Creative Minds Learning Academy

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: CREATIVE MINDS LEARNING ACADEMY Facility ID: 66000109 Consultant: MARQUITTA HOLLOMAN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/31/2026 Number Present: 25 Completed Date: 3/31/2026 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit was to monitor this program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. This facility operates with a Four (4) Star License issued October 25, 2019, earning five (5) points in Program Standards, four (4) points in Staff Education, and one (1) quality point. The last sanitation inspection was completed on December 31, 2025, earning a superior classification. The last satisfactory fire inspection was completed on December 8, 2025. The center's last annual compliance monitoring visit was on October 21, 2025. M. Vaughan, Owner/Administrator, was present and available to assist. Twenty-five (25) children were present and observed in outdoor play, free choice activities, toileting and handwashing routines, teacher directed activities, and eating lunch. Lunch consisted of corn dogs, baked beans, applesauce, whole grain crackers, and milk. All interactions were warm and nurturing. The following requirements were monitored during today's visit: Staff/Child Ratio, Supervision, Specialized trainings, Storage of Hazardous Products, Storage of Medication, Adequate/Approved Space, General Safety, Staff Records, Program Records, and License Posted and Permit Restrictions. I used a checklist as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable childcare requirements pertinent to your program. A computer generated visit summary was reviewed and left with you at the conclusion of the visit. The following violations of childcare requirements were documented today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. The CBC qualification letter expired on 1/21/2026 for M. Vaughan. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Child Care Licensing Requirements are established to ensure a safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate environment for all child care facilities. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all licensing requirements that apply for your facility. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with the applicable laws and rules; always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to ensure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the childcare laws and rules on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before April 14, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is accurate documentation. If any information provided in the letter is not accurate, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Marquitta Holloman, Child Care Consultant PO Box 644 Murfreesboro, NC 27855 marquitta.holloman@dhhs.nc.gov COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today's visit, this facility has maintained an 18-month compliance score of 98%. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE/ CONSULTATION CBC qualification letter for M. Vaughan expired 1/21/2026. REMINDERS CPR and First Aid training for all staff will expire 4/30/2026. QRIS/STAR RATED LICENSE On the visit conducted on 10/21/2025, we discussed the different pathway options for the new QRIS system. You decided to complete Pathway 2-Classroom and Instructional Quality Pathway. We completed an in-depth review of the forms and requirements specific to Pathway 2 and you were given the opportunity to ask questions. Today we discussed any lingering questions and/or concerns you have completing the documents pertaining to Pathway 2. RESOURCES The Division of Child Development and Early Education's (DCDEE) website is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Visit this website for the most up-to-date child care forms, resources related to child care, and new child care rules/laws. RECALLED ITEMS You can visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website at www.cpsc.gov for more information on recently recalled items. CONTACTS • Hertford-Northampton Smart Start Partnership for Children at 711 East Vance Street, Murfreesboro, NC 27855, 252-398 -4124, northamptonsmartstart.org. • I encourage you to contact Amy Peterson, BSN, RN, Child Care Health Consultant: amy.petersen@dhhs.nc.gov, if additional assistance regarding applicable health and safety practices as is needed. If you have questions related to this visit or if I can be of additional assistance, I can be reached at 252-370-0207 or marquitta.holloman@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact Susan Fuller, Licensing Supervisor, at 252-373-9809. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: CREATIVE MINDS LEARNING ACADEMY Facility ID: 66000109 Consultant: MARQUITTA HOLLOMAN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/31/2026 Number Present: 25 Completed Date: 3/31/2026 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit was to monitor this program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. This facility operates with a Four (4) Star License issued October 25, 2019, earning five (5) points in Program Standards, four (4) points in Staff Education, and one (1) quality point. The last sanitation inspection was completed on December 31, 2025, earning a superior classification. The last satisfactory fire inspection was completed on December 8, 2025. The center's last annual compliance monitoring visit was on October 21, 2025. M. Vaughan, Owner/Administrator, was present and available to assist. Twenty-five (25) children were present and observed in outdoor play, free choice activities, toileting and handwashing routines, teacher directed activities, and eating lunch. Lunch consisted of corn dogs, baked beans, applesauce, whole grain crackers, and milk. All interactions were warm and nurturing. The following requirements were monitored during today's visit: Staff/Child Ratio, Supervision, Specialized trainings, Storage of Hazardous Products, Storage of Medication, Adequate/Approved Space, General Safety, Staff Records, Program Records, and License Posted and Permit Restrictions. I used a checklist as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable childcare requirements pertinent to your program. A computer generated visit summary was reviewed and left with you at the conclusion of the visit. The following violations of childcare requirements were documented today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. The CBC qualification letter expired on 1/21/2026 for M. Vaughan. