority of direction/redirection is positive instead of negative. 10. Ensure that staff member's pocket books are stored in locked storage since they almost always contain medications or lotions that must be inaccessible to children. 11. Ensure that staff are interacting with children, engaging in meaningful conversations, and helping children work through altercations and conflicts as they occur. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item numbers 841 and 858 corrected during today’s visit since I documented the steps taken to correct these violations in today’s visit summary. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting Documentation: 1. Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. 2. Please DO NOT send copies of health related information by email or mail. If needed, I will verify these documents are on file during the next monitoring visit. I should receive your compliance letter no later than May 7, 2026. 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Due to time constraints created by the number of violations cited today, a handwritten visit summary was prepared, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. A computer-generated visit summary was prepared and sent to you by email on April 24, 2026. When I return to complete the staff record review, a printed copy of the visit summary will be given to and reviewed with you at that time. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at 828.493.6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov. or you may contact Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you do to serve the children and families in your community. 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 .3224 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2026 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 4/23/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 05:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on May 20, 2025. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of April 21, 2026. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. We reviewed the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to the facility phone number, fax number, email address, web address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a facility operating under a four or five star license and serving children who are four and five years of age. The license, NC Summary of Child Care Law poster, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, and emergency phone numbers were posted as required. The most recent fire inspection was dated February 24, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 27, 2025 with a Superior classification and eleven demerits. The lead water test results dated February 12, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing and are waiting on the survey results. Fire drills were up to date, completed monthly, and documented on the Fire Drill Log. Emergency drills were documented on the Emergency Drill Log. The last emergency drill was a lockdown drill. A current and posted menu documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals and snacks were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Milk and cold food items were stored in a commercial refrigerator at a temperature of forty degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s meals met meal pattern requirements. I completed a walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment. Preschool-age children played in activity areas in the classrooms and participated in teacher-directed small activities that included crafts and water play. Toddler-age children played with materials in the classrooms, participated in teacher-directed small group activities that included crafts, and participated in teacher-lead whole group activities that included read-alouds of children’s books. Infant-age children played with materials in the classrooms while interacting with teachers. Children of all ages transitioned to outdoor play, played outside, attended to personal care needs, transitioned to indoor activities, ate lunch, napped, ate snack, and departed. You stated no school-aged children were enrolled at this time. Supervision, adequate approved enhanced space use, capacity, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced group size, and permit restrictions were maintained during today’s visit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records, children’s records, and a portion of staff records today. Due to time constraints and four new staff members not being listed on the Staff and Training (S&T) Worksheet, a review of staff records was not completed today. I will return to the facility on April 28, 2026 to complete the staff record review. Please have the all staff listed on the S&T worksheet and have all the information documented as requested. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 434 The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. .0604(q) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. .0606(b) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. One staff member assigned to work in the room with infants with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 12/27/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. The administrator with a date of employment of 07/17/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 10/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. This is a violation of a requirement in .1102(f). .1102(f) 1314 Emergency information did not name child's health care professional. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child. .0802(c)(2) 1317 Authorization for emergency medical care information was not signed by child's parent. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. .0802(d) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. .0801(a)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1864 Outdoor play equipment was not age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. .0605(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), a current schedule should be posted for each group of children for reference by parents and by caregivers. In Space 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. To correct this violation, a daily schedule should be created for Space 2 and 5 that reflects the daily routines of the staff and the teacher. This daily schedule should be written and posted in the classroom where it can be easily referenced by staff and parents. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review the items required to be posted in each classroom and make routine inspections of the classrooms to ensure these items are posted and current at all times. 2. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), activity plans should be current and posted. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. The teachers stated that they had not completed an activity plan for this week, and the activities observed during today’s visit to the classrooms did not reflect the theme for last week. To correct this violation, a current activity plan should be created and posted in each classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you require activity plans be turned in to you for review prior to Fridays and then require staff to post the new activity plan at the end of the operating day on Friday evenings. I further suggest that you monitor each classroom on Monday morning to ensure a current activity plan has been posted in each classroom. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2), the materials and equipment indoors and outdoors should be sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. Children were also running and playing with leaves and sticks, but no additional outdoor play equipment or teacher-provided materials were available to the children. To correct this violation, I suggest you add materials/toys to each of these classrooms and the outdoor learning environment to provide a sufficient of amount of materials/toys for the number of children enrolled and a variety of materials/toys to promote development across all developmental domains. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you print the suggested materials list found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents” and ask each classroom teacher to provide a monthly inventory of the materials in their classroom. I suggest you use these monthly inventory lists to determine the materials that need to be purchased on a monthly or quarterly basis as needed. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a), each child less than fifteen months of age should have an individual feeding plan on file and posted in the classroom the child is attending. The written feeding plan should be modified as the child's needs changed. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. To correct this violation, an individual feeding plan should be posted in Space 5 for each of the children enrolled in the classroom. A copy may be kept on file in the office, but the original should be posted in the classroom were modifications can be documented as each child’s feeding plan changes with their developmental growth. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you revise your enrollment process to include posting the individual feeding plan in the classroom on or before the first day the child attends the center. I also suggest you review this child care requirement with the your staff members who provide care to children less than fifteen months of age. 5. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2806(f)(h)(2), each refrigerator or cooler used to store food or beverage served to the children should be equipped with a working thermometer and should maintain a temperature of at least forty-five degrees Fahrenheit. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. To correct this violation, I suggest you place a thermometer in the refrigerator in Space 5. To maintain compliance with this sanitation rule, I suggest you review this sanitation requirement with your staff members and make routine inspections of the refrigerators throughout the center to ensure a working thermometer is present in each and every refrigerator in the center. I also suggest you purchase and keep on hand extra refrigerator thermometers so that you always have a backup just in case a thermometer goes missing or stops working properly. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a), the fence surrounding the outdoor play area should be in good repair and barbs should not be protruding on the top or the bottom of the fence. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you repair the bottom of the fence on Outdoor Space 1 that will cover the barbs on the bottom of the fence and repair the holes along the back fence line on Outdoor Space 1 and 5. 7. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b), all cleaning supplies, aerosol cans, and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. To correct this violation, these aerosol cans should be removed from the classroom or stored within the classroom in cabinets with working locks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review this sanitation and child care requirement with your staff and conduct routine inspections of each classroom to ensure hazardous items are stored as required. 8. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the over the counter diaper creams and ointments to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule with staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 9. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. The teachers in the classroom moved the bags to a locked cabinet unit in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review these rules and the other rules with your staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 10. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b), the center's safe sleep policy should be posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. Teachers stated that the center’s safe sleep policy had not been posted when the infant room was opened for operation a few months ago. To correct this violation, print and post a copy of the center’s safe sleep policy in the classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you create a checklist that includes all the required postings for each classroom and give this to the staff so they can have a list of the postings they should maintain in their classroom. 11. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f), child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, should complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment, child care administrators should complete the ITS-SIDS training within ninety days of employment, and one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training should be present in the infant room while children are in care. While reviewing staff records, I observed one new staff member with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 who did not have documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training due by 01/27/2026. I observed that the administrator with a date of employment 07/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026 with no documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training prior to this date. To correct this violation, an ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the staff member hired on 10/27/2025 and an expired ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the administrator to support that the administrator had a valid ITS-SIDS training certificate prior to 01/26/2026. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest when faced with hiring and training new teachers to care for infant-age children, you temporarily assign a staff member who has completed ITS-SIDS training to the infant room and attempt to find an ITS-SIDS class either in or outside the county for these the new staff members within two months as required. 12. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(c)(2), emergency information should include the name of a health care professional for the child. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child.. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent write in the name of a health care professional such as a family physician, a pediatrician, a local urgent care center, or a local health department. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each child enrollment application upon receipt to ensure all required information has been completed and provided by the parent. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 13. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(d), authorization for emergency medical care should be signed by the parent of each child. An authorization for emergency medical care statement is included on the “Child’s Application For Enrollment” form provided by DCDEE and used by this center. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. To correct this violation, I suggest you request that the parent sign the authorization for emergency medical care statement on the application form. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each application for enrollment when it is received and note any missing information. Then have the parent add the missing information on the first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 14. Per NC General Statute 110-91(1), each child should have a children’s medical report and immunization record on file on or before the child’s first day of attendance but no later than 30 days after enrollment. While reviewing child records, one child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. To correct this violation, I suggest you request an immunization record from the parent. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you establish a tracking tool and/or system to assist you with maintaining the thirty day due date for medical reports and immunizations for children. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child record files to ensure that each child has a medical health assessment report and immunization record on file. 15. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0801(a), each child’s application for enrollment should include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. While reviewing child records, three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent answer each of the questions in the health care needs section by adding relative information to be shared or writing “NA” or “NONE” to indicate that no information needs to be shared. To maintain compliance this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 16. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. To correct this violation, please follow the instructions below: 1. You will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. 2. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. 3. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. 4. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, be sure to update this information in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. Should you need assistance with any of this process, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 17. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), emergency drills (shelter-in-place or lockdown drills) should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. To correct this violation, a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill should be conducted and recorded within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone to conduct a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill every three months and continue to record the drill on the emergency drill log. 18. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(a), outdoor play equipment should be age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. To correct this violation, no children under the age of five years should be allowed to play on the stationary climbing piece installed on Outdoor Space 5. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff and encourage them to use only the outdoor space designated for their age group. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, I will return to complete the review of staff records. If additional violations are cited during the staff record review, those violations will be added to this visit and documented on a “Visit Documentation Addendum” form and included with the visit summary that day. 2. As discussed today, due to the number of violations cited during the visit, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 (2), the citation of sixteen or more violations of separate rules in a single visit may result in the issuance of an administrative action. 4. Please sure to send new fire inspection reports to me by email within one week of their completion. 5. Please be mindful of the cleanliness of walls, doors, door facings, windowsills, shelves, cubbies, exterior door metal seals, and rug/carpets as build up and soiling becomes concerning when these areas are not cleaned routinely. 6. Per NC General Statute 110-102, the current version of Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law should be posted in a prominent place in the facility and included in the enrollment packet to be given to parents prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in November 2025. Today, I observed the date of the posted Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was September 2023 and February 2025. Please print the updated version, post it in your lobby, and add it to your new enrollment packets. I also suggest you regularly check the DCDEE website for updated versions and especially when you receive notification of child care or sanitation rule updates. 7. As discussed today, the manufacturer labels on the stationary climbing structure on Outdoor Space 5 had been painted over. Please notify the appropriate corporate representative and request that manufacturer labels be left unpainted in the future so that the information on the manufacturer label maintains its integrity and usefulness. 8. When and if you update your fire evacuation route, shelter-in-place, and/or lock-down drill plan, you need to have the fire department approve the your plan first BEFORE you put it in your EPR plan as an update. 9. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website at this link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization to learn more now. 10. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project offers coaching for child care providers who would like support managing challenging classroom behaviors. The goal is to empower teachers to create learning environments that promote pro-social skills, like self-control and problem solving. Support is available by phone at 888-600-1685, Option 1 or by email at HSB@childcareresourcesinc.org. 11. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 12. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Child-Care-Rules-Law-and-Public-Information Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization 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 13. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 14. If you would like an electronic link to any of the links shared above, please send me an email requesting the links that you wish to receive, and I will be glad to send the hyperlinks to you by email. RATED LICENSE CONSULTATION During a technical assistance visit on November 5, 2025, we discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. Today, you shared that the KinderCare corporation is moving toward accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and should be completing that accreditation process before December 2026. I requested that you keep you updated with this accreditation process and reminded you that DCDEE plans for all permits/licenses to be updated by December 2026. While this facility may initiate the rated license assessment process at any time by submitting the “Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers”, I suggest you submit your application based on the following dates depending on your assessment option choice: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, May 1, 2026. • Immediately begin your three-month self-study using the ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care as soon as you complete the three-month study. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, June 1, 2026. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum for all ages served.) • Arrange coaching or training options for the administrator and lead teachers if applicable. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, October 1, 2026. • Ensure all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Please be reminded the facility will be required to maintain the staff to child ratio and group sizes required by the accrediting organization and these requirements must be verified by your child care consultant prior to the license being issued. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. CONSULTATION FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL RATING SCALE (ERS) ASSESSMENT (if applicable): 1. Remember that the ECERS-3 assessment will be completed in three hours with no interview process. If the assessors do not observe an indicator in action or posted as required, there will be no opportunity to explain the omission. 2. If your current classroom schedule and routine allows for outside play after 11am, you may want to revise your classroom schedule to include outside play in the first three hours of the school day. If you choose to make a schedule change, I suggest you make those changes as soon as possible and to begin to train the children and staff in the new routine. 3. Allow bleach water to sit on surfaces at least two minutes before wiping off or using the surface. 4. Ensure that children wash hands upon arrival, before and after water play, after messy art/play dough play, after coming in from outside, before eating, after toileting/diapering and after coughing/sneezing, etc. 5. Ensure that learning centers are accessible a substantial portion of the day and that your daily schedule reflects it. Areas that must be made available for a minimum of 2hrs and 10 minutes to meet the “Substantial Portion of the Day” requirement are: Fine Motor, Art, Blocks, Dramatic Play, Nature/Science/Exploration, Math/Numbers, and Books. 6. Ensure that children go outside every day weather permitting. 7. Ensure that your block centers are protected from foot traffic, large enough for three children to build a sizeable structure and enough blocks for three children to build. 8. Ensure that books and materials are in good repair and no books depict violent images (guns, swords, teeth bearing). 9. Ensure that the majority of direction/redirection is positive instead of negative. 10. Ensure that staff member's pocket books are stored in locked storage since they almost always contain medications or lotions that must be inaccessible to children. 11. Ensure that staff are interacting with children, engaging in meaningful conversations, and helping children work through altercations and conflicts as they occur. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item numbers 841 and 858 corrected during today’s visit since I documented the steps taken to correct these violations in today’s visit summary. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting Documentation: 1. Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. 2. Please DO NOT send copies of health related information by email or mail. If needed, I will verify these documents are on file during the next monitoring visit. I should receive your compliance letter no later than May 7, 2026. 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Due to time constraints created by the number of violations cited today, a handwritten visit summary was prepared, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. A computer-generated visit summary was prepared and sent to you by email on April 24, 2026. When I return to complete the staff record review, a printed copy of the visit summary will be given to and reviewed with you at that time. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at 828.493.6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov. or you may contact Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you do to serve the children and families in your community. 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 09.0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2026 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 4/23/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 05:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on May 20, 2025. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of April 21, 2026. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. We reviewed the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to the facility phone number, fax number, email address, web address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a facility operating under a four or five star license and serving children who are four and five years of age. The license, NC Summary of Child Care Law poster, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, and emergency phone numbers were posted as required. The most recent fire inspection was dated February 24, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 27, 2025 with a Superior classification and eleven demerits. The lead water test results dated February 12, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing and are waiting on the survey results. Fire drills were up to date, completed monthly, and documented on the Fire Drill Log. Emergency drills were documented on the Emergency Drill Log. The last emergency drill was a lockdown drill. A current and posted menu documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals and snacks were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Milk and cold food items were stored in a commercial refrigerator at a temperature of forty degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s meals met meal pattern requirements. I completed a walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment. Preschool-age children played in activity areas in the classrooms and participated in teacher-directed small activities that included crafts and water play. Toddler-age children played with materials in the classrooms, participated in teacher-directed small group activities that included crafts, and participated in teacher-lead whole group activities that included read-alouds of children’s books. Infant-age children played with materials in the classrooms while interacting with teachers. Children of all ages transitioned to outdoor play, played outside, attended to personal care needs, transitioned to indoor activities, ate lunch, napped, ate snack, and departed. You stated no school-aged children were enrolled at this time. Supervision, adequate approved enhanced space use, capacity, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced group size, and permit restrictions were maintained during today’s visit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records, children’s records, and a portion of staff records today. Due to time constraints and four new staff members not being listed on the Staff and Training (S&T) Worksheet, a review of staff records was not completed today. I will return to the facility on April 28, 2026 to complete the staff record review. Please have the all staff listed on the S&T worksheet and have all the information documented as requested. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 434 The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. .0604(q) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. .0606(b) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. One staff member assigned to work in the room with infants with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 12/27/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. The administrator with a date of employment of 07/17/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 10/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. This is a violation of a requirement in .1102(f). .1102(f) 1314 Emergency information did not name child's health care professional. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child. .0802(c)(2) 1317 Authorization for emergency medical care information was not signed by child's parent. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. .0802(d) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. .0801(a)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1864 Outdoor play equipment was not age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. .0605(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), a current schedule should be posted for each group of children for reference by parents and by caregivers. In Space 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. To correct this violation, a daily schedule should be created for Space 2 and 5 that reflects the daily routines of the staff and the teacher. This daily schedule should be written and posted in the classroom where it can be easily referenced by staff and parents. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review the items required to be posted in each classroom and make routine inspections of the classrooms to ensure these items are posted and current at all times. 2. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), activity plans should be current and posted. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. The teachers stated that they had not completed an activity plan for this week, and the activities observed during today’s visit to the classrooms did not reflect the theme for last week. To correct this violation, a current activity plan should be created and posted in each classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you require activity plans be turned in to you for review prior to Fridays and then require staff to post the new activity plan at the end of the operating day on Friday evenings. I further suggest that you monitor each classroom on Monday morning to ensure a current activity plan has been posted in each classroom. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2), the materials and equipment indoors and outdoors should be sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. Children were also running and playing with leaves and sticks, but no additional outdoor play equipment or teacher-provided materials were available to the children. To correct this violation, I suggest you add materials/toys to each of these classrooms and the outdoor learning environment to provide a sufficient of amount of materials/toys for the number of children enrolled and a variety of materials/toys to promote development across all developmental domains. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you print the suggested materials list found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents” and ask each classroom teacher to provide a monthly inventory of the materials in their classroom. I suggest you use these monthly inventory lists to determine the materials that need to be purchased on a monthly or quarterly basis as needed. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a), each child less than fifteen months of age should have an individual feeding plan on file and posted in the classroom the child is attending. The written feeding plan should be modified as the child's needs changed. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. To correct this violation, an individual feeding plan should be posted in Space 5 for each of the children enrolled in the classroom. A copy may be kept on file in the office, but the original should be posted in the classroom were modifications can be documented as each child’s feeding plan changes with their developmental growth. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you revise your enrollment process to include posting the individual feeding plan in the classroom on or before the first day the child attends the center. I also suggest you review this child care requirement with the your staff members who provide care to children less than fifteen months of age. 5. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2806(f)(h)(2), each refrigerator or cooler used to store food or beverage served to the children should be equipped with a working thermometer and should maintain a temperature of at least forty-five degrees Fahrenheit. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. To correct this violation, I suggest you place a thermometer in the refrigerator in Space 5. To maintain compliance with this sanitation rule, I suggest you review this sanitation requirement with your staff members and make routine inspections of the refrigerators throughout the center to ensure a working thermometer is present in each and every refrigerator in the center. I also suggest you purchase and keep on hand extra refrigerator thermometers so that you always have a backup just in case a thermometer goes missing or stops working properly. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a), the fence surrounding the outdoor play area should be in good repair and barbs should not be protruding on the top or the bottom of the fence. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you repair the bottom of the fence on Outdoor Space 1 that will cover the barbs on the bottom of the fence and repair the holes along the back fence line on Outdoor Space 1 and 5. 7. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b), all cleaning supplies, aerosol cans, and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. To correct this violation, these aerosol cans should be removed from the classroom or stored within the classroom in cabinets with working locks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review this sanitation and child care requirement with your staff and conduct routine inspections of each classroom to ensure hazardous items are stored as required. 8. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the over the counter diaper creams and ointments to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule with staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 9. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. The teachers in the classroom moved the bags to a locked cabinet unit in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review these rules and the other rules with your staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 10. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b), the center's safe sleep policy should be posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. Teachers stated that the center’s safe sleep policy had not been posted when the infant room was opened for operation a few months ago. To correct this violation, print and post a copy of the center’s safe sleep policy in the classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you create a checklist that includes all the required postings for each classroom and give this to the staff so they can have a list of the postings they should maintain in their classroom. 11. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f), child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, should complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment, child care administrators should complete the ITS-SIDS training within ninety days of employment, and one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training should be present in the infant room while children are in care. While reviewing staff records, I observed one new staff member with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 who did not have documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training due by 01/27/2026. I observed that the administrator with a date of employment 07/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026 with no documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training prior to this date. To correct this violation, an ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the staff member hired on 10/27/2025 and an expired ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the administrator to support that the administrator had a valid ITS-SIDS training certificate prior to 01/26/2026. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest when faced with hiring and training new teachers to care for infant-age children, you temporarily assign a staff member who has completed ITS-SIDS training to the infant room and attempt to find an ITS-SIDS class either in or outside the county for these the new staff members within two months as required. 12. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(c)(2), emergency information should include the name of a health care professional for the child. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child.. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent write in the name of a health care professional such as a family physician, a pediatrician, a local urgent care center, or a local health department. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each child enrollment application upon receipt to ensure all required information has been completed and provided by the parent. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 13. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(d), authorization for emergency medical care should be signed by the parent of each child. An authorization for emergency medical care statement is included on the “Child’s Application For Enrollment” form provided by DCDEE and used by this center. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. To correct this violation, I suggest you request that the parent sign the authorization for emergency medical care statement on the application form. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each application for enrollment when it is received and note any missing information. Then have the parent add the missing information on the first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 14. Per NC General Statute 110-91(1), each child should have a children’s medical report and immunization record on file on or before the child’s first day of attendance but no later than 30 days after enrollment. While reviewing child records, one child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. To correct this violation, I suggest you request an immunization record from the parent. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you establish a tracking tool and/or system to assist you with maintaining the thirty day due date for medical reports and immunizations for children. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child record files to ensure that each child has a medical health assessment report and immunization record on file. 15. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0801(a), each child’s application for enrollment should include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. While reviewing child records, three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent answer each of the questions in the health care needs section by adding relative information to be shared or writing “NA” or “NONE” to indicate that no information needs to be shared. To maintain compliance this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 16. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. To correct this violation, please follow the instructions below: 1. You will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. 2. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. 3. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. 4. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, be sure to update this information in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. Should you need assistance with any of this process, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 17. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), emergency drills (shelter-in-place or lockdown drills) should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. To correct this violation, a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill should be conducted and recorded within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone to conduct a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill every three months and continue to record the drill on the emergency drill log. 18. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(a), outdoor play equipment should be age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. To correct this violation, no children under the age of five years should be allowed to play on the stationary climbing piece installed on Outdoor Space 5. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff and encourage them to use only the outdoor space designated for their age group. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, I will return to complete the review of staff records. If additional violations are cited during the staff record review, those violations will be added to this visit and documented on a “Visit Documentation Addendum” form and included with the visit summary that day. 2. As discussed today, due to the number of violations cited during the visit, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 (2), the citation of sixteen or more violations of separate rules in a single visit may result in the issuance of an administrative action. 4. Please sure to send new fire inspection reports to me by email within one week of their completion. 5. Please be mindful of the cleanliness of walls, doors, door facings, windowsills, shelves, cubbies, exterior door metal seals, and rug/carpets as build up and soiling becomes concerning when these areas are not cleaned routinely. 6. Per NC General Statute 110-102, the current version of Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law should be posted in a prominent place in the facility and included in the enrollment packet to be given to parents prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in November 2025. Today, I observed the date of the posted Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was September 2023 and February 2025. Please print the updated version, post it in your lobby, and add it to your new enrollment packets. I also suggest you regularly check the DCDEE website for updated versions and especially when you receive notification of child care or sanitation rule updates. 7. As discussed today, the manufacturer labels on the stationary climbing structure on Outdoor Space 5 had been painted over. Please notify the appropriate corporate representative and request that manufacturer labels be left unpainted in the future so that the information on the manufacturer label maintains its integrity and usefulness. 8. When and if you update your fire evacuation route, shelter-in-place, and/or lock-down drill plan, you need to have the fire department approve the your plan first BEFORE you put it in your EPR plan as an update. 9. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website at this link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization to learn more now. 10. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project offers coaching for child care providers who would like support managing challenging classroom behaviors. The goal is to empower teachers to create learning environments that promote pro-social skills, like self-control and problem solving. Support is available by phone at 888-600-1685, Option 1 or by email at HSB@childcareresourcesinc.org. 11. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 12. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Child-Care-Rules-Law-and-Public-Information Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization 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 13. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 14. If you would like an electronic link to any of the links shared above, please send me an email requesting the links that you wish to receive, and I will be glad to send the hyperlinks to you by email. RATED LICENSE CONSULTATION During a technical assistance visit on November 5, 2025, we discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. Today, you shared that the KinderCare corporation is moving toward accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and should be completing that accreditation process before December 2026. I requested that you keep you updated with this accreditation process and reminded you that DCDEE plans for all permits/licenses to be updated by December 2026. While this facility may initiate the rated license assessment process at any time by submitting the “Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers”, I suggest you submit your application based on the following dates depending on your assessment option choice: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, May 1, 2026. • Immediately begin your three-month self-study using the ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care as soon as you complete the three-month study. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, June 1, 2026. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum for all ages served.) • Arrange coaching or training options for the administrator and lead teachers if applicable. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, October 1, 2026. • Ensure all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Please be reminded the facility will be required to maintain the staff to child ratio and group sizes required by the accrediting organization and these requirements must be verified by your child care consultant prior to the license being issued. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. CONSULTATION FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL RATING SCALE (ERS) ASSESSMENT (if applicable): 1. Remember that the ECERS-3 assessment will be completed in three hours with no interview process. If the assessors do not observe an indicator in action or posted as required, there will be no opportunity to explain the omission. 2. If your current classroom schedule and routine allows for outside play after 11am, you may want to revise your classroom schedule to include outside play in the first three hours of the school day. If you choose to make a schedule change, I suggest you make those changes as soon as possible and to begin to train the children and staff in the new routine. 3. Allow bleach water to sit on surfaces at least two minutes before wiping off or using the surface. 4. Ensure that children wash hands upon arrival, before and after water play, after messy art/play dough play, after coming in from outside, before eating, after toileting/diapering and after coughing/sneezing, etc. 5. Ensure that learning centers are accessible a substantial portion of the day and that your daily schedule reflects it. Areas that must be made available for a minimum of 2hrs and 10 minutes to meet the “Substantial Portion of the Day” requirement are: Fine Motor, Art, Blocks, Dramatic Play, Nature/Science/Exploration, Math/Numbers, and Books. 6. Ensure that children go outside every day weather permitting. 7. Ensure that your block centers are protected from foot traffic, large enough for three children to build a sizeable structure and enough blocks for three children to build. 8. Ensure that books and materials are in good repair and no books depict violent images (guns, swords, teeth bearing). 9. Ensure that the majority of direction/redirection is positive instead of negative. 10. Ensure that staff member's pocket books are stored in locked storage since they almost always contain medications or lotions that must be inaccessible to children. 11. Ensure that staff are interacting with children, engaging in meaningful conversations, and helping children work through altercations and conflicts as they occur. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item numbers 841 and 858 corrected during today’s visit since I documented the steps taken to correct these violations in today’s visit summary. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting Documentation: 1. Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. 2. Please DO NOT send copies of health related information by email or mail. If needed, I will verify these documents are on file during the next monitoring visit. I should receive your compliance letter no later than May 7, 2026. 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Due to time constraints created by the number of violations cited today, a handwritten visit summary was prepared, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. A computer-generated visit summary was prepared and sent to you by email on April 24, 2026. When I return to complete the staff record review, a printed copy of the visit summary will be given to and reviewed with you at that time. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at 828.493.6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov. or you may contact Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you do to serve the children and families in your community. 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: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2026 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 4/23/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 05:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on May 20, 2025. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of April 21, 2026. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. We reviewed the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to the facility phone number, fax number, email address, web address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a facility operating under a four or five star license and serving children who are four and five years of age. The license, NC Summary of Child Care Law poster, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, and emergency phone numbers were posted as required. The most recent fire inspection was dated February 24, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 27, 2025 with a Superior classification and eleven demerits. The lead water test results dated February 12, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing and are waiting on the survey results. Fire drills were up to date, completed monthly, and documented on the Fire Drill Log. Emergency drills were documented on the Emergency Drill Log. The last emergency drill was a lockdown drill. A current and posted menu documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals and snacks were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Milk and cold food items were stored in a commercial refrigerator at a temperature of forty degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s meals met meal pattern requirements. I completed a walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment. Preschool-age children played in activity areas in the classrooms and participated in teacher-directed small activities that included crafts and water play. Toddler-age children played with materials in the classrooms, participated in teacher-directed small group activities that included crafts, and participated in teacher-lead whole group activities that included read-alouds of children’s books. Infant-age children played with materials in the classrooms while interacting with teachers. Children of all ages transitioned to outdoor play, played outside, attended to personal care needs, transitioned to indoor activities, ate lunch, napped, ate snack, and departed. You stated no school-aged children were enrolled at this time. Supervision, adequate approved enhanced space use, capacity, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced group size, and permit restrictions were maintained during today’s visit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records, children’s records, and a portion of staff records today. Due to time constraints and four new staff members not being listed on the Staff and Training (S&T) Worksheet, a review of staff records was not completed today. I will return to the facility on April 28, 2026 to complete the staff record review. Please have the all staff listed on the S&T worksheet and have all the information documented as requested. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 434 The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. .0604(q) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. .0606(b) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. One staff member assigned to work in the room with infants with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 12/27/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. The administrator with a date of employment of 07/17/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 10/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. This is a violation of a requirement in .1102(f). .1102(f) 1314 Emergency information did not name child's health care professional. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child. .0802(c)(2) 1317 Authorization for emergency medical care information was not signed by child's parent. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. .0802(d) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. .0801(a)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1864 Outdoor play equipment was not age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. .0605(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), a current schedule should be posted for each group of children for reference by parents and by caregivers. In Space 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. To correct this violation, a daily schedule should be created for Space 2 and 5 that reflects the daily routines of the staff and the teacher. This daily schedule should be written and posted in the classroom where it can be easily referenced by staff and parents. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review the items required to be posted in each classroom and make routine inspections of the classrooms to ensure these items are posted and current at all times. 2. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), activity plans should be current and posted. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. The teachers stated that they had not completed an activity plan for this week, and the activities observed during today’s visit to the classrooms did not reflect the theme for last week. To correct this violation, a current activity plan should be created and posted in each classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you require activity plans be turned in to you for review prior to Fridays and then require staff to post the new activity plan at the end of the operating day on Friday evenings. I further suggest that you monitor each classroom on Monday morning to ensure a current activity plan has been posted in each classroom. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2), the materials and equipment indoors and outdoors should be sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. Children were also running and playing with leaves and sticks, but no additional outdoor play equipment or teacher-provided materials were available to the children. To correct this violation, I suggest you add materials/toys to each of these classrooms and the outdoor learning environment to provide a sufficient of amount of materials/toys for the number of children enrolled and a variety of materials/toys to promote development across all developmental domains. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you print the suggested materials list found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents” and ask each classroom teacher to provide a monthly inventory of the materials in their classroom. I suggest you use these monthly inventory lists to determine the materials that need to be purchased on a monthly or quarterly basis as needed. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a), each child less than fifteen months of age should have an individual feeding plan on file and posted in the classroom the child is attending. The written feeding plan should be modified as the child's needs changed. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. To correct this violation, an individual feeding plan should be posted in Space 5 for each of the children enrolled in the classroom. A copy may be kept on file in the office, but the original should be posted in the classroom were modifications can be documented as each child’s feeding plan changes with their developmental growth. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you revise your enrollment process to include posting the individual feeding plan in the classroom on or before the first day the child attends the center. I also suggest you review this child care requirement with the your staff members who provide care to children less than fifteen months of age. 5. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2806(f)(h)(2), each refrigerator or cooler used to store food or beverage served to the children should be equipped with a working thermometer and should maintain a temperature of at least forty-five degrees Fahrenheit. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. To correct this violation, I suggest you place a thermometer in the refrigerator in Space 5. To maintain compliance with this sanitation rule, I suggest you review this sanitation requirement with your staff members and make routine inspections of the refrigerators throughout the center to ensure a working thermometer is present in each and every refrigerator in the center. I also suggest you purchase and keep on hand extra refrigerator thermometers so that you always have a backup just in case a thermometer goes missing or stops working properly. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a), the fence surrounding the outdoor play area should be in good repair and barbs should not be protruding on the top or the bottom of the fence. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you repair the bottom of the fence on Outdoor Space 1 that will cover the barbs on the bottom of the fence and repair the holes along the back fence line on Outdoor Space 1 and 5. 7. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b), all cleaning supplies, aerosol cans, and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. To correct this violation, these aerosol cans should be removed from the classroom or stored within the classroom in cabinets with working locks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review this sanitation and child care requirement with your staff and conduct routine inspections of each classroom to ensure hazardous items are stored as required. 8. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the over the counter diaper creams and ointments to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule with staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 9. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. The teachers in the classroom moved the bags to a locked cabinet unit in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review these rules and the other rules with your staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 10. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b), the center's safe sleep policy should be posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. Teachers stated that the center’s safe sleep policy had not been posted when the infant room was opened for operation a few months ago. To correct this violation, print and post a copy of the center’s safe sleep policy in the classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you create a checklist that includes all the required postings for each classroom and give this to the staff so they can have a list of the postings they should maintain in their classroom. 11. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f), child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, should complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment, child care administrators should complete the ITS-SIDS training within ninety days of employment, and one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training should be present in the infant room while children are in care. While reviewing staff records, I observed one new staff member with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 who did not have documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training due by 01/27/2026. I observed that the administrator with a date of employment 07/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026 with no documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training prior to this date. To correct this violation, an ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the staff member hired on 10/27/2025 and an expired ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the administrator to support that the administrator had a valid ITS-SIDS training certificate prior to 01/26/2026. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest when faced with hiring and training new teachers to care for infant-age children, you temporarily assign a staff member who has completed ITS-SIDS training to the infant room and attempt to find an ITS-SIDS class either in or outside the county for these the new staff members within two months as required. 12. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(c)(2), emergency information should include the name of a health care professional for the child. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child.. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent write in the name of a health care professional such as a family physician, a pediatrician, a local urgent care center, or a local health department. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each child enrollment application upon receipt to ensure all required information has been completed and provided by the parent. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 13. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(d), authorization for emergency medical care should be signed by the parent of each child. An authorization for emergency medical care statement is included on the “Child’s Application For Enrollment” form provided by DCDEE and used by this center. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. To correct this violation, I suggest you request that the parent sign the authorization for emergency medical care statement on the application form. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each application for enrollment when it is received and note any missing information. Then have the parent add the missing information on the first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 14. Per NC General Statute 110-91(1), each child should have a children’s medical report and immunization record on file on or before the child’s first day of attendance but no later than 30 days after enrollment. While reviewing child records, one child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. To correct this violation, I suggest you request an immunization record from the parent. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you establish a tracking tool and/or system to assist you with maintaining the thirty day due date for medical reports and immunizations for children. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child record files to ensure that each child has a medical health assessment report and immunization record on file. 15. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0801(a), each child’s application for enrollment should include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. While reviewing child records, three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent answer each of the questions in the health care needs section by adding relative information to be shared or writing “NA” or “NONE” to indicate that no information needs to be shared. To maintain compliance this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 16. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. To correct this violation, please follow the instructions below: 1. You will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. 2. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. 3. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. 4. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, be sure to update this information in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. Should you need assistance with any of this process, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 17. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), emergency drills (shelter-in-place or lockdown drills) should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. To correct this violation, a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill should be conducted and recorded within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone to conduct a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill every three months and continue to record the drill on the emergency drill log. 18. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(a), outdoor play equipment should be age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. To correct this violation, no children under the age of five years should be allowed to play on the stationary climbing piece installed on Outdoor Space 5. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff and encourage them to use only the outdoor space designated for their age group. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, I will return to complete the review of staff records. If additional violations are cited during the staff record review, those violations will be added to this visit and documented on a “Visit Documentation Addendum” form and included with the visit summary that day. 2. As discussed today, due to the number of violations cited during the visit, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 (2), the citation of sixteen or more violations of separate rules in a single visit may result in the issuance of an administrative action. 4. Please sure to send new fire inspection reports to me by email within one week of their completion. 5. Please be mindful of the cleanliness of walls, doors, door facings, windowsills, shelves, cubbies, exterior door metal seals, and rug/carpets as build up and soiling becomes concerning when these areas are not cleaned routinely. 6. Per NC General Statute 110-102, the current version of Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law should be posted in a prominent place in the facility and included in the enrollment packet to be given to parents prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in November 2025. Today, I observed the date of the posted Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was September 2023 and February 2025. Please print the updated version, post it in your lobby, and add it to your new enrollment packets. I also suggest you regularly check the DCDEE website for updated versions and especially when you receive notification of child care or sanitation rule updates. 7. As discussed today, the manufacturer labels on the stationary climbing structure on Outdoor Space 5 had been painted over. Please notify the appropriate corporate representative and request that manufacturer labels be left unpainted in the future so that the information on the manufacturer label maintains its integrity and usefulness. 8. When and if you update your fire evacuation route, shelter-in-place, and/or lock-down drill plan, you need to have the fire department approve the your plan first BEFORE you put it in your EPR plan as an update. 9. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website at this link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization to learn more now. 10. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project offers coaching for child care providers who would like support managing challenging classroom behaviors. The goal is to empower teachers to create learning environments that promote pro-social skills, like self-control and problem solving. Support is available by phone at 888-600-1685, Option 1 or by email at HSB@childcareresourcesinc.org. 11. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 12. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Child-Care-Rules-Law-and-Public-Information Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization 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 13. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 14. If you would like an electronic link to any of the links shared above, please send me an email requesting the links that you wish to receive, and I will be glad to send the hyperlinks to you by email. RATED LICENSE CONSULTATION During a technical assistance visit on November 5, 2025, we discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. Today, you shared that the KinderCare corporation is moving toward accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and should be completing that accreditation process before December 2026. I requested that you keep you updated with this accreditation process and reminded you that DCDEE plans for all permits/licenses to be updated by December 2026. While this facility may initiate the rated license assessment process at any time by submitting the “Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers”, I suggest you submit your application based on the following dates depending on your assessment option choice: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, May 1, 2026. • Immediately begin your three-month self-study using the ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care as soon as you complete the three-month study. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, June 1, 2026. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum for all ages served.) • Arrange coaching or training options for the administrator and lead teachers if applicable. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, October 1, 2026. • Ensure all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Please be reminded the facility will be required to maintain the staff to child ratio and group sizes required by the accrediting organization and these requirements must be verified by your child care consultant prior to the license being issued. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. CONSULTATION FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL RATING SCALE (ERS) ASSESSMENT (if applicable): 1. Remember that the ECERS-3 assessment will be completed in three hours with no interview process. If the assessors do not observe an indicator in action or posted as required, there will be no opportunity to explain the omission. 2. If your current classroom schedule and routine allows for outside play after 11am, you may want to revise your classroom schedule to include outside play in the first three hours of the school day. If you choose to make a schedule change, I suggest you make those changes as soon as possible and to begin to train the children and staff in the new routine. 3. Allow bleach water to sit on surfaces at least two minutes before wiping off or using the surface. 4. Ensure that children wash hands upon arrival, before and after water play, after messy art/play dough play, after coming in from outside, before eating, after toileting/diapering and after coughing/sneezing, etc. 5. Ensure that learning centers are accessible a substantial portion of the day and that your daily schedule reflects it. Areas that must be made available for a minimum of 2hrs and 10 minutes to meet the “Substantial Portion of the Day” requirement are: Fine Motor, Art, Blocks, Dramatic Play, Nature/Science/Exploration, Math/Numbers, and Books. 6. Ensure that children go outside every day weather permitting. 7. Ensure that your block centers are protected from foot traffic, large enough for three children to build a sizeable structure and enough blocks for three children to build. 8. Ensure that books and materials are in good repair and no books depict violent images (guns, swords, teeth bearing). 9. Ensure that the majority of direction/redirection is positive instead of negative. 10. Ensure that staff member's pocket books are stored in locked storage since they almost always contain medications or lotions that must be inaccessible to children. 11. Ensure that staff are interacting with children, engaging in meaningful conversations, and helping children work through altercations and conflicts as they occur. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item numbers 841 and 858 corrected during today’s visit since I documented the steps taken to correct these violations in today’s visit summary. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting Documentation: 1. Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. 2. Please DO NOT send copies of health related information by email or mail. If needed, I will verify these documents are on file during the next monitoring visit. I should receive your compliance letter no later than May 7, 2026. 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Due to time constraints created by the number of violations cited today, a handwritten visit summary was prepared, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. A computer-generated visit summary was prepared and sent to you by email on April 24, 2026. When I return to complete the staff record review, a printed copy of the visit summary will be given to and reviewed with you at that time. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at 828.493.6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov. or you may contact Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you do to serve the children and families in your community. 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: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2026 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 4/23/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 05:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on May 20, 2025. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of April 21, 2026. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. We reviewed the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to the facility phone number, fax number, email address, web address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a facility operating under a four or five star license and serving children who are four and five years of age. The license, NC Summary of Child Care Law poster, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, and emergency phone numbers were posted as required. The most recent fire inspection was dated February 24, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 27, 2025 with a Superior classification and eleven demerits. The lead water test results dated February 12, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing and are waiting on the survey results. Fire drills were up to date, completed monthly, and documented on the Fire Drill Log. Emergency drills were documented on the Emergency Drill Log. The last emergency drill was a lockdown drill. A current and posted menu documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals and snacks were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Milk and cold food items were stored in a commercial refrigerator at a temperature of forty degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s meals met meal pattern requirements. I completed a walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment. Preschool-age children played in activity areas in the classrooms and participated in teacher-directed small activities that included crafts and water play. Toddler-age children played with materials in the classrooms, participated in teacher-directed small group activities that included crafts, and participated in teacher-lead whole group activities that included read-alouds of children’s books. Infant-age children played with materials in the classrooms while interacting with teachers. Children of all ages transitioned to outdoor play, played outside, attended to personal care needs, transitioned to indoor activities, ate lunch, napped, ate snack, and departed. You stated no school-aged children were enrolled at this time. Supervision, adequate approved enhanced space use, capacity, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced group size, and permit restrictions were maintained during today’s visit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records, children’s records, and a portion of staff records today. Due to time constraints and four new staff members not being listed on the Staff and Training (S&T) Worksheet, a review of staff records was not completed today. I will return to the facility on April 28, 2026 to complete the staff record review. Please have the all staff listed on the S&T worksheet and have all the information documented as requested. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 434 The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. .0604(q) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. .0606(b) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. One staff member assigned to work in the room with infants with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 12/27/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. The administrator with a date of employment of 07/17/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 10/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. This is a violation of a requirement in .1102(f). .1102(f) 1314 Emergency information did not name child's health care professional. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child. .0802(c)(2) 1317 Authorization for emergency medical care information was not signed by child's parent. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. .0802(d) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. .0801(a)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1864 Outdoor play equipment was not age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. .0605(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), a current schedule should be posted for each group of children for reference by parents and by caregivers. In Space 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. To correct this violation, a daily schedule should be created for Space 2 and 5 that reflects the daily routines of the staff and the teacher. This daily schedule should be written and posted in the classroom where it can be easily referenced by staff and parents. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review the items required to be posted in each classroom and make routine inspections of the classrooms to ensure these items are posted and current at all times. 2. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), activity plans should be current and posted. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. The teachers stated that they had not completed an activity plan for this week, and the activities observed during today’s visit to the classrooms did not reflect the theme for last week. To correct this violation, a current activity plan should be created and posted in each classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you require activity plans be turned in to you for review prior to Fridays and then require staff to post the new activity plan at the end of the operating day on Friday evenings. I further suggest that you monitor each classroom on Monday morning to ensure a current activity plan has been posted in each classroom. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2), the materials and equipment indoors and outdoors should be sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. Children were also running and playing with leaves and sticks, but no additional outdoor play equipment or teacher-provided materials were available to the children. To correct this violation, I suggest you add materials/toys to each of these classrooms and the outdoor learning environment to provide a sufficient of amount of materials/toys for the number of children enrolled and a variety of materials/toys to promote development across all developmental domains. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you print the suggested materials list found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents” and ask each classroom teacher to provide a monthly inventory of the materials in their classroom. I suggest you use these monthly inventory lists to determine the materials that need to be purchased on a monthly or quarterly basis as needed. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a), each child less than fifteen months of age should have an individual feeding plan on file and posted in the classroom the child is attending. The written feeding plan should be modified as the child's needs changed. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. To correct this violation, an individual feeding plan should be posted in Space 5 for each of the children enrolled in the classroom. A copy may be kept on file in the office, but the original should be posted in the classroom were modifications can be documented as each child’s feeding plan changes with their developmental growth. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you revise your enrollment process to include posting the individual feeding plan in the classroom on or before the first day the child attends the center. I also suggest you review this child care requirement with the your staff members who provide care to children less than fifteen months of age. 5. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2806(f)(h)(2), each refrigerator or cooler used to store food or beverage served to the children should be equipped with a working thermometer and should maintain a temperature of at least forty-five degrees Fahrenheit. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. To correct this violation, I suggest you place a thermometer in the refrigerator in Space 5. To maintain compliance with this sanitation rule, I suggest you review this sanitation requirement with your staff members and make routine inspections of the refrigerators throughout the center to ensure a working thermometer is present in each and every refrigerator in the center. I also suggest you purchase and keep on hand extra refrigerator thermometers so that you always have a backup just in case a thermometer goes missing or stops working properly. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a), the fence surrounding the outdoor play area should be in good repair and barbs should not be protruding on the top or the bottom of the fence. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you repair the bottom of the fence on Outdoor Space 1 that will cover the barbs on the bottom of the fence and repair the holes along the back fence line on Outdoor Space 1 and 5. 7. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b), all cleaning supplies, aerosol cans, and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. To correct this violation, these aerosol cans should be removed from the classroom or stored within the classroom in cabinets with working locks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review this sanitation and child care requirement with your staff and conduct routine inspections of each classroom to ensure hazardous items are stored as required. 8. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the over the counter diaper creams and ointments to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule with staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 9. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. The teachers in the classroom moved the bags to a locked cabinet unit in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review these rules and the other rules with your staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 10. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b), the center's safe sleep policy should be posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. Teachers stated that the center’s safe sleep policy had not been posted when the infant room was opened for operation a few months ago. To correct this violation, print and post a copy of the center’s safe sleep policy in the classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you create a checklist that includes all the required postings for each classroom and give this to the staff so they can have a list of the postings they should maintain in their classroom. 11. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f), child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, should complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment, child care administrators should complete the ITS-SIDS training within ninety days of employment, and one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training should be present in the infant room while children are in care. While reviewing staff records, I observed one new staff member with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 who did not have documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training due by 01/27/2026. I observed that the administrator with a date of employment 07/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026 with no documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training prior to this date. To correct this violation, an ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the staff member hired on 10/27/2025 and an expired ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the administrator to support that the administrator had a valid ITS-SIDS training certificate prior to 01/26/2026. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest when faced with hiring and training new teachers to care for infant-age children, you temporarily assign a staff member who has completed ITS-SIDS training to the infant room and attempt to find an ITS-SIDS class either in or outside the county for these the new staff members within two months as required. 12. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(c)(2), emergency information should include the name of a health care professional for the child. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child.. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent write in the name of a health care professional such as a family physician, a pediatrician, a local urgent care center, or a local health department. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each child enrollment application upon receipt to ensure all required information has been completed and provided by the parent. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 13. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(d), authorization for emergency medical care should be signed by the parent of each child. An authorization for emergency medical care statement is included on the “Child’s Application For Enrollment” form provided by DCDEE and used by this center. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. To correct this violation, I suggest you request that the parent sign the authorization for emergency medical care statement on the application form. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each application for enrollment when it is received and note any missing information. Then have the parent add the missing information on the first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 14. Per NC General Statute 110-91(1), each child should have a children’s medical report and immunization record on file on or before the child’s first day of attendance but no later than 30 days after enrollment. While reviewing child records, one child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. To correct this violation, I suggest you request an immunization record from the parent. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you establish a tracking tool and/or system to assist you with maintaining the thirty day due date for medical reports and immunizations for children. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child record files to ensure that each child has a medical health assessment report and immunization record on file. 15. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0801(a), each child’s application for enrollment should include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. While reviewing child records, three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent answer each of the questions in the health care needs section by adding relative information to be shared or writing “NA” or “NONE” to indicate that no information needs to be shared. To maintain compliance this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 16. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. To correct this violation, please follow the instructions below: 1. You will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. 2. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. 3. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. 4. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, be sure to update this information in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. Should you need assistance with any of this process, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 17. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), emergency drills (shelter-in-place or lockdown drills) should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. To correct this violation, a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill should be conducted and recorded within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone to conduct a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill every three months and continue to record the drill on the emergency drill log. 18. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(a), outdoor play equipment should be age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. To correct this violation, no children under the age of five years should be allowed to play on the stationary climbing piece installed on Outdoor Space 5. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff and encourage them to use only the outdoor space designated for their age group. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, I will return to complete the review of staff records. If additional violations are cited during the staff record review, those violations will be added to this visit and documented on a “Visit Documentation Addendum” form and included with the visit summary that day. 2. As discussed today, due to the number of violations cited during the visit, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 (2), the citation of sixteen or more violations of separate rules in a single visit may result in the issuance of an administrative action. 4. Please sure to send new fire inspection reports to me by email within one week of their completion. 5. Please be mindful of the cleanliness of walls, doors, door facings, windowsills, shelves, cubbies, exterior door metal seals, and rug/carpets as build up and soiling becomes concerning when these areas are not cleaned routinely. 6. Per NC General Statute 110-102, the current version of Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law should be posted in a prominent place in the facility and included in the enrollment packet to be given to parents prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in November 2025. Today, I observed the date of the posted Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was September 2023 and February 2025. Please print the updated version, post it in your lobby, and add it to your new enrollment packets. I also suggest you regularly check the DCDEE website for updated versions and especially when you receive notification of child care or sanitation rule updates. 7. As discussed today, the manufacturer labels on the stationary climbing structure on Outdoor Space 5 had been painted over. Please notify the appropriate corporate representative and request that manufacturer labels be left unpainted in the future so that the information on the manufacturer label maintains its integrity and usefulness. 8. When and if you update your fire evacuation route, shelter-in-place, and/or lock-down drill plan, you need to have the fire department approve the your plan first BEFORE you put it in your EPR plan as an update. 9. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website at this link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization to learn more now. 10. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project offers coaching for child care providers who would like support managing challenging classroom behaviors. The goal is to empower teachers to create learning environments that promote pro-social skills, like self-control and problem solving. Support is available by phone at 888-600-1685, Option 1 or by email at HSB@childcareresourcesinc.org. 11. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 12. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Child-Care-Rules-Law-and-Public-Information Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization 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 13. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 14. If you would like an electronic link to any of the links shared above, please send me an email requesting the links that you wish to receive, and I will be glad to send the hyperlinks to you by email. RATED LICENSE CONSULTATION During a technical assistance visit on November 5, 2025, we discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. Today, you shared that the KinderCare corporation is moving toward accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and should be completing that accreditation process before December 2026. I requested that you keep you updated with this accreditation process and reminded you that DCDEE plans for all permits/licenses to be updated by December 2026. While this facility may initiate the rated license assessment process at any time by submitting the “Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers”, I suggest you submit your application based on the following dates depending on your assessment option choice: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, May 1, 2026. • Immediately begin your three-month self-study using the ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care as soon as you complete the three-month study. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, June 1, 2026. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum for all ages served.) • Arrange coaching or training options for the administrator and lead teachers if applicable. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, October 1, 2026. • Ensure all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Please be reminded the facility will be required to maintain the staff to child ratio and group sizes required by the accrediting organization and these requirements must be verified by your child care consultant prior to the license being issued. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. CONSULTATION FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL RATING SCALE (ERS) ASSESSMENT (if applicable): 1. Remember that the ECERS-3 assessment will be completed in three hours with no interview process. If the assessors do not observe an indicator in action or posted as required, there will be no opportunity to explain the omission. 2. If your current classroom schedule and routine allows for outside play after 11am, you may want to revise your classroom schedule to include outside play in the first three hours of the school day. If you choose to make a schedule change, I suggest you make those changes as soon as possible and to begin to train the children and staff in the new routine. 3. Allow bleach water to sit on surfaces at least two minutes before wiping off or using the surface. 4. Ensure that children wash hands upon arrival, before and after water play, after messy art/play dough play, after coming in from outside, before eating, after toileting/diapering and after coughing/sneezing, etc. 5. Ensure that learning centers are accessible a substantial portion of the day and that your daily schedule reflects it. Areas that must be made available for a minimum of 2hrs and 10 minutes to meet the “Substantial Portion of the Day” requirement are: Fine Motor, Art, Blocks, Dramatic Play, Nature/Science/Exploration, Math/Numbers, and Books. 6. Ensure that children go outside every day weather permitting. 7. Ensure that your block centers are protected from foot traffic, large enough for three children to build a sizeable structure and enough blocks for three children to build. 8. Ensure that books and materials are in good repair and no books depict violent images (guns, swords, teeth bearing). 9. Ensure that the majority of direction/redirection is positive instead of negative. 10. Ensure that staff member's pocket books are stored in locked storage since they almost always contain medications or lotions that must be inaccessible to children. 11. Ensure that staff are interacting with children, engaging in meaningful conversations, and helping children work through altercations and conflicts as they occur. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item numbers 841 and 858 corrected during today’s visit since I documented the steps taken to correct these violations in today’s visit summary. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting Documentation: 1. Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. 2. Please DO NOT send copies of health related information by email or mail. If needed, I will verify these documents are on file during the next monitoring visit. I should receive your compliance letter no later than May 7, 2026. 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Due to time constraints created by the number of violations cited today, a handwritten visit summary was prepared, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. A computer-generated visit summary was prepared and sent to you by email on April 24, 2026. When I return to complete the staff record review, a printed copy of the visit summary will be given to and reviewed with you at that time. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at 828.493.6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov. or you may contact Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you do to serve the children and families in your community. 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

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2026 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 4/23/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 05:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on May 20, 2025. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of April 21, 2026. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. We reviewed the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to the facility phone number, fax number, email address, web address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a facility operating under a four or five star license and serving children who are four and five years of age. The license, NC Summary of Child Care Law poster, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, and emergency phone numbers were posted as required. The most recent fire inspection was dated February 24, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 27, 2025 with a Superior classification and eleven demerits. The lead water test results dated February 12, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing and are waiting on the survey results. Fire drills were up to date, completed monthly, and documented on the Fire Drill Log. Emergency drills were documented on the Emergency Drill Log. The last emergency drill was a lockdown drill. A current and posted menu documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals and snacks were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Milk and cold food items were stored in a commercial refrigerator at a temperature of forty degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s meals met meal pattern requirements. I completed a walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment. Preschool-age children played in activity areas in the classrooms and participated in teacher-directed small activities that included crafts and water play. Toddler-age children played with materials in the classrooms, participated in teacher-directed small group activities that included crafts, and participated in teacher-lead whole group activities that included read-alouds of children’s books. Infant-age children played with materials in the classrooms while interacting with teachers. Children of all ages transitioned to outdoor play, played outside, attended to personal care needs, transitioned to indoor activities, ate lunch, napped, ate snack, and departed. You stated no school-aged children were enrolled at this time. Supervision, adequate approved enhanced space use, capacity, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced group size, and permit restrictions were maintained during today’s visit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records, children’s records, and a portion of staff records today. Due to time constraints and four new staff members not being listed on the Staff and Training (S&T) Worksheet, a review of staff records was not completed today. I will return to the facility on April 28, 2026 to complete the staff record review. Please have the all staff listed on the S&T worksheet and have all the information documented as requested. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 434 The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. .0604(q) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. .0606(b) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. One staff member assigned to work in the room with infants with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 12/27/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. The administrator with a date of employment of 07/17/2025 and due to complete ITS-SIDS training by 10/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026. This is a violation of a requirement in .1102(f). .1102(f) 1314 Emergency information did not name child's health care professional. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child. .0802(c)(2) 1317 Authorization for emergency medical care information was not signed by child's parent. The child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. .0802(d) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. .0801(a)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1864 Outdoor play equipment was not age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. .0605(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), a current schedule should be posted for each group of children for reference by parents and by caregivers. In Space 2 and 5, no daily schedule was posted. To correct this violation, a daily schedule should be created for Space 2 and 5 that reflects the daily routines of the staff and the teacher. This daily schedule should be written and posted in the classroom where it can be easily referenced by staff and parents. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review the items required to be posted in each classroom and make routine inspections of the classrooms to ensure these items are posted and current at all times. 2. Per North Carolina General Statute 110-91(12) and child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508(a), activity plans should be current and posted. In Spaces 6 and 9, an activity for the current week was not created or posted. The activity plans posted were dated for last week, April 13 through April 17. The teachers stated that they had not completed an activity plan for this week, and the activities observed during today’s visit to the classrooms did not reflect the theme for last week. To correct this violation, a current activity plan should be created and posted in each classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you require activity plans be turned in to you for review prior to Fridays and then require staff to post the new activity plan at the end of the operating day on Friday evenings. I further suggest that you monitor each classroom on Monday morning to ensure a current activity plan has been posted in each classroom. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2), the materials and equipment indoors and outdoors should be sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. In Space 2, where thirteen one-year-old children were enrolled and eleven one-year-old children were present, one doll, a few fine motor toys, no sensory toys, no musical toys, and a sufficient quantity of books, blocks, and pretend play materials were available to the children. In Space 5, where six infant-age children were enrolled and five infant-age children were present, I observed no books, two musical toys, no pretend play toys, and a sufficient quantity of dolls, blocks, fine motor toys, and sensory toys available to the children. On Outdoor Space 1 where infant-age and toddler-age children play, I observed eleven one-year-old children playing with one two-seat rocker, five push toys, and a picnic table available. Children were also running and playing with leaves and sticks, but no additional outdoor play equipment or teacher-provided materials were available to the children. To correct this violation, I suggest you add materials/toys to each of these classrooms and the outdoor learning environment to provide a sufficient of amount of materials/toys for the number of children enrolled and a variety of materials/toys to promote development across all developmental domains. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you print the suggested materials list found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents” and ask each classroom teacher to provide a monthly inventory of the materials in their classroom. I suggest you use these monthly inventory lists to determine the materials that need to be purchased on a monthly or quarterly basis as needed. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a), each child less than fifteen months of age should have an individual feeding plan on file and posted in the classroom the child is attending. The written feeding plan should be modified as the child's needs changed. In Space 5, where six children less than fifteen months of age were enrolled and five of those six infant-age children were present, no individual feeding plans were posted. To correct this violation, an individual feeding plan should be posted in Space 5 for each of the children enrolled in the classroom. A copy may be kept on file in the office, but the original should be posted in the classroom were modifications can be documented as each child’s feeding plan changes with their developmental growth. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you revise your enrollment process to include posting the individual feeding plan in the classroom on or before the first day the child attends the center. I also suggest you review this child care requirement with the your staff members who provide care to children less than fifteen months of age. 5. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2806(f)(h)(2), each refrigerator or cooler used to store food or beverage served to the children should be equipped with a working thermometer and should maintain a temperature of at least forty-five degrees Fahrenheit. In Space 5, the thermometer in the compact refrigerator was missing. To correct this violation, I suggest you place a thermometer in the refrigerator in Space 5. To maintain compliance with this sanitation rule, I suggest you review this sanitation requirement with your staff members and make routine inspections of the refrigerators throughout the center to ensure a working thermometer is present in each and every refrigerator in the center. I also suggest you purchase and keep on hand extra refrigerator thermometers so that you always have a backup just in case a thermometer goes missing or stops working properly. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a), the fence surrounding the outdoor play area should be in good repair and barbs should not be protruding on the top or the bottom of the fence. On Outdoor Space 1, I observed fence barbs exposed along the bottom of the fence at the lower gate and the fence pulling away from the base and the support pole on the lower fence line that created a gap. On Outdoor Space 5, I observed holes large enough for vermin to enter at the bottom of the fence along the left side, lower side, and right side of the fence line. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you repair the bottom of the fence on Outdoor Space 1 that will cover the barbs on the bottom of the fence and repair the holes along the back fence line on Outdoor Space 1 and 5. 7. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b), all cleaning supplies, aerosol cans, and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 3, I observed one aerosol can of Lysol disinfecting spray stored in an unlocked cabinet. In Space 9, I observed one aerosol can of shaving cream stored in an unlocked cabinet. To correct this violation, these aerosol cans should be removed from the classroom or stored within the classroom in cabinets with working locks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review this sanitation and child care requirement with your staff and conduct routine inspections of each classroom to ensure hazardous items are stored as required. 8. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. In Space 5, I observed over the counter diaper creams and ointments were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the over the counter diaper creams and ointments to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule with staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 9. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 5, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets were stored under a diaper changing table with a broken lock and hinge. The teachers in the classroom moved the opened shrink wrapped diapers and opened diaper wipe refill packets to a shelf in the classroom that was above the handwashing sink and measured above five feet which corrected this violation during today’s visit. In Space 2, I observed a used Ziploc bag and an opened cellophane bag containing teacher materials were stored in an unlocked drawer and below five feet. The teachers in the classroom moved the bags to a locked cabinet unit in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review these rules and the other rules with your staff members. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. That document can also be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms”. 10. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b), the center's safe sleep policy should be posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space 5, where infant care is provided, the center’s safe sleep policy was not posted. Teachers stated that the center’s safe sleep policy had not been posted when the infant room was opened for operation a few months ago. To correct this violation, print and post a copy of the center’s safe sleep policy in the classroom. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you create a checklist that includes all the required postings for each classroom and give this to the staff so they can have a list of the postings they should maintain in their classroom. 11. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f), child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, should complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment, child care administrators should complete the ITS-SIDS training within ninety days of employment, and one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training should be present in the infant room while children are in care. While reviewing staff records, I observed one new staff member with a date of employment of 10/27/2025 who did not have documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training due by 01/27/2026. I observed that the administrator with a date of employment 07/17/2025 had completed ITS-SIDS training on 01/26/2026 with no documentation on file to support that they had completed ITS-SIDS training prior to this date. To correct this violation, an ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the staff member hired on 10/27/2025 and an expired ITS-SIDS training certificate should be submitted for the administrator to support that the administrator had a valid ITS-SIDS training certificate prior to 01/26/2026. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest when faced with hiring and training new teachers to care for infant-age children, you temporarily assign a staff member who has completed ITS-SIDS training to the infant room and attempt to find an ITS-SIDS class either in or outside the county for these the new staff members within two months as required. 12. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(c)(2), emergency information should include the name of a health care professional for the child. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not have a health care professional listed for the child.. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent write in the name of a health care professional such as a family physician, a pediatrician, a local urgent care center, or a local health department. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each child enrollment application upon receipt to ensure all required information has been completed and provided by the parent. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 13. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(d), authorization for emergency medical care should be signed by the parent of each child. An authorization for emergency medical care statement is included on the “Child’s Application For Enrollment” form provided by DCDEE and used by this center. While reviewing child records, the child enrollment application for one child with a date of enrollment of 08/26/2025 did not include a parent signature for the authorization for emergency medical care statement. To correct this violation, I suggest you request that the parent sign the authorization for emergency medical care statement on the application form. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review each application for enrollment when it is received and note any missing information. Then have the parent add the missing information on the first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 14. Per NC General Statute 110-91(1), each child should have a children’s medical report and immunization record on file on or before the child’s first day of attendance but no later than 30 days after enrollment. While reviewing child records, one child with a date of enrollment of 09/30/2024 had no immunization record on file. To correct this violation, I suggest you request an immunization record from the parent. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you establish a tracking tool and/or system to assist you with maintaining the thirty day due date for medical reports and immunizations for children. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child record files to ensure that each child has a medical health assessment report and immunization record on file. 15. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0801(a), each child’s application for enrollment should include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. While reviewing child records, three child enrollment applications for children with dates of enrollment of 08/04/2025, 08/18/2025 and 08/26/2025 had incomplete or blank health care needs sections. To correct this violation, I suggest you have the parent answer each of the questions in the health care needs section by adding relative information to be shared or writing “NA” or “NONE” to indicate that no information needs to be shared. To maintain compliance this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. To ensure this violation does not occur again in the future, I suggest you review all the child enrollment applications to make sure all required information was provided by each parent for each child enrolled. 16. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No ABCMS roster was established for this facility to notify DCDEE of established employees at this facility and to notify DCDEE within five business days of employment of new employees hired at this facility. To correct this violation, please follow the instructions below: 1. You will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. 2. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. 3. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. 4. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, be sure to update this information in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. Should you need assistance with any of this process, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 17. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), emergency drills (shelter-in-place or lockdown drills) should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. An emergency drill including a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill was conducted in December 2025 making the next emergency drill due in three months during the month of March 2026. No emergency drill was conducted since December 2025. To correct this violation, a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill should be conducted and recorded within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone to conduct a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill every three months and continue to record the drill on the emergency drill log. 18. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(a), outdoor play equipment should be age and developmentally appropriate. On Outdoor Space 5 designated for use by school-age children, I observed a manufacturer label with the recommended age use documenting that the stationary climbing piece was intended by the manufacturer to be used by children five through twelve years of age. However, you stated that the four-year and five-year-old children enrolled and attending in Space 1 had been using this equipment and had played on the equipment today. To correct this violation, no children under the age of five years should be allowed to play on the stationary climbing piece installed on Outdoor Space 5. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff and encourage them to use only the outdoor space designated for their age group. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, I will return to complete the review of staff records. If additional violations are cited during the staff record review, those violations will be added to this visit and documented on a “Visit Documentation Addendum” form and included with the visit summary that day. 2. As discussed today, due to the number of violations cited during the visit, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 (2), the citation of sixteen or more violations of separate rules in a single visit may result in the issuance of an administrative action. 4. Please sure to send new fire inspection reports to me by email within one week of their completion. 5. Please be mindful of the cleanliness of walls, doors, door facings, windowsills, shelves, cubbies, exterior door metal seals, and rug/carpets as build up and soiling becomes concerning when these areas are not cleaned routinely. 6. Per NC General Statute 110-102, the current version of Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law should be posted in a prominent place in the facility and included in the enrollment packet to be given to parents prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in November 2025. Today, I observed the date of the posted Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was September 2023 and February 2025. Please print the updated version, post it in your lobby, and add it to your new enrollment packets. I also suggest you regularly check the DCDEE website for updated versions and especially when you receive notification of child care or sanitation rule updates. 7. As discussed today, the manufacturer labels on the stationary climbing structure on Outdoor Space 5 had been painted over. Please notify the appropriate corporate representative and request that manufacturer labels be left unpainted in the future so that the information on the manufacturer label maintains its integrity and usefulness. 8. When and if you update your fire evacuation route, shelter-in-place, and/or lock-down drill plan, you need to have the fire department approve the your plan first BEFORE you put it in your EPR plan as an update. 9. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website at this link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization to learn more now. 10. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project offers coaching for child care providers who would like support managing challenging classroom behaviors. The goal is to empower teachers to create learning environments that promote pro-social skills, like self-control and problem solving. Support is available by phone at 888-600-1685, Option 1 or by email at HSB@childcareresourcesinc.org. 11. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 12. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Child-Care-Rules-Law-and-Public-Information Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization 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 13. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 14. If you would like an electronic link to any of the links shared above, please send me an email requesting the links that you wish to receive, and I will be glad to send the hyperlinks to you by email. RATED LICENSE CONSULTATION During a technical assistance visit on November 5, 2025, we discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. Today, you shared that the KinderCare corporation is moving toward accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and should be completing that accreditation process before December 2026. I requested that you keep you updated with this accreditation process and reminded you that DCDEE plans for all permits/licenses to be updated by December 2026. While this facility may initiate the rated license assessment process at any time by submitting the “Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers”, I suggest you submit your application based on the following dates depending on your assessment option choice: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, May 1, 2026. • Immediately begin your three-month self-study using the ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care as soon as you complete the three-month study. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, June 1, 2026. • Confirm all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify and implement facility and individual CQI goals. • Develop and implement strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum for all ages served.) • Arrange coaching or training options for the administrator and lead teachers if applicable. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, October 1, 2026. • Ensure all staff have active and up to date WORKS accounts. • Please be reminded the facility will be required to maintain the staff to child ratio and group sizes required by the accrediting organization and these requirements must be verified by your child care consultant prior to the license being issued. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. CONSULTATION FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL RATING SCALE (ERS) ASSESSMENT (if applicable): 1. Remember that the ECERS-3 assessment will be completed in three hours with no interview process. If the assessors do not observe an indicator in action or posted as required, there will be no opportunity to explain the omission. 2. If your current classroom schedule and routine allows for outside play after 11am, you may want to revise your classroom schedule to include outside play in the first three hours of the school day. If you choose to make a schedule change, I suggest you make those changes as soon as possible and to begin to train the children and staff in the new routine. 3. Allow bleach water to sit on surfaces at least two minutes before wiping off or using the surface. 4. Ensure that children wash hands upon arrival, before and after water play, after messy art/play dough play, after coming in from outside, before eating, after toileting/diapering and after coughing/sneezing, etc. 5. Ensure that learning centers are accessible a substantial portion of the day and that your daily schedule reflects it. Areas that must be made available for a minimum of 2hrs and 10 minutes to meet the “Substantial Portion of the Day” requirement are: Fine Motor, Art, Blocks, Dramatic Play, Nature/Science/Exploration, Math/Numbers, and Books. 6. Ensure that children go outside every day weather permitting. 7. Ensure that your block centers are protected from foot traffic, large enough for three children to build a sizeable structure and enough blocks for three children to build. 8. Ensure that books and materials are in good repair and no books depict violent images (guns, swords, teeth bearing). 9. Ensure that the majority of direction/redirection is positive instead of negative. 10. Ensure that staff member's pocket books are stored in locked storage since they almost always contain medications or lotions that must be inaccessible to children. 11. Ensure that staff are interacting with children, engaging in meaningful conversations, and helping children work through altercations and conflicts as they occur. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item numbers 841 and 858 corrected during today’s visit since I documented the steps taken to correct these violations in today’s visit summary. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting Documentation: 1. Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. 2. Please DO NOT send copies of health related information by email or mail. If needed, I will verify these documents are on file during the next monitoring visit. I should receive your compliance letter no later than May 7, 2026. 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Due to time constraints created by the number of violations cited today, a handwritten visit summary was prepared, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. A computer-generated visit summary was prepared and sent to you by email on April 24, 2026. When I return to complete the staff record review, a printed copy of the visit summary will be given to and reviewed with you at that time. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at 828.493.6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov. or you may contact Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you do to serve the children and families in your community. 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 .3208 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0426-012L Visit Date: 4/14/2026 Number Present: 95 Completed Date: 4/14/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to conduct an unannounced follow-up visit related to allegations of violations of child care requirements regarding enhanced staff/child ratios and group size. You, Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. Today, I monitored supervision, enhanced staff-child ratios and group sizes, enhanced space capacity, and use of approved space. Four and five year old children in Space 1 participating in a read-aloud activity with one teacher who read to the whole group and one teacher interacted with the group. In Space 2, one year old children were playing with materials while one teacher interacted and moved about the room and one teacher changed diapers. In Space 3, one year old children were drawing with crayons on purple paper while the teacher interacted with the children and lead the activity. In Space 4, infant age children were playing on the floor while one teacher changed diapers and comforted children between changes and one teacher held and comforted one child while their bottle was warmed. In Space 5, infant and one year old children played on the floor while the teacher interacted with the group. In Space 6, two and three year old children were playing outside while the teacher moved about the playground interacting with the group. In Space 7, two year old children were playing in activity areas and planting seeds in small groups while the teacher directed the activity. In Space 8, three and four year old children were playing outside with the teacher moved about the playground interacting with the group. In Space 9, two and three year old children were playing in activity areas while two teachers moved about the classroom interacting with the children. Children were adequately supervised in both the indoor and outdoor environments. Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were maintained today. I observed walkie talkies being used by the administrator and the teachers to communicate throughout the center. During today’s visit, I monitored the Emergency Drill Log and observed a fire drill had been logged as having been completed on April 6, 2026. With the completion of a fire drill during the visit on April 2, 2026 and the fire drill completed on April 6, 2026, violation item number 805 has been corrected and will be recorded as being corrected during the consultant visit. In addition to correcting the violation, you stated that you plan to maintain compliance with this child care requirement by completing fire drills on the first week of the month rather than the last week of the month which will give you time to conduct the fire drill throughout the entire month if needed. During today’s visit, you stated that one staff member named in the violation had been out of work and you were still working on completing the new staff orientation training and recording the training on the “New Staff Orientation Training” documents. You stated you planned to complete the new staff orientation trainings by April 17, 2026 and submit the compliance documentation to me. You stated that you had a staff meeting scheduled for this evening with an agenda and notes prepared to share with the staff as you review the expectations, procedures, and policy for maintaining staff to child ratio at all times throughout the operating day. The following violation was observed, cited, and corrected during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. No “Classroom Staff to Child Ratio Worksheet” was posted in Spaces 2, 5, and 6. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09 .3208(e), the staff/child ratio applicable to a classroom should be posted in each classroom in an area that parents are able to view at all times. During today’s visit, I observed no “Classroom Staff to Child Ratio Worksheet” posted in Spaces 2, 5, and 6. Today, you printed, completed, and posted a copy of the “Classroom Staff to Child Ratio Worksheet” in an area of the classrooms that was easily viewed by parents and staff at all times which corrected this violation today. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review this child care rule with your staff and make sure the “Classroom Staff to Child Ratio Worksheet” is posted in an area of the classroom easily seen by parents and staff such as on the wall by the hallway door. These documents should not be posted on the backs of the classroom door or the bathroom door. CONSULTATION: 1 Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09. 2201, due to the nature of the substantiated allegation and the violation cited, the DCDEE may issue an administrative action to this facility. 2 During today’s visit, I observed more children enrolled in some of the classrooms than the enhanced staff to child ratio would allow for the age of the children in care and number of staff assigned to the classroom. The enhanced staff to child ratio for two year old children is one teacher to nine children. However, in Space 6, there were ten two and three year old children enrolled with one teacher assigned to the group and in Space 7, there were thirteen two year old children enrolled with one teacher assigned to the group. The enhanced staff to child ratio for three year old children is one teacher to ten children. However, in Space 8, there were eleven three and four year old children enrolled with one teacher assigned to the group and in Space 9, there were twelve three year old children enrolled with one teacher assigned to the group. When you send your compliance letter documentation due on or before April 17, 2026, please include your plan to maintain staff to child ratio in these four classrooms when all the children enrolled in the classroom choose to attend on the same day. Compliance Plan: Since violation item number 319 was corrected during the consultant visit, no compliance letter documentation will be due after this visit. Please be reminded that the compliance letter documentation for the violations cited during the unannounced visit on April 2, 2026, is due on or before April 17, 2026. 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/. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or our lead consultant and interim supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09. 2201 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0426-012L Visit Date: 4/14/2026 Number Present: 95 Completed Date: 4/14/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to conduct an unannounced follow-up visit related to allegations of violations of child care requirements regarding enhanced staff/child ratios and group size. You, Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. Today, I monitored supervision, enhanced staff-child ratios and group sizes, enhanced space capacity, and use of approved space. Four and five year old children in Space 1 participating in a read-aloud activity with one teacher who read to the whole group and one teacher interacted with the group. In Space 2, one year old children were playing with materials while one teacher interacted and moved about the room and one teacher changed diapers. In Space 3, one year old children were drawing with crayons on purple paper while the teacher interacted with the children and lead the activity. In Space 4, infant age children were playing on the floor while one teacher changed diapers and comforted children between changes and one teacher held and comforted one child while their bottle was warmed. In Space 5, infant and one year old children played on the floor while the teacher interacted with the group. In Space 6, two and three year old children were playing outside while the teacher moved about the playground interacting with the group. In Space 7, two year old children were playing in activity areas and planting seeds in small groups while the teacher directed the activity. In Space 8, three and four year old children were playing outside with the teacher moved about the playground interacting with the group. In Space 9, two and three year old children were playing in activity areas while two teachers moved about the classroom interacting with the children. Children were adequately supervised in both the indoor and outdoor environments. Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were maintained today. I observed walkie talkies being used by the administrator and the teachers to communicate throughout the center. During today’s visit, I monitored the Emergency Drill Log and observed a fire drill had been logged as having been completed on April 6, 2026. With the completion of a fire drill during the visit on April 2, 2026 and the fire drill completed on April 6, 2026, violation item number 805 has been corrected and will be recorded as being corrected during the consultant visit. In addition to correcting the violation, you stated that you plan to maintain compliance with this child care requirement by completing fire drills on the first week of the month rather than the last week of the month which will give you time to conduct the fire drill throughout the entire month if needed. During today’s visit, you stated that one staff member named in the violation had been out of work and you were still working on completing the new staff orientation training and recording the training on the “New Staff Orientation Training” documents. You stated you planned to complete the new staff orientation trainings by April 17, 2026 and submit the compliance documentation to me. You stated that you had a staff meeting scheduled for this evening with an agenda and notes prepared to share with the staff as you review the expectations, procedures, and policy for maintaining staff to child ratio at all times throughout the operating day. The following violation was observed, cited, and corrected during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. No “Classroom Staff to Child Ratio Worksheet” was posted in Spaces 2, 5, and 6. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09 .3208(e), the staff/child ratio applicable to a classroom should be posted in each classroom in an area that parents are able to view at all times. During today’s visit, I observed no “Classroom Staff to Child Ratio Worksheet” posted in Spaces 2, 5, and 6. Today, you printed, completed, and posted a copy of the “Classroom Staff to Child Ratio Worksheet” in an area of the classrooms that was easily viewed by parents and staff at all times which corrected this violation today. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you review this child care rule with your staff and make sure the “Classroom Staff to Child Ratio Worksheet” is posted in an area of the classroom easily seen by parents and staff such as on the wall by the hallway door. These documents should not be posted on the backs of the classroom door or the bathroom door. CONSULTATION: 1 Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09. 2201, due to the nature of the substantiated allegation and the violation cited, the DCDEE may issue an administrative action to this facility. 2 During today’s visit, I observed more children enrolled in some of the classrooms than the enhanced staff to child ratio would allow for the age of the children in care and number of staff assigned to the classroom. The enhanced staff to child ratio for two year old children is one teacher to nine children. However, in Space 6, there were ten two and three year old children enrolled with one teacher assigned to the group and in Space 7, there were thirteen two year old children enrolled with one teacher assigned to the group. The enhanced staff to child ratio for three year old children is one teacher to ten children. However, in Space 8, there were eleven three and four year old children enrolled with one teacher assigned to the group and in Space 9, there were twelve three year old children enrolled with one teacher assigned to the group. When you send your compliance letter documentation due on or before April 17, 2026, please include your plan to maintain staff to child ratio in these four classrooms when all the children enrolled in the classroom choose to attend on the same day. Compliance Plan: Since violation item number 319 was corrected during the consultant visit, no compliance letter documentation will be due after this visit. Please be reminded that the compliance letter documentation for the violations cited during the unannounced visit on April 2, 2026, is due on or before April 17, 2026. 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/. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or our lead consultant and interim supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0426-012L Visit Date: 4/2/2026 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 4/2/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 455 Time In: 09:55 AM Time Out: 05:30 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 gather information regarding allegations of violations of child care requirements related to enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced group sizes, fire drills, and new staff orientation training. You, Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, and Misty Green, Assistant Director, assisted me with today’s visit. I investigated the allegations of violations of child care requirements related to enhance staff/child ratios. At approximately 10:05am, I began a walk-through of the facility gathering the number of children and staff present in each classroom. From approximately 10:05am to approximately 10:45am, I observed nineteen children ranging from four to five years of age in Space 1 with two teachers, twelve children one year of age in Space 2 with two teachers, five children ranging from one year to two years of age in Space 3 with one teacher, ten infant-age children in Space 4 with two teachers, ten children ranging from infant to one year of age in Space 5 with two teachers, nine children two and three years of age in Space 6 with one teacher, eight children two years of age in Space 7 with one teacher, ten children ranging from three to four years of age in Space 8 with one teacher and eleven children three years of age in Space 9 with one teacher. Later in the visit at approximately 11:35am, I began a second walk-through of the facility gathering the number of children and staff present in each classroom. From approximately 11:35am to 12:00pm, nineteen children ranging from four to five years of age in Space 1 with two teachers, twelve children one year of age in Space 2 with two teachers, five children ranging from one year to two years of age in Space 3 with one teacher, ten infant-age children in Space 4 with two teachers, ten children ranging from infant to one year of age in Space 5 with two teachers, eighteen children two and three years of age in Space 6 with two teachers, ten children ranging from three to four years of age in Space 8 with one teacher and ten children three years of age in Space 9 with one teacher. Space 7 was temporarily closed for the remainder of the day and combined with Space 6 due to low staff attendance today. Today, I interviewed twelve staff members. Staff members stated child care requirements for staff/child ratios had not been maintained consistently throughout multiple classrooms, across the entire operating day, and over the past several months. Staff members stated that the administrative and corporate staff expected the staff members to maintain staff/child ratios at all times and to alert the administrative staff when their group was close to the maximum number children allowed in the group with one or two teachers respectively. Staff members allowed me to view a “group chat” through text messaging on their personal cell phones which they stated they were told to use to communicate to the administrative staff and floating teacher assistants any needs they may have including the need for assistance to maintain staff/child ratios in their classrooms. Staff members stated that their text messages requesting assistance and reporting a staff/child ratio crisis in their classroom was often overlooked or not addressed and routinely they were told to maintain the group number they were assigned even though the staff/child ratio may not comply with child care requirement. Ms. McCaslin explained that staffing had been an issue over the past few months with one teacher on medical leave, one teacher on maturity leave and one teacher on vacation this week. During staff interviews, staff members stated that on 04/01/2026 from 12:00pm to 4:00pm, twenty-two children two years of age were combined in Space 6 with two teachers. I reviewed “Child Supervision Record” (CSR) sheets that serve as this facility’s headcount or name to face sheets dated 03/18/2026 through 04/01/2026. According to the CSR records, on 03/18/2026 from 6:40am to 7:21am, eleven children two and three years of age were combined in one classroom with one teacher. On 03/26/2026 from 6:56am to 8:43am, thirteen children two and three years of age were combined in one classroom with one teacher. On 03/31/2026 from 7:40am to 8:15am, sixteen children two years of age were cared for by one teacher in Space 7. On 03/31/2026 from 8:31am to 9:15am, twelve children two years of age were cared for by one teacher in Space 7. On 04/01/2026 from 8:08am to 9:40am, ten children two years of age were cared for by one teacher in Space 7. On 04/01/2026 from 8:15am to 8:40am, twelve children two and three years of age were combined in Space 6 with one teacher. On 04/01/2026 from 12:00pm to 4:00pm, twenty-two children two years of age were combined in Space 6 with one teacher. On 04/02/2026 from 6:57am to 8:01am, fifteen children two and three years of age were combined in Space 7 with one teacher. Based on my observations, staff interviews, a review of “Child Supervision Records” sufficient evidence was available to confirm the allegation. Therefore, the allegation of violations of child care requirements related to staff/child ratios was substantiated. I investigated the allegation of violations of child care requirements related to monthly fire drills. I interviewed six staff members. Six staff members reported that they had not experienced a fire drill at the center in the past six months. I reviewed the “Emergency Drill Log & Report” document. On the “Emergency Drill Log & Report”, a fire drill was recorded as completed by Ms. McCaslin on the dates of 07/31/2025, 08/29/2025, 09/26/2025, 10/30/2025, 11/18/2025, 12/17/2025, 01/08/2026, and 02/09/2026. No fire drill was recorded for March 2026. Based on staff interviews and a review of the “Emergency Drill Log & Report” document, sufficient evidence was available to confirm the allegation. Therefore, the allegation of violations of child care requirements related to monthly fire drills was substantiated. I investigated the allegation of violations of child care requirements related to new staff orientation training. I reviewed the “New Staff Orientation Training” documents for the five new staff members hired since the last annual compliance visit on May 30, 2025. The “New Staff Orientation Training” documents for three out of the five new staff members indicated that the new staff orientation training topics had been completed within the first two weeks and within the first six weeks of employment as required. The “New Staff Orientation Training” document for the new staff member with a date of employment of 01/14/2026 indicated that the required new staff orientation training topics due to be completed by 02/25/2026 had not been completed during the first six weeks. The “New Staff Orientation Training” document for the new staff member with a date of employment of 02/08/2026 indicated that the required new staff orientation training topics due to be completed by 02/17/2026 had not been completed during the first two weeks or during the first six weeks. Based on a review of the “New Staff Orientation Training” documents for the five new staff members hired since May 30, 2025, sufficient evidence was available to confirm the allegation. Therefore, the allegation of violations of child care requirements related to new staff orientation training was substantiated. The following violations were observed and cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. On the “Emergency Drill Log & Report” document no fire drill was recorded for March 2026. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 880 Non-mobile children were enrolled and the center did not have a crib or other approved device to safely evacuate the children in an emergency. One evacuation crib was available for two teachers to use to evacuate a combined group of ten infant and one-year-old children from Space 5 during a fire drill. .0604(r) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. The “New Staff Orientation Training” document for the new staff member with a date of employment of 01/14/2026 indicated that the required new staff orientation training topics due to be completed by 02/25/2026 had not been completed during the first six weeks. The “New Staff Orientation Training” document for the new staff member with a date of employment of 02/08/2026 indicated that the required new staff orientation training topics due to be completed by 02/17/2026 had not been completed during the first two weeks or during the first six weeks. .1101(a) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. On 03/18/2026 from 6:40am to 7:21am, eleven children two and three years of age were combined in one classroom with one teacher. On 03/26/2026 from 6:56am to 8:43am, thirteen children two and three years of age were combined in one classroom with one teacher. On 03/31/2026 from 7:40am to 8:15am, sixteen children two years of age were cared for by one teacher in Space 7. On 03/31/2026 from 8:31am to 9:15am, twelve children two years of age were cared for by one teacher in Space 7. On 04/01/2026 from 8:08am to 9:40am, ten children two years of age were cared for by one teacher in Space 7. On 04/01/2026 from 8:15am to 8:40am, twelve children two and three years of age were combined in Space 6 with one teacher. On 04/01/2026 from 12:00pm to 4:00pm, twenty-two children two years of age were combined in Space 6 with one teacher. On 04/02/2026 from 6:57am to 8:01am, fifteen children two and three years of age were combined in Space 7 with one teacher. On 04/02/2026 at 10:05am, eleven children three years of age were cared for by one teacher in Space 9. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .2818, enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes should be maintained at all times. During today’s visit, I observed staff-child ratios not being maintained in Space 9 where eleven children three years of age were being cared for by one teacher. I also determined through staff interviews and review of CSR documents that staff/child ratios had not been maintained for two and three year old children in multiple classrooms, over multiple times of the day, and over multiple days in the past two weeks. Today, Ms. McCaslin moved one child out of Space 9 to reduce the staff/child ratio for three year old children. To correct this violation, I suggest you revise staff schedules to better cover the operating hours based on the care plan needs of the families that you currently serve that will ensure that caregiving staff are working in and opening classrooms on such a schedule that allows child care requirements related to staff/child ratio be maintained across the operating hours, days, and classrooms. Ms. McCaslin stated that she had already reached out to the District Manager to discuss the staff/child ratio issue. Ms. McCaslin stated she planned to hold a staff meeting on 04/14/2026 to review the child care requirements related to staff/child requirements, and the responsibilities for the center, staff, and families to work together to ensure that staff/child ratio requirements are maintained throughout the center at all times. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested that you consider providing staff training that focuses on maintaining staff/child ratios. I also suggested that you consider purchasing a multi-set of walkie talkie devices or install an intercom system throughout the center that would allow staff members to request assistance as needed without using their personal cell phones and group chat, which can be a distraction from supervising the children visually. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(t), fire drills should be completed each month children are in attendance and should be documented on a fire drill log including the date and time of each drill, the length of time taken to evacuate the building, and the signature of the person who conducted the drill. Today, I observed that on the “Emergency Drill Log & Report” document a fire drill was recorded as having been completed on 07/31/2025, 08/29/2025, 09/26/2025, 10/30/2025, 11/18/2025, 12/17/2025, 01/08/2026, and 02/09/2026. No fire drill was recorded for March 2026. To correct this violation, I requested that you complete a fire drill today during my visit. At approximately 3:20pm, you conducted a fire drill which took approximately six minutes to evacuate the building. Please conduct another fire drill no later than April 16, 2026 and document the drill on the “Emergency Drill Log & Report” document. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you consider conducting your fire drills at the beginning or in the middle of the month rather than at the end of the month to allow yourself time to complete the fire drill should an emergency closure or interruption in your operating schedule arise. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1101(a), new staff who have contact with children must receive at least sixteen hours of orientation within the first six weeks and this training should be documented accurately. New staff orientation training should be completed within six weeks even if a holiday or school break falls within that period of time, but some topics should be completed within the first two weeks. Today while reviewing “New Staff Orientation Training” documents for the five new staff members hired since May 30, 2026, the “New Staff Orientation Training” document for the new staff member with a date of employment of 01/14/2026 indicated that the required new staff orientation training topics due to be completed by 02/25/2026 had not been completed during the first six weeks. The “New Staff Orientation Training” document for the new staff member with a date of employment of 02/08/2026 indicated that the required new staff orientation training topics due to be completed by 02/17/2026 had not been completed during the first two weeks or during the first six weeks. To correct this violation, I suggest you complete the new staff orientation training addressing the required topics and documenting the date and length of time spent reviewing each training topic. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested require new staff to complete the new staff orientation training within the first week of employment and prior to placement in a classroom if at all possible. New staff orientation training should be completed within two weeks and six weeks even if a holiday(s) fall within that period of time. Be sure to document on the New Staff Orientation Training Record the exact time spent on each topic. When providing new staff orientation training, be sure to use the most current EPR Plan and Emergency Medical Care (EMC) Plan. 4. While not related to the allegations, per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(r), a crib or other approved device should be provided to safely evacuate non-mobile children during an emergency. One evacuation crib should be provided each staff member to evacuate their non-mobile group of children. During today’s visit and the requested fire drill, one evacuation crib was available for two teachers to use to evacuate a combined group of ten infant and one-year-old children. Ms. Green and Ms. McCaslin stated that a request had been sent in for a second evacuation crib be placed in Space 5. To correct this violation, I suggest you place a second evacuation crib in Space 5 on or before April 16, 2026. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you keep two evacuation cribs in Space 5 to use with two groups of five infant-age children even if the enrollment drops to one group of five infant-age children in Space 5. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, due to the nature of the allegations and violations, a follow-up visit will be made in the near future to monitor actions taken to correct violations cited and ongoing compliance with child care requirements. 2. As discussed today, when allegations are substantiated, an administrative action may be issued by DCDEE to assist the center in developing policies and procedures to maintain compliance with child care requirements. COMPLIANCE PLAN: All violations cited must be corrected immediately. Please submit written, signed, and dated compliance documentation to me at the email/address below detailing the steps taken to correct each violation. Your compliance documentation must include the following: 1) A compliance letter including the following: 1. The name of your facility 2. The ID number of your facility 3. The date you write the letter 4. A corrective action statement for each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. 5. Your signature 2) Please send the “Emergency Drill Log & Report” and the completed “New Staff Orientation Training” documents as supporting documentation for me to use to verify compliance. I must receive your compliance letter no later than April 16, 2026. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. 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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .1101 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0426-012L Visit Date: 4/2/2026 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 4/2/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 455 Time In: 09:55 AM Time Out: 05:30 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 gather information regarding allegations of violations of child care requirements related to enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced group sizes, fire drills, and new staff orientation training. You, Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, and Misty Green, Assistant Director, assisted me with today’s visit. I investigated the allegations of violations of child care requirements related to enhance staff/child ratios. At approximately 10:05am, I began a walk-through of the facility gathering the number of children and staff present in each classroom. From approximately 10:05am to approximately 10:45am, I observed nineteen children ranging from four to five years of age in Space 1 with two teachers, twelve children one year of age in Space 2 with two teachers, five children ranging from one year to two years of age in Space 3 with one teacher, ten infant-age children in Space 4 with two teachers, ten children ranging from infant to one year of age in Space 5 with two teachers, nine children two and three years of age in Space 6 with one teacher, eight children two years of age in Space 7 with one teacher, ten children ranging from three to four years of age in Space 8 with one teacher and eleven children three years of age in Space 9 with one teacher. Later in the visit at approximately 11:35am, I began a second walk-through of the facility gathering the number of children and staff present in each classroom. From approximately 11:35am to 12:00pm, nineteen children ranging from four to five years of age in Space 1 with two teachers, twelve children one year of age in Space 2 with two teachers, five children ranging from one year to two years of age in Space 3 with one teacher, ten infant-age children in Space 4 with two teachers, ten children ranging from infant to one year of age in Space 5 with two teachers, eighteen children two and three years of age in Space 6 with two teachers, ten children ranging from three to four years of age in Space 8 with one teacher and ten children three years of age in Space 9 with one teacher. Space 7 was temporarily closed for the remainder of the day and combined with Space 6 due to low staff attendance today. Today, I interviewed twelve staff members. Staff members stated child care requirements for staff/child ratios had not been maintained consistently throughout multiple classrooms, across the entire operating day, and over the past several months. Staff members stated that the administrative and corporate staff expected the staff members to maintain staff/child ratios at all times and to alert the administrative staff when their group was close to the maximum number children allowed in the group with one or two teachers respectively. Staff members allowed me to view a “group chat” through text messaging on their personal cell phones which they stated they were told to use to communicate to the administrative staff and floating teacher assistants any needs they may have including the need for assistance to maintain staff/child ratios in their classrooms. Staff members stated that their text messages requesting assistance and reporting a staff/child ratio crisis in their classroom was often overlooked or not addressed and routinely they were told to maintain the group number they were assigned even though the staff/child ratio may not comply with child care requirement. Ms. McCaslin explained that staffing had been an issue over the past few months with one teacher on medical leave, one teacher on maturity leave and one teacher on vacation this week. During staff interviews, staff members stated that on 04/01/2026 from 12:00pm to 4:00pm, twenty-two children two years of age were combined in Space 6 with two teachers. I reviewed “Child Supervision Record” (CSR) sheets that serve as this facility’s headcount or name to face sheets dated 03/18/2026 through 04/01/2026. According to the CSR records, on 03/18/2026 from 6:40am to 7:21am, eleven children two and three years of age were combined in one classroom with one teacher. On 03/26/2026 from 6:56am to 8:43am, thirteen children two and three years of age were combined in one classroom with one teacher. On 03/31/2026 from 7:40am to 8:15am, sixteen children two years of age were cared for by one teacher in Space 7. On 03/31/2026 from 8:31am to 9:15am, twelve children two years of age were cared for by one teacher in Space 7. On 04/01/2026 from 8:08am to 9:40am, ten children two years of age were cared for by one teacher in Space 7. On 04/01/2026 from 8:15am to 8:40am, twelve children two and three years of age were combined in Space 6 with one teacher. On 04/01/2026 from 12:00pm to 4:00pm, twenty-two children two years of age were combined in Space 6 with one teacher. On 04/02/2026 from 6:57am to 8:01am, fifteen children two and three years of age were combined in Space 7 with one teacher. Based on my observations, staff interviews, a review of “Child Supervision Records” sufficient evidence was available to confirm the allegation. Therefore, the allegation of violations of child care requirements related to staff/child ratios was substantiated. I investigated the allegation of violations of child care requirements related to monthly fire drills. I interviewed six staff members. Six staff members reported that they had not experienced a fire drill at the center in the past six months. I reviewed the “Emergency Drill Log & Report” document. On the “Emergency Drill Log & Report”, a fire drill was recorded as completed by Ms. McCaslin on the dates of 07/31/2025, 08/29/2025, 09/26/2025, 10/30/2025, 11/18/2025, 12/17/2025, 01/08/2026, and 02/09/2026. No fire drill was recorded for March 2026. Based on staff interviews and a review of the “Emergency Drill Log & Report” document, sufficient evidence was available to confirm the allegation. Therefore, the allegation of violations of child care requirements related to monthly fire drills was substantiated. I investigated the allegation of violations of child care requirements related to new staff orientation training. I reviewed the “New Staff Orientation Training” documents for the five new staff members hired since the last annual compliance visit on May 30, 2025. The “New Staff Orientation Training” documents for three out of the five new staff members indicated that the new staff orientation training topics had been completed within the first two weeks and within the first six weeks of employment as required. The “New Staff Orientation Training” document for the new staff member with a date of employment of 01/14/2026 indicated that the required new staff orientation training topics due to be completed by 02/25/2026 had not been completed during the first six weeks. The “New Staff Orientation Training” document for the new staff member with a date of employment of 02/08/2026 indicated that the required new staff orientation training topics due to be completed by 02/17/2026 had not been completed during the first two weeks or during the first six weeks. Based on a review of the “New Staff Orientation Training” documents for the five new staff members hired since May 30, 2025, sufficient evidence was available to confirm the allegation. Therefore, the allegation of violations of child care requirements related to new staff orientation training was substantiated. The following violations were observed and cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. On the “Emergency Drill Log & Report” document no fire drill was recorded for March 2026. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 880 Non-mobile children were enrolled and the center did not have a crib or other approved device to safely evacuate the children in an emergency. One evacuation crib was available for two teachers to use to evacuate a combined group of ten infant and one-year-old children from Space 5 during a fire drill. .0604(r) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. The “New Staff Orientation Training” document for the new staff member with a date of employment of 01/14/2026 indicated that the required new staff orientation training topics due to be completed by 02/25/2026 had not been completed during the first six weeks. The “New Staff Orientation Training” document for the new staff member with a date of employment of 02/08/2026 indicated that the required new staff orientation training topics due to be completed by 02/17/2026 had not been completed during the first two weeks or during the first six weeks. .1101(a) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. On 03/18/2026 from 6:40am to 7:21am, eleven children two and three years of age were combined in one classroom with one teacher. On 03/26/2026 from 6:56am to 8:43am, thirteen children two and three years of age were combined in one classroom with one teacher. On 03/31/2026 from 7:40am to 8:15am, sixteen children two years of age were cared for by one teacher in Space 7. On 03/31/2026 from 8:31am to 9:15am, twelve children two years of age were cared for by one teacher in Space 7. On 04/01/2026 from 8:08am to 9:40am, ten children two years of age were cared for by one teacher in Space 7. On 04/01/2026 from 8:15am to 8:40am, twelve children two and three years of age were combined in Space 6 with one teacher. On 04/01/2026 from 12:00pm to 4:00pm, twenty-two children two years of age were combined in Space 6 with one teacher. On 04/02/2026 from 6:57am to 8:01am, fifteen children two and three years of age were combined in Space 7 with one teacher. On 04/02/2026 at 10:05am, eleven children three years of age were cared for by one teacher in Space 9. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .2818, enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes should be maintained at all times. During today’s visit, I observed staff-child ratios not being maintained in Space 9 where eleven children three years of age were being cared for by one teacher. I also determined through staff interviews and review of CSR documents that staff/child ratios had not been maintained for two and three year old children in multiple classrooms, over multiple times of the day, and over multiple days in the past two weeks. Today, Ms. McCaslin moved one child out of Space 9 to reduce the staff/child ratio for three year old children. To correct this violation, I suggest you revise staff schedules to better cover the operating hours based on the care plan needs of the families that you currently serve that will ensure that caregiving staff are working in and opening classrooms on such a schedule that allows child care requirements related to staff/child ratio be maintained across the operating hours, days, and classrooms. Ms. McCaslin stated that she had already reached out to the District Manager to discuss the staff/child ratio issue. Ms. McCaslin stated she planned to hold a staff meeting on 04/14/2026 to review the child care requirements related to staff/child requirements, and the responsibilities for the center, staff, and families to work together to ensure that staff/child ratio requirements are maintained throughout the center at all times. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested that you consider providing staff training that focuses on maintaining staff/child ratios. I also suggested that you consider purchasing a multi-set of walkie talkie devices or install an intercom system throughout the center that would allow staff members to request assistance as needed without using their personal cell phones and group chat, which can be a distraction from supervising the children visually. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(t), fire drills should be completed each month children are in attendance and should be documented on a fire drill log including the date and time of each drill, the length of time taken to evacuate the building, and the signature of the person who conducted the drill. Today, I observed that on the “Emergency Drill Log & Report” document a fire drill was recorded as having been completed on 07/31/2025, 08/29/2025, 09/26/2025, 10/30/2025, 11/18/2025, 12/17/2025, 01/08/2026, and 02/09/2026. No fire drill was recorded for March 2026. To correct this violation, I requested that you complete a fire drill today during my visit. At approximately 3:20pm, you conducted a fire drill which took approximately six minutes to evacuate the building. Please conduct another fire drill no later than April 16, 2026 and document the drill on the “Emergency Drill Log & Report” document. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you consider conducting your fire drills at the beginning or in the middle of the month rather than at the end of the month to allow yourself time to complete the fire drill should an emergency closure or interruption in your operating schedule arise. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1101(a), new staff who have contact with children must receive at least sixteen hours of orientation within the first six weeks and this training should be documented accurately. New staff orientation training should be completed within six weeks even if a holiday or school break falls within that period of time, but some topics should be completed within the first two weeks. Today while reviewing “New Staff Orientation Training” documents for the five new staff members hired since May 30, 2026, the “New Staff Orientation Training” document for the new staff member with a date of employment of 01/14/2026 indicated that the required new staff orientation training topics due to be completed by 02/25/2026 had not been completed during the first six weeks. The “New Staff Orientation Training” document for the new staff member with a date of employment of 02/08/2026 indicated that the required new staff orientation training topics due to be completed by 02/17/2026 had not been completed during the first two weeks or during the first six weeks. To correct this violation, I suggest you complete the new staff orientation training addressing the required topics and documenting the date and length of time spent reviewing each training topic. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested require new staff to complete the new staff orientation training within the first week of employment and prior to placement in a classroom if at all possible. New staff orientation training should be completed within two weeks and six weeks even if a holiday(s) fall within that period of time. Be sure to document on the New Staff Orientation Training Record the exact time spent on each topic. When providing new staff orientation training, be sure to use the most current EPR Plan and Emergency Medical Care (EMC) Plan. 4. While not related to the allegations, per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(r), a crib or other approved device should be provided to safely evacuate non-mobile children during an emergency. One evacuation crib should be provided each staff member to evacuate their non-mobile group of children. During today’s visit and the requested fire drill, one evacuation crib was available for two teachers to use to evacuate a combined group of ten infant and one-year-old children. Ms. Green and Ms. McCaslin stated that a request had been sent in for a second evacuation crib be placed in Space 5. To correct this violation, I suggest you place a second evacuation crib in Space 5 on or before April 16, 2026. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you keep two evacuation cribs in Space 5 to use with two groups of five infant-age children even if the enrollment drops to one group of five infant-age children in Space 5. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, due to the nature of the allegations and violations, a follow-up visit will be made in the near future to monitor actions taken to correct violations cited and ongoing compliance with child care requirements. 2. As discussed today, when allegations are substantiated, an administrative action may be issued by DCDEE to assist the center in developing policies and procedures to maintain compliance with child care requirements. COMPLIANCE PLAN: All violations cited must be corrected immediately. Please submit written, signed, and dated compliance documentation to me at the email/address below detailing the steps taken to correct each violation. Your compliance documentation must include the following: 1) A compliance letter including the following: 1. The name of your facility 2. The ID number of your facility 3. The date you write the letter 4. A corrective action statement for each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. 5. Your signature 2) Please send the “Emergency Drill Log & Report” and the completed “New Staff Orientation Training” documents as supporting documentation for me to use to verify compliance. I must receive your compliance letter no later than April 16, 2026. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. 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 .2818 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0426-012L Visit Date: 4/2/2026 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 4/2/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 455 Time In: 09:55 AM Time Out: 05:30 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 gather information regarding allegations of violations of child care requirements related to enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced group sizes, fire drills, and new staff orientation training. You, Ashley McCaslin, Administrator, and Misty Green, Assistant Director, assisted me with today’s visit. I investigated the allegations of violations of child care requirements related to enhance staff/child ratios. At approximately 10:05am, I began a walk-through of the facility gathering the number of children and staff present in each classroom. From approximately 10:05am to approximately 10:45am, I observed nineteen children ranging from four to five years of age in Space 1 with two teachers, twelve children one year of age in Space 2 with two teachers, five children ranging from one year to two years of age in Space 3 with one teacher, ten infant-age children in Space 4 with two teachers, ten children ranging from infant to one year of age in Space 5 with two teachers, nine children two and three years of age in Space 6 with one teacher, eight children two years of age in Space 7 with one teacher, ten children ranging from three to four years of age in Space 8 with one teacher and eleven children three years of age in Space 9 with one teacher. Later in the visit at approximately 11:35am, I began a second walk-through of the facility gathering the number of children and staff present in each classroom. From approximately 11:35am to 12:00pm, nineteen children ranging from four to five years of age in Space 1 with two teachers, twelve children one year of age in Space 2 with two teachers, five children ranging from one year to two years of age in Space 3 with one teacher, ten infant-age children in Space 4 with two teachers, ten children ranging from infant to one year of age in Space 5 with two teachers, eighteen children two and three years of age in Space 6 with two teachers, ten children ranging from three to four years of age in Space 8 with one teacher and ten children three years of age in Space 9 with one teacher. Space 7 was temporarily closed for the remainder of the day and combined with Space 6 due to low staff attendance today. Today, I interviewed twelve staff members. Staff members stated child care requirements for staff/child ratios had not been maintained consistently throughout multiple classrooms, across the entire operating day, and over the past several months. Staff members stated that the administrative and corporate staff expected the staff members to maintain staff/child ratios at all times and to alert the administrative staff when their group was close to the maximum number children allowed in the group with one or two teachers respectively. Staff members allowed me to view a “group chat” through text messaging on their personal cell phones which they stated they were told to use to communicate to the administrative staff and floating teacher assistants any needs they may have including the need for assistance to maintain staff/child ratios in their classrooms. Staff members stated that their text messages requesting assistance and reporting a staff/child ratio crisis in their classroom was often overlooked or not addressed and routinely they were told to maintain the group number they were assigned even though the staff/child ratio may not comply with child care requirement. Ms. McCaslin explained that staffing had been an issue over the past few months with one teacher on medical leave, one teacher on maturity leave and one teacher on vacation this week. During staff interviews, staff members stated that on 04/01/2026 from 12:00pm to 4:00pm, twenty-two children two years of age were combined in Space 6 with two teachers. I reviewed “Child Supervision Record” (CSR) sheets that serve as this facility’s headcount or name to face sheets dated 03/18/2026 through 04/01/2026. According to the CSR records, on 03/18/2026 from 6:40am to 7:21am, eleven children two and three years of age were combined in one classroom with one teacher. On 03/26/2026 from 6:56am to 8:43am, thirteen children two and three years of age were combined in one classroom with one teacher. On 03/31/2026 from 7:40am to 8:15am, sixteen children two years of age were cared for by one teacher in Space 7. On 03/31/2026 from 8:31am to 9:15am, twelve children two years of age were cared for by one teacher in Space 7. On 04/01/2026 from 8:08am to 9:40am, ten children two years of age were cared for by one teacher in Space 7. On 04/01/2026 from 8:15am to 8:40am, twelve children two and three years of age were combined in Space 6 with one teacher. On 04/01/2026 from 12:00pm to 4:00pm, twenty-two children two years of age were combined in Space 6 with one teacher. On 04/02/2026 from 6:57am to 8:01am, fifteen children two and three years of age were combined in Space 7 with one teacher. Based on my observations, staff interviews, a review of “Child Supervision Records” sufficient evidence was available to confirm the allegation. Therefore, the allegation of violations of child care requirements related to staff/child ratios was substantiated. I investigated the allegation of violations of child care requirements related to monthly fire drills. I interviewed six staff members. Six staff members reported that they had not experienced a fire drill at the center in the past six months. I reviewed the “Emergency Drill Log & Report” document. On the “Emergency Drill Log & Report”, a fire drill was recorded as completed by Ms. McCaslin on the dates of 07/31/2025, 08/29/2025, 09/26/2025, 10/30/2025, 11/18/2025, 12/17/2025, 01/08/2026, and 02/09/2026. No fire drill was recorded for March 2026. Based on staff interviews and a review of the “Emergency Drill Log & Report” document, sufficient evidence was available to confirm the allegation. Therefore, the allegation of violations of child care requirements related to monthly fire drills was substantiated. I investigated the allegation of violations of child care requirements related to new staff orientation training. I reviewed the “New Staff Orientation Training” documents for the five new staff members hired since the last annual compliance visit on May 30, 2025. The “New Staff Orientation Training” documents for three out of the five new staff members indicated that the new staff orientation training topics had been completed within the first two weeks and within the first six weeks of employment as required. The “New Staff Orientation Training” document for the new staff member with a date of employment of 01/14/2026 indicated that the required new staff orientation training topics due to be completed by 02/25/2026 had not been completed during the first six weeks. The “New Staff Orientation Training” document for the new staff member with a date of employment of 02/08/2026 indicated that the required new staff orientation training topics due to be completed by 02/17/2026 had not been completed during the first two weeks or during the first six weeks. Based on a review of the “New Staff Orientation Training” documents for the five new staff members hired since May 30, 2025, sufficient evidence was available to confirm the allegation. Therefore, the allegation of violations of child care requirements related to new staff orientation training was substantiated. The following violations were observed and cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. On the “Emergency Drill Log & Report” document no fire drill was recorded for March 2026. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 880 Non-mobile children were enrolled and the center did not have a crib or other approved device to safely evacuate the children in an emergency. One evacuation crib was available for two teachers to use to evacuate a combined group of ten infant and one-year-old children from Space 5 during a fire drill. .0604(r) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. The “New Staff Orientation Training” document for the new staff member with a date of employment of 01/14/2026 indicated that the required new staff orientation training topics due to be completed by 02/25/2026 had not been completed during the first six weeks. The “New Staff Orientation Training” document for the new staff member with a date of employment of 02/08/2026 indicated that the required new staff orientation training topics due to be completed by 02/17/2026 had not been completed during the first two weeks or during the first six weeks. .1101(a) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. On 03/18/2026 from 6:40am to 7:21am, eleven children two and three years of age were combined in one classroom with one teacher. On 03/26/2026 from 6:56am to 8:43am, thirteen children two and three years of age were combined in one classroom with one teacher. On 03/31/2026 from 7:40am to 8:15am, sixteen children two years of age were cared for by one teacher in Space 7. On 03/31/2026 from 8:31am to 9:15am, twelve children two years of age were cared for by one teacher in Space 7. On 04/01/2026 from 8:08am to 9:40am, ten children two years of age were cared for by one teacher in Space 7. On 04/01/2026 from 8:15am to 8:40am, twelve children two and three years of age were combined in Space 6 with one teacher. On 04/01/2026 from 12:00pm to 4:00pm, twenty-two children two years of age were combined in Space 6 with one teacher. On 04/02/2026 from 6:57am to 8:01am, fifteen children two and three years of age were combined in Space 7 with one teacher. On 04/02/2026 at 10:05am, eleven children three years of age were cared for by one teacher in Space 9. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .2818, enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes should be maintained at all times. During today’s visit, I observed staff-child ratios not being maintained in Space 9 where eleven children three years of age were being cared for by one teacher. I also determined through staff interviews and review of CSR documents that staff/child ratios had not been maintained for two and three year old children in multiple classrooms, over multiple times of the day, and over multiple days in the past two weeks. Today, Ms. McCaslin moved one child out of Space 9 to reduce the staff/child ratio for three year old children. To correct this violation, I suggest you revise staff schedules to better cover the operating hours based on the care plan needs of the families that you currently serve that will ensure that caregiving staff are working in and opening classrooms on such a schedule that allows child care requirements related to staff/child ratio be maintained across the operating hours, days, and classrooms. Ms. McCaslin stated that she had already reached out to the District Manager to discuss the staff/child ratio issue. Ms. McCaslin stated she planned to hold a staff meeting on 04/14/2026 to review the child care requirements related to staff/child requirements, and the responsibilities for the center, staff, and families to work together to ensure that staff/child ratio requirements are maintained throughout the center at all times. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested that you consider providing staff training that focuses on maintaining staff/child ratios. I also suggested that you consider purchasing a multi-set of walkie talkie devices or install an intercom system throughout the center that would allow staff members to request assistance as needed without using their personal cell phones and group chat, which can be a distraction from supervising the children visually. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(t), fire drills should be completed each month children are in attendance and should be documented on a fire drill log including the date and time of each drill, the length of time taken to evacuate the building, and the signature of the person who conducted the drill. Today, I observed that on the “Emergency Drill Log & Report” document a fire drill was recorded as having been completed on 07/31/2025, 08/29/2025, 09/26/2025, 10/30/2025, 11/18/2025, 12/17/2025, 01/08/2026, and 02/09/2026. No fire drill was recorded for March 2026. To correct this violation, I requested that you complete a fire drill today during my visit. At approximately 3:20pm, you conducted a fire drill which took approximately six minutes to evacuate the building. Please conduct another fire drill no later than April 16, 2026 and document the drill on the “Emergency Drill Log & Report” document. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you consider conducting your fire drills at the beginning or in the middle of the month rather than at the end of the month to allow yourself time to complete the fire drill should an emergency closure or interruption in your operating schedule arise. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1101(a), new staff who have contact with children must receive at least sixteen hours of orientation within the first six weeks and this training should be documented accurately. New staff orientation training should be completed within six weeks even if a holiday or school break falls within that period of time, but some topics should be completed within the first two weeks. Today while reviewing “New Staff Orientation Training” documents for the five new staff members hired since May 30, 2026, the “New Staff Orientation Training” document for the new staff member with a date of employment of 01/14/2026 indicated that the required new staff orientation training topics due to be completed by 02/25/2026 had not been completed during the first six weeks. The “New Staff Orientation Training” document for the new staff member with a date of employment of 02/08/2026 indicated that the required new staff orientation training topics due to be completed by 02/17/2026 had not been completed during the first two weeks or during the first six weeks. To correct this violation, I suggest you complete the new staff orientation training addressing the required topics and documenting the date and length of time spent reviewing each training topic. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested require new staff to complete the new staff orientation training within the first week of employment and prior to placement in a classroom if at all possible. New staff orientation training should be completed within two weeks and six weeks even if a holiday(s) fall within that period of time. Be sure to document on the New Staff Orientation Training Record the exact time spent on each topic. When providing new staff orientation training, be sure to use the most current EPR Plan and Emergency Medical Care (EMC) Plan. 4. While not related to the allegations, per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(r), a crib or other approved device should be provided to safely evacuate non-mobile children during an emergency. One evacuation crib should be provided each staff member to evacuate their non-mobile group of children. During today’s visit and the requested fire drill, one evacuation crib was available for two teachers to use to evacuate a combined group of ten infant and one-year-old children. Ms. Green and Ms. McCaslin stated that a request had been sent in for a second evacuation crib be placed in Space 5. To correct this violation, I suggest you place a second evacuation crib in Space 5 on or before April 16, 2026. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you keep two evacuation cribs in Space 5 to use with two groups of five infant-age children even if the enrollment drops to one group of five infant-age children in Space 5. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, due to the nature of the allegations and violations, a follow-up visit will be made in the near future to monitor actions taken to correct violations cited and ongoing compliance with child care requirements. 2. As discussed today, when allegations are substantiated, an administrative action may be issued by DCDEE to assist the center in developing policies and procedures to maintain compliance with child care requirements. COMPLIANCE PLAN: All violations cited must be corrected immediately. Please submit written, signed, and dated compliance documentation to me at the email/address below detailing the steps taken to correct each violation. Your compliance documentation must include the following: 1) A compliance letter including the following: 1. The name of your facility 2. The ID number of your facility 3. The date you write the letter 4. A corrective action statement for each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. 5. Your signature 2) Please send the “Emergency Drill Log & Report” and the completed “New Staff Orientation Training” documents as supporting documentation for me to use to verify compliance. I must receive your compliance letter no later than April 16, 2026. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. 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 .0302 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/21/2025 Number Present: 68 Completed Date: 5/21/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:00 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. You, Kelly Garceau, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on June 5, 2024. I reviewed the facility’s permit including the restrictions, licensed capacity, and age range and observed these being maintained today. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of May 20, 2025 and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. Your most recent sanitation inspection was dated April 9, 2025 with a Superior classification and eight demerits. I verified that the lead water testing required to be completed every three years was completed on February 12, 2025. Today, I verified that those test results indicated that your facilities drinking water source were within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint testing and are waiting on the survey results. I verified that you have started the enrollment for asbestos testing. Please complete this enrollment process. Your last fire inspection was dated February 28, 2025 and was received in my office on March 3, 2025. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a 4-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. I visited each licensed indoor and outdoor space with you today. I observed children playing in activity areas, playing outdoors, eating lunch and attending to personal care routines including handwashing. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Today’s lunch included chick peas, mixed vegetables, mandarin oranges, whole-grain spaghetti noodles, and unflavored milk. Cold food and milk were stored in a commercial refrigerator in the kitchen at a temperature of thirty-six degrees Fahrenheit. Infant bottles and infant food were stored in a compact refrigerator at twenty-four degrees Fahrenheit in Space 4. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. The following violations were observed, cited, and corrected during today's visit: 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 4, over the counter diaper creams were stored under in the diaper changing table which was left unlocked. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 853 Incident logs were not completed and maintained as required. The incident log was completed through March 2025. Although there were incident reports completed and dated for April 2025 and May 2025, these incidents had not been recorded on the incident log. .0802(g)(1-6) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, opened shrink wrapped diapers, opened diaper wipe refill packets, and opened plastic diaper wipe bags were stored unlocked and below five feet under a diaper changing table. .0604(q) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member’s First Aid training certification expired on May 2, 2025. The staff member attended a First Aid training on May 29, 2025 and and the staff member’s attendance was verified. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member’s CPR training certification expired on May 2, 2025. The staff member attended a CPR training on May 29, 2025 and the staff member’s attendance was verified. .1102(d) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. One child with a date of enrollment of 03/31/2025 did not have a statement signed and dated by the parents acknowledging receipt and discussion of the operational policies prior to enrollment. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In Space 7, the daily attendance for May 16, May 19, and May 20 was not recorded. GS 110-91(9) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. For one child with a date of enrollment of 03/31/2025, the statement signed and dated by the parents acknowledging receipt and discussion of the discipline policy did not include the name of the child and the date of enrollment. .1804(b) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. The child enrollment application for three children with dates of enrollment of 08/13/2023, 04/08/2025, and 03/31/2025 did not include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. .0801(a)(1-7) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One employee with a date of employment of 05/20/2024 completed H&S training on 05/30/2025. One employee with a date of employment of 02/14/2025 completed H&S training on 01/04/2025. .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. For one child with a date of enrollment of 08/13/2023, the statement signed and dated by the parents acknowledging receipt and discussion of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy did not include the date of enrollment. .0608(b)(1-6) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. During today’s visit to Space 4, over the counter diaper creams were stored under the diaper changing table which was left unlocked. The teacher in the classroom locked the lock on the diaper changing table which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule and the other rules regarding storage of hazardous materials and items. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. I sent that document to you today in a follow-up email. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 4, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers, opened diaper wipe refill packets, and opened plastic diaper wipe bags stored unlocked and below five feet under a diaper changing table. The teacher locked storage in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff, monitor classrooms weekly and remove any plastic bags, place them in your locked storage closet or move them above five feet as required. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(3), each center should maintain a record of daily attendance. During today’s visit to Space 7, the daily attendance for May 16, May 19, and May 20 was not recorded. You recorded the attendance for May 16, May 19, and May 20 in Space 7 which corrected this violation today. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this child requirement with your staff and remind staff to complete attendance daily and when they are substituting in another classroom. CONSULTATION: 1. Due to staffing issues today, you were needed in classrooms and therefore, unavailable to assist me with the record review today. I plan to return within two weeks to review program records, children’s records, and staff records. I will call you to schedule this follow-up visit. 2. The NC Summary of Child Care Law brochure and poster were both updated in February 2025 and are available on the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Provider-Documents-and-Forms. The February 2025 version of the NC Summary of Child Care Law poster was posted in a prominent location in the facility. Please include and use the February 2025 version of the NC Summary of Child Care Law brochure in your enrollment packet. 3. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No action is needed on your part if you have already completed the ABCMS Provider Portal training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or FCCH residents. Be sure this information is updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and terminated and as FCCH residents move in or reach sixteen years of age. If you are not already using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or FCCH residents, you will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff or current FCCH residents 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 and as FCCH residents change or reach sixteen years of age. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. 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. 4. The new QRIS Modernization Plan known as “Pathways to the Stars” 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. The NC Child Care Commission approved the proposed rules regarding the QRIS Modernization Plan on April 22, 2025 and will continue the rulemaking process to add the rule language to child care requirements. Hold Harmless provisions continue. Star rated license reassessments were 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 three- or five-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 that any ERS assessment completed on or after February 1, 2025 will be assessed using the ERS-3 versions. 5. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 6. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: 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 Healthy Social Behaviors: https://www.childcarerrnc.org/special-projects/healthy-social-behaviors/. Healthy Social Behaviors Helpline: Call at 1-704-376-6697 or toll free at 1-888-600-1685 Option 1 or email at sbrawley@childcareresourcesinc.org or jbyrd@childcareresources.org. Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-Child-Care/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New COMPLIANCE PLAN: Since the violations observed and cited during today's visit were corrected today, no compliance letter documentation is due after today. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time to 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: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/21/2025 Number Present: 68 Completed Date: 5/21/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:00 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. You, Kelly Garceau, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on June 5, 2024. I reviewed the facility’s permit including the restrictions, licensed capacity, and age range and observed these being maintained today. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of May 20, 2025 and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. Your most recent sanitation inspection was dated April 9, 2025 with a Superior classification and eight demerits. I verified that the lead water testing required to be completed every three years was completed on February 12, 2025. Today, I verified that those test results indicated that your facilities drinking water source were within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint testing and are waiting on the survey results. I verified that you have started the enrollment for asbestos testing. Please complete this enrollment process. Your last fire inspection was dated February 28, 2025 and was received in my office on March 3, 2025. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a 4-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. I visited each licensed indoor and outdoor space with you today. I observed children playing in activity areas, playing outdoors, eating lunch and attending to personal care routines including handwashing. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Today’s lunch included chick peas, mixed vegetables, mandarin oranges, whole-grain spaghetti noodles, and unflavored milk. Cold food and milk were stored in a commercial refrigerator in the kitchen at a temperature of thirty-six degrees Fahrenheit. Infant bottles and infant food were stored in a compact refrigerator at twenty-four degrees Fahrenheit in Space 4. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. The following violations were observed, cited, and corrected during today's visit: 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 4, over the counter diaper creams were stored under in the diaper changing table which was left unlocked. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 853 Incident logs were not completed and maintained as required. The incident log was completed through March 2025. Although there were incident reports completed and dated for April 2025 and May 2025, these incidents had not been recorded on the incident log. .0802(g)(1-6) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, opened shrink wrapped diapers, opened diaper wipe refill packets, and opened plastic diaper wipe bags were stored unlocked and below five feet under a diaper changing table. .0604(q) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member’s First Aid training certification expired on May 2, 2025. The staff member attended a First Aid training on May 29, 2025 and and the staff member’s attendance was verified. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member’s CPR training certification expired on May 2, 2025. The staff member attended a CPR training on May 29, 2025 and the staff member’s attendance was verified. .1102(d) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. One child with a date of enrollment of 03/31/2025 did not have a statement signed and dated by the parents acknowledging receipt and discussion of the operational policies prior to enrollment. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In Space 7, the daily attendance for May 16, May 19, and May 20 was not recorded. GS 110-91(9) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. For one child with a date of enrollment of 03/31/2025, the statement signed and dated by the parents acknowledging receipt and discussion of the discipline policy did not include the name of the child and the date of enrollment. .1804(b) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. The child enrollment application for three children with dates of enrollment of 08/13/2023, 04/08/2025, and 03/31/2025 did not include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. .0801(a)(1-7) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One employee with a date of employment of 05/20/2024 completed H&S training on 05/30/2025. One employee with a date of employment of 02/14/2025 completed H&S training on 01/04/2025. .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. For one child with a date of enrollment of 08/13/2023, the statement signed and dated by the parents acknowledging receipt and discussion of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy did not include the date of enrollment. .0608(b)(1-6) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. During today’s visit to Space 4, over the counter diaper creams were stored under the diaper changing table which was left unlocked. The teacher in the classroom locked the lock on the diaper changing table which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule and the other rules regarding storage of hazardous materials and items. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. I sent that document to you today in a follow-up email. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 4, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers, opened diaper wipe refill packets, and opened plastic diaper wipe bags stored unlocked and below five feet under a diaper changing table. The teacher locked storage in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff, monitor classrooms weekly and remove any plastic bags, place them in your locked storage closet or move them above five feet as required. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(3), each center should maintain a record of daily attendance. During today’s visit to Space 7, the daily attendance for May 16, May 19, and May 20 was not recorded. You recorded the attendance for May 16, May 19, and May 20 in Space 7 which corrected this violation today. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this child requirement with your staff and remind staff to complete attendance daily and when they are substituting in another classroom. CONSULTATION: 1. Due to staffing issues today, you were needed in classrooms and therefore, unavailable to assist me with the record review today. I plan to return within two weeks to review program records, children’s records, and staff records. I will call you to schedule this follow-up visit. 2. The NC Summary of Child Care Law brochure and poster were both updated in February 2025 and are available on the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Provider-Documents-and-Forms. The February 2025 version of the NC Summary of Child Care Law poster was posted in a prominent location in the facility. Please include and use the February 2025 version of the NC Summary of Child Care Law brochure in your enrollment packet. 3. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No action is needed on your part if you have already completed the ABCMS Provider Portal training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or FCCH residents. Be sure this information is updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and terminated and as FCCH residents move in or reach sixteen years of age. If you are not already using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or FCCH residents, you will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff or current FCCH residents 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 and as FCCH residents change or reach sixteen years of age. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. 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. 4. The new QRIS Modernization Plan known as “Pathways to the Stars” 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. The NC Child Care Commission approved the proposed rules regarding the QRIS Modernization Plan on April 22, 2025 and will continue the rulemaking process to add the rule language to child care requirements. Hold Harmless provisions continue. Star rated license reassessments were 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 three- or five-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 that any ERS assessment completed on or after February 1, 2025 will be assessed using the ERS-3 versions. 5. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 6. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: 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 Healthy Social Behaviors: https://www.childcarerrnc.org/special-projects/healthy-social-behaviors/. Healthy Social Behaviors Helpline: Call at 1-704-376-6697 or toll free at 1-888-600-1685 Option 1 or email at sbrawley@childcareresourcesinc.org or jbyrd@childcareresources.org. Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-Child-Care/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New COMPLIANCE PLAN: Since the violations observed and cited during today's visit were corrected today, no compliance letter documentation is due after today. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time to 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: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/21/2025 Number Present: 68 Completed Date: 5/21/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:00 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. You, Kelly Garceau, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on June 5, 2024. I reviewed the facility’s permit including the restrictions, licensed capacity, and age range and observed these being maintained today. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of May 20, 2025 and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. Your most recent sanitation inspection was dated April 9, 2025 with a Superior classification and eight demerits. I verified that the lead water testing required to be completed every three years was completed on February 12, 2025. Today, I verified that those test results indicated that your facilities drinking water source were within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint testing and are waiting on the survey results. I verified that you have started the enrollment for asbestos testing. Please complete this enrollment process. Your last fire inspection was dated February 28, 2025 and was received in my office on March 3, 2025. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a 4-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. I visited each licensed indoor and outdoor space with you today. I observed children playing in activity areas, playing outdoors, eating lunch and attending to personal care routines including handwashing. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Today’s lunch included chick peas, mixed vegetables, mandarin oranges, whole-grain spaghetti noodles, and unflavored milk. Cold food and milk were stored in a commercial refrigerator in the kitchen at a temperature of thirty-six degrees Fahrenheit. Infant bottles and infant food were stored in a compact refrigerator at twenty-four degrees Fahrenheit in Space 4. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. The following violations were observed, cited, and corrected during today's visit: 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 4, over the counter diaper creams were stored under in the diaper changing table which was left unlocked. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 853 Incident logs were not completed and maintained as required. The incident log was completed through March 2025. Although there were incident reports completed and dated for April 2025 and May 2025, these incidents had not been recorded on the incident log. .0802(g)(1-6) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, opened shrink wrapped diapers, opened diaper wipe refill packets, and opened plastic diaper wipe bags were stored unlocked and below five feet under a diaper changing table. .0604(q) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member’s First Aid training certification expired on May 2, 2025. The staff member attended a First Aid training on May 29, 2025 and and the staff member’s attendance was verified. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member’s CPR training certification expired on May 2, 2025. The staff member attended a CPR training on May 29, 2025 and the staff member’s attendance was verified. .1102(d) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. One child with a date of enrollment of 03/31/2025 did not have a statement signed and dated by the parents acknowledging receipt and discussion of the operational policies prior to enrollment. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In Space 7, the daily attendance for May 16, May 19, and May 20 was not recorded. GS 110-91(9) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. For one child with a date of enrollment of 03/31/2025, the statement signed and dated by the parents acknowledging receipt and discussion of the discipline policy did not include the name of the child and the date of enrollment. .1804(b) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. The child enrollment application for three children with dates of enrollment of 08/13/2023, 04/08/2025, and 03/31/2025 did not include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. .0801(a)(1-7) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One employee with a date of employment of 05/20/2024 completed H&S training on 05/30/2025. One employee with a date of employment of 02/14/2025 completed H&S training on 01/04/2025. .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. For one child with a date of enrollment of 08/13/2023, the statement signed and dated by the parents acknowledging receipt and discussion of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy did not include the date of enrollment. .0608(b)(1-6) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. During today’s visit to Space 4, over the counter diaper creams were stored under the diaper changing table which was left unlocked. The teacher in the classroom locked the lock on the diaper changing table which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule and the other rules regarding storage of hazardous materials and items. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. I sent that document to you today in a follow-up email. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 4, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers, opened diaper wipe refill packets, and opened plastic diaper wipe bags stored unlocked and below five feet under a diaper changing table. The teacher locked storage in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff, monitor classrooms weekly and remove any plastic bags, place them in your locked storage closet or move them above five feet as required. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(3), each center should maintain a record of daily attendance. During today’s visit to Space 7, the daily attendance for May 16, May 19, and May 20 was not recorded. You recorded the attendance for May 16, May 19, and May 20 in Space 7 which corrected this violation today. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this child requirement with your staff and remind staff to complete attendance daily and when they are substituting in another classroom. CONSULTATION: 1. Due to staffing issues today, you were needed in classrooms and therefore, unavailable to assist me with the record review today. I plan to return within two weeks to review program records, children’s records, and staff records. I will call you to schedule this follow-up visit. 2. The NC Summary of Child Care Law brochure and poster were both updated in February 2025 and are available on the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Provider-Documents-and-Forms. The February 2025 version of the NC Summary of Child Care Law poster was posted in a prominent location in the facility. Please include and use the February 2025 version of the NC Summary of Child Care Law brochure in your enrollment packet. 3. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No action is needed on your part if you have already completed the ABCMS Provider Portal training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or FCCH residents. Be sure this information is updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and terminated and as FCCH residents move in or reach sixteen years of age. If you are not already using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or FCCH residents, you will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff or current FCCH residents 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 and as FCCH residents change or reach sixteen years of age. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. 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. 4. The new QRIS Modernization Plan known as “Pathways to the Stars” 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. The NC Child Care Commission approved the proposed rules regarding the QRIS Modernization Plan on April 22, 2025 and will continue the rulemaking process to add the rule language to child care requirements. Hold Harmless provisions continue. Star rated license reassessments were 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 three- or five-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 that any ERS assessment completed on or after February 1, 2025 will be assessed using the ERS-3 versions. 5. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 6. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: 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 Healthy Social Behaviors: https://www.childcarerrnc.org/special-projects/healthy-social-behaviors/. Healthy Social Behaviors Helpline: Call at 1-704-376-6697 or toll free at 1-888-600-1685 Option 1 or email at sbrawley@childcareresourcesinc.org or jbyrd@childcareresources.org. Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-Child-Care/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New COMPLIANCE PLAN: Since the violations observed and cited during today's visit were corrected today, no compliance letter documentation is due after today. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time to 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: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/21/2025 Number Present: 68 Completed Date: 5/21/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:00 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. You, Kelly Garceau, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on June 5, 2024. I reviewed the facility’s permit including the restrictions, licensed capacity, and age range and observed these being maintained today. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of May 20, 2025 and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. Your most recent sanitation inspection was dated April 9, 2025 with a Superior classification and eight demerits. I verified that the lead water testing required to be completed every three years was completed on February 12, 2025. Today, I verified that those test results indicated that your facilities drinking water source were within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint testing and are waiting on the survey results. I verified that you have started the enrollment for asbestos testing. Please complete this enrollment process. Your last fire inspection was dated February 28, 2025 and was received in my office on March 3, 2025. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a 4-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. I visited each licensed indoor and outdoor space with you today. I observed children playing in activity areas, playing outdoors, eating lunch and attending to personal care routines including handwashing. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Today’s lunch included chick peas, mixed vegetables, mandarin oranges, whole-grain spaghetti noodles, and unflavored milk. Cold food and milk were stored in a commercial refrigerator in the kitchen at a temperature of thirty-six degrees Fahrenheit. Infant bottles and infant food were stored in a compact refrigerator at twenty-four degrees Fahrenheit in Space 4. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. The following violations were observed, cited, and corrected during today's visit: 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 4, over the counter diaper creams were stored under in the diaper changing table which was left unlocked. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 853 Incident logs were not completed and maintained as required. The incident log was completed through March 2025. Although there were incident reports completed and dated for April 2025 and May 2025, these incidents had not been recorded on the incident log. .0802(g)(1-6) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, opened shrink wrapped diapers, opened diaper wipe refill packets, and opened plastic diaper wipe bags were stored unlocked and below five feet under a diaper changing table. .0604(q) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member’s First Aid training certification expired on May 2, 2025. The staff member attended a First Aid training on May 29, 2025 and and the staff member’s attendance was verified. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member’s CPR training certification expired on May 2, 2025. The staff member attended a CPR training on May 29, 2025 and the staff member’s attendance was verified. .1102(d) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. One child with a date of enrollment of 03/31/2025 did not have a statement signed and dated by the parents acknowledging receipt and discussion of the operational policies prior to enrollment. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In Space 7, the daily attendance for May 16, May 19, and May 20 was not recorded. GS 110-91(9) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. For one child with a date of enrollment of 03/31/2025, the statement signed and dated by the parents acknowledging receipt and discussion of the discipline policy did not include the name of the child and the date of enrollment. .1804(b) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. The child enrollment application for three children with dates of enrollment of 08/13/2023, 04/08/2025, and 03/31/2025 did not include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. .0801(a)(1-7) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One employee with a date of employment of 05/20/2024 completed H&S training on 05/30/2025. One employee with a date of employment of 02/14/2025 completed H&S training on 01/04/2025. .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. For one child with a date of enrollment of 08/13/2023, the statement signed and dated by the parents acknowledging receipt and discussion of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy did not include the date of enrollment. .0608(b)(1-6) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. During today’s visit to Space 4, over the counter diaper creams were stored under the diaper changing table which was left unlocked. The teacher in the classroom locked the lock on the diaper changing table which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule and the other rules regarding storage of hazardous materials and items. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. I sent that document to you today in a follow-up email. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 4, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers, opened diaper wipe refill packets, and opened plastic diaper wipe bags stored unlocked and below five feet under a diaper changing table. The teacher locked storage in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff, monitor classrooms weekly and remove any plastic bags, place them in your locked storage closet or move them above five feet as required. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(3), each center should maintain a record of daily attendance. During today’s visit to Space 7, the daily attendance for May 16, May 19, and May 20 was not recorded. You recorded the attendance for May 16, May 19, and May 20 in Space 7 which corrected this violation today. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this child requirement with your staff and remind staff to complete attendance daily and when they are substituting in another classroom. CONSULTATION: 1. Due to staffing issues today, you were needed in classrooms and therefore, unavailable to assist me with the record review today. I plan to return within two weeks to review program records, children’s records, and staff records. I will call you to schedule this follow-up visit. 2. The NC Summary of Child Care Law brochure and poster were both updated in February 2025 and are available on the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Provider-Documents-and-Forms. The February 2025 version of the NC Summary of Child Care Law poster was posted in a prominent location in the facility. Please include and use the February 2025 version of the NC Summary of Child Care Law brochure in your enrollment packet. 3. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No action is needed on your part if you have already completed the ABCMS Provider Portal training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or FCCH residents. Be sure this information is updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and terminated and as FCCH residents move in or reach sixteen years of age. If you are not already using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or FCCH residents, you will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff or current FCCH residents 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 and as FCCH residents change or reach sixteen years of age. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. 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. 4. The new QRIS Modernization Plan known as “Pathways to the Stars” 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. The NC Child Care Commission approved the proposed rules regarding the QRIS Modernization Plan on April 22, 2025 and will continue the rulemaking process to add the rule language to child care requirements. Hold Harmless provisions continue. Star rated license reassessments were 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 three- or five-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 that any ERS assessment completed on or after February 1, 2025 will be assessed using the ERS-3 versions. 5. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 6. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: 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 Healthy Social Behaviors: https://www.childcarerrnc.org/special-projects/healthy-social-behaviors/. Healthy Social Behaviors Helpline: Call at 1-704-376-6697 or toll free at 1-888-600-1685 Option 1 or email at sbrawley@childcareresourcesinc.org or jbyrd@childcareresources.org. Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-Child-Care/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New COMPLIANCE PLAN: Since the violations observed and cited during today's visit were corrected today, no compliance letter documentation is due after today. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time to 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: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/21/2025 Number Present: 68 Completed Date: 5/21/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:00 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. You, Kelly Garceau, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on June 5, 2024. I reviewed the facility’s permit including the restrictions, licensed capacity, and age range and observed these being maintained today. KinderCare Education LLC., the corporation that owns the facility, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on May 20, 2025 prior to today’s visit. Your program’s compliance history was 80% as of May 20, 2025 and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. Your most recent sanitation inspection was dated April 9, 2025 with a Superior classification and eight demerits. I verified that the lead water testing required to be completed every three years was completed on February 12, 2025. Today, I verified that those test results indicated that your facilities drinking water source were within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint testing and are waiting on the survey results. I verified that you have started the enrollment for asbestos testing. Please complete this enrollment process. Your last fire inspection was dated February 28, 2025 and was received in my office on March 3, 2025. I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a 4-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. I visited each licensed indoor and outdoor space with you today. I observed children playing in activity areas, playing outdoors, eating lunch and attending to personal care routines including handwashing. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Today’s lunch included chick peas, mixed vegetables, mandarin oranges, whole-grain spaghetti noodles, and unflavored milk. Cold food and milk were stored in a commercial refrigerator in the kitchen at a temperature of thirty-six degrees Fahrenheit. Infant bottles and infant food were stored in a compact refrigerator at twenty-four degrees Fahrenheit in Space 4. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. The following violations were observed, cited, and corrected during today's visit: 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 4, over the counter diaper creams were stored under in the diaper changing table which was left unlocked. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 853 Incident logs were not completed and maintained as required. The incident log was completed through March 2025. Although there were incident reports completed and dated for April 2025 and May 2025, these incidents had not been recorded on the incident log. .0802(g)(1-6) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, opened shrink wrapped diapers, opened diaper wipe refill packets, and opened plastic diaper wipe bags were stored unlocked and below five feet under a diaper changing table. .0604(q) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member’s First Aid training certification expired on May 2, 2025. The staff member attended a First Aid training on May 29, 2025 and and the staff member’s attendance was verified. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member’s CPR training certification expired on May 2, 2025. The staff member attended a CPR training on May 29, 2025 and the staff member’s attendance was verified. .1102(d) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. One child with a date of enrollment of 03/31/2025 did not have a statement signed and dated by the parents acknowledging receipt and discussion of the operational policies prior to enrollment. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In Space 7, the daily attendance for May 16, May 19, and May 20 was not recorded. GS 110-91(9) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. For one child with a date of enrollment of 03/31/2025, the statement signed and dated by the parents acknowledging receipt and discussion of the discipline policy did not include the name of the child and the date of enrollment. .1804(b) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. The child enrollment application for three children with dates of enrollment of 08/13/2023, 04/08/2025, and 03/31/2025 did not include a completed health care needs section with information provided by the parent. .0801(a)(1-7) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One employee with a date of employment of 05/20/2024 completed H&S training on 05/30/2025. One employee with a date of employment of 02/14/2025 completed H&S training on 01/04/2025. .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. For one child with a date of enrollment of 08/13/2023, the statement signed and dated by the parents acknowledging receipt and discussion of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy did not include the date of enrollment. .0608(b)(1-6) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d), diaper creams and sunscreen may be kept out of the reach of children and stored inaccessible to children above five feet as long as the topical ointment label does not include additional warnings. If the topical ointment label contains additional warnings, the topical ointment should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. During today’s visit to Space 4, over the counter diaper creams were stored under the diaper changing table which was left unlocked. The teacher in the classroom locked the lock on the diaper changing table which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this sanitation rule and the other rules regarding storage of hazardous materials and items. I suggest you post the poster I shared with you during your recent technical assistance visit that lists the items to be locked and the items to be stored above five feet. I sent that document to you today in a follow-up email. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(q), plastic bags should be stored inaccessible to children under three years of age by placing them above five feet or in a locked cabinet, closet, or drawer. Ziploc bags, grocery bags, opened shrink wrapped or bagged products, diapers in opened plastic shrink wrap, opened diaper wipe refill packets, opened plastic diaper wipe bags, used and unused trash bags, used zip-loc bags, and opened teacher supply materials are considered plastic bags. In Space 4, I observed opened shrink wrapped diapers, opened diaper wipe refill packets, and opened plastic diaper wipe bags stored unlocked and below five feet under a diaper changing table. The teacher locked storage in the classroom which corrected this violation during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child requirement, I suggest you review this requirement with your staff, monitor classrooms weekly and remove any plastic bags, place them in your locked storage closet or move them above five feet as required. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(3), each center should maintain a record of daily attendance. During today’s visit to Space 7, the daily attendance for May 16, May 19, and May 20 was not recorded. You recorded the attendance for May 16, May 19, and May 20 in Space 7 which corrected this violation today. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this child requirement with your staff and remind staff to complete attendance daily and when they are substituting in another classroom. CONSULTATION: 1. Due to staffing issues today, you were needed in classrooms and therefore, unavailable to assist me with the record review today. I plan to return within two weeks to review program records, children’s records, and staff records. I will call you to schedule this follow-up visit. 2. The NC Summary of Child Care Law brochure and poster were both updated in February 2025 and are available on the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Provider-Documents-and-Forms. The February 2025 version of the NC Summary of Child Care Law poster was posted in a prominent location in the facility. Please include and use the February 2025 version of the NC Summary of Child Care Law brochure in your enrollment packet. 3. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No action is needed on your part if you have already completed the ABCMS Provider Portal training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or FCCH residents. Be sure this information is updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and terminated and as FCCH residents move in or reach sixteen years of age. If you are not already using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or FCCH residents, you will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff or current FCCH residents 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 and as FCCH residents change or reach sixteen years of age. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. 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. 4. The new QRIS Modernization Plan known as “Pathways to the Stars” 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. The NC Child Care Commission approved the proposed rules regarding the QRIS Modernization Plan on April 22, 2025 and will continue the rulemaking process to add the rule language to child care requirements. Hold Harmless provisions continue. Star rated license reassessments were 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 three- or five-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 that any ERS assessment completed on or after February 1, 2025 will be assessed using the ERS-3 versions. 5. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 6. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: 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 Healthy Social Behaviors: https://www.childcarerrnc.org/special-projects/healthy-social-behaviors/. Healthy Social Behaviors Helpline: Call at 1-704-376-6697 or toll free at 1-888-600-1685 Option 1 or email at sbrawley@childcareresourcesinc.org or jbyrd@childcareresources.org. Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-Child-Care/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New COMPLIANCE PLAN: Since the violations observed and cited during today's visit were corrected today, no compliance letter documentation is due after today. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time to 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: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/7/2025 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 1/7/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 402 Time In: 09:18 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: 01:50 PM Time Out: 04:50 PM 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, Kelly Garceau, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on June 4, 2024. I reviewed with you today the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to your phone number, email address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. You stated there has been no change with the corporation, KinderCare Education LLC, that owns your facility. I reviewed the facility’s permit with you today including the restrictions, capacity, and age range and observed these being maintained today. KinderCare Education LLC that owns your facility was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on January 6, 2025. Your center's compliance history was 84% as of January 6, 2025 and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. Your most recent fire inspection was dated February 9, 2024 and received in my office by email on June 4, 2024. Your most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 31, 2024 with a Superior classification and seven demerits. I verified that the lead water testing required to be completed every three years were in process and you were waiting on those test results. Your most recent lead water test results were dated November 20, 2020. Today, I verified that those test results indicated that your facilities drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have registered for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing. You and I completed a walk-through of the indoor and outdoor licensed spaces today. Children throughout the facility were participating in free play in activity areas, transitions, personal care routines, and eating lunch. Infants were engaged in floor play. You stated and I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a 4-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Infant bottles and food were stored at a temperature of 20 degrees Fahrenheit in a compact refrigerator located in Space 4 (Infants). Today’s lunch included whole grain fish sticks, corn, mango, and unflavored milk. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline. I monitored program records including emergency medical care plan, safe arrival and departure procedures, incident log, outdoor safety inspections, fire drills, emergency drills, and your Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) Plan. I reviewed staff record files for nine returning staff members to verify current and valid Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letters, valid CPR and First Aid training, valid ITS-SIDS training, completion of Basic School Age Care training, completion of the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training, completion of Playground Safety training by at least one staff member, and completion of Emergency Preparedness and Response training by at least one staff member. I reviewed staff record files for six new staff members hired since the last annual compliance visit on June 4, 2024. The CBC qualification letter for A Coffey was dated 01/03/2020 and expired on 01/03/2025. After reviewing the information in the ABCMS portal, I determined that Ms. Coffey has not begun the 3-year recheck process. Ms. Coffey should begin the 3-year recheck process by submitting an application and fingerprints without delay. An updated CBC qualification letter should be received and on file at the facility within fifteen days. If not received within fifteen days, Ms. Coffey should not be allowed to enter the facility until she can provide a copy of her updated CBC qualification letter. I monitored health and safety requirements. I reviewed your written operational, administrative, and personnel policies and your parent participation plan at your annual compliance visit on June 4, 2024. You stated your written policies and procedures had not changed since June 2024. I monitored supervision, staff-child ratios, group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: 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. In Space 2, the disinfecting and sanitizing spray bottles were stored on the side of a basket with the bottom of the bottles hanging below five feet. In Space 8, the disinfecting and sanitizing spray bottles were sitting on a shelf but the bottoms of the bottles sat at four feet and nine inches. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In Space 2, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing the amount to be applied. In Space 2, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing when to apply the ointment. In Space 4, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing the name of the ointment. In Space 4, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing the amount 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. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/21/2024 did not have an Emergency Information Form on file. .0701(a) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One staff member with a date of employment of 06/13/2007 had a criminal background check qualification letter on file dated 01/03/2020 which had expired on 01/03/2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. One staff member with a date of employment of 08/27/2024 did not have documentation on file of having completed sixteen hours of new staff orientation training within the first two and six weeks of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 12/03/2024 did not have documentation on file of having completed six hours of new staff orientation training within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 08/27/2024 did not have documentation on file of having completed Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4), over-the-counter diaper creams and sunscreens should be labeled with the name of the child and the parent should complete the permission to administer form leaving no spaces blank. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the permission to administer form and label the medication with the child’s name when received from the parent and prior to the parent leaving the facility. 2. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b), all cleaning supplies and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. Disinfecting and sanitizing solutions mixed on a daily basis may be stored above five feet. In Space 2 and 8, the disinfecting and sanitizing spray bottles were stored with the bottom of the bottles hanging or sitting below five feet. The administrator moved the disinfecting and sanitizing bottles above five feet which corrected the violation. I noticed that the two classrooms in which this violation was observed did not have a storage cabinet that staff could place disinfecting and sanitizing solution bottles on top. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you have a shelf installed at a height of five feet in the classrooms that do not have storage cabinets. I reminded you that when installing a shelf or basket at a five foot height, the bottom of the bottles should sit or hang at a height of five feet or above. 3. Per G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e), each employee should have a valid Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letter on file in their staff records. Today, A Coffey had a CBC qualification letter on file dated 01/03/2020 which had expired on 01/03/2025 resulting in a violation. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, this violation should be corrected within fifteen days and a copy of the qualification letter should be sent to the child care consultant along with the compliance letter. If the violation is corrected as stated and within fifteen days, the staff member may remain in the facility. If the violation is not corrected as stated and within fifteen days, the staff member will need to be removed from the work schedule until the CBC qualification letter is received and verified by the child care consultant. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a), all child care providers should have an emergency information form on file on or before the first day of work. The emergency information form should include the name, address, and telephone number of the person to be contacted in case of an emergency, and the responsible party's choice of health care professional. The emergency information form should be updated as changes occur and at least annually. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you have each employee update their emergency information form at a designated staff meeting annually. This practice will allow you to get as many employees as possible on the same annual update schedule and make tracking easier for you to maintain. 5. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1101(a), new staff who have contact with children must receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks and this training must be recorded on the New Staff Orientation training record. New staff orientation training should be completed within two weeks and six weeks even if a holiday(s) fall within that period of time. As discussed today, be sure to document on the New Staff Orientation Training Record the exact time spent on each topic. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you record all new staff orientation as the training is completed rather than completing the documentation after the fact. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 . 1102(g), each child care administrator and all staff should complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training through the NC Prevent Child Abuse website and/or present the administrator with the completion certificate within the first ninety days of employment. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you have each employee print the completion certificate as soon as the training is completed. CONSULTATION: 1. The written activity plan should be dated with the current date. 2. Daily schedules should be current and posted in each classroom. 3. Annual license fee invoices for 2024 were mailed to the facility email address by November 30, 2024. Online payments were due by December 31, 2024. Per North Carolina General Statute § 110-90(1a), licensed child care facilities are assessed an annual license fee. The amount of your annual license fee is based on the licensed capacity printed on your license as of October 1, 2024. It is not based on the number of children enrolled at your facility. Annual license fees do not apply to state- or public school-operated child care facilities, or to religious-sponsored facilities operating under a Notice of Compliance. For questions regarding license fees, check out these Frequently Asked Questions. For help with the annual license fee, contact DCDEE_LF@dhhs.nc.gov. 4. The reporting period for child care immunizations is now open. Reporting for 2024-2025 has been extended due to Hurricane Helene. Children have a grace period from requirements until November 30, 2024, and reports will be accepted until January 15, 2025. Click here to submit your report. Send any questions regarding child care immunization reporting to immunization.reports@dhhs.nc.gov. 5. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings. 6. On Friday, July 12, 2024, DCDEE sent a “Raise North Carolina” email blast announcing the signing of Senate Bill 425. The email contained a section entitled, “Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) Modernization” which provided updated information regarding the Rated License Reassessment process and approved extended stabilization grant funding. What does all this mean for child care in general? 1. The new QRIS Modifications and additional pathways will be added to law which included moving to the use of the updated Environmental Rating Scale (ERS-3 versions) for ECCERS. ITERS and FCCERS, effective February 1, 2025. DCDEE and the NC Child Care Commission have already begun the rulemaking process to add the rule language to child care requirements. This process with take several months. 2. Hold Harmless provisions have been extended. Star rated license reassessments are postponed until the QRIS rulemaking process has been completed. Providers in any Cohort may voluntarily request a star rated license reassessment if they wish. Star rated license assessments are still required for new child care programs. 3. 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 will need to submit a request to their licensing consultant and provide a copy of their accreditation award/certificate for processing: Accreditation Licensure Request Form. What does this mean for the Environmental Rating Scales? Please be reminded the ERS-revised editions will continue to be used until January 31, 2025. Any ERS assessment completed on February 1, 2025 and after will be assessed using the ERS-3 versions. 7. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: 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 COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item number 840 corrected during today’s visit. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct that violation. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than January 21, 2025. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/7/2025 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 1/7/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 402 Time In: 09:18 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: 01:50 PM Time Out: 04:50 PM 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, Kelly Garceau, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on June 4, 2024. I reviewed with you today the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to your phone number, email address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. You stated there has been no change with the corporation, KinderCare Education LLC, that owns your facility. I reviewed the facility’s permit with you today including the restrictions, capacity, and age range and observed these being maintained today. KinderCare Education LLC that owns your facility was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on January 6, 2025. Your center's compliance history was 84% as of January 6, 2025 and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. Your most recent fire inspection was dated February 9, 2024 and received in my office by email on June 4, 2024. Your most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 31, 2024 with a Superior classification and seven demerits. I verified that the lead water testing required to be completed every three years were in process and you were waiting on those test results. Your most recent lead water test results were dated November 20, 2020. Today, I verified that those test results indicated that your facilities drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have registered for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing. You and I completed a walk-through of the indoor and outdoor licensed spaces today. Children throughout the facility were participating in free play in activity areas, transitions, personal care routines, and eating lunch. Infants were engaged in floor play. You stated and I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a 4-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Infant bottles and food were stored at a temperature of 20 degrees Fahrenheit in a compact refrigerator located in Space 4 (Infants). Today’s lunch included whole grain fish sticks, corn, mango, and unflavored milk. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline. I monitored program records including emergency medical care plan, safe arrival and departure procedures, incident log, outdoor safety inspections, fire drills, emergency drills, and your Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) Plan. I reviewed staff record files for nine returning staff members to verify current and valid Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letters, valid CPR and First Aid training, valid ITS-SIDS training, completion of Basic School Age Care training, completion of the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training, completion of Playground Safety training by at least one staff member, and completion of Emergency Preparedness and Response training by at least one staff member. I reviewed staff record files for six new staff members hired since the last annual compliance visit on June 4, 2024. The CBC qualification letter for A Coffey was dated 01/03/2020 and expired on 01/03/2025. After reviewing the information in the ABCMS portal, I determined that Ms. Coffey has not begun the 3-year recheck process. Ms. Coffey should begin the 3-year recheck process by submitting an application and fingerprints without delay. An updated CBC qualification letter should be received and on file at the facility within fifteen days. If not received within fifteen days, Ms. Coffey should not be allowed to enter the facility until she can provide a copy of her updated CBC qualification letter. I monitored health and safety requirements. I reviewed your written operational, administrative, and personnel policies and your parent participation plan at your annual compliance visit on June 4, 2024. You stated your written policies and procedures had not changed since June 2024. I monitored supervision, staff-child ratios, group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: 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. In Space 2, the disinfecting and sanitizing spray bottles were stored on the side of a basket with the bottom of the bottles hanging below five feet. In Space 8, the disinfecting and sanitizing spray bottles were sitting on a shelf but the bottoms of the bottles sat at four feet and nine inches. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In Space 2, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing the amount to be applied. In Space 2, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing when to apply the ointment. In Space 4, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing the name of the ointment. In Space 4, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing the amount 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. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/21/2024 did not have an Emergency Information Form on file. .0701(a) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One staff member with a date of employment of 06/13/2007 had a criminal background check qualification letter on file dated 01/03/2020 which had expired on 01/03/2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. One staff member with a date of employment of 08/27/2024 did not have documentation on file of having completed sixteen hours of new staff orientation training within the first two and six weeks of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 12/03/2024 did not have documentation on file of having completed six hours of new staff orientation training within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 08/27/2024 did not have documentation on file of having completed Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4), over-the-counter diaper creams and sunscreens should be labeled with the name of the child and the parent should complete the permission to administer form leaving no spaces blank. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the permission to administer form and label the medication with the child’s name when received from the parent and prior to the parent leaving the facility. 2. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b), all cleaning supplies and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. Disinfecting and sanitizing solutions mixed on a daily basis may be stored above five feet. In Space 2 and 8, the disinfecting and sanitizing spray bottles were stored with the bottom of the bottles hanging or sitting below five feet. The administrator moved the disinfecting and sanitizing bottles above five feet which corrected the violation. I noticed that the two classrooms in which this violation was observed did not have a storage cabinet that staff could place disinfecting and sanitizing solution bottles on top. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you have a shelf installed at a height of five feet in the classrooms that do not have storage cabinets. I reminded you that when installing a shelf or basket at a five foot height, the bottom of the bottles should sit or hang at a height of five feet or above. 3. Per G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e), each employee should have a valid Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letter on file in their staff records. Today, A Coffey had a CBC qualification letter on file dated 01/03/2020 which had expired on 01/03/2025 resulting in a violation. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, this violation should be corrected within fifteen days and a copy of the qualification letter should be sent to the child care consultant along with the compliance letter. If the violation is corrected as stated and within fifteen days, the staff member may remain in the facility. If the violation is not corrected as stated and within fifteen days, the staff member will need to be removed from the work schedule until the CBC qualification letter is received and verified by the child care consultant. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a), all child care providers should have an emergency information form on file on or before the first day of work. The emergency information form should include the name, address, and telephone number of the person to be contacted in case of an emergency, and the responsible party's choice of health care professional. The emergency information form should be updated as changes occur and at least annually. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you have each employee update their emergency information form at a designated staff meeting annually. This practice will allow you to get as many employees as possible on the same annual update schedule and make tracking easier for you to maintain. 5. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1101(a), new staff who have contact with children must receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks and this training must be recorded on the New Staff Orientation training record. New staff orientation training should be completed within two weeks and six weeks even if a holiday(s) fall within that period of time. As discussed today, be sure to document on the New Staff Orientation Training Record the exact time spent on each topic. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you record all new staff orientation as the training is completed rather than completing the documentation after the fact. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 . 1102(g), each child care administrator and all staff should complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training through the NC Prevent Child Abuse website and/or present the administrator with the completion certificate within the first ninety days of employment. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you have each employee print the completion certificate as soon as the training is completed. CONSULTATION: 1. The written activity plan should be dated with the current date. 2. Daily schedules should be current and posted in each classroom. 3. Annual license fee invoices for 2024 were mailed to the facility email address by November 30, 2024. Online payments were due by December 31, 2024. Per North Carolina General Statute § 110-90(1a), licensed child care facilities are assessed an annual license fee. The amount of your annual license fee is based on the licensed capacity printed on your license as of October 1, 2024. It is not based on the number of children enrolled at your facility. Annual license fees do not apply to state- or public school-operated child care facilities, or to religious-sponsored facilities operating under a Notice of Compliance. For questions regarding license fees, check out these Frequently Asked Questions. For help with the annual license fee, contact DCDEE_LF@dhhs.nc.gov. 4. The reporting period for child care immunizations is now open. Reporting for 2024-2025 has been extended due to Hurricane Helene. Children have a grace period from requirements until November 30, 2024, and reports will be accepted until January 15, 2025. Click here to submit your report. Send any questions regarding child care immunization reporting to immunization.reports@dhhs.nc.gov. 5. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings. 6. On Friday, July 12, 2024, DCDEE sent a “Raise North Carolina” email blast announcing the signing of Senate Bill 425. The email contained a section entitled, “Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) Modernization” which provided updated information regarding the Rated License Reassessment process and approved extended stabilization grant funding. What does all this mean for child care in general? 1. The new QRIS Modifications and additional pathways will be added to law which included moving to the use of the updated Environmental Rating Scale (ERS-3 versions) for ECCERS. ITERS and FCCERS, effective February 1, 2025. DCDEE and the NC Child Care Commission have already begun the rulemaking process to add the rule language to child care requirements. This process with take several months. 2. Hold Harmless provisions have been extended. Star rated license reassessments are postponed until the QRIS rulemaking process has been completed. Providers in any Cohort may voluntarily request a star rated license reassessment if they wish. Star rated license assessments are still required for new child care programs. 3. 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 will need to submit a request to their licensing consultant and provide a copy of their accreditation award/certificate for processing: Accreditation Licensure Request Form. What does this mean for the Environmental Rating Scales? Please be reminded the ERS-revised editions will continue to be used until January 31, 2025. Any ERS assessment completed on February 1, 2025 and after will be assessed using the ERS-3 versions. 7. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: 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 COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item number 840 corrected during today’s visit. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct that violation. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than January 21, 2025. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/7/2025 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 1/7/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 402 Time In: 09:18 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: 01:50 PM Time Out: 04:50 PM 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, Kelly Garceau, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on June 4, 2024. I reviewed with you today the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to your phone number, email address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. You stated there has been no change with the corporation, KinderCare Education LLC, that owns your facility. I reviewed the facility’s permit with you today including the restrictions, capacity, and age range and observed these being maintained today. KinderCare Education LLC that owns your facility was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on January 6, 2025. Your center's compliance history was 84% as of January 6, 2025 and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. Your most recent fire inspection was dated February 9, 2024 and received in my office by email on June 4, 2024. Your most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 31, 2024 with a Superior classification and seven demerits. I verified that the lead water testing required to be completed every three years were in process and you were waiting on those test results. Your most recent lead water test results were dated November 20, 2020. Today, I verified that those test results indicated that your facilities drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have registered for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing. You and I completed a walk-through of the indoor and outdoor licensed spaces today. Children throughout the facility were participating in free play in activity areas, transitions, personal care routines, and eating lunch. Infants were engaged in floor play. You stated and I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a 4-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Infant bottles and food were stored at a temperature of 20 degrees Fahrenheit in a compact refrigerator located in Space 4 (Infants). Today’s lunch included whole grain fish sticks, corn, mango, and unflavored milk. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline. I monitored program records including emergency medical care plan, safe arrival and departure procedures, incident log, outdoor safety inspections, fire drills, emergency drills, and your Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) Plan. I reviewed staff record files for nine returning staff members to verify current and valid Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letters, valid CPR and First Aid training, valid ITS-SIDS training, completion of Basic School Age Care training, completion of the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training, completion of Playground Safety training by at least one staff member, and completion of Emergency Preparedness and Response training by at least one staff member. I reviewed staff record files for six new staff members hired since the last annual compliance visit on June 4, 2024. The CBC qualification letter for A Coffey was dated 01/03/2020 and expired on 01/03/2025. After reviewing the information in the ABCMS portal, I determined that Ms. Coffey has not begun the 3-year recheck process. Ms. Coffey should begin the 3-year recheck process by submitting an application and fingerprints without delay. An updated CBC qualification letter should be received and on file at the facility within fifteen days. If not received within fifteen days, Ms. Coffey should not be allowed to enter the facility until she can provide a copy of her updated CBC qualification letter. I monitored health and safety requirements. I reviewed your written operational, administrative, and personnel policies and your parent participation plan at your annual compliance visit on June 4, 2024. You stated your written policies and procedures had not changed since June 2024. I monitored supervision, staff-child ratios, group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: 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. In Space 2, the disinfecting and sanitizing spray bottles were stored on the side of a basket with the bottom of the bottles hanging below five feet. In Space 8, the disinfecting and sanitizing spray bottles were sitting on a shelf but the bottoms of the bottles sat at four feet and nine inches. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In Space 2, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing the amount to be applied. In Space 2, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing when to apply the ointment. In Space 4, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing the name of the ointment. In Space 4, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing the amount 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. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/21/2024 did not have an Emergency Information Form on file. .0701(a) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One staff member with a date of employment of 06/13/2007 had a criminal background check qualification letter on file dated 01/03/2020 which had expired on 01/03/2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. One staff member with a date of employment of 08/27/2024 did not have documentation on file of having completed sixteen hours of new staff orientation training within the first two and six weeks of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 12/03/2024 did not have documentation on file of having completed six hours of new staff orientation training within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 08/27/2024 did not have documentation on file of having completed Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4), over-the-counter diaper creams and sunscreens should be labeled with the name of the child and the parent should complete the permission to administer form leaving no spaces blank. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the permission to administer form and label the medication with the child’s name when received from the parent and prior to the parent leaving the facility. 2. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b), all cleaning supplies and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. Disinfecting and sanitizing solutions mixed on a daily basis may be stored above five feet. In Space 2 and 8, the disinfecting and sanitizing spray bottles were stored with the bottom of the bottles hanging or sitting below five feet. The administrator moved the disinfecting and sanitizing bottles above five feet which corrected the violation. I noticed that the two classrooms in which this violation was observed did not have a storage cabinet that staff could place disinfecting and sanitizing solution bottles on top. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you have a shelf installed at a height of five feet in the classrooms that do not have storage cabinets. I reminded you that when installing a shelf or basket at a five foot height, the bottom of the bottles should sit or hang at a height of five feet or above. 3. Per G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e), each employee should have a valid Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letter on file in their staff records. Today, A Coffey had a CBC qualification letter on file dated 01/03/2020 which had expired on 01/03/2025 resulting in a violation. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, this violation should be corrected within fifteen days and a copy of the qualification letter should be sent to the child care consultant along with the compliance letter. If the violation is corrected as stated and within fifteen days, the staff member may remain in the facility. If the violation is not corrected as stated and within fifteen days, the staff member will need to be removed from the work schedule until the CBC qualification letter is received and verified by the child care consultant. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a), all child care providers should have an emergency information form on file on or before the first day of work. The emergency information form should include the name, address, and telephone number of the person to be contacted in case of an emergency, and the responsible party's choice of health care professional. The emergency information form should be updated as changes occur and at least annually. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you have each employee update their emergency information form at a designated staff meeting annually. This practice will allow you to get as many employees as possible on the same annual update schedule and make tracking easier for you to maintain. 5. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1101(a), new staff who have contact with children must receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks and this training must be recorded on the New Staff Orientation training record. New staff orientation training should be completed within two weeks and six weeks even if a holiday(s) fall within that period of time. As discussed today, be sure to document on the New Staff Orientation Training Record the exact time spent on each topic. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you record all new staff orientation as the training is completed rather than completing the documentation after the fact. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 . 1102(g), each child care administrator and all staff should complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training through the NC Prevent Child Abuse website and/or present the administrator with the completion certificate within the first ninety days of employment. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you have each employee print the completion certificate as soon as the training is completed. CONSULTATION: 1. The written activity plan should be dated with the current date. 2. Daily schedules should be current and posted in each classroom. 3. Annual license fee invoices for 2024 were mailed to the facility email address by November 30, 2024. Online payments were due by December 31, 2024. Per North Carolina General Statute § 110-90(1a), licensed child care facilities are assessed an annual license fee. The amount of your annual license fee is based on the licensed capacity printed on your license as of October 1, 2024. It is not based on the number of children enrolled at your facility. Annual license fees do not apply to state- or public school-operated child care facilities, or to religious-sponsored facilities operating under a Notice of Compliance. For questions regarding license fees, check out these Frequently Asked Questions. For help with the annual license fee, contact DCDEE_LF@dhhs.nc.gov. 4. The reporting period for child care immunizations is now open. Reporting for 2024-2025 has been extended due to Hurricane Helene. Children have a grace period from requirements until November 30, 2024, and reports will be accepted until January 15, 2025. Click here to submit your report. Send any questions regarding child care immunization reporting to immunization.reports@dhhs.nc.gov. 5. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings. 6. On Friday, July 12, 2024, DCDEE sent a “Raise North Carolina” email blast announcing the signing of Senate Bill 425. The email contained a section entitled, “Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) Modernization” which provided updated information regarding the Rated License Reassessment process and approved extended stabilization grant funding. What does all this mean for child care in general? 1. The new QRIS Modifications and additional pathways will be added to law which included moving to the use of the updated Environmental Rating Scale (ERS-3 versions) for ECCERS. ITERS and FCCERS, effective February 1, 2025. DCDEE and the NC Child Care Commission have already begun the rulemaking process to add the rule language to child care requirements. This process with take several months. 2. Hold Harmless provisions have been extended. Star rated license reassessments are postponed until the QRIS rulemaking process has been completed. Providers in any Cohort may voluntarily request a star rated license reassessment if they wish. Star rated license assessments are still required for new child care programs. 3. 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 will need to submit a request to their licensing consultant and provide a copy of their accreditation award/certificate for processing: Accreditation Licensure Request Form. What does this mean for the Environmental Rating Scales? Please be reminded the ERS-revised editions will continue to be used until January 31, 2025. Any ERS assessment completed on February 1, 2025 and after will be assessed using the ERS-3 versions. 7. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: 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 COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item number 840 corrected during today’s visit. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct that violation. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than January 21, 2025. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .1101 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/7/2025 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 1/7/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 402 Time In: 09:18 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: 01:50 PM Time Out: 04:50 PM 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, Kelly Garceau, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on June 4, 2024. I reviewed with you today the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to your phone number, email address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. You stated there has been no change with the corporation, KinderCare Education LLC, that owns your facility. I reviewed the facility’s permit with you today including the restrictions, capacity, and age range and observed these being maintained today. KinderCare Education LLC that owns your facility was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on January 6, 2025. Your center's compliance history was 84% as of January 6, 2025 and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. Your most recent fire inspection was dated February 9, 2024 and received in my office by email on June 4, 2024. Your most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 31, 2024 with a Superior classification and seven demerits. I verified that the lead water testing required to be completed every three years were in process and you were waiting on those test results. Your most recent lead water test results were dated November 20, 2020. Today, I verified that those test results indicated that your facilities drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have registered for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing. You and I completed a walk-through of the indoor and outdoor licensed spaces today. Children throughout the facility were participating in free play in activity areas, transitions, personal care routines, and eating lunch. Infants were engaged in floor play. You stated and I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a 4-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Infant bottles and food were stored at a temperature of 20 degrees Fahrenheit in a compact refrigerator located in Space 4 (Infants). Today’s lunch included whole grain fish sticks, corn, mango, and unflavored milk. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline. I monitored program records including emergency medical care plan, safe arrival and departure procedures, incident log, outdoor safety inspections, fire drills, emergency drills, and your Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) Plan. I reviewed staff record files for nine returning staff members to verify current and valid Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letters, valid CPR and First Aid training, valid ITS-SIDS training, completion of Basic School Age Care training, completion of the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training, completion of Playground Safety training by at least one staff member, and completion of Emergency Preparedness and Response training by at least one staff member. I reviewed staff record files for six new staff members hired since the last annual compliance visit on June 4, 2024. The CBC qualification letter for A Coffey was dated 01/03/2020 and expired on 01/03/2025. After reviewing the information in the ABCMS portal, I determined that Ms. Coffey has not begun the 3-year recheck process. Ms. Coffey should begin the 3-year recheck process by submitting an application and fingerprints without delay. An updated CBC qualification letter should be received and on file at the facility within fifteen days. If not received within fifteen days, Ms. Coffey should not be allowed to enter the facility until she can provide a copy of her updated CBC qualification letter. I monitored health and safety requirements. I reviewed your written operational, administrative, and personnel policies and your parent participation plan at your annual compliance visit on June 4, 2024. You stated your written policies and procedures had not changed since June 2024. I monitored supervision, staff-child ratios, group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: 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. In Space 2, the disinfecting and sanitizing spray bottles were stored on the side of a basket with the bottom of the bottles hanging below five feet. In Space 8, the disinfecting and sanitizing spray bottles were sitting on a shelf but the bottoms of the bottles sat at four feet and nine inches. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In Space 2, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing the amount to be applied. In Space 2, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing when to apply the ointment. In Space 4, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing the name of the ointment. In Space 4, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing the amount 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. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/21/2024 did not have an Emergency Information Form on file. .0701(a) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One staff member with a date of employment of 06/13/2007 had a criminal background check qualification letter on file dated 01/03/2020 which had expired on 01/03/2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. One staff member with a date of employment of 08/27/2024 did not have documentation on file of having completed sixteen hours of new staff orientation training within the first two and six weeks of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 12/03/2024 did not have documentation on file of having completed six hours of new staff orientation training within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 08/27/2024 did not have documentation on file of having completed Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4), over-the-counter diaper creams and sunscreens should be labeled with the name of the child and the parent should complete the permission to administer form leaving no spaces blank. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the permission to administer form and label the medication with the child’s name when received from the parent and prior to the parent leaving the facility. 2. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b), all cleaning supplies and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. Disinfecting and sanitizing solutions mixed on a daily basis may be stored above five feet. In Space 2 and 8, the disinfecting and sanitizing spray bottles were stored with the bottom of the bottles hanging or sitting below five feet. The administrator moved the disinfecting and sanitizing bottles above five feet which corrected the violation. I noticed that the two classrooms in which this violation was observed did not have a storage cabinet that staff could place disinfecting and sanitizing solution bottles on top. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you have a shelf installed at a height of five feet in the classrooms that do not have storage cabinets. I reminded you that when installing a shelf or basket at a five foot height, the bottom of the bottles should sit or hang at a height of five feet or above. 3. Per G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e), each employee should have a valid Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letter on file in their staff records. Today, A Coffey had a CBC qualification letter on file dated 01/03/2020 which had expired on 01/03/2025 resulting in a violation. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, this violation should be corrected within fifteen days and a copy of the qualification letter should be sent to the child care consultant along with the compliance letter. If the violation is corrected as stated and within fifteen days, the staff member may remain in the facility. If the violation is not corrected as stated and within fifteen days, the staff member will need to be removed from the work schedule until the CBC qualification letter is received and verified by the child care consultant. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a), all child care providers should have an emergency information form on file on or before the first day of work. The emergency information form should include the name, address, and telephone number of the person to be contacted in case of an emergency, and the responsible party's choice of health care professional. The emergency information form should be updated as changes occur and at least annually. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you have each employee update their emergency information form at a designated staff meeting annually. This practice will allow you to get as many employees as possible on the same annual update schedule and make tracking easier for you to maintain. 5. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1101(a), new staff who have contact with children must receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks and this training must be recorded on the New Staff Orientation training record. New staff orientation training should be completed within two weeks and six weeks even if a holiday(s) fall within that period of time. As discussed today, be sure to document on the New Staff Orientation Training Record the exact time spent on each topic. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you record all new staff orientation as the training is completed rather than completing the documentation after the fact. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 . 1102(g), each child care administrator and all staff should complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training through the NC Prevent Child Abuse website and/or present the administrator with the completion certificate within the first ninety days of employment. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you have each employee print the completion certificate as soon as the training is completed. CONSULTATION: 1. The written activity plan should be dated with the current date. 2. Daily schedules should be current and posted in each classroom. 3. Annual license fee invoices for 2024 were mailed to the facility email address by November 30, 2024. Online payments were due by December 31, 2024. Per North Carolina General Statute § 110-90(1a), licensed child care facilities are assessed an annual license fee. The amount of your annual license fee is based on the licensed capacity printed on your license as of October 1, 2024. It is not based on the number of children enrolled at your facility. Annual license fees do not apply to state- or public school-operated child care facilities, or to religious-sponsored facilities operating under a Notice of Compliance. For questions regarding license fees, check out these Frequently Asked Questions. For help with the annual license fee, contact DCDEE_LF@dhhs.nc.gov. 4. The reporting period for child care immunizations is now open. Reporting for 2024-2025 has been extended due to Hurricane Helene. Children have a grace period from requirements until November 30, 2024, and reports will be accepted until January 15, 2025. Click here to submit your report. Send any questions regarding child care immunization reporting to immunization.reports@dhhs.nc.gov. 5. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings. 6. On Friday, July 12, 2024, DCDEE sent a “Raise North Carolina” email blast announcing the signing of Senate Bill 425. The email contained a section entitled, “Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) Modernization” which provided updated information regarding the Rated License Reassessment process and approved extended stabilization grant funding. What does all this mean for child care in general? 1. The new QRIS Modifications and additional pathways will be added to law which included moving to the use of the updated Environmental Rating Scale (ERS-3 versions) for ECCERS. ITERS and FCCERS, effective February 1, 2025. DCDEE and the NC Child Care Commission have already begun the rulemaking process to add the rule language to child care requirements. This process with take several months. 2. Hold Harmless provisions have been extended. Star rated license reassessments are postponed until the QRIS rulemaking process has been completed. Providers in any Cohort may voluntarily request a star rated license reassessment if they wish. Star rated license assessments are still required for new child care programs. 3. 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 will need to submit a request to their licensing consultant and provide a copy of their accreditation award/certificate for processing: Accreditation Licensure Request Form. What does this mean for the Environmental Rating Scales? Please be reminded the ERS-revised editions will continue to be used until January 31, 2025. Any ERS assessment completed on February 1, 2025 and after will be assessed using the ERS-3 versions. 7. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: 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 COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item number 840 corrected during today’s visit. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct that violation. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than January 21, 2025. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .2703 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/7/2025 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 1/7/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 402 Time In: 09:18 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: 01:50 PM Time Out: 04:50 PM 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, Kelly Garceau, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on June 4, 2024. I reviewed with you today the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to your phone number, email address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. You stated there has been no change with the corporation, KinderCare Education LLC, that owns your facility. I reviewed the facility’s permit with you today including the restrictions, capacity, and age range and observed these being maintained today. KinderCare Education LLC that owns your facility was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on January 6, 2025. Your center's compliance history was 84% as of January 6, 2025 and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. Your most recent fire inspection was dated February 9, 2024 and received in my office by email on June 4, 2024. Your most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 31, 2024 with a Superior classification and seven demerits. I verified that the lead water testing required to be completed every three years were in process and you were waiting on those test results. Your most recent lead water test results were dated November 20, 2020. Today, I verified that those test results indicated that your facilities drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have registered for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing. You and I completed a walk-through of the indoor and outdoor licensed spaces today. Children throughout the facility were participating in free play in activity areas, transitions, personal care routines, and eating lunch. Infants were engaged in floor play. You stated and I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a 4-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Infant bottles and food were stored at a temperature of 20 degrees Fahrenheit in a compact refrigerator located in Space 4 (Infants). Today’s lunch included whole grain fish sticks, corn, mango, and unflavored milk. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline. I monitored program records including emergency medical care plan, safe arrival and departure procedures, incident log, outdoor safety inspections, fire drills, emergency drills, and your Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) Plan. I reviewed staff record files for nine returning staff members to verify current and valid Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letters, valid CPR and First Aid training, valid ITS-SIDS training, completion of Basic School Age Care training, completion of the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training, completion of Playground Safety training by at least one staff member, and completion of Emergency Preparedness and Response training by at least one staff member. I reviewed staff record files for six new staff members hired since the last annual compliance visit on June 4, 2024. The CBC qualification letter for A Coffey was dated 01/03/2020 and expired on 01/03/2025. After reviewing the information in the ABCMS portal, I determined that Ms. Coffey has not begun the 3-year recheck process. Ms. Coffey should begin the 3-year recheck process by submitting an application and fingerprints without delay. An updated CBC qualification letter should be received and on file at the facility within fifteen days. If not received within fifteen days, Ms. Coffey should not be allowed to enter the facility until she can provide a copy of her updated CBC qualification letter. I monitored health and safety requirements. I reviewed your written operational, administrative, and personnel policies and your parent participation plan at your annual compliance visit on June 4, 2024. You stated your written policies and procedures had not changed since June 2024. I monitored supervision, staff-child ratios, group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: 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. In Space 2, the disinfecting and sanitizing spray bottles were stored on the side of a basket with the bottom of the bottles hanging below five feet. In Space 8, the disinfecting and sanitizing spray bottles were sitting on a shelf but the bottoms of the bottles sat at four feet and nine inches. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In Space 2, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing the amount to be applied. In Space 2, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing when to apply the ointment. In Space 4, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing the name of the ointment. In Space 4, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing the amount 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. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/21/2024 did not have an Emergency Information Form on file. .0701(a) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One staff member with a date of employment of 06/13/2007 had a criminal background check qualification letter on file dated 01/03/2020 which had expired on 01/03/2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. One staff member with a date of employment of 08/27/2024 did not have documentation on file of having completed sixteen hours of new staff orientation training within the first two and six weeks of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 12/03/2024 did not have documentation on file of having completed six hours of new staff orientation training within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 08/27/2024 did not have documentation on file of having completed Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4), over-the-counter diaper creams and sunscreens should be labeled with the name of the child and the parent should complete the permission to administer form leaving no spaces blank. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the permission to administer form and label the medication with the child’s name when received from the parent and prior to the parent leaving the facility. 2. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b), all cleaning supplies and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. Disinfecting and sanitizing solutions mixed on a daily basis may be stored above five feet. In Space 2 and 8, the disinfecting and sanitizing spray bottles were stored with the bottom of the bottles hanging or sitting below five feet. The administrator moved the disinfecting and sanitizing bottles above five feet which corrected the violation. I noticed that the two classrooms in which this violation was observed did not have a storage cabinet that staff could place disinfecting and sanitizing solution bottles on top. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you have a shelf installed at a height of five feet in the classrooms that do not have storage cabinets. I reminded you that when installing a shelf or basket at a five foot height, the bottom of the bottles should sit or hang at a height of five feet or above. 3. Per G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e), each employee should have a valid Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letter on file in their staff records. Today, A Coffey had a CBC qualification letter on file dated 01/03/2020 which had expired on 01/03/2025 resulting in a violation. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, this violation should be corrected within fifteen days and a copy of the qualification letter should be sent to the child care consultant along with the compliance letter. If the violation is corrected as stated and within fifteen days, the staff member may remain in the facility. If the violation is not corrected as stated and within fifteen days, the staff member will need to be removed from the work schedule until the CBC qualification letter is received and verified by the child care consultant. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a), all child care providers should have an emergency information form on file on or before the first day of work. The emergency information form should include the name, address, and telephone number of the person to be contacted in case of an emergency, and the responsible party's choice of health care professional. The emergency information form should be updated as changes occur and at least annually. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you have each employee update their emergency information form at a designated staff meeting annually. This practice will allow you to get as many employees as possible on the same annual update schedule and make tracking easier for you to maintain. 5. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1101(a), new staff who have contact with children must receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks and this training must be recorded on the New Staff Orientation training record. New staff orientation training should be completed within two weeks and six weeks even if a holiday(s) fall within that period of time. As discussed today, be sure to document on the New Staff Orientation Training Record the exact time spent on each topic. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you record all new staff orientation as the training is completed rather than completing the documentation after the fact. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 . 1102(g), each child care administrator and all staff should complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training through the NC Prevent Child Abuse website and/or present the administrator with the completion certificate within the first ninety days of employment. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you have each employee print the completion certificate as soon as the training is completed. CONSULTATION: 1. The written activity plan should be dated with the current date. 2. Daily schedules should be current and posted in each classroom. 3. Annual license fee invoices for 2024 were mailed to the facility email address by November 30, 2024. Online payments were due by December 31, 2024. Per North Carolina General Statute § 110-90(1a), licensed child care facilities are assessed an annual license fee. The amount of your annual license fee is based on the licensed capacity printed on your license as of October 1, 2024. It is not based on the number of children enrolled at your facility. Annual license fees do not apply to state- or public school-operated child care facilities, or to religious-sponsored facilities operating under a Notice of Compliance. For questions regarding license fees, check out these Frequently Asked Questions. For help with the annual license fee, contact DCDEE_LF@dhhs.nc.gov. 4. The reporting period for child care immunizations is now open. Reporting for 2024-2025 has been extended due to Hurricane Helene. Children have a grace period from requirements until November 30, 2024, and reports will be accepted until January 15, 2025. Click here to submit your report. Send any questions regarding child care immunization reporting to immunization.reports@dhhs.nc.gov. 5. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings. 6. On Friday, July 12, 2024, DCDEE sent a “Raise North Carolina” email blast announcing the signing of Senate Bill 425. The email contained a section entitled, “Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) Modernization” which provided updated information regarding the Rated License Reassessment process and approved extended stabilization grant funding. What does all this mean for child care in general? 1. The new QRIS Modifications and additional pathways will be added to law which included moving to the use of the updated Environmental Rating Scale (ERS-3 versions) for ECCERS. ITERS and FCCERS, effective February 1, 2025. DCDEE and the NC Child Care Commission have already begun the rulemaking process to add the rule language to child care requirements. This process with take several months. 2. Hold Harmless provisions have been extended. Star rated license reassessments are postponed until the QRIS rulemaking process has been completed. Providers in any Cohort may voluntarily request a star rated license reassessment if they wish. Star rated license assessments are still required for new child care programs. 3. 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 will need to submit a request to their licensing consultant and provide a copy of their accreditation award/certificate for processing: Accreditation Licensure Request Form. What does this mean for the Environmental Rating Scales? Please be reminded the ERS-revised editions will continue to be used until January 31, 2025. Any ERS assessment completed on February 1, 2025 and after will be assessed using the ERS-3 versions. 7. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: 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 COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item number 840 corrected during today’s visit. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct that violation. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than January 21, 2025. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/7/2025 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 1/7/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 402 Time In: 09:18 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: 01:50 PM Time Out: 04:50 PM 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, Kelly Garceau, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on June 4, 2024. I reviewed with you today the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to your phone number, email address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. You stated there has been no change with the corporation, KinderCare Education LLC, that owns your facility. I reviewed the facility’s permit with you today including the restrictions, capacity, and age range and observed these being maintained today. KinderCare Education LLC that owns your facility was reviewed and listed as current-active on the North Carolina Secretary of State website on January 6, 2025. Your center's compliance history was 84% as of January 6, 2025 and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. Your most recent fire inspection was dated February 9, 2024 and received in my office by email on June 4, 2024. Your most recent sanitation inspection was dated October 31, 2024 with a Superior classification and seven demerits. I verified that the lead water testing required to be completed every three years were in process and you were waiting on those test results. Your most recent lead water test results were dated November 20, 2020. Today, I verified that those test results indicated that your facilities drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have registered for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing. You and I completed a walk-through of the indoor and outdoor licensed spaces today. Children throughout the facility were participating in free play in activity areas, transitions, personal care routines, and eating lunch. Infants were engaged in floor play. You stated and I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a 4-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Infant bottles and food were stored at a temperature of 20 degrees Fahrenheit in a compact refrigerator located in Space 4 (Infants). Today’s lunch included whole grain fish sticks, corn, mango, and unflavored milk. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline. I monitored program records including emergency medical care plan, safe arrival and departure procedures, incident log, outdoor safety inspections, fire drills, emergency drills, and your Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) Plan. I reviewed staff record files for nine returning staff members to verify current and valid Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letters, valid CPR and First Aid training, valid ITS-SIDS training, completion of Basic School Age Care training, completion of the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training, completion of Playground Safety training by at least one staff member, and completion of Emergency Preparedness and Response training by at least one staff member. I reviewed staff record files for six new staff members hired since the last annual compliance visit on June 4, 2024. The CBC qualification letter for A Coffey was dated 01/03/2020 and expired on 01/03/2025. After reviewing the information in the ABCMS portal, I determined that Ms. Coffey has not begun the 3-year recheck process. Ms. Coffey should begin the 3-year recheck process by submitting an application and fingerprints without delay. An updated CBC qualification letter should be received and on file at the facility within fifteen days. If not received within fifteen days, Ms. Coffey should not be allowed to enter the facility until she can provide a copy of her updated CBC qualification letter. I monitored health and safety requirements. I reviewed your written operational, administrative, and personnel policies and your parent participation plan at your annual compliance visit on June 4, 2024. You stated your written policies and procedures had not changed since June 2024. I monitored supervision, staff-child ratios, group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: 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. In Space 2, the disinfecting and sanitizing spray bottles were stored on the side of a basket with the bottom of the bottles hanging below five feet. In Space 8, the disinfecting and sanitizing spray bottles were sitting on a shelf but the bottoms of the bottles sat at four feet and nine inches. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In Space 2, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing the amount to be applied. In Space 2, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing when to apply the ointment. In Space 4, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing the name of the ointment. In Space 4, one permission to administer form for a diaper ointment was missing the amount 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. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/21/2024 did not have an Emergency Information Form on file. .0701(a) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One staff member with a date of employment of 06/13/2007 had a criminal background check qualification letter on file dated 01/03/2020 which had expired on 01/03/2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. One staff member with a date of employment of 08/27/2024 did not have documentation on file of having completed sixteen hours of new staff orientation training within the first two and six weeks of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 12/03/2024 did not have documentation on file of having completed six hours of new staff orientation training within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 08/27/2024 did not have documentation on file of having completed Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4), over-the-counter diaper creams and sunscreens should be labeled with the name of the child and the parent should complete the permission to administer form leaving no spaces blank. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the permission to administer form and label the medication with the child’s name when received from the parent and prior to the parent leaving the facility. 2. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b), all cleaning supplies and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. Disinfecting and sanitizing solutions mixed on a daily basis may be stored above five feet. In Space 2 and 8, the disinfecting and sanitizing spray bottles were stored with the bottom of the bottles hanging or sitting below five feet. The administrator moved the disinfecting and sanitizing bottles above five feet which corrected the violation. I noticed that the two classrooms in which this violation was observed did not have a storage cabinet that staff could place disinfecting and sanitizing solution bottles on top. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you have a shelf installed at a height of five feet in the classrooms that do not have storage cabinets. I reminded you that when installing a shelf or basket at a five foot height, the bottom of the bottles should sit or hang at a height of five feet or above. 3. Per G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e), each employee should have a valid Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letter on file in their staff records. Today, A Coffey had a CBC qualification letter on file dated 01/03/2020 which had expired on 01/03/2025 resulting in a violation. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, this violation should be corrected within fifteen days and a copy of the qualification letter should be sent to the child care consultant along with the compliance letter. If the violation is corrected as stated and within fifteen days, the staff member may remain in the facility. If the violation is not corrected as stated and within fifteen days, the staff member will need to be removed from the work schedule until the CBC qualification letter is received and verified by the child care consultant. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a), all child care providers should have an emergency information form on file on or before the first day of work. The emergency information form should include the name, address, and telephone number of the person to be contacted in case of an emergency, and the responsible party's choice of health care professional. The emergency information form should be updated as changes occur and at least annually. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you have each employee update their emergency information form at a designated staff meeting annually. This practice will allow you to get as many employees as possible on the same annual update schedule and make tracking easier for you to maintain. 5. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1101(a), new staff who have contact with children must receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks and this training must be recorded on the New Staff Orientation training record. New staff orientation training should be completed within two weeks and six weeks even if a holiday(s) fall within that period of time. As discussed today, be sure to document on the New Staff Orientation Training Record the exact time spent on each topic. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you record all new staff orientation as the training is completed rather than completing the documentation after the fact. 6. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 . 1102(g), each child care administrator and all staff should complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training through the NC Prevent Child Abuse website and/or present the administrator with the completion certificate within the first ninety days of employment. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you have each employee print the completion certificate as soon as the training is completed. CONSULTATION: 1. The written activity plan should be dated with the current date. 2. Daily schedules should be current and posted in each classroom. 3. Annual license fee invoices for 2024 were mailed to the facility email address by November 30, 2024. Online payments were due by December 31, 2024. Per North Carolina General Statute § 110-90(1a), licensed child care facilities are assessed an annual license fee. The amount of your annual license fee is based on the licensed capacity printed on your license as of October 1, 2024. It is not based on the number of children enrolled at your facility. Annual license fees do not apply to state- or public school-operated child care facilities, or to religious-sponsored facilities operating under a Notice of Compliance. For questions regarding license fees, check out these Frequently Asked Questions. For help with the annual license fee, contact DCDEE_LF@dhhs.nc.gov. 4. The reporting period for child care immunizations is now open. Reporting for 2024-2025 has been extended due to Hurricane Helene. Children have a grace period from requirements until November 30, 2024, and reports will be accepted until January 15, 2025. Click here to submit your report. Send any questions regarding child care immunization reporting to immunization.reports@dhhs.nc.gov. 5. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings. 6. On Friday, July 12, 2024, DCDEE sent a “Raise North Carolina” email blast announcing the signing of Senate Bill 425. The email contained a section entitled, “Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) Modernization” which provided updated information regarding the Rated License Reassessment process and approved extended stabilization grant funding. What does all this mean for child care in general? 1. The new QRIS Modifications and additional pathways will be added to law which included moving to the use of the updated Environmental Rating Scale (ERS-3 versions) for ECCERS. ITERS and FCCERS, effective February 1, 2025. DCDEE and the NC Child Care Commission have already begun the rulemaking process to add the rule language to child care requirements. This process with take several months. 2. Hold Harmless provisions have been extended. Star rated license reassessments are postponed until the QRIS rulemaking process has been completed. Providers in any Cohort may voluntarily request a star rated license reassessment if they wish. Star rated license assessments are still required for new child care programs. 3. 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 will need to submit a request to their licensing consultant and provide a copy of their accreditation award/certificate for processing: Accreditation Licensure Request Form. What does this mean for the Environmental Rating Scales? Please be reminded the ERS-revised editions will continue to be used until January 31, 2025. Any ERS assessment completed on February 1, 2025 and after will be assessed using the ERS-3 versions. 7. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: 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 COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for violation item number 840 corrected during today’s visit. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct that violation. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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. Your signature 2) Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than January 21, 2025. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .1801 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1224-092L Visit Date: 12/13/2024 Number Present: 69 Completed Date: 12/13/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 375 Time In: 09:10 AM Time Out: 11:20 AM Time In: 12:40 PM Time Out: 04:45 PM 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. Misty Green, Assistant Director, assisted me with the visit. Kelly Garceau, Administrator, was available by telephone. According to the report, there is a concern of inadequate supervision in the classrooms for three and one-year-old children. In addition to the allegation, I monitored staff-child ratio, adequate space capacity, and approved space use in the classrooms for one-year-old and three-year-old children. I also monitored permit restrictions and posting in the facility. On Friday, December 6, 2024, Ms. Garceau sent by email a written account of an incident involving a three-year-old child whose pants were down while playing when the parent arrived to pick up the child. After reviewing the email message, I spoke with Ms. Garceau by telephone and encouraged her to make a self-report. To date a self-report had not been received. Today, Ms. Green reported eighty-five children ranging in age from zero to five years of age were enrolled in your facility. Ms. Green stated sixty-nine children ranging in age from zero to five years of age were present during today’s visit. Due to the nature of the report, I visited Spaces 2 and 4 where one-year-old children were enrolled and/or attending today and Spaces 1 and 8 where three-year-old children were enrolled and/or attending today. A walk-through of the entire facility was not conducted today. Today, I investigated the concern of inadequate supervision in the classroom for one-year-old children. I visited Space 2 where a total of seventeen one-year-old children were enrolled. Eleven one-year-old children were present today with two caregivers supervising the group. The children were playing with toys about the room and sitting in the book area with one caregiver while books were being read aloud to them and the second caregiver was moving about the room interacting with the children and attending to basic care needs. I visited Space 4 where a total of ten infant aged children were enrolled. Seven infant aged children and one one-year-old child were present today with two caregivers supervising the group. The children were playing with toys about the room and engaged in tummy time with one caregiver supervising tummy time while the second caregiver was changing diapers and attending to basic care needs. I interviewed three staff members. Staff members recalled the following: On December 4, 2024 at approximately 3:00pm, one one-year-old child was transitioned to Space 5 to join a group of infant aged children being supervised by one teacher. The teacher was told that the one-year-old child was learning to walk but was not a proficient walker. In this group, two children were non-mobile and three children were learning to walk. The teacher took the group of five children outside to play on Outdoor Space 1 designated for infant and one-year-old children. The teacher carried the two non-mobile children and lead the three mobile children down the sidewalk to the outdoor play area. The teacher opened the gate and the group entered the outdoor play area. The one-year-old child stumbled and fell down. The teacher sat the two non-mobile children down and assisted the one-year-old to a standing position but did not notice any bumps or scrapes and the child did not cry. The one-year-old child played outside and walked around stumbling from time to time but not showing signs of injury or crying. The group transitioned back indoors and the teacher departed for the day and did not notice any signs of bumps or injury for the one-year-old child or the infant aged children in their care. When the parent of the one-year-old child arrived to pick up their child, another second teacher was in the classroom and the parent noticed a red spot had appeared on the child’s forehead. Since there was no incident report for the parent to sign, the parent asked about an incident report. The second teacher told the parent that they were unaware of an incident and offered to let the parent speak with the first teacher that had just left the group. The first teacher who had not left the building returned to speak to the parent. The first teacher explained that they were unaware of a red spot on the child’s forehead but did recall the child stumbling outside and not crying which may have been when the bump on the forehead occurred. The first teacher offered to complete an incident report for the parent. An incident report was created which documented the injury and the first teacher’s observations. A copy of the incident report was signed by both the first teacher and the parent and placed on file at the facility. A copy of the incident report was given to the parent. During today’s visit, I observed one-year-old children in Spaces 2 and 4 adequately supervised in the classrooms. Today, I investigated the concern of inadequate supervision in the classroom for three-year-old children. I visited Space 1 where a total of nineteen four- and five-year-old children were enrolled. Eighteen children ranging in age from three to five-years were present today with two caregivers supervising the group. The children were playing in activity areas and arriving to the classroom while both caregivers interacted with the children seated at tables and engaged in activities and redirected behaviors when necessary I visited Space 8 where a total of sixteen three-year-old children were enrolled. Fifteen three-year-old children were present today with two caregivers supervising the group. The children were playing in activity areas located in the front of the classroom, attending to personal care routines, transitioning from indoor to outdoor play, and playing outdoors while caregivers moved about the classroom and the playgrounds interacting with the children and redirecting behaviors when necessary. I interviewed three staff members. Staff members recalled the following: On December 3, 2024 around 5:15pm, six three-year-old children were present in Space 9 with one staff member supervising the group. The teacher was positioned at a table while the six children were approximately eight feet away in the book area looking at books and interacting with the play materials and each other. The shelf between the table and the children was low profile and had a plexiglass back making it possible for the teacher to see the children from a seated position. When the teacher saw one three-year-old child with their pants and pull-up down, the teacher approached the child while asking them why their pants were down. When the child did not answer, the teacher pulled the child’s pants and pull-up up and told the child that they are not to pull their pants down in the classroom. The teacher told the other children that pulling pants down in the classroom was not allowed and encouraged them to tell a teacher if they saw any child pull their pants down in the classroom. As recorded on the “Child Supervision Record” (CSR), at 5:20pm, four additional children were transitioned into Space 9 and joined the group supervised by one staff member. The teacher sat at the table to supervise the ten children while tracking transitions and departures of children as they entered the room from other classrooms and left the room with their parents. The teacher was tracking this information on the CSR sheet and the KinderCare app through the use of an assigned I-Pad. As recorded on the CSR sheet, at 5:21pm, the parent of the child whose pants had been down entered the classroom and the teacher notified the child that their parent was there and it was time to go home. The parent proceeded to question the child about their pants being pulled down while walking across the classroom to retrieve the child. The parent proceeded to pull the child’s pants and pull-up up and walk the child to a child-sized table adjacent to the book area and the table where the teacher was seated. The parent pulled the child’s pants back down and proceeded to remove pieces of felt flannel board materials out of the child’s pants. The teacher stated they did not recall seeing anything in the child’s pull-up during the first incident and had not experienced this behavior from this child or any child in the classroom prior to this incident. Staff stated the first incident was observed but the second incident which occurred approximately five minutes later was not noticed until the parent walked into the classroom. After reviewing the CSR sheets for the three- and four-year-old classroom dated December 3, 2024, I determined, at the time of the first incident, six children would have been in the classroom being supervised by one teacher while the children were playing in activity areas and parents were picking up. At the time of the second incident approximately five minutes later, ten children would have been in the classroom being supervised by one teacher while the children were playing in activity areas and parents were picking up. Today, during my visit, I observed three-year-old children in Spaces 1 and 8 adequately supervised in classrooms and on the playground. Based on interviews with staff, the review of the CSR sheets, and my observations, the allegation of a concern of inadequate supervision in the classroom for one-year-old children was not confirmed and the allegation of a concern of inadequate supervision in the classroom for three-year-old children was confirmed. Therefore, the allegation is substantiated. Staff-child ratios, adequate space capacity, and approved space use were maintained in Spaces 1, 2, 4 and 8 during today’s visit. The facility permit was not posted upon my arrival because it had fallen off the wall but was hung and posted in the lobby outside the office area during today’s visit. The facility permit restrictions including “Daytime care only”, “Meets enhanced ratios”, and “Meets enhanced space” were maintained during today’s visit. The following violation was observed and cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. On December 3, 2024, a group of six three-year-old children in Space 9 were not adequately supervised by the staff member for approximately five minutes when four additional children from another classroom were transitioned to the group which diverted the staff member's attention. .1801(a)(1-5) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1801(a)(1-5), children should be adequately supervised at all times in child care centers. Adequate supervision means that: (1) staff are positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance; (2) staff interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor area; (3) staff know where each child is located and are aware of the children's activities at all times; (4) staff provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs, and capabilities of each child; and (5) staff are able to see and hear children aged birth to five years old while the children are eating. Today, staff stated they were aware of and witnessed the first incident involving a three-year-old child pulling their pants and pull-up down in the classroom in the presence of five other children. Staff stated they were not aware of and did not witness a second incident involving the same three-year-old child pulling their pants and pull-up down and stuffing felt flannel board pieces in the pull-up approximately five minutes later. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I advised you and your staff to use caution when recording transitions and times on the CSR sheets and the KinderCare app especially when there is only one staff member in the classroom as this practice may require too much time and attention from the staff and actually create additional supervision issues. I encouraged you to train your staff that when making transitions of children from one classroom to another the staff member making the transition should stay in the classroom with the teacher to supervise the group until the teacher can record the transition information on the CSR sheets and resume actively supervising the group. I advise you to consider providing a supervision training opportunity for your staff and/or hold a staff meeting to review your facility’s supervision policy and expectations. CONSULTATION: 1. When preparing your compliance letter documentation, be sure to include all the actions you have taken to correct this violation and to ensure this violation does not recur. 2. As with any substantiated allegation of inadequate supervision, the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) may issue an administrative action. Please be watching your email inbox for possible notification of an administrative action from DCDEE. 3. Due to the nature of this violation, an unannounced follow-up visit will be made in the next few weeks. COMPLIANCE PLAN: All violations cited must be corrected immediately. Please submit written, signed, and dated compliance documentation to me at the email/address below detailing the steps taken to correct each violation. Your compliance documentation must include the following: 1) A compliance letter including the following: 1. The name of your facility 2. The ID number of your facility 3. The date you write the letter 4. A corrective action statement for each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. 5. Your signature 2) Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than December 27, 2024. Due to technical issues, a handwritten visit summary was printed, reviewed by phone, and a copy was left for you today. A computer-generated visit summary will be printed and sent to you within two business days. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0302 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/4/2024 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 6/4/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 390 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: 01:15 PM Time Out: 04:30 PM 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. You, Kelly Garceau, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on June 20, 2023. Your facility, owned by KinderCare Education LLC, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the NC Secretary of State website on June 3, 2024. Your program’s compliance history was 83% as of June 3, 2024 and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. Your last sanitation inspection was dated June 3, 2024 with a Superior classification and two demerits. Your last fire inspection was dated February 2, 2024 and received during today’s visit. I visited each licensed indoor and outdoor space with you today. I observed children arriving, playing in activity areas, transitioning from indoor play to outdoor play, transitioning from outdoor play to indoor play, participating in handwashing routines, eating lunch, participating in nap routines, and departing. You stated and I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a 4-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Lunch was prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Today’s lunch included diced chicken, green peas, tropical fruit mix, whole grain brown rice, and unflavored milk. Cold food and milk were stored in a commercial refrigerator in the kitchen at a temperature of 44 degrees Fahrenheit. Infant bottles and infant food were stored in a compact refrigerator in Space 4 (Infant Room) at a temperature of 22 degrees Fahrenheit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records and child record files. I will return on June 5, 2024 to monitor staff record files. I monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. The following violations were observed and cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 4, the fence gate leading to the toy storage are was warped and did not close at the bottom leaving a gap of approximately twelve inches. On Outdoor Space 5, the fence along the back fence-line had two large openings between the fence and the ground large enough for a small animal to enter the outdoor play space. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. No fire drill was conducted and recorded for February 2024. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 6, one instant cold compress pack with additional warnings was stored in an unlocked drawer. In Space 7, one instant cold compress pack with additional warnings was stored unlocked in a Ready to Go bag. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In Space 2, three permission to administer topical ointment forms were missing the amount of medication to administer and two permission forms were missing the instructions for how to apply the medication. In Space 3, one permission to administer topical ointment form was missing instructions for how to apply the medication. In Space 7, one medication permission to administer form and log for an emergency prescription medication was missing. In Space 2, one non-prescription topical ointment was not labeled with the name of the child. In Space 3, four non-prescription topical ointments were not labeled with the names of the children. In Space 4, five, non-prescription topical ointments were not labeled with the names of the children. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In Space 2, one prescription topical medication was not returned to the parent when the medication permission to administer form expired on 03/30/2024. In Space 3, one non-prescription topical medication was not returned to the parent when the medication expired in 11/2023. .0803(12) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 had not updated the annual health questionnaire. The last update was dated 10/03/2022. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 had not updated the Emergency Information Form annually. The last update was dated 10/03/2022. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. One staff member with a date of employment of 01/22/2024 did not complete new staff orientation training. .1101(a) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Two children did not have Children's Medical Report documents on file documenting a health examination had taken place within twelve months prior to or within 30 days after the date of enrollment. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child did not have an immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. The Health Care Needs section on the Child Enrollment Application for two children was missing information. .0801(a)(1-7) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 01/22/2024 did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training and/or present the training certificate within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) 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. The parent acknowledgement statement for the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was missing the date the policy was given and explained to the parent. .0608(b)(1-6) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: The following Technical Assistance was provided on 06/20/2023 during the last Annual Compliance visit and again today: 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(b)(2-3), the Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement signed and dated by the parent should include the date the policy was given to the parent and the child’s date of enrollment. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4), over-the-counter diaper creams and sunscreens should be labeled with the name of the child and the parent should complete the permission to administer form leaving no spaces blank. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the permission to administer form and label the medication with the child’s name when received from the parent and prior to the parent leaving the facility. 3. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b), all cleaning supplies and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. Disinfecting and sanitizing solutions mixed on a daily basis may be stored above five feet. During today’s visit, I observed one instant cold compress pack in an unlocked drawer in Space 6 and in a Ready to Go bag in Space 7. The instant cold compress pack in Space 6 was activated and used during the visit and then discarded in the trash can. The instant cold compress pack in Space 7 was removed from the classroom. In order to maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you discontinue the use of instant cold compress packs and use ice wrapped in a cloth instead. You stated these instant cold compress packs were intended to be used in the Ready to Go bags in the event of an emergency evacuation. I suggest you compile a Ready to Go Kit for the center which could contain items such as the instant cold compress packs that could be included in the kit but kept in a locked closet or room in the center until an emergency evacuation occurred. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(t), fire drills should be completed monthly and recorded on a log documenting the date and time of each drill, the length of time taken to evacuate the building, and the signature of the person who conducted the drill. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone, calendar, or tracking white board. 5. When medication or the permission to administer form have expired, the medication should be returned to the parent within 72 hours of expiration. During today’s visit, I observed one medication with an expired permission to administer form and one expired medication. The administrator removed both medications from the classrooms. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this child care rule and your expectations with your staff. 6. A Children’s Medical Report document provided by DCDEE should be completed by a health care professional and be on file for each child within the first 30 days of the child’s attendance. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. 7. A copy of each child’s immunization records should be on file within the first 30 days of the child’s attendance. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you encourage parents to submit immunization records during the enrollment process and before the child’s first day of attendance when possible. 8. The child’s enrollment application should include the completed health care needs section. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The following Technical Assistance was provided during today’s visit: 1. Each Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement signed and dated by the parent should include the date the policy was given and explained to the parent and the child’s enrollment date. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(g), the fence should be in good repair and have no gaps between the ground and the fence large enough for a small animal to enter the outdoor play area. Fence gates should be in good repair and not have gaps measuring more than three and one-half inches and less than nine inches. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you include the fence as part of your monthly playground inspection routine and report any fence repair concerns to management. CONSULTATION: 1. The written activity plan should be dated with the current date. 2. Per 10A NCAC 09 .0510(d)(1), activity area materials should be made available and accessible daily to the children three years of age and older with enough supplies for three children to play with the same or different materials or toys at the same or different time. Be reminded to make books, blocks, manipulatives, dramatic play, and art accessible to children three years old in rooms enrolled with two- and three-year-old children combined. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a), the original copy of the most recently approved fire inspection report should be sent to me by email within one week of completion. 4. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in September 2023 and should be posted in a prominent place in the facility. 5. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), shelter-in-place or lockdown drills should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. 6. Food Prep areas of the counter space should be labeled as “Food Prep Area” and should not be used to store paperwork or teaching supplies. Food Prep areas should be clean and clear of all materials except those items related to food service. 7. Walls, doors, doorframes, windowsills, vanities, sinks, faucets, diaper changing surfaces, and toilets should be cleaned daily and kept free of buildup, grime, and dust. 8. Water play should be made available to children at least weekly either indoors or outdoors. 9. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. 10. Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings including, but not limited to, ITS-SIDS training and Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for those violations corrected during today’s visit. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct those violations. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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 2) Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than June 17, 2024. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/4/2024 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 6/4/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 390 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: 01:15 PM Time Out: 04:30 PM 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. You, Kelly Garceau, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on June 20, 2023. Your facility, owned by KinderCare Education LLC, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the NC Secretary of State website on June 3, 2024. Your program’s compliance history was 83% as of June 3, 2024 and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. Your last sanitation inspection was dated June 3, 2024 with a Superior classification and two demerits. Your last fire inspection was dated February 2, 2024 and received during today’s visit. I visited each licensed indoor and outdoor space with you today. I observed children arriving, playing in activity areas, transitioning from indoor play to outdoor play, transitioning from outdoor play to indoor play, participating in handwashing routines, eating lunch, participating in nap routines, and departing. You stated and I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a 4-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Lunch was prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Today’s lunch included diced chicken, green peas, tropical fruit mix, whole grain brown rice, and unflavored milk. Cold food and milk were stored in a commercial refrigerator in the kitchen at a temperature of 44 degrees Fahrenheit. Infant bottles and infant food were stored in a compact refrigerator in Space 4 (Infant Room) at a temperature of 22 degrees Fahrenheit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records and child record files. I will return on June 5, 2024 to monitor staff record files. I monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. The following violations were observed and cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 4, the fence gate leading to the toy storage are was warped and did not close at the bottom leaving a gap of approximately twelve inches. On Outdoor Space 5, the fence along the back fence-line had two large openings between the fence and the ground large enough for a small animal to enter the outdoor play space. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. No fire drill was conducted and recorded for February 2024. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 6, one instant cold compress pack with additional warnings was stored in an unlocked drawer. In Space 7, one instant cold compress pack with additional warnings was stored unlocked in a Ready to Go bag. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In Space 2, three permission to administer topical ointment forms were missing the amount of medication to administer and two permission forms were missing the instructions for how to apply the medication. In Space 3, one permission to administer topical ointment form was missing instructions for how to apply the medication. In Space 7, one medication permission to administer form and log for an emergency prescription medication was missing. In Space 2, one non-prescription topical ointment was not labeled with the name of the child. In Space 3, four non-prescription topical ointments were not labeled with the names of the children. In Space 4, five, non-prescription topical ointments were not labeled with the names of the children. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In Space 2, one prescription topical medication was not returned to the parent when the medication permission to administer form expired on 03/30/2024. In Space 3, one non-prescription topical medication was not returned to the parent when the medication expired in 11/2023. .0803(12) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 had not updated the annual health questionnaire. The last update was dated 10/03/2022. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 had not updated the Emergency Information Form annually. The last update was dated 10/03/2022. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. One staff member with a date of employment of 01/22/2024 did not complete new staff orientation training. .1101(a) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Two children did not have Children's Medical Report documents on file documenting a health examination had taken place within twelve months prior to or within 30 days after the date of enrollment. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child did not have an immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. The Health Care Needs section on the Child Enrollment Application for two children was missing information. .0801(a)(1-7) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 01/22/2024 did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training and/or present the training certificate within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) 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. The parent acknowledgement statement for the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was missing the date the policy was given and explained to the parent. .0608(b)(1-6) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: The following Technical Assistance was provided on 06/20/2023 during the last Annual Compliance visit and again today: 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(b)(2-3), the Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement signed and dated by the parent should include the date the policy was given to the parent and the child’s date of enrollment. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4), over-the-counter diaper creams and sunscreens should be labeled with the name of the child and the parent should complete the permission to administer form leaving no spaces blank. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the permission to administer form and label the medication with the child’s name when received from the parent and prior to the parent leaving the facility. 3. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b), all cleaning supplies and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. Disinfecting and sanitizing solutions mixed on a daily basis may be stored above five feet. During today’s visit, I observed one instant cold compress pack in an unlocked drawer in Space 6 and in a Ready to Go bag in Space 7. The instant cold compress pack in Space 6 was activated and used during the visit and then discarded in the trash can. The instant cold compress pack in Space 7 was removed from the classroom. In order to maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you discontinue the use of instant cold compress packs and use ice wrapped in a cloth instead. You stated these instant cold compress packs were intended to be used in the Ready to Go bags in the event of an emergency evacuation. I suggest you compile a Ready to Go Kit for the center which could contain items such as the instant cold compress packs that could be included in the kit but kept in a locked closet or room in the center until an emergency evacuation occurred. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(t), fire drills should be completed monthly and recorded on a log documenting the date and time of each drill, the length of time taken to evacuate the building, and the signature of the person who conducted the drill. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone, calendar, or tracking white board. 5. When medication or the permission to administer form have expired, the medication should be returned to the parent within 72 hours of expiration. During today’s visit, I observed one medication with an expired permission to administer form and one expired medication. The administrator removed both medications from the classrooms. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this child care rule and your expectations with your staff. 6. A Children’s Medical Report document provided by DCDEE should be completed by a health care professional and be on file for each child within the first 30 days of the child’s attendance. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. 7. A copy of each child’s immunization records should be on file within the first 30 days of the child’s attendance. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you encourage parents to submit immunization records during the enrollment process and before the child’s first day of attendance when possible. 8. The child’s enrollment application should include the completed health care needs section. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The following Technical Assistance was provided during today’s visit: 1. Each Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement signed and dated by the parent should include the date the policy was given and explained to the parent and the child’s enrollment date. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(g), the fence should be in good repair and have no gaps between the ground and the fence large enough for a small animal to enter the outdoor play area. Fence gates should be in good repair and not have gaps measuring more than three and one-half inches and less than nine inches. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you include the fence as part of your monthly playground inspection routine and report any fence repair concerns to management. CONSULTATION: 1. The written activity plan should be dated with the current date. 2. Per 10A NCAC 09 .0510(d)(1), activity area materials should be made available and accessible daily to the children three years of age and older with enough supplies for three children to play with the same or different materials or toys at the same or different time. Be reminded to make books, blocks, manipulatives, dramatic play, and art accessible to children three years old in rooms enrolled with two- and three-year-old children combined. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a), the original copy of the most recently approved fire inspection report should be sent to me by email within one week of completion. 4. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in September 2023 and should be posted in a prominent place in the facility. 5. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), shelter-in-place or lockdown drills should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. 6. Food Prep areas of the counter space should be labeled as “Food Prep Area” and should not be used to store paperwork or teaching supplies. Food Prep areas should be clean and clear of all materials except those items related to food service. 7. Walls, doors, doorframes, windowsills, vanities, sinks, faucets, diaper changing surfaces, and toilets should be cleaned daily and kept free of buildup, grime, and dust. 8. Water play should be made available to children at least weekly either indoors or outdoors. 9. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. 10. Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings including, but not limited to, ITS-SIDS training and Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for those violations corrected during today’s visit. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct those violations. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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 2) Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than June 17, 2024. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .0510 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/4/2024 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 6/4/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 390 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: 01:15 PM Time Out: 04:30 PM 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. You, Kelly Garceau, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on June 20, 2023. Your facility, owned by KinderCare Education LLC, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the NC Secretary of State website on June 3, 2024. Your program’s compliance history was 83% as of June 3, 2024 and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. Your last sanitation inspection was dated June 3, 2024 with a Superior classification and two demerits. Your last fire inspection was dated February 2, 2024 and received during today’s visit. I visited each licensed indoor and outdoor space with you today. I observed children arriving, playing in activity areas, transitioning from indoor play to outdoor play, transitioning from outdoor play to indoor play, participating in handwashing routines, eating lunch, participating in nap routines, and departing. You stated and I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a 4-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Lunch was prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Today’s lunch included diced chicken, green peas, tropical fruit mix, whole grain brown rice, and unflavored milk. Cold food and milk were stored in a commercial refrigerator in the kitchen at a temperature of 44 degrees Fahrenheit. Infant bottles and infant food were stored in a compact refrigerator in Space 4 (Infant Room) at a temperature of 22 degrees Fahrenheit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records and child record files. I will return on June 5, 2024 to monitor staff record files. I monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. The following violations were observed and cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 4, the fence gate leading to the toy storage are was warped and did not close at the bottom leaving a gap of approximately twelve inches. On Outdoor Space 5, the fence along the back fence-line had two large openings between the fence and the ground large enough for a small animal to enter the outdoor play space. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. No fire drill was conducted and recorded for February 2024. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 6, one instant cold compress pack with additional warnings was stored in an unlocked drawer. In Space 7, one instant cold compress pack with additional warnings was stored unlocked in a Ready to Go bag. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In Space 2, three permission to administer topical ointment forms were missing the amount of medication to administer and two permission forms were missing the instructions for how to apply the medication. In Space 3, one permission to administer topical ointment form was missing instructions for how to apply the medication. In Space 7, one medication permission to administer form and log for an emergency prescription medication was missing. In Space 2, one non-prescription topical ointment was not labeled with the name of the child. In Space 3, four non-prescription topical ointments were not labeled with the names of the children. In Space 4, five, non-prescription topical ointments were not labeled with the names of the children. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In Space 2, one prescription topical medication was not returned to the parent when the medication permission to administer form expired on 03/30/2024. In Space 3, one non-prescription topical medication was not returned to the parent when the medication expired in 11/2023. .0803(12) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 had not updated the annual health questionnaire. The last update was dated 10/03/2022. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 had not updated the Emergency Information Form annually. The last update was dated 10/03/2022. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. One staff member with a date of employment of 01/22/2024 did not complete new staff orientation training. .1101(a) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Two children did not have Children's Medical Report documents on file documenting a health examination had taken place within twelve months prior to or within 30 days after the date of enrollment. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child did not have an immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. The Health Care Needs section on the Child Enrollment Application for two children was missing information. .0801(a)(1-7) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 01/22/2024 did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training and/or present the training certificate within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) 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. The parent acknowledgement statement for the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was missing the date the policy was given and explained to the parent. .0608(b)(1-6) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: The following Technical Assistance was provided on 06/20/2023 during the last Annual Compliance visit and again today: 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(b)(2-3), the Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement signed and dated by the parent should include the date the policy was given to the parent and the child’s date of enrollment. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4), over-the-counter diaper creams and sunscreens should be labeled with the name of the child and the parent should complete the permission to administer form leaving no spaces blank. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the permission to administer form and label the medication with the child’s name when received from the parent and prior to the parent leaving the facility. 3. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b), all cleaning supplies and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. Disinfecting and sanitizing solutions mixed on a daily basis may be stored above five feet. During today’s visit, I observed one instant cold compress pack in an unlocked drawer in Space 6 and in a Ready to Go bag in Space 7. The instant cold compress pack in Space 6 was activated and used during the visit and then discarded in the trash can. The instant cold compress pack in Space 7 was removed from the classroom. In order to maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you discontinue the use of instant cold compress packs and use ice wrapped in a cloth instead. You stated these instant cold compress packs were intended to be used in the Ready to Go bags in the event of an emergency evacuation. I suggest you compile a Ready to Go Kit for the center which could contain items such as the instant cold compress packs that could be included in the kit but kept in a locked closet or room in the center until an emergency evacuation occurred. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(t), fire drills should be completed monthly and recorded on a log documenting the date and time of each drill, the length of time taken to evacuate the building, and the signature of the person who conducted the drill. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone, calendar, or tracking white board. 5. When medication or the permission to administer form have expired, the medication should be returned to the parent within 72 hours of expiration. During today’s visit, I observed one medication with an expired permission to administer form and one expired medication. The administrator removed both medications from the classrooms. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this child care rule and your expectations with your staff. 6. A Children’s Medical Report document provided by DCDEE should be completed by a health care professional and be on file for each child within the first 30 days of the child’s attendance. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. 7. A copy of each child’s immunization records should be on file within the first 30 days of the child’s attendance. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you encourage parents to submit immunization records during the enrollment process and before the child’s first day of attendance when possible. 8. The child’s enrollment application should include the completed health care needs section. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The following Technical Assistance was provided during today’s visit: 1. Each Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement signed and dated by the parent should include the date the policy was given and explained to the parent and the child’s enrollment date. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(g), the fence should be in good repair and have no gaps between the ground and the fence large enough for a small animal to enter the outdoor play area. Fence gates should be in good repair and not have gaps measuring more than three and one-half inches and less than nine inches. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you include the fence as part of your monthly playground inspection routine and report any fence repair concerns to management. CONSULTATION: 1. The written activity plan should be dated with the current date. 2. Per 10A NCAC 09 .0510(d)(1), activity area materials should be made available and accessible daily to the children three years of age and older with enough supplies for three children to play with the same or different materials or toys at the same or different time. Be reminded to make books, blocks, manipulatives, dramatic play, and art accessible to children three years old in rooms enrolled with two- and three-year-old children combined. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a), the original copy of the most recently approved fire inspection report should be sent to me by email within one week of completion. 4. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in September 2023 and should be posted in a prominent place in the facility. 5. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), shelter-in-place or lockdown drills should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. 6. Food Prep areas of the counter space should be labeled as “Food Prep Area” and should not be used to store paperwork or teaching supplies. Food Prep areas should be clean and clear of all materials except those items related to food service. 7. Walls, doors, doorframes, windowsills, vanities, sinks, faucets, diaper changing surfaces, and toilets should be cleaned daily and kept free of buildup, grime, and dust. 8. Water play should be made available to children at least weekly either indoors or outdoors. 9. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. 10. Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings including, but not limited to, ITS-SIDS training and Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for those violations corrected during today’s visit. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct those violations. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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 2) Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than June 17, 2024. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/4/2024 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 6/4/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 390 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: 01:15 PM Time Out: 04:30 PM 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. You, Kelly Garceau, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on June 20, 2023. Your facility, owned by KinderCare Education LLC, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the NC Secretary of State website on June 3, 2024. Your program’s compliance history was 83% as of June 3, 2024 and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. Your last sanitation inspection was dated June 3, 2024 with a Superior classification and two demerits. Your last fire inspection was dated February 2, 2024 and received during today’s visit. I visited each licensed indoor and outdoor space with you today. I observed children arriving, playing in activity areas, transitioning from indoor play to outdoor play, transitioning from outdoor play to indoor play, participating in handwashing routines, eating lunch, participating in nap routines, and departing. You stated and I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a 4-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Lunch was prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Today’s lunch included diced chicken, green peas, tropical fruit mix, whole grain brown rice, and unflavored milk. Cold food and milk were stored in a commercial refrigerator in the kitchen at a temperature of 44 degrees Fahrenheit. Infant bottles and infant food were stored in a compact refrigerator in Space 4 (Infant Room) at a temperature of 22 degrees Fahrenheit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records and child record files. I will return on June 5, 2024 to monitor staff record files. I monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. The following violations were observed and cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 4, the fence gate leading to the toy storage are was warped and did not close at the bottom leaving a gap of approximately twelve inches. On Outdoor Space 5, the fence along the back fence-line had two large openings between the fence and the ground large enough for a small animal to enter the outdoor play space. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. No fire drill was conducted and recorded for February 2024. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 6, one instant cold compress pack with additional warnings was stored in an unlocked drawer. In Space 7, one instant cold compress pack with additional warnings was stored unlocked in a Ready to Go bag. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In Space 2, three permission to administer topical ointment forms were missing the amount of medication to administer and two permission forms were missing the instructions for how to apply the medication. In Space 3, one permission to administer topical ointment form was missing instructions for how to apply the medication. In Space 7, one medication permission to administer form and log for an emergency prescription medication was missing. In Space 2, one non-prescription topical ointment was not labeled with the name of the child. In Space 3, four non-prescription topical ointments were not labeled with the names of the children. In Space 4, five, non-prescription topical ointments were not labeled with the names of the children. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In Space 2, one prescription topical medication was not returned to the parent when the medication permission to administer form expired on 03/30/2024. In Space 3, one non-prescription topical medication was not returned to the parent when the medication expired in 11/2023. .0803(12) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 had not updated the annual health questionnaire. The last update was dated 10/03/2022. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 had not updated the Emergency Information Form annually. The last update was dated 10/03/2022. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. One staff member with a date of employment of 01/22/2024 did not complete new staff orientation training. .1101(a) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Two children did not have Children's Medical Report documents on file documenting a health examination had taken place within twelve months prior to or within 30 days after the date of enrollment. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child did not have an immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. The Health Care Needs section on the Child Enrollment Application for two children was missing information. .0801(a)(1-7) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 01/22/2024 did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training and/or present the training certificate within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) 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. The parent acknowledgement statement for the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was missing the date the policy was given and explained to the parent. .0608(b)(1-6) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: The following Technical Assistance was provided on 06/20/2023 during the last Annual Compliance visit and again today: 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(b)(2-3), the Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement signed and dated by the parent should include the date the policy was given to the parent and the child’s date of enrollment. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4), over-the-counter diaper creams and sunscreens should be labeled with the name of the child and the parent should complete the permission to administer form leaving no spaces blank. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the permission to administer form and label the medication with the child’s name when received from the parent and prior to the parent leaving the facility. 3. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b), all cleaning supplies and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. Disinfecting and sanitizing solutions mixed on a daily basis may be stored above five feet. During today’s visit, I observed one instant cold compress pack in an unlocked drawer in Space 6 and in a Ready to Go bag in Space 7. The instant cold compress pack in Space 6 was activated and used during the visit and then discarded in the trash can. The instant cold compress pack in Space 7 was removed from the classroom. In order to maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you discontinue the use of instant cold compress packs and use ice wrapped in a cloth instead. You stated these instant cold compress packs were intended to be used in the Ready to Go bags in the event of an emergency evacuation. I suggest you compile a Ready to Go Kit for the center which could contain items such as the instant cold compress packs that could be included in the kit but kept in a locked closet or room in the center until an emergency evacuation occurred. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(t), fire drills should be completed monthly and recorded on a log documenting the date and time of each drill, the length of time taken to evacuate the building, and the signature of the person who conducted the drill. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone, calendar, or tracking white board. 5. When medication or the permission to administer form have expired, the medication should be returned to the parent within 72 hours of expiration. During today’s visit, I observed one medication with an expired permission to administer form and one expired medication. The administrator removed both medications from the classrooms. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this child care rule and your expectations with your staff. 6. A Children’s Medical Report document provided by DCDEE should be completed by a health care professional and be on file for each child within the first 30 days of the child’s attendance. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. 7. A copy of each child’s immunization records should be on file within the first 30 days of the child’s attendance. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you encourage parents to submit immunization records during the enrollment process and before the child’s first day of attendance when possible. 8. The child’s enrollment application should include the completed health care needs section. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The following Technical Assistance was provided during today’s visit: 1. Each Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement signed and dated by the parent should include the date the policy was given and explained to the parent and the child’s enrollment date. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(g), the fence should be in good repair and have no gaps between the ground and the fence large enough for a small animal to enter the outdoor play area. Fence gates should be in good repair and not have gaps measuring more than three and one-half inches and less than nine inches. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you include the fence as part of your monthly playground inspection routine and report any fence repair concerns to management. CONSULTATION: 1. The written activity plan should be dated with the current date. 2. Per 10A NCAC 09 .0510(d)(1), activity area materials should be made available and accessible daily to the children three years of age and older with enough supplies for three children to play with the same or different materials or toys at the same or different time. Be reminded to make books, blocks, manipulatives, dramatic play, and art accessible to children three years old in rooms enrolled with two- and three-year-old children combined. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a), the original copy of the most recently approved fire inspection report should be sent to me by email within one week of completion. 4. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in September 2023 and should be posted in a prominent place in the facility. 5. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), shelter-in-place or lockdown drills should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. 6. Food Prep areas of the counter space should be labeled as “Food Prep Area” and should not be used to store paperwork or teaching supplies. Food Prep areas should be clean and clear of all materials except those items related to food service. 7. Walls, doors, doorframes, windowsills, vanities, sinks, faucets, diaper changing surfaces, and toilets should be cleaned daily and kept free of buildup, grime, and dust. 8. Water play should be made available to children at least weekly either indoors or outdoors. 9. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. 10. Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings including, but not limited to, ITS-SIDS training and Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for those violations corrected during today’s visit. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct those violations. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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 2) Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than June 17, 2024. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .0605 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/4/2024 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 6/4/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 390 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: 01:15 PM Time Out: 04:30 PM 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. You, Kelly Garceau, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on June 20, 2023. Your facility, owned by KinderCare Education LLC, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the NC Secretary of State website on June 3, 2024. Your program’s compliance history was 83% as of June 3, 2024 and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. Your last sanitation inspection was dated June 3, 2024 with a Superior classification and two demerits. Your last fire inspection was dated February 2, 2024 and received during today’s visit. I visited each licensed indoor and outdoor space with you today. I observed children arriving, playing in activity areas, transitioning from indoor play to outdoor play, transitioning from outdoor play to indoor play, participating in handwashing routines, eating lunch, participating in nap routines, and departing. You stated and I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a 4-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Lunch was prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Today’s lunch included diced chicken, green peas, tropical fruit mix, whole grain brown rice, and unflavored milk. Cold food and milk were stored in a commercial refrigerator in the kitchen at a temperature of 44 degrees Fahrenheit. Infant bottles and infant food were stored in a compact refrigerator in Space 4 (Infant Room) at a temperature of 22 degrees Fahrenheit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records and child record files. I will return on June 5, 2024 to monitor staff record files. I monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. The following violations were observed and cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 4, the fence gate leading to the toy storage are was warped and did not close at the bottom leaving a gap of approximately twelve inches. On Outdoor Space 5, the fence along the back fence-line had two large openings between the fence and the ground large enough for a small animal to enter the outdoor play space. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. No fire drill was conducted and recorded for February 2024. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 6, one instant cold compress pack with additional warnings was stored in an unlocked drawer. In Space 7, one instant cold compress pack with additional warnings was stored unlocked in a Ready to Go bag. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In Space 2, three permission to administer topical ointment forms were missing the amount of medication to administer and two permission forms were missing the instructions for how to apply the medication. In Space 3, one permission to administer topical ointment form was missing instructions for how to apply the medication. In Space 7, one medication permission to administer form and log for an emergency prescription medication was missing. In Space 2, one non-prescription topical ointment was not labeled with the name of the child. In Space 3, four non-prescription topical ointments were not labeled with the names of the children. In Space 4, five, non-prescription topical ointments were not labeled with the names of the children. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In Space 2, one prescription topical medication was not returned to the parent when the medication permission to administer form expired on 03/30/2024. In Space 3, one non-prescription topical medication was not returned to the parent when the medication expired in 11/2023. .0803(12) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 had not updated the annual health questionnaire. The last update was dated 10/03/2022. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 had not updated the Emergency Information Form annually. The last update was dated 10/03/2022. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. One staff member with a date of employment of 01/22/2024 did not complete new staff orientation training. .1101(a) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Two children did not have Children's Medical Report documents on file documenting a health examination had taken place within twelve months prior to or within 30 days after the date of enrollment. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child did not have an immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. The Health Care Needs section on the Child Enrollment Application for two children was missing information. .0801(a)(1-7) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 01/22/2024 did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training and/or present the training certificate within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) 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. The parent acknowledgement statement for the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was missing the date the policy was given and explained to the parent. .0608(b)(1-6) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: The following Technical Assistance was provided on 06/20/2023 during the last Annual Compliance visit and again today: 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(b)(2-3), the Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement signed and dated by the parent should include the date the policy was given to the parent and the child’s date of enrollment. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4), over-the-counter diaper creams and sunscreens should be labeled with the name of the child and the parent should complete the permission to administer form leaving no spaces blank. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the permission to administer form and label the medication with the child’s name when received from the parent and prior to the parent leaving the facility. 3. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b), all cleaning supplies and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. Disinfecting and sanitizing solutions mixed on a daily basis may be stored above five feet. During today’s visit, I observed one instant cold compress pack in an unlocked drawer in Space 6 and in a Ready to Go bag in Space 7. The instant cold compress pack in Space 6 was activated and used during the visit and then discarded in the trash can. The instant cold compress pack in Space 7 was removed from the classroom. In order to maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you discontinue the use of instant cold compress packs and use ice wrapped in a cloth instead. You stated these instant cold compress packs were intended to be used in the Ready to Go bags in the event of an emergency evacuation. I suggest you compile a Ready to Go Kit for the center which could contain items such as the instant cold compress packs that could be included in the kit but kept in a locked closet or room in the center until an emergency evacuation occurred. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(t), fire drills should be completed monthly and recorded on a log documenting the date and time of each drill, the length of time taken to evacuate the building, and the signature of the person who conducted the drill. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone, calendar, or tracking white board. 5. When medication or the permission to administer form have expired, the medication should be returned to the parent within 72 hours of expiration. During today’s visit, I observed one medication with an expired permission to administer form and one expired medication. The administrator removed both medications from the classrooms. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this child care rule and your expectations with your staff. 6. A Children’s Medical Report document provided by DCDEE should be completed by a health care professional and be on file for each child within the first 30 days of the child’s attendance. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. 7. A copy of each child’s immunization records should be on file within the first 30 days of the child’s attendance. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you encourage parents to submit immunization records during the enrollment process and before the child’s first day of attendance when possible. 8. The child’s enrollment application should include the completed health care needs section. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The following Technical Assistance was provided during today’s visit: 1. Each Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement signed and dated by the parent should include the date the policy was given and explained to the parent and the child’s enrollment date. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(g), the fence should be in good repair and have no gaps between the ground and the fence large enough for a small animal to enter the outdoor play area. Fence gates should be in good repair and not have gaps measuring more than three and one-half inches and less than nine inches. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you include the fence as part of your monthly playground inspection routine and report any fence repair concerns to management. CONSULTATION: 1. The written activity plan should be dated with the current date. 2. Per 10A NCAC 09 .0510(d)(1), activity area materials should be made available and accessible daily to the children three years of age and older with enough supplies for three children to play with the same or different materials or toys at the same or different time. Be reminded to make books, blocks, manipulatives, dramatic play, and art accessible to children three years old in rooms enrolled with two- and three-year-old children combined. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a), the original copy of the most recently approved fire inspection report should be sent to me by email within one week of completion. 4. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in September 2023 and should be posted in a prominent place in the facility. 5. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), shelter-in-place or lockdown drills should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. 6. Food Prep areas of the counter space should be labeled as “Food Prep Area” and should not be used to store paperwork or teaching supplies. Food Prep areas should be clean and clear of all materials except those items related to food service. 7. Walls, doors, doorframes, windowsills, vanities, sinks, faucets, diaper changing surfaces, and toilets should be cleaned daily and kept free of buildup, grime, and dust. 8. Water play should be made available to children at least weekly either indoors or outdoors. 9. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. 10. Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings including, but not limited to, ITS-SIDS training and Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for those violations corrected during today’s visit. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct those violations. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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 2) Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than June 17, 2024. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .0608 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/4/2024 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 6/4/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 390 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: 01:15 PM Time Out: 04:30 PM 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. You, Kelly Garceau, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on June 20, 2023. Your facility, owned by KinderCare Education LLC, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the NC Secretary of State website on June 3, 2024. Your program’s compliance history was 83% as of June 3, 2024 and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. Your last sanitation inspection was dated June 3, 2024 with a Superior classification and two demerits. Your last fire inspection was dated February 2, 2024 and received during today’s visit. I visited each licensed indoor and outdoor space with you today. I observed children arriving, playing in activity areas, transitioning from indoor play to outdoor play, transitioning from outdoor play to indoor play, participating in handwashing routines, eating lunch, participating in nap routines, and departing. You stated and I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a 4-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Lunch was prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Today’s lunch included diced chicken, green peas, tropical fruit mix, whole grain brown rice, and unflavored milk. Cold food and milk were stored in a commercial refrigerator in the kitchen at a temperature of 44 degrees Fahrenheit. Infant bottles and infant food were stored in a compact refrigerator in Space 4 (Infant Room) at a temperature of 22 degrees Fahrenheit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records and child record files. I will return on June 5, 2024 to monitor staff record files. I monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. The following violations were observed and cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 4, the fence gate leading to the toy storage are was warped and did not close at the bottom leaving a gap of approximately twelve inches. On Outdoor Space 5, the fence along the back fence-line had two large openings between the fence and the ground large enough for a small animal to enter the outdoor play space. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. No fire drill was conducted and recorded for February 2024. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 6, one instant cold compress pack with additional warnings was stored in an unlocked drawer. In Space 7, one instant cold compress pack with additional warnings was stored unlocked in a Ready to Go bag. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In Space 2, three permission to administer topical ointment forms were missing the amount of medication to administer and two permission forms were missing the instructions for how to apply the medication. In Space 3, one permission to administer topical ointment form was missing instructions for how to apply the medication. In Space 7, one medication permission to administer form and log for an emergency prescription medication was missing. In Space 2, one non-prescription topical ointment was not labeled with the name of the child. In Space 3, four non-prescription topical ointments were not labeled with the names of the children. In Space 4, five, non-prescription topical ointments were not labeled with the names of the children. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In Space 2, one prescription topical medication was not returned to the parent when the medication permission to administer form expired on 03/30/2024. In Space 3, one non-prescription topical medication was not returned to the parent when the medication expired in 11/2023. .0803(12) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 had not updated the annual health questionnaire. The last update was dated 10/03/2022. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 had not updated the Emergency Information Form annually. The last update was dated 10/03/2022. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. One staff member with a date of employment of 01/22/2024 did not complete new staff orientation training. .1101(a) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Two children did not have Children's Medical Report documents on file documenting a health examination had taken place within twelve months prior to or within 30 days after the date of enrollment. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child did not have an immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. The Health Care Needs section on the Child Enrollment Application for two children was missing information. .0801(a)(1-7) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 01/22/2024 did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training and/or present the training certificate within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) 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. The parent acknowledgement statement for the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was missing the date the policy was given and explained to the parent. .0608(b)(1-6) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: The following Technical Assistance was provided on 06/20/2023 during the last Annual Compliance visit and again today: 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(b)(2-3), the Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement signed and dated by the parent should include the date the policy was given to the parent and the child’s date of enrollment. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4), over-the-counter diaper creams and sunscreens should be labeled with the name of the child and the parent should complete the permission to administer form leaving no spaces blank. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the permission to administer form and label the medication with the child’s name when received from the parent and prior to the parent leaving the facility. 3. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b), all cleaning supplies and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. Disinfecting and sanitizing solutions mixed on a daily basis may be stored above five feet. During today’s visit, I observed one instant cold compress pack in an unlocked drawer in Space 6 and in a Ready to Go bag in Space 7. The instant cold compress pack in Space 6 was activated and used during the visit and then discarded in the trash can. The instant cold compress pack in Space 7 was removed from the classroom. In order to maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you discontinue the use of instant cold compress packs and use ice wrapped in a cloth instead. You stated these instant cold compress packs were intended to be used in the Ready to Go bags in the event of an emergency evacuation. I suggest you compile a Ready to Go Kit for the center which could contain items such as the instant cold compress packs that could be included in the kit but kept in a locked closet or room in the center until an emergency evacuation occurred. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(t), fire drills should be completed monthly and recorded on a log documenting the date and time of each drill, the length of time taken to evacuate the building, and the signature of the person who conducted the drill. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone, calendar, or tracking white board. 5. When medication or the permission to administer form have expired, the medication should be returned to the parent within 72 hours of expiration. During today’s visit, I observed one medication with an expired permission to administer form and one expired medication. The administrator removed both medications from the classrooms. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this child care rule and your expectations with your staff. 6. A Children’s Medical Report document provided by DCDEE should be completed by a health care professional and be on file for each child within the first 30 days of the child’s attendance. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. 7. A copy of each child’s immunization records should be on file within the first 30 days of the child’s attendance. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you encourage parents to submit immunization records during the enrollment process and before the child’s first day of attendance when possible. 8. The child’s enrollment application should include the completed health care needs section. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The following Technical Assistance was provided during today’s visit: 1. Each Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement signed and dated by the parent should include the date the policy was given and explained to the parent and the child’s enrollment date. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(g), the fence should be in good repair and have no gaps between the ground and the fence large enough for a small animal to enter the outdoor play area. Fence gates should be in good repair and not have gaps measuring more than three and one-half inches and less than nine inches. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you include the fence as part of your monthly playground inspection routine and report any fence repair concerns to management. CONSULTATION: 1. The written activity plan should be dated with the current date. 2. Per 10A NCAC 09 .0510(d)(1), activity area materials should be made available and accessible daily to the children three years of age and older with enough supplies for three children to play with the same or different materials or toys at the same or different time. Be reminded to make books, blocks, manipulatives, dramatic play, and art accessible to children three years old in rooms enrolled with two- and three-year-old children combined. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a), the original copy of the most recently approved fire inspection report should be sent to me by email within one week of completion. 4. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in September 2023 and should be posted in a prominent place in the facility. 5. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), shelter-in-place or lockdown drills should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. 6. Food Prep areas of the counter space should be labeled as “Food Prep Area” and should not be used to store paperwork or teaching supplies. Food Prep areas should be clean and clear of all materials except those items related to food service. 7. Walls, doors, doorframes, windowsills, vanities, sinks, faucets, diaper changing surfaces, and toilets should be cleaned daily and kept free of buildup, grime, and dust. 8. Water play should be made available to children at least weekly either indoors or outdoors. 9. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. 10. Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings including, but not limited to, ITS-SIDS training and Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for those violations corrected during today’s visit. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct those violations. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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 2) Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than June 17, 2024. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/4/2024 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 6/4/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 390 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: 01:15 PM Time Out: 04:30 PM 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. You, Kelly Garceau, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on June 20, 2023. Your facility, owned by KinderCare Education LLC, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the NC Secretary of State website on June 3, 2024. Your program’s compliance history was 83% as of June 3, 2024 and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. Your last sanitation inspection was dated June 3, 2024 with a Superior classification and two demerits. Your last fire inspection was dated February 2, 2024 and received during today’s visit. I visited each licensed indoor and outdoor space with you today. I observed children arriving, playing in activity areas, transitioning from indoor play to outdoor play, transitioning from outdoor play to indoor play, participating in handwashing routines, eating lunch, participating in nap routines, and departing. You stated and I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a 4-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Lunch was prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Today’s lunch included diced chicken, green peas, tropical fruit mix, whole grain brown rice, and unflavored milk. Cold food and milk were stored in a commercial refrigerator in the kitchen at a temperature of 44 degrees Fahrenheit. Infant bottles and infant food were stored in a compact refrigerator in Space 4 (Infant Room) at a temperature of 22 degrees Fahrenheit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records and child record files. I will return on June 5, 2024 to monitor staff record files. I monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. The following violations were observed and cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 4, the fence gate leading to the toy storage are was warped and did not close at the bottom leaving a gap of approximately twelve inches. On Outdoor Space 5, the fence along the back fence-line had two large openings between the fence and the ground large enough for a small animal to enter the outdoor play space. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. No fire drill was conducted and recorded for February 2024. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 6, one instant cold compress pack with additional warnings was stored in an unlocked drawer. In Space 7, one instant cold compress pack with additional warnings was stored unlocked in a Ready to Go bag. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In Space 2, three permission to administer topical ointment forms were missing the amount of medication to administer and two permission forms were missing the instructions for how to apply the medication. In Space 3, one permission to administer topical ointment form was missing instructions for how to apply the medication. In Space 7, one medication permission to administer form and log for an emergency prescription medication was missing. In Space 2, one non-prescription topical ointment was not labeled with the name of the child. In Space 3, four non-prescription topical ointments were not labeled with the names of the children. In Space 4, five, non-prescription topical ointments were not labeled with the names of the children. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In Space 2, one prescription topical medication was not returned to the parent when the medication permission to administer form expired on 03/30/2024. In Space 3, one non-prescription topical medication was not returned to the parent when the medication expired in 11/2023. .0803(12) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 had not updated the annual health questionnaire. The last update was dated 10/03/2022. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 had not updated the Emergency Information Form annually. The last update was dated 10/03/2022. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. One staff member with a date of employment of 01/22/2024 did not complete new staff orientation training. .1101(a) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Two children did not have Children's Medical Report documents on file documenting a health examination had taken place within twelve months prior to or within 30 days after the date of enrollment. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child did not have an immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. The Health Care Needs section on the Child Enrollment Application for two children was missing information. .0801(a)(1-7) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 01/22/2024 did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training and/or present the training certificate within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) 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. The parent acknowledgement statement for the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was missing the date the policy was given and explained to the parent. .0608(b)(1-6) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: The following Technical Assistance was provided on 06/20/2023 during the last Annual Compliance visit and again today: 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(b)(2-3), the Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement signed and dated by the parent should include the date the policy was given to the parent and the child’s date of enrollment. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4), over-the-counter diaper creams and sunscreens should be labeled with the name of the child and the parent should complete the permission to administer form leaving no spaces blank. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the permission to administer form and label the medication with the child’s name when received from the parent and prior to the parent leaving the facility. 3. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b), all cleaning supplies and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. Disinfecting and sanitizing solutions mixed on a daily basis may be stored above five feet. During today’s visit, I observed one instant cold compress pack in an unlocked drawer in Space 6 and in a Ready to Go bag in Space 7. The instant cold compress pack in Space 6 was activated and used during the visit and then discarded in the trash can. The instant cold compress pack in Space 7 was removed from the classroom. In order to maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you discontinue the use of instant cold compress packs and use ice wrapped in a cloth instead. You stated these instant cold compress packs were intended to be used in the Ready to Go bags in the event of an emergency evacuation. I suggest you compile a Ready to Go Kit for the center which could contain items such as the instant cold compress packs that could be included in the kit but kept in a locked closet or room in the center until an emergency evacuation occurred. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(t), fire drills should be completed monthly and recorded on a log documenting the date and time of each drill, the length of time taken to evacuate the building, and the signature of the person who conducted the drill. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone, calendar, or tracking white board. 5. When medication or the permission to administer form have expired, the medication should be returned to the parent within 72 hours of expiration. During today’s visit, I observed one medication with an expired permission to administer form and one expired medication. The administrator removed both medications from the classrooms. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this child care rule and your expectations with your staff. 6. A Children’s Medical Report document provided by DCDEE should be completed by a health care professional and be on file for each child within the first 30 days of the child’s attendance. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. 7. A copy of each child’s immunization records should be on file within the first 30 days of the child’s attendance. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you encourage parents to submit immunization records during the enrollment process and before the child’s first day of attendance when possible. 8. The child’s enrollment application should include the completed health care needs section. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The following Technical Assistance was provided during today’s visit: 1. Each Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement signed and dated by the parent should include the date the policy was given and explained to the parent and the child’s enrollment date. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(g), the fence should be in good repair and have no gaps between the ground and the fence large enough for a small animal to enter the outdoor play area. Fence gates should be in good repair and not have gaps measuring more than three and one-half inches and less than nine inches. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you include the fence as part of your monthly playground inspection routine and report any fence repair concerns to management. CONSULTATION: 1. The written activity plan should be dated with the current date. 2. Per 10A NCAC 09 .0510(d)(1), activity area materials should be made available and accessible daily to the children three years of age and older with enough supplies for three children to play with the same or different materials or toys at the same or different time. Be reminded to make books, blocks, manipulatives, dramatic play, and art accessible to children three years old in rooms enrolled with two- and three-year-old children combined. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a), the original copy of the most recently approved fire inspection report should be sent to me by email within one week of completion. 4. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in September 2023 and should be posted in a prominent place in the facility. 5. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), shelter-in-place or lockdown drills should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. 6. Food Prep areas of the counter space should be labeled as “Food Prep Area” and should not be used to store paperwork or teaching supplies. Food Prep areas should be clean and clear of all materials except those items related to food service. 7. Walls, doors, doorframes, windowsills, vanities, sinks, faucets, diaper changing surfaces, and toilets should be cleaned daily and kept free of buildup, grime, and dust. 8. Water play should be made available to children at least weekly either indoors or outdoors. 9. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. 10. Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings including, but not limited to, ITS-SIDS training and Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for those violations corrected during today’s visit. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct those violations. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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 2) Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than June 17, 2024. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 09.0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/4/2024 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 6/4/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 390 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: 01:15 PM Time Out: 04:30 PM 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. You, Kelly Garceau, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on June 20, 2023. Your facility, owned by KinderCare Education LLC, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the NC Secretary of State website on June 3, 2024. Your program’s compliance history was 83% as of June 3, 2024 and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. Your last sanitation inspection was dated June 3, 2024 with a Superior classification and two demerits. Your last fire inspection was dated February 2, 2024 and received during today’s visit. I visited each licensed indoor and outdoor space with you today. I observed children arriving, playing in activity areas, transitioning from indoor play to outdoor play, transitioning from outdoor play to indoor play, participating in handwashing routines, eating lunch, participating in nap routines, and departing. You stated and I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a 4-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Lunch was prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Today’s lunch included diced chicken, green peas, tropical fruit mix, whole grain brown rice, and unflavored milk. Cold food and milk were stored in a commercial refrigerator in the kitchen at a temperature of 44 degrees Fahrenheit. Infant bottles and infant food were stored in a compact refrigerator in Space 4 (Infant Room) at a temperature of 22 degrees Fahrenheit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records and child record files. I will return on June 5, 2024 to monitor staff record files. I monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. The following violations were observed and cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 4, the fence gate leading to the toy storage are was warped and did not close at the bottom leaving a gap of approximately twelve inches. On Outdoor Space 5, the fence along the back fence-line had two large openings between the fence and the ground large enough for a small animal to enter the outdoor play space. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. No fire drill was conducted and recorded for February 2024. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 6, one instant cold compress pack with additional warnings was stored in an unlocked drawer. In Space 7, one instant cold compress pack with additional warnings was stored unlocked in a Ready to Go bag. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In Space 2, three permission to administer topical ointment forms were missing the amount of medication to administer and two permission forms were missing the instructions for how to apply the medication. In Space 3, one permission to administer topical ointment form was missing instructions for how to apply the medication. In Space 7, one medication permission to administer form and log for an emergency prescription medication was missing. In Space 2, one non-prescription topical ointment was not labeled with the name of the child. In Space 3, four non-prescription topical ointments were not labeled with the names of the children. In Space 4, five, non-prescription topical ointments were not labeled with the names of the children. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In Space 2, one prescription topical medication was not returned to the parent when the medication permission to administer form expired on 03/30/2024. In Space 3, one non-prescription topical medication was not returned to the parent when the medication expired in 11/2023. .0803(12) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 had not updated the annual health questionnaire. The last update was dated 10/03/2022. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 had not updated the Emergency Information Form annually. The last update was dated 10/03/2022. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. One staff member with a date of employment of 01/22/2024 did not complete new staff orientation training. .1101(a) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Two children did not have Children's Medical Report documents on file documenting a health examination had taken place within twelve months prior to or within 30 days after the date of enrollment. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child did not have an immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. The Health Care Needs section on the Child Enrollment Application for two children was missing information. .0801(a)(1-7) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 01/22/2024 did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training and/or present the training certificate within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) 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. The parent acknowledgement statement for the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was missing the date the policy was given and explained to the parent. .0608(b)(1-6) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: The following Technical Assistance was provided on 06/20/2023 during the last Annual Compliance visit and again today: 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(b)(2-3), the Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement signed and dated by the parent should include the date the policy was given to the parent and the child’s date of enrollment. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4), over-the-counter diaper creams and sunscreens should be labeled with the name of the child and the parent should complete the permission to administer form leaving no spaces blank. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the permission to administer form and label the medication with the child’s name when received from the parent and prior to the parent leaving the facility. 3. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b), all cleaning supplies and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. Disinfecting and sanitizing solutions mixed on a daily basis may be stored above five feet. During today’s visit, I observed one instant cold compress pack in an unlocked drawer in Space 6 and in a Ready to Go bag in Space 7. The instant cold compress pack in Space 6 was activated and used during the visit and then discarded in the trash can. The instant cold compress pack in Space 7 was removed from the classroom. In order to maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you discontinue the use of instant cold compress packs and use ice wrapped in a cloth instead. You stated these instant cold compress packs were intended to be used in the Ready to Go bags in the event of an emergency evacuation. I suggest you compile a Ready to Go Kit for the center which could contain items such as the instant cold compress packs that could be included in the kit but kept in a locked closet or room in the center until an emergency evacuation occurred. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(t), fire drills should be completed monthly and recorded on a log documenting the date and time of each drill, the length of time taken to evacuate the building, and the signature of the person who conducted the drill. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone, calendar, or tracking white board. 5. When medication or the permission to administer form have expired, the medication should be returned to the parent within 72 hours of expiration. During today’s visit, I observed one medication with an expired permission to administer form and one expired medication. The administrator removed both medications from the classrooms. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this child care rule and your expectations with your staff. 6. A Children’s Medical Report document provided by DCDEE should be completed by a health care professional and be on file for each child within the first 30 days of the child’s attendance. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. 7. A copy of each child’s immunization records should be on file within the first 30 days of the child’s attendance. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you encourage parents to submit immunization records during the enrollment process and before the child’s first day of attendance when possible. 8. The child’s enrollment application should include the completed health care needs section. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The following Technical Assistance was provided during today’s visit: 1. Each Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement signed and dated by the parent should include the date the policy was given and explained to the parent and the child’s enrollment date. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(g), the fence should be in good repair and have no gaps between the ground and the fence large enough for a small animal to enter the outdoor play area. Fence gates should be in good repair and not have gaps measuring more than three and one-half inches and less than nine inches. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you include the fence as part of your monthly playground inspection routine and report any fence repair concerns to management. CONSULTATION: 1. The written activity plan should be dated with the current date. 2. Per 10A NCAC 09 .0510(d)(1), activity area materials should be made available and accessible daily to the children three years of age and older with enough supplies for three children to play with the same or different materials or toys at the same or different time. Be reminded to make books, blocks, manipulatives, dramatic play, and art accessible to children three years old in rooms enrolled with two- and three-year-old children combined. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a), the original copy of the most recently approved fire inspection report should be sent to me by email within one week of completion. 4. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in September 2023 and should be posted in a prominent place in the facility. 5. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), shelter-in-place or lockdown drills should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. 6. Food Prep areas of the counter space should be labeled as “Food Prep Area” and should not be used to store paperwork or teaching supplies. Food Prep areas should be clean and clear of all materials except those items related to food service. 7. Walls, doors, doorframes, windowsills, vanities, sinks, faucets, diaper changing surfaces, and toilets should be cleaned daily and kept free of buildup, grime, and dust. 8. Water play should be made available to children at least weekly either indoors or outdoors. 9. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. 10. Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings including, but not limited to, ITS-SIDS training and Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for those violations corrected during today’s visit. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct those violations. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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 2) Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than June 17, 2024. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/4/2024 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 6/4/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 390 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: 01:15 PM Time Out: 04:30 PM 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. You, Kelly Garceau, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on June 20, 2023. Your facility, owned by KinderCare Education LLC, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the NC Secretary of State website on June 3, 2024. Your program’s compliance history was 83% as of June 3, 2024 and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. Your last sanitation inspection was dated June 3, 2024 with a Superior classification and two demerits. Your last fire inspection was dated February 2, 2024 and received during today’s visit. I visited each licensed indoor and outdoor space with you today. I observed children arriving, playing in activity areas, transitioning from indoor play to outdoor play, transitioning from outdoor play to indoor play, participating in handwashing routines, eating lunch, participating in nap routines, and departing. You stated and I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a 4-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Lunch was prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Today’s lunch included diced chicken, green peas, tropical fruit mix, whole grain brown rice, and unflavored milk. Cold food and milk were stored in a commercial refrigerator in the kitchen at a temperature of 44 degrees Fahrenheit. Infant bottles and infant food were stored in a compact refrigerator in Space 4 (Infant Room) at a temperature of 22 degrees Fahrenheit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records and child record files. I will return on June 5, 2024 to monitor staff record files. I monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. The following violations were observed and cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 4, the fence gate leading to the toy storage are was warped and did not close at the bottom leaving a gap of approximately twelve inches. On Outdoor Space 5, the fence along the back fence-line had two large openings between the fence and the ground large enough for a small animal to enter the outdoor play space. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. No fire drill was conducted and recorded for February 2024. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 6, one instant cold compress pack with additional warnings was stored in an unlocked drawer. In Space 7, one instant cold compress pack with additional warnings was stored unlocked in a Ready to Go bag. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In Space 2, three permission to administer topical ointment forms were missing the amount of medication to administer and two permission forms were missing the instructions for how to apply the medication. In Space 3, one permission to administer topical ointment form was missing instructions for how to apply the medication. In Space 7, one medication permission to administer form and log for an emergency prescription medication was missing. In Space 2, one non-prescription topical ointment was not labeled with the name of the child. In Space 3, four non-prescription topical ointments were not labeled with the names of the children. In Space 4, five, non-prescription topical ointments were not labeled with the names of the children. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In Space 2, one prescription topical medication was not returned to the parent when the medication permission to administer form expired on 03/30/2024. In Space 3, one non-prescription topical medication was not returned to the parent when the medication expired in 11/2023. .0803(12) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 had not updated the annual health questionnaire. The last update was dated 10/03/2022. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 had not updated the Emergency Information Form annually. The last update was dated 10/03/2022. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. One staff member with a date of employment of 01/22/2024 did not complete new staff orientation training. .1101(a) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Two children did not have Children's Medical Report documents on file documenting a health examination had taken place within twelve months prior to or within 30 days after the date of enrollment. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child did not have an immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. The Health Care Needs section on the Child Enrollment Application for two children was missing information. .0801(a)(1-7) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 01/22/2024 did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training and/or present the training certificate within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) 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. The parent acknowledgement statement for the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was missing the date the policy was given and explained to the parent. .0608(b)(1-6) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: The following Technical Assistance was provided on 06/20/2023 during the last Annual Compliance visit and again today: 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(b)(2-3), the Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement signed and dated by the parent should include the date the policy was given to the parent and the child’s date of enrollment. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4), over-the-counter diaper creams and sunscreens should be labeled with the name of the child and the parent should complete the permission to administer form leaving no spaces blank. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the permission to administer form and label the medication with the child’s name when received from the parent and prior to the parent leaving the facility. 3. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b), all cleaning supplies and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. Disinfecting and sanitizing solutions mixed on a daily basis may be stored above five feet. During today’s visit, I observed one instant cold compress pack in an unlocked drawer in Space 6 and in a Ready to Go bag in Space 7. The instant cold compress pack in Space 6 was activated and used during the visit and then discarded in the trash can. The instant cold compress pack in Space 7 was removed from the classroom. In order to maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you discontinue the use of instant cold compress packs and use ice wrapped in a cloth instead. You stated these instant cold compress packs were intended to be used in the Ready to Go bags in the event of an emergency evacuation. I suggest you compile a Ready to Go Kit for the center which could contain items such as the instant cold compress packs that could be included in the kit but kept in a locked closet or room in the center until an emergency evacuation occurred. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(t), fire drills should be completed monthly and recorded on a log documenting the date and time of each drill, the length of time taken to evacuate the building, and the signature of the person who conducted the drill. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone, calendar, or tracking white board. 5. When medication or the permission to administer form have expired, the medication should be returned to the parent within 72 hours of expiration. During today’s visit, I observed one medication with an expired permission to administer form and one expired medication. The administrator removed both medications from the classrooms. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this child care rule and your expectations with your staff. 6. A Children’s Medical Report document provided by DCDEE should be completed by a health care professional and be on file for each child within the first 30 days of the child’s attendance. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. 7. A copy of each child’s immunization records should be on file within the first 30 days of the child’s attendance. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you encourage parents to submit immunization records during the enrollment process and before the child’s first day of attendance when possible. 8. The child’s enrollment application should include the completed health care needs section. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The following Technical Assistance was provided during today’s visit: 1. Each Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement signed and dated by the parent should include the date the policy was given and explained to the parent and the child’s enrollment date. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(g), the fence should be in good repair and have no gaps between the ground and the fence large enough for a small animal to enter the outdoor play area. Fence gates should be in good repair and not have gaps measuring more than three and one-half inches and less than nine inches. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you include the fence as part of your monthly playground inspection routine and report any fence repair concerns to management. CONSULTATION: 1. The written activity plan should be dated with the current date. 2. Per 10A NCAC 09 .0510(d)(1), activity area materials should be made available and accessible daily to the children three years of age and older with enough supplies for three children to play with the same or different materials or toys at the same or different time. Be reminded to make books, blocks, manipulatives, dramatic play, and art accessible to children three years old in rooms enrolled with two- and three-year-old children combined. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a), the original copy of the most recently approved fire inspection report should be sent to me by email within one week of completion. 4. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in September 2023 and should be posted in a prominent place in the facility. 5. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), shelter-in-place or lockdown drills should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. 6. Food Prep areas of the counter space should be labeled as “Food Prep Area” and should not be used to store paperwork or teaching supplies. Food Prep areas should be clean and clear of all materials except those items related to food service. 7. Walls, doors, doorframes, windowsills, vanities, sinks, faucets, diaper changing surfaces, and toilets should be cleaned daily and kept free of buildup, grime, and dust. 8. Water play should be made available to children at least weekly either indoors or outdoors. 9. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. 10. Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings including, but not limited to, ITS-SIDS training and Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for those violations corrected during today’s visit. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct those violations. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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 2) Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than June 17, 2024. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

GS110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/4/2024 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 6/4/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 390 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: 01:15 PM Time Out: 04:30 PM 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. You, Kelly Garceau, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on June 20, 2023. Your facility, owned by KinderCare Education LLC, was reviewed and listed as current-active on the NC Secretary of State website on June 3, 2024. Your program’s compliance history was 83% as of June 3, 2024 and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning seven points in staff education, three points in program standards, and one quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. Your last sanitation inspection was dated June 3, 2024 with a Superior classification and two demerits. Your last fire inspection was dated February 2, 2024 and received during today’s visit. I visited each licensed indoor and outdoor space with you today. I observed children arriving, playing in activity areas, transitioning from indoor play to outdoor play, transitioning from outdoor play to indoor play, participating in handwashing routines, eating lunch, participating in nap routines, and departing. You stated and I verified that your facility uses Early Foundations as the approved curriculum for a 4-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Lunch was prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Today’s lunch included diced chicken, green peas, tropical fruit mix, whole grain brown rice, and unflavored milk. Cold food and milk were stored in a commercial refrigerator in the kitchen at a temperature of 44 degrees Fahrenheit. Infant bottles and infant food were stored in a compact refrigerator in Space 4 (Infant Room) at a temperature of 22 degrees Fahrenheit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records and child record files. I will return on June 5, 2024 to monitor staff record files. I monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. The following violations were observed and cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On Outdoor Space 4, the fence gate leading to the toy storage are was warped and did not close at the bottom leaving a gap of approximately twelve inches. On Outdoor Space 5, the fence along the back fence-line had two large openings between the fence and the ground large enough for a small animal to enter the outdoor play space. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. No fire drill was conducted and recorded for February 2024. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 6, one instant cold compress pack with additional warnings was stored in an unlocked drawer. In Space 7, one instant cold compress pack with additional warnings was stored unlocked in a Ready to Go bag. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In Space 2, three permission to administer topical ointment forms were missing the amount of medication to administer and two permission forms were missing the instructions for how to apply the medication. In Space 3, one permission to administer topical ointment form was missing instructions for how to apply the medication. In Space 7, one medication permission to administer form and log for an emergency prescription medication was missing. In Space 2, one non-prescription topical ointment was not labeled with the name of the child. In Space 3, four non-prescription topical ointments were not labeled with the names of the children. In Space 4, five, non-prescription topical ointments were not labeled with the names of the children. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In Space 2, one prescription topical medication was not returned to the parent when the medication permission to administer form expired on 03/30/2024. In Space 3, one non-prescription topical medication was not returned to the parent when the medication expired in 11/2023. .0803(12) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 had not updated the annual health questionnaire. The last update was dated 10/03/2022. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 had not updated the Emergency Information Form annually. The last update was dated 10/03/2022. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. One staff member with a date of employment of 01/22/2024 did not complete new staff orientation training. .1101(a) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Two children did not have Children's Medical Report documents on file documenting a health examination had taken place within twelve months prior to or within 30 days after the date of enrollment. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child did not have an immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. The Health Care Needs section on the Child Enrollment Application for two children was missing information. .0801(a)(1-7) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 01/22/2024 did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training and/or present the training certificate within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) 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. The parent acknowledgement statement for the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was missing the date the policy was given and explained to the parent. .0608(b)(1-6) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: The following Technical Assistance was provided on 06/20/2023 during the last Annual Compliance visit and again today: 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(b)(2-3), the Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement signed and dated by the parent should include the date the policy was given to the parent and the child’s date of enrollment. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4), over-the-counter diaper creams and sunscreens should be labeled with the name of the child and the parent should complete the permission to administer form leaving no spaces blank. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the permission to administer form and label the medication with the child’s name when received from the parent and prior to the parent leaving the facility. 3. Per sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b), all cleaning supplies and items with “Keep out of the reach children” labels with additional warnings such as poison control contact numbers or first aid procedures should be stored in a locked cabinet, drawer, or closet. Disinfecting and sanitizing solutions mixed on a daily basis may be stored above five feet. During today’s visit, I observed one instant cold compress pack in an unlocked drawer in Space 6 and in a Ready to Go bag in Space 7. The instant cold compress pack in Space 6 was activated and used during the visit and then discarded in the trash can. The instant cold compress pack in Space 7 was removed from the classroom. In order to maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you discontinue the use of instant cold compress packs and use ice wrapped in a cloth instead. You stated these instant cold compress packs were intended to be used in the Ready to Go bags in the event of an emergency evacuation. I suggest you compile a Ready to Go Kit for the center which could contain items such as the instant cold compress packs that could be included in the kit but kept in a locked closet or room in the center until an emergency evacuation occurred. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(t), fire drills should be completed monthly and recorded on a log documenting the date and time of each drill, the length of time taken to evacuate the building, and the signature of the person who conducted the drill. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phone, calendar, or tracking white board. 5. When medication or the permission to administer form have expired, the medication should be returned to the parent within 72 hours of expiration. During today’s visit, I observed one medication with an expired permission to administer form and one expired medication. The administrator removed both medications from the classrooms. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this child care rule and your expectations with your staff. 6. A Children’s Medical Report document provided by DCDEE should be completed by a health care professional and be on file for each child within the first 30 days of the child’s attendance. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. 7. A copy of each child’s immunization records should be on file within the first 30 days of the child’s attendance. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you encourage parents to submit immunization records during the enrollment process and before the child’s first day of attendance when possible. 8. The child’s enrollment application should include the completed health care needs section. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review this document when received from the parent during the enrollment process prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The following Technical Assistance was provided during today’s visit: 1. Each Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement signed and dated by the parent should include the date the policy was given and explained to the parent and the child’s enrollment date. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment forms carefully when receiving them from the parent and have the parent add any missing information before the child’s first day of attendance. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(g), the fence should be in good repair and have no gaps between the ground and the fence large enough for a small animal to enter the outdoor play area. Fence gates should be in good repair and not have gaps measuring more than three and one-half inches and less than nine inches. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you include the fence as part of your monthly playground inspection routine and report any fence repair concerns to management. CONSULTATION: 1. The written activity plan should be dated with the current date. 2. Per 10A NCAC 09 .0510(d)(1), activity area materials should be made available and accessible daily to the children three years of age and older with enough supplies for three children to play with the same or different materials or toys at the same or different time. Be reminded to make books, blocks, manipulatives, dramatic play, and art accessible to children three years old in rooms enrolled with two- and three-year-old children combined. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a), the original copy of the most recently approved fire inspection report should be sent to me by email within one week of completion. 4. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in September 2023 and should be posted in a prominent place in the facility. 5. Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), shelter-in-place or lockdown drills should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. 6. Food Prep areas of the counter space should be labeled as “Food Prep Area” and should not be used to store paperwork or teaching supplies. Food Prep areas should be clean and clear of all materials except those items related to food service. 7. Walls, doors, doorframes, windowsills, vanities, sinks, faucets, diaper changing surfaces, and toilets should be cleaned daily and kept free of buildup, grime, and dust. 8. Water play should be made available to children at least weekly either indoors or outdoors. 9. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. 10. Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings including, but not limited to, ITS-SIDS training and Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for those violations corrected during today’s visit. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct those violations. All violations cited and not corrected today 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. 1) Your compliance 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 2) Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than June 17, 2024. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .2703 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/17/2023 Number Present: 55 Completed Date: 11/17/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to conduct an administrative action follow up (AA-FU) visit. You, Angela Lagano, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. Today, I monitored supervision, staff/child ratios, enhanced space capacity, use of approved space, permit restrictions and corrections of violations cited during the initial administrative action follow-up visit conducted on November 7, 2023. I also monitored the staff record file for two new staff members and the criminal background check qualification letters for therapists which I overlooked during the visit on November 7, 2023. I observed and cited one violation today. I conducted a walk-through of the facility today. I observed Space 5 was not currently being used due to staffing. You stated you had plans to open an infant classroom in this space in the near future. During today’s walk-through, I observed the changing table in Space 4 was unlocked making over-the-counter medications stored in Ziploc bags accessible to the children. I observed and cited one violation which was corrected during today’s visit. I observed the administrative action including the cover letter, action, and CAP with the violation listings posted on the wall at the facility entrance by the parent sign-in table. Violation item number 1948 was corrected the visit on November 7, 2023 and was observed as in compliance during today’s visit. I observed students arriving, playing in activity areas, and participating in teacher directed whole group activities. I observed children adequately supervised, adequate approved space used, voluntary enhanced staff-child ratios, enhanced space capacity and permit restrictions including “Daytime care only”, “Meets enhanced ratios”, “Meets enhanced space”, and “Children 2 ½ years old in rooms with direct exits only” maintained during today’s visit. During today’s visit, you provided written compliance documentation which you had prepared prior to my visit. In this written compliance documentation, you provided documentation stating violation item numbers 540, 844, 849, 1874, and 1899 where corrected prior to today’s visit. During today’s visit, I observed the seven over-the-counter diaper creams in Spaces 3 and 4 had been labeled with the name of each child. I observed the one lip balm in Space 9 had been labeled with the name of the child. I observed the missing information had been added to the two over-the-counter permission to administer forms in Spaces 4 and 7. I observed the medication with the incorrect permission to administer medication form was returned to the parent. I recorded these actions as having corrected violation item number 847 during today’s visit. During the November 7, 2023 visit, I observed violation item number 1035 corrected during the visit. I recorded the corrective actions in the violation listing but overlooked marking the violation as corrected during the visit. Today, I recorded violation item number 1035 as corrected during the visit. During today's visit, I observed the enrollment date had been added to the parent discipline policy acknowledgement statement in the three children’s files whose parent discipline acknowledgement was missing this information, thereby correcting violation item number 1325 during today’s visit. During today's visit, I observed the date the policy was given and explained to the parent had been added to the parent Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement in the three children’s files whose parent acknowledgement was missing this information, thereby correcting violation item number 1908 during today’s visit. During today’s visit, I noticed that violation item number 1834 was cited during the November 7, 2023 visit when violation item number 1329 should have been cited. A Visit Documentation Addendum form will be created to capture the removal of violation number 1834 and the addition of violation item number 1329 made in the public record database. The customized violation documentation was not changed. I explained this change in violation item numbers to you today. During today’s visit, I noticed that the customized violation documentation in violation item number 1898 included information for a staff member hired in 12/2022. This information was removed from the violation since this staff member would have until 12/2023 to complete the health and safety training requirements. A Visit Documentation Addendum form will be created to capture the changes made in the public record database. I observed and cited the following violations during today’s visit: 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 4, over-the-counter medications were stored in an unlocked a diaper changing table. The teacher locked the diaper changing table using the key which corrected the violation. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A valid qualification letter was not on file for one therapist who provided therapy services outside the classroom setting. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Compliance Plan: All violations cited should be corrected immediately. Please submit written, signed, and dated compliance documentation to me at the email/address below detailing the steps taken to correct each violation. Your compliance documentation must include the following: 1) A compliance letter including the following: 1. The name of your facility 2. The ID number of your facility 3. The date you write the letter 4. A corrective action statement for each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. 5. A compliance plan statement for each violation stating how you plan to ensure that you will not have that violation again. 6. Your signature 2) Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I should receive your compliance letter no later than December 1, 2023. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 The following violations should be corrected no later than the close of business on November 21, 2023: Violation item number 805 should be corrected by completing a fire drill for in November 2023 which you stated you had not completed to date, documenting your understanding of the child care rule requirement for fire drills, and documenting your plan to ensure this violation will not reoccur. Violation item number 859 should be corrected by completing a monthly playground inspection in November 2023, documenting your understanding of the child care rule requirement for monthly playground safety inspections and documenting your plan to ensure this violation will not reoccur. Violation item number 1321 should be corrected by reviewing the children’s medical report on file for each of the children whose files were reviewed on November 7, 2023 and making sure Section A was completed by the parent and/or Section B was completed by the health care professional. Children’s medical reports with Section A not completed by the parent should be completed and signed by the parent and dated with the current date to document the correction of the violation. Children’s medical reports with Section B not completed by the health care professional should be returned to the parent along with a request for the report to be completed by the health care provider and submitted to you no later than November 21, 2023. Violation item number 1329 should be corrected by reviewing each child enrollment application on file for each of the children currently enrolled at the facility and making sure the “Health Care Needs” section of the child enrollment application was completed by the parent. Child enrollment applications with the information in the “Health Care Needs” section missing for should be returned to the parent along with a request for the parent to provide the missing information, initial and date the revision with the current date to document the correction of the violation. Violation item number 1898 should be corrected by requiring the staff member to completed “Medication Administration in Child Care” training through DCDEE Moodle no later than November 21, 2023 and print and submit the training certificate to me for verification no later than the close of business on November 21, 2023. The following violation should be corrected and compliance documentation submitted to me no later than the close of business on December 1, 2023: Violation item number 1757 should be corrected by: 1) securing a copy of the Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letter for each of the 12 uncompensated providers I observed documented on your visitor log as having provided therapy services in your facility in a setting outside the classroom and unsupervised by a staff member with a valid CBC qualification letter on file, or 2) ensuring uncompensated providers who do not have a valid CBC qualification letter on file provide their therapy services inside the classroom and are supervised by a staff member with a valid CBC qualification letter on file. Technical Assistance: 1. I suggested you review chapter .2200 of the child care rules concerning administrative actions. As the operator of the business, you are responsible for the oversight of employed staff and the operation of the program and for making sure all applicable child care requirements are being followed. I discussed with you the importance of maintaining compliance with child requirements and the consequences that repeated violations may have on operating a licensed child care center. Continued non-compliance may lead to a more stringent action being issued to this facility. 2. Per G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e), each child care provider should have a valid Criminal Background Check qualification letter on file in their staff records. This includes therapists who visit your facility and are contracted to work with a child enrolled in your facility. When the therapist provides therapy services within the classroom with the teacher present, the therapist does not have to have a CBC qualification letter because the teacher is supervising the child and monitoring the therapy session. However, when the therapist takes the child out of the classroom to another part of the building and is left alone with the child, then the therapist has to have CBC qualification letter on file. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you develop a plan to screen therapists as they arrive which includes checking for a current CBC qualification letter that is on file. Consultation: 1. The Staff Health Assessment/Medical Report form should include the date of the assessment as the date the health exam was completed as well as the health care professional’s signature and date of signature. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you highlight the “date of the assessment” on the document so remind health care professionals that information is required in addition to their signature and date of signature. 2. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. 3. The Change of Information form for CBC is listed in law. When a new staff member starts working at a facility and gives the administrator a CBC qualification letter that was previously completed while working at another facility, but is still current, the administrator must send a Change of Information form for that new staff member to the CBC unit. The Change of Information form can be found on DCDEE’s website under Provider Documents and Forms. 4. Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings including, but not limited to, ITS-SIDS training and Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/17/2023 Number Present: 55 Completed Date: 11/17/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to conduct an administrative action follow up (AA-FU) visit. You, Angela Lagano, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. Today, I monitored supervision, staff/child ratios, enhanced space capacity, use of approved space, permit restrictions and corrections of violations cited during the initial administrative action follow-up visit conducted on November 7, 2023. I also monitored the staff record file for two new staff members and the criminal background check qualification letters for therapists which I overlooked during the visit on November 7, 2023. I observed and cited one violation today. I conducted a walk-through of the facility today. I observed Space 5 was not currently being used due to staffing. You stated you had plans to open an infant classroom in this space in the near future. During today’s walk-through, I observed the changing table in Space 4 was unlocked making over-the-counter medications stored in Ziploc bags accessible to the children. I observed and cited one violation which was corrected during today’s visit. I observed the administrative action including the cover letter, action, and CAP with the violation listings posted on the wall at the facility entrance by the parent sign-in table. Violation item number 1948 was corrected the visit on November 7, 2023 and was observed as in compliance during today’s visit. I observed students arriving, playing in activity areas, and participating in teacher directed whole group activities. I observed children adequately supervised, adequate approved space used, voluntary enhanced staff-child ratios, enhanced space capacity and permit restrictions including “Daytime care only”, “Meets enhanced ratios”, “Meets enhanced space”, and “Children 2 ½ years old in rooms with direct exits only” maintained during today’s visit. During today’s visit, you provided written compliance documentation which you had prepared prior to my visit. In this written compliance documentation, you provided documentation stating violation item numbers 540, 844, 849, 1874, and 1899 where corrected prior to today’s visit. During today’s visit, I observed the seven over-the-counter diaper creams in Spaces 3 and 4 had been labeled with the name of each child. I observed the one lip balm in Space 9 had been labeled with the name of the child. I observed the missing information had been added to the two over-the-counter permission to administer forms in Spaces 4 and 7. I observed the medication with the incorrect permission to administer medication form was returned to the parent. I recorded these actions as having corrected violation item number 847 during today’s visit. During the November 7, 2023 visit, I observed violation item number 1035 corrected during the visit. I recorded the corrective actions in the violation listing but overlooked marking the violation as corrected during the visit. Today, I recorded violation item number 1035 as corrected during the visit. During today's visit, I observed the enrollment date had been added to the parent discipline policy acknowledgement statement in the three children’s files whose parent discipline acknowledgement was missing this information, thereby correcting violation item number 1325 during today’s visit. During today's visit, I observed the date the policy was given and explained to the parent had been added to the parent Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement in the three children’s files whose parent acknowledgement was missing this information, thereby correcting violation item number 1908 during today’s visit. During today’s visit, I noticed that violation item number 1834 was cited during the November 7, 2023 visit when violation item number 1329 should have been cited. A Visit Documentation Addendum form will be created to capture the removal of violation number 1834 and the addition of violation item number 1329 made in the public record database. The customized violation documentation was not changed. I explained this change in violation item numbers to you today. During today’s visit, I noticed that the customized violation documentation in violation item number 1898 included information for a staff member hired in 12/2022. This information was removed from the violation since this staff member would have until 12/2023 to complete the health and safety training requirements. A Visit Documentation Addendum form will be created to capture the changes made in the public record database. I observed and cited the following violations during today’s visit: 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 4, over-the-counter medications were stored in an unlocked a diaper changing table. The teacher locked the diaper changing table using the key which corrected the violation. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A valid qualification letter was not on file for one therapist who provided therapy services outside the classroom setting. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Compliance Plan: All violations cited should be corrected immediately. Please submit written, signed, and dated compliance documentation to me at the email/address below detailing the steps taken to correct each violation. Your compliance documentation must include the following: 1) A compliance letter including the following: 1. The name of your facility 2. The ID number of your facility 3. The date you write the letter 4. A corrective action statement for each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. 5. A compliance plan statement for each violation stating how you plan to ensure that you will not have that violation again. 6. Your signature 2) Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I should receive your compliance letter no later than December 1, 2023. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 The following violations should be corrected no later than the close of business on November 21, 2023: Violation item number 805 should be corrected by completing a fire drill for in November 2023 which you stated you had not completed to date, documenting your understanding of the child care rule requirement for fire drills, and documenting your plan to ensure this violation will not reoccur. Violation item number 859 should be corrected by completing a monthly playground inspection in November 2023, documenting your understanding of the child care rule requirement for monthly playground safety inspections and documenting your plan to ensure this violation will not reoccur. Violation item number 1321 should be corrected by reviewing the children’s medical report on file for each of the children whose files were reviewed on November 7, 2023 and making sure Section A was completed by the parent and/or Section B was completed by the health care professional. Children’s medical reports with Section A not completed by the parent should be completed and signed by the parent and dated with the current date to document the correction of the violation. Children’s medical reports with Section B not completed by the health care professional should be returned to the parent along with a request for the report to be completed by the health care provider and submitted to you no later than November 21, 2023. Violation item number 1329 should be corrected by reviewing each child enrollment application on file for each of the children currently enrolled at the facility and making sure the “Health Care Needs” section of the child enrollment application was completed by the parent. Child enrollment applications with the information in the “Health Care Needs” section missing for should be returned to the parent along with a request for the parent to provide the missing information, initial and date the revision with the current date to document the correction of the violation. Violation item number 1898 should be corrected by requiring the staff member to completed “Medication Administration in Child Care” training through DCDEE Moodle no later than November 21, 2023 and print and submit the training certificate to me for verification no later than the close of business on November 21, 2023. The following violation should be corrected and compliance documentation submitted to me no later than the close of business on December 1, 2023: Violation item number 1757 should be corrected by: 1) securing a copy of the Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letter for each of the 12 uncompensated providers I observed documented on your visitor log as having provided therapy services in your facility in a setting outside the classroom and unsupervised by a staff member with a valid CBC qualification letter on file, or 2) ensuring uncompensated providers who do not have a valid CBC qualification letter on file provide their therapy services inside the classroom and are supervised by a staff member with a valid CBC qualification letter on file. Technical Assistance: 1. I suggested you review chapter .2200 of the child care rules concerning administrative actions. As the operator of the business, you are responsible for the oversight of employed staff and the operation of the program and for making sure all applicable child care requirements are being followed. I discussed with you the importance of maintaining compliance with child requirements and the consequences that repeated violations may have on operating a licensed child care center. Continued non-compliance may lead to a more stringent action being issued to this facility. 2. Per G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e), each child care provider should have a valid Criminal Background Check qualification letter on file in their staff records. This includes therapists who visit your facility and are contracted to work with a child enrolled in your facility. When the therapist provides therapy services within the classroom with the teacher present, the therapist does not have to have a CBC qualification letter because the teacher is supervising the child and monitoring the therapy session. However, when the therapist takes the child out of the classroom to another part of the building and is left alone with the child, then the therapist has to have CBC qualification letter on file. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you develop a plan to screen therapists as they arrive which includes checking for a current CBC qualification letter that is on file. Consultation: 1. The Staff Health Assessment/Medical Report form should include the date of the assessment as the date the health exam was completed as well as the health care professional’s signature and date of signature. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you highlight the “date of the assessment” on the document so remind health care professionals that information is required in addition to their signature and date of signature. 2. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. 3. The Change of Information form for CBC is listed in law. When a new staff member starts working at a facility and gives the administrator a CBC qualification letter that was previously completed while working at another facility, but is still current, the administrator must send a Change of Information form for that new staff member to the CBC unit. The Change of Information form can be found on DCDEE’s website under Provider Documents and Forms. 4. Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings including, but not limited to, ITS-SIDS training and Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/27/2023 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 9/27/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 185 Time In: 09:35 AM Time Out: 12:40 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Unannounced Visit Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an unannounced visit follow up. You, Faythe Brown, Assistant Director acting as Interim Director, assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning 7 points in staff education, 3 points in program standards, and 1 quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I visited each licensed indoor space today. I observed Space 2 was not currently being used due to staffing. I observed Space 5 being used as a storage area currently. I observed children playing in activity areas, participating in teacher directed whole group and small group activities, arriving, playing outside, preparing for lunch, eating lunch, transitioning from lunch to nap, and preparing for nap. I observed children adequately supervised during today’s visit. I observed voluntary enhanced staff-child ratios maintained during today’s visit. I observed adequate approved space used during today’s visit. I observed enhanced space capacity maintained throughout the center during today's visit. I observed permit restrictions including “Daytime care only”, “Meets enhanced ratios”, “Meets enhanced space”, and “Children 2 ½ years old in rooms with direct exits only” maintained during today’s visit. I reviewed one staff record file for a new staff member hired since your last unannounced visit follow-up on August 29, 2023. I reviewed sixteen staff record files for returning staff members monitoring for valid and current criminal background check (CBC) qualification letters, valid and current First Aid and CPR training, valid and current ITS-SIDS training for applicable staff members, completed Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training, and completed Health and Safety training requirements. All staff record files were available for review today. I observed and cited the following violations during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Space 2, the activity plan posted was dated 08/01 to 08/31. In Space 6, the activity plan was dated 09/04 to 09/08. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 did not have a copy of the completed training certificate for Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training in the staff file. .1102(g) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. One staff member with a date of employment of 11/02/2015 completed one health and safety training topic on 07/08/2022 but the training topic was due by 12/01/2021. The staff member had completed the training prior to today's visit. .1103(b) Compliance Plan: 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 compliance 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. I must receive your compliance letter no later than October 11, 2023. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 During today’s visit, I provided the following technical assistance: 1) New staff orientation training should be completed by the administrator or assigned responsible staff member and should be training focused on the center’s procedures, policies, and expectations. Health and safety training courses should not be used as new staff orientation training but should be in addition to health and safety training. 2) A copy of the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training completion certificate should be kept in the staff record file for verification each year. If the staff member loses their completion certificate, the training should be taken again. 3) While not an issue today, please be reminded per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(a), new employee’s should complete the Health & Safety (H&S) Training requirement within the first year of employment. 4) Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1103(b), returning employees should revisit each H&S Training topic every five years. 5) The due date of the H&S training five-year renewal is calculated five years from the date on each H&S training certificate. 6) Staff medical files should be stored separately from all other staff record files. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or our lead consultant and interim supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .1103 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/27/2023 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 9/27/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 185 Time In: 09:35 AM Time Out: 12:40 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Unannounced Visit Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an unannounced visit follow up. You, Faythe Brown, Assistant Director acting as Interim Director, assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning 7 points in staff education, 3 points in program standards, and 1 quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I visited each licensed indoor space today. I observed Space 2 was not currently being used due to staffing. I observed Space 5 being used as a storage area currently. I observed children playing in activity areas, participating in teacher directed whole group and small group activities, arriving, playing outside, preparing for lunch, eating lunch, transitioning from lunch to nap, and preparing for nap. I observed children adequately supervised during today’s visit. I observed voluntary enhanced staff-child ratios maintained during today’s visit. I observed adequate approved space used during today’s visit. I observed enhanced space capacity maintained throughout the center during today's visit. I observed permit restrictions including “Daytime care only”, “Meets enhanced ratios”, “Meets enhanced space”, and “Children 2 ½ years old in rooms with direct exits only” maintained during today’s visit. I reviewed one staff record file for a new staff member hired since your last unannounced visit follow-up on August 29, 2023. I reviewed sixteen staff record files for returning staff members monitoring for valid and current criminal background check (CBC) qualification letters, valid and current First Aid and CPR training, valid and current ITS-SIDS training for applicable staff members, completed Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training, and completed Health and Safety training requirements. All staff record files were available for review today. I observed and cited the following violations during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Space 2, the activity plan posted was dated 08/01 to 08/31. In Space 6, the activity plan was dated 09/04 to 09/08. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 did not have a copy of the completed training certificate for Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training in the staff file. .1102(g) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. One staff member with a date of employment of 11/02/2015 completed one health and safety training topic on 07/08/2022 but the training topic was due by 12/01/2021. The staff member had completed the training prior to today's visit. .1103(b) Compliance Plan: 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 compliance 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. I must receive your compliance letter no later than October 11, 2023. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 During today’s visit, I provided the following technical assistance: 1) New staff orientation training should be completed by the administrator or assigned responsible staff member and should be training focused on the center’s procedures, policies, and expectations. Health and safety training courses should not be used as new staff orientation training but should be in addition to health and safety training. 2) A copy of the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training completion certificate should be kept in the staff record file for verification each year. If the staff member loses their completion certificate, the training should be taken again. 3) While not an issue today, please be reminded per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(a), new employee’s should complete the Health & Safety (H&S) Training requirement within the first year of employment. 4) Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1103(b), returning employees should revisit each H&S Training topic every five years. 5) The due date of the H&S training five-year renewal is calculated five years from the date on each H&S training certificate. 6) Staff medical files should be stored separately from all other staff record files. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or our lead consultant and interim supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/27/2023 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 9/27/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 185 Time In: 09:35 AM Time Out: 12:40 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Unannounced Visit Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an unannounced visit follow up. You, Faythe Brown, Assistant Director acting as Interim Director, assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning 7 points in staff education, 3 points in program standards, and 1 quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I visited each licensed indoor space today. I observed Space 2 was not currently being used due to staffing. I observed Space 5 being used as a storage area currently. I observed children playing in activity areas, participating in teacher directed whole group and small group activities, arriving, playing outside, preparing for lunch, eating lunch, transitioning from lunch to nap, and preparing for nap. I observed children adequately supervised during today’s visit. I observed voluntary enhanced staff-child ratios maintained during today’s visit. I observed adequate approved space used during today’s visit. I observed enhanced space capacity maintained throughout the center during today's visit. I observed permit restrictions including “Daytime care only”, “Meets enhanced ratios”, “Meets enhanced space”, and “Children 2 ½ years old in rooms with direct exits only” maintained during today’s visit. I reviewed one staff record file for a new staff member hired since your last unannounced visit follow-up on August 29, 2023. I reviewed sixteen staff record files for returning staff members monitoring for valid and current criminal background check (CBC) qualification letters, valid and current First Aid and CPR training, valid and current ITS-SIDS training for applicable staff members, completed Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training, and completed Health and Safety training requirements. All staff record files were available for review today. I observed and cited the following violations during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Space 2, the activity plan posted was dated 08/01 to 08/31. In Space 6, the activity plan was dated 09/04 to 09/08. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a date of employment of 10/03/2022 did not have a copy of the completed training certificate for Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training in the staff file. .1102(g) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. One staff member with a date of employment of 11/02/2015 completed one health and safety training topic on 07/08/2022 but the training topic was due by 12/01/2021. The staff member had completed the training prior to today's visit. .1103(b) Compliance Plan: 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 compliance 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. I must receive your compliance letter no later than October 11, 2023. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 During today’s visit, I provided the following technical assistance: 1) New staff orientation training should be completed by the administrator or assigned responsible staff member and should be training focused on the center’s procedures, policies, and expectations. Health and safety training courses should not be used as new staff orientation training but should be in addition to health and safety training. 2) A copy of the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training completion certificate should be kept in the staff record file for verification each year. If the staff member loses their completion certificate, the training should be taken again. 3) While not an issue today, please be reminded per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(a), new employee’s should complete the Health & Safety (H&S) Training requirement within the first year of employment. 4) Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1103(b), returning employees should revisit each H&S Training topic every five years. 5) The due date of the H&S training five-year renewal is calculated five years from the date on each H&S training certificate. 6) Staff medical files should be stored separately from all other staff record files. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or our lead consultant and interim supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .1801 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0923-054L Visit Date: 9/13/2023 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 9/13/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 155 Time In: 01:25 PM 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. Faythe Brown, Assistant Director, assisted me with today’s visit. According to the report, there is a concern of inadequate supervision in the classroom for infants. Today, you reported eighty children ranging in age from zero to four years of age were enrolled in your facility with sixty-five children ranging in age from zero to four years of age present today. Due to the nature of the report, a walk-through of the entire facility was not conducted today. I visited Space 4 designated for infant care. Classroom staff stated nine children of infant age were enrolled in Space 4. I observed ten children present in Space 4 ranging in age from zero to one year of age supervised by two teachers. Classroom staff stated four one-year-old children were visiting from another classroom today. I observed the children in Space 4 engaged in floor play, tummy-time, cruising furniture, napping, and waking. Today, I interviewed three staff members. Staff stated a report was made to the administration on 09/05/2023 regarding an incident of inadequate supervision in the classroom for infant children. Staff stated the incident was immediately investigated by the administrative staff. Staff stated the staff member named in the reported incident was placed on administrative leave as of 09/06/2023 pending further investigation. Staff members stated that on 09/05/2023, a teacher working in the classroom for infant care left the classroom door open while she stepped approximately eight steps down the hall to grab the mop bucket leaving one or two infant children unattended in the classroom. Several staff members reported two children were left unattended while one staff member reported one child was left unattended while sleeping in a crib. Administrative staff stated the facility has a “Supervision Policy” that is reviewed with each staff member during the first six weeks of employment as part of the new staff orientation training. Today, I reviewed the center’s supervision policy. I observed the center’s supervision policy was included in the new staff training but was not included in the parent handbook. I monitored the staff file for the staff member mentioned in the report. I observed a signed new staff orientation training form and acknowledgment statement dated 06/28/2023 reflecting that the staff member had received and understood the center’s supervision policy. I observed adequate supervision practices in the classroom for infants during today’s visit. I observed staff members positioned in the indoor environment to maximize their ability to hear and see the children at all times and render assistance. I observed staff interact with the children while moving about the indoor area. I observed staff aware of each child’s location in the classroom and aware of the children's activities at all times. I observed staff provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs, and capabilities of each child. I observed the supervision policy and supervision practices were in compliance during today’s visit. Based on my interviews with staff, I was able to determine that the reported incident occurred at the facility. The allegation of a concern of inadequate supervision is substantiated. I observed children adequately supervised during today’s visit. I observed voluntary enhanced staff-child ratios maintained during today’s visit. I observed adequate approved space used and enhanced space capacity maintained throughout the center during today's visit. I observed permit restrictions including “Daytime care only”, “Meets enhanced ratios”, “Meets enhanced space”, and “Children 2 ½ years old in rooms with direct exits only” maintained during today’s visit. The following violation was observed and cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. Two infant children enrolled and present in Space 4 were left unattended in the classroom on 09/05/2023 while the staff member responsible for the group left the classroom to walk approximately eight steps down the hallway to retrieve the mop bucket. .1801(a)(1-5) Compliance Plan: 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 compliance 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. I must receive your compliance letter no later than September 27, 2023. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 During today’s visit, I provided the following technical assistance: 1) Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1801, children should be adequately supervised at all times in child care centers. Adequate supervision means staff should: (a) Be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance. (b) Interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor area. (c) Know where each child is located and be aware of the children's activities at all times. (d) Provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs, and capabilities of each child. (e) Be able to see and hear children aged from birth to five years old while the children are eating. 2) No child should be left unattended in the indoor or outdoor environment at any time. 3) I suggested you review your Supervision Policy with your staff. 4) Based on child care rules, substantiation of an allegation may lead to an administrative action. 5) Based on child care monitoring procedures, a violation cited for inadequate supervision requires a follow-up visit. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. Please continue e visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or our lead consultant and interim supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/29/2023 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 8/29/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 227 Time In: 09:08 AM Time Out: 12:55 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Unannounced Visit Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an unannounced follow up visit. You, Faythe Brown, Assistant Director acting as Interim Director, assisted me with today’s visit. Upon arrival, you informed me that Breanna Wallace, Administrator, was no longer employed and her last day of employment was August 18, 2023. You stated you had been acting as the Interim Director since August 21, 2023. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning 7 points in staff education, 3 points in program standards, and 1 quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I visited each licensed indoor space and one outdoor space today. I observed Space 2 was not currently being used due to staffing. You stated there were plans to open Space 2 in October 2023. You stated and I observed Space 5 was being used as a storage area currently. I observed children playing in activity areas, participating in teacher directed whole group and small group activities, arriving, playing outside, preparing for lunch, eating lunch, transitioning from lunch to nap, and preparing for nap. I observed children adequately supervised during today’s visit. I observed voluntary enhanced staff-child ratios maintained during today’s visit. I observed adequate approved space used during today’s visit. I observed enhanced space capacity maintained throughout the center during today's visit. I observed permit restrictions including “Daytime care only”, “Meets enhanced ratios”, “Meets enhanced space”, and “Children 2 ½ years old in rooms with direct exits only” maintained during today’s visit. I reviewed four staff record files for new staff members hired since your annual compliance visit on June 20, 2023. I reviewed twelve staff record files for returning staff members monitoring for valid and current criminal background check (CBC) qualification letters, valid and current First Aid and CPR training, and valid and current ITS-SIDS training for applicable staff members. One staff record file reviewed on June 30, 2023 was unavailable for review today. I observed and cited the following violations during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One new staff member with a date of employment of 07/17/2023 did not have a staff medical/health assessment on file. One new staff member with a date of employment of 07/24/2023 did not have a staff medical/health assessment on file. One new staff member with a date of employment of 07/24/2023 had a staff medical/health assessment on file dated 08/07/2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. One staff record file monitored on June 30, 2023 was not available for review during today's visit. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A valid Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letter was not on file for two therapists who deliver therapy services to children unsupervised outside the classroom setting. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. Four staff record files contained the Health Questionnaire document for four new staff members hired 06/28/2023, 07/17/2023, and 07/24/2023. .0701(d) Compliance Plan: 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 compliance 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. I must receive your compliance letter no later than September 12, 2023. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 During today’s visit, I provided the following technical assistance: 1) Each employee should have a staff medical assessment on file on or before the first day of employment with all the required information provided as documented on the Staff Medical/Health Assessment document provided by DCDEE. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you delay the start date for any employee that does not provide the original copy of the Staff Medical/Health Assessment document provided by DCDEE on or before the first day of employment. 2) All staff records should be kept up to date as an on-going record-keeping process at the facility and ready for review at any time a DCDEE representative visits the facility. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you locate the missing staff record file which was unavailable for review today or create a replacement staff record file containing all the required documentation. 3) Staff medical statements, proof of a tuberculosis test or screening, and completed health questionnaires should be included in the staff member's medical file, which should be kept separate from the staff member's other staff record file documents. 4) Changing dates or information on documents may be considered falsification of records. Falsification may be grounds for revoking the license of the facility. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Kris Updike, by email at kris.updike@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/29/2023 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 8/29/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 227 Time In: 09:08 AM Time Out: 12:55 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Unannounced Visit Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an unannounced follow up visit. You, Faythe Brown, Assistant Director acting as Interim Director, assisted me with today’s visit. Upon arrival, you informed me that Breanna Wallace, Administrator, was no longer employed and her last day of employment was August 18, 2023. You stated you had been acting as the Interim Director since August 21, 2023. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning 7 points in staff education, 3 points in program standards, and 1 quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I visited each licensed indoor space and one outdoor space today. I observed Space 2 was not currently being used due to staffing. You stated there were plans to open Space 2 in October 2023. You stated and I observed Space 5 was being used as a storage area currently. I observed children playing in activity areas, participating in teacher directed whole group and small group activities, arriving, playing outside, preparing for lunch, eating lunch, transitioning from lunch to nap, and preparing for nap. I observed children adequately supervised during today’s visit. I observed voluntary enhanced staff-child ratios maintained during today’s visit. I observed adequate approved space used during today’s visit. I observed enhanced space capacity maintained throughout the center during today's visit. I observed permit restrictions including “Daytime care only”, “Meets enhanced ratios”, “Meets enhanced space”, and “Children 2 ½ years old in rooms with direct exits only” maintained during today’s visit. I reviewed four staff record files for new staff members hired since your annual compliance visit on June 20, 2023. I reviewed twelve staff record files for returning staff members monitoring for valid and current criminal background check (CBC) qualification letters, valid and current First Aid and CPR training, and valid and current ITS-SIDS training for applicable staff members. One staff record file reviewed on June 30, 2023 was unavailable for review today. I observed and cited the following violations during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One new staff member with a date of employment of 07/17/2023 did not have a staff medical/health assessment on file. One new staff member with a date of employment of 07/24/2023 did not have a staff medical/health assessment on file. One new staff member with a date of employment of 07/24/2023 had a staff medical/health assessment on file dated 08/07/2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. One staff record file monitored on June 30, 2023 was not available for review during today's visit. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A valid Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letter was not on file for two therapists who deliver therapy services to children unsupervised outside the classroom setting. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. Four staff record files contained the Health Questionnaire document for four new staff members hired 06/28/2023, 07/17/2023, and 07/24/2023. .0701(d) Compliance Plan: 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 compliance 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. I must receive your compliance letter no later than September 12, 2023. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 During today’s visit, I provided the following technical assistance: 1) Each employee should have a staff medical assessment on file on or before the first day of employment with all the required information provided as documented on the Staff Medical/Health Assessment document provided by DCDEE. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you delay the start date for any employee that does not provide the original copy of the Staff Medical/Health Assessment document provided by DCDEE on or before the first day of employment. 2) All staff records should be kept up to date as an on-going record-keeping process at the facility and ready for review at any time a DCDEE representative visits the facility. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you locate the missing staff record file which was unavailable for review today or create a replacement staff record file containing all the required documentation. 3) Staff medical statements, proof of a tuberculosis test or screening, and completed health questionnaires should be included in the staff member's medical file, which should be kept separate from the staff member's other staff record file documents. 4) Changing dates or information on documents may be considered falsification of records. Falsification may be grounds for revoking the license of the facility. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Kris Updike, by email at kris.updike@dhhs.nc.gov. 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: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/29/2023 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 8/29/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 227 Time In: 09:08 AM Time Out: 12:55 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Unannounced Visit Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an unannounced follow up visit. You, Faythe Brown, Assistant Director acting as Interim Director, assisted me with today’s visit. Upon arrival, you informed me that Breanna Wallace, Administrator, was no longer employed and her last day of employment was August 18, 2023. You stated you had been acting as the Interim Director since August 21, 2023. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on January 19, 2023, earning 7 points in staff education, 3 points in program standards, and 1 quality point for meeting staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. I visited each licensed indoor space and one outdoor space today. I observed Space 2 was not currently being used due to staffing. You stated there were plans to open Space 2 in October 2023. You stated and I observed Space 5 was being used as a storage area currently. I observed children playing in activity areas, participating in teacher directed whole group and small group activities, arriving, playing outside, preparing for lunch, eating lunch, transitioning from lunch to nap, and preparing for nap. I observed children adequately supervised during today’s visit. I observed voluntary enhanced staff-child ratios maintained during today’s visit. I observed adequate approved space used during today’s visit. I observed enhanced space capacity maintained throughout the center during today's visit. I observed permit restrictions including “Daytime care only”, “Meets enhanced ratios”, “Meets enhanced space”, and “Children 2 ½ years old in rooms with direct exits only” maintained during today’s visit. I reviewed four staff record files for new staff members hired since your annual compliance visit on June 20, 2023. I reviewed twelve staff record files for returning staff members monitoring for valid and current criminal background check (CBC) qualification letters, valid and current First Aid and CPR training, and valid and current ITS-SIDS training for applicable staff members. One staff record file reviewed on June 30, 2023 was unavailable for review today. I observed and cited the following violations during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One new staff member with a date of employment of 07/17/2023 did not have a staff medical/health assessment on file. One new staff member with a date of employment of 07/24/2023 did not have a staff medical/health assessment on file. One new staff member with a date of employment of 07/24/2023 had a staff medical/health assessment on file dated 08/07/2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. One staff record file monitored on June 30, 2023 was not available for review during today's visit. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A valid Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letter was not on file for two therapists who deliver therapy services to children unsupervised outside the classroom setting. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. Four staff record files contained the Health Questionnaire document for four new staff members hired 06/28/2023, 07/17/2023, and 07/24/2023. .0701(d) Compliance Plan: 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 compliance 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. I must receive your compliance letter no later than September 12, 2023. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 During today’s visit, I provided the following technical assistance: 1) Each employee should have a staff medical assessment on file on or before the first day of employment with all the required information provided as documented on the Staff Medical/Health Assessment document provided by DCDEE. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you delay the start date for any employee that does not provide the original copy of the Staff Medical/Health Assessment document provided by DCDEE on or before the first day of employment. 2) All staff records should be kept up to date as an on-going record-keeping process at the facility and ready for review at any time a DCDEE representative visits the facility. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you locate the missing staff record file which was unavailable for review today or create a replacement staff record file containing all the required documentation. 3) Staff medical statements, proof of a tuberculosis test or screening, and completed health questionnaires should be included in the staff member's medical file, which should be kept separate from the staff member's other staff record file documents. 4) Changing dates or information on documents may be considered falsification of records. Falsification may be grounds for revoking the license of the facility. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Kris Updike, by email at kris.updike@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER-FAIRGROVE Facility ID: 18000601 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/17/2023 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 7/17/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 95 Time In: 02:20 PM Time Out: 03:55 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to conduct an annual compliance follow up (AC-FU) visit to verify compliance with child care violations cited on June 30, 2023. Faythe Brown, Assistant Director, assisted me with today’s visit. Today, I monitored supervision, staff/child ratios, enhanced space capacity, use of approved space, permit restrictions and corrections of violations cited during the Annual Compliance Follow-Up (AC-FU) visit conducted on June 30, 2023. Compliance documentation was due on July 14, 2023. After speaking with Breanna Wallace, Administrator, by phone this morning, I received the compliance documentation by email. Ms. Wallace stated she did not submit her compliance documentation on July 14, 2023 as expected because she was working in the kitchen on July 14, 2023 and did not open her computer at all that day. Although I received the compliance documentation by email at 11:08am today, the compliance documentation for violation item number 1032 stated the staff medical report documents had been given to the staff members with a due date of 07/21/2023. I requested but did not receive the staff medical reports, new staff orientation documentation, Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statements, and Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training completion certificate as supporting documents and was unable to verify correction of the violations based on the documentation received by email. I conducted a walk-through of the facility today. I observed Spaces 2 and 5 were not currently being used due to staffing. I observed students waking from nap, eating snack which included yogurt, granola, and water, and playing in activity areas. I observed children adequately supervised during today’s visit. I observed voluntary enhanced staff-child ratios maintained during today’s visit. I observed adequate approved space used during today’s visit. I observed enhanced space capacity maintained throughout the center during today's visit. I observed permit restrictions including “Daytime care only”, “Meets enhanced ratios”, “Meets enhanced space”, and “Children 2 ½ years old in rooms with direct exits only” maintained during today’s visit. During today’s visit, I observed a New Staff Orientation Training Documentation form in the staff file for the staff members with a dates of employment of 02/14/2023 and 12/21/2022, thereby verifying correction of violation item number 1045. During today’s visit, I observed a Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy acknowledgement statement in the staff file for staff members with a date of employment of 02/14/2023 and 12/21/2022, thereby verifying correction of violation item number 1874. During today’s visit, I observed the completion certificate for Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training in the staff file for the staff member with a date of employment of 02/14/2023, thereby verifying correction of violation item number 1897. During today’s visit, I observed no staff medical report in the staff file for staff members with a date of employment of 10/03/2022, 02/14/2023, and 02/20/2023. Ms. Brown stated two of the three staff members had not begun the process to secure a staff medical report and one staff member had initiated the process and expected to have the process completed this week. Violation item number 1032 was cited again today. I observed and cited the following violation during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Three staff members with dates of employment of 10/03/2022, 02/14/2023, and 02/20/2023 did not have a staff medical report on file. This is a repeat violation from 06/30/2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) Compliance Plan: All violations cited should be corrected immediately. Please submit written, signed, and dated compliance documentation to me at the email/address below detailing the steps taken to correct each violation. Your compliance documentation must include the following: 1) A compliance letter including the following: 1. The name of your facility 2. The ID number of your facility 3. The date you write the letter 4. A corrective action statement for each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. 5. A compliance plan statement for each violation stating how you plan to ensure that you will not have that violation again. 6. Your signature 2) Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I should receive your compliance letter no later than July 31, 2023. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance 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. Child care programs 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 eighteen (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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 During today’s visit, I provided the following technical assistance: 1) Each employee should have a staff medical assessment on file on or before the first day of employment with all the required information provided as documented on the Staff Medical/Health Assessment document provided by DCDEE. If the staff member brings you a copy of a visit summary for a recent wellness check with a health professional, I advised you also request the completed Staff Medical/Health Assessment document since that document specifically documents the answers to questions specifically pertaining to child care providers. I advised you to keep both documents on file in the staff member’s medical record file. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Kris Updike, by email at kris.updike@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.