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Child Care Licensing Requirements are established to ensure a safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate environment for all child care facilities. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all licensing requirements that apply for your facility. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with the applicable laws and rules; always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to ensure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the childcare laws and rules on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before April 14, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is accurate documentation. If any information provided in the letter is not accurate, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Marquitta Holloman, Child Care Consultant PO Box 644 Murfreesboro, NC 27855 marquitta.holloman@dhhs.nc.gov COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today's visit, this facility has maintained an 18-month compliance score of 98%. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE/ CONSULTATION CBC qualification letter for M. Vaughan expired 1/21/2026. REMINDERS CPR and First Aid training for all staff will expire 4/30/2026. QRIS/STAR RATED LICENSE On the visit conducted on 10/21/2025, we discussed the different pathway options for the new QRIS system. You decided to complete Pathway 2-Classroom and Instructional Quality Pathway. We completed an in-depth review of the forms and requirements specific to Pathway 2 and you were given the opportunity to ask questions. Today we discussed any lingering questions and/or concerns you have completing the documents pertaining to Pathway 2. RESOURCES The Division of Child Development and Early Education's (DCDEE) website is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Visit this website for the most up-to-date child care forms, resources related to child care, and new child care rules/laws. RECALLED ITEMS You can visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website at www.cpsc.gov for more information on recently recalled items. CONTACTS • Hertford-Northampton Smart Start Partnership for Children at 711 East Vance Street, Murfreesboro, NC 27855, 252-398 -4124, northamptonsmartstart.org. • I encourage you to contact Amy Peterson, BSN, RN, Child Care Health Consultant: amy.petersen@dhhs.nc.gov, if additional assistance regarding applicable health and safety practices as is needed. If you have questions related to this visit or if I can be of additional assistance, I can be reached at 252-370-0207 or marquitta.holloman@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact Susan Fuller, Licensing Supervisor, at 252-373-9809. 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: CREATIVE MINDS LEARNING ACADEMY Facility ID: 66000109 Consultant: MARQUITTA HOLLOMAN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/21/2025 Number Present: 12 Completed Date: 10/21/2025 Age: From 0 To 3 Total Minutes: 170 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 12:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit was to monitor this program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. This facility operates with a Four (4) Star License issued October 25, 2019, earning five (5) points in Program Standards, four (4) points in Staff Education, and one (1) quality point. The last sanitation inspection was completed on February 4, 2025 earning a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was completed on October 16, 2024 and was approved for day time and night care. The fire inspection is due to be completed before the end of the month. The center's last annual compliance visit was on November 26, 2024. M. Ricks, Lead Teacher/Administrative Assistant, was present and available to assist. Twelve (12) children age ranging zero (0) to three (3) years of age were present. Children were observed in free choice play, teacher directed activities, toileting and hand washing routines, outdoor play, and lunch. Lunch consisted of fish sticks, carrots, pears, whole grain crackers, and milk. All interactions with staff and children were positive and nurturing. You stated you do not provide transportation. I used the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Center Item Number Listing as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. Ten percent of staff records and ten percent of children’s records, and all program records were monitored. All records were found to be in compliance. One (1) violation was documented for the outdoor play area. Any violations observed today were discussed with you and documented on the computer- generated visit summary reviewed with you at the end of the visit. The following violations were documented on today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. One (1) yellow table, one (1) yellow chair, and one (1) red table were observed broken in the outdoor play area. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) Child Care Licensing Requirements are established to ensure a safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate environment for all child care facilities. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all licensing requirements that apply for your facility. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with the applicable laws and rules; always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to ensure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the childcare laws and rules on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented were corrected immediately. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today's visit, this facility has maintained an 18-month compliance score of 99%. A copy of the compliance history score was printed and left with you at the conclusion of the visit. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE/ CONSULTATION OUTDOOR PLAY AREA One (1) yellow table, one (1) yellow chair, and one (1) red table were observed broken in the outdoor play area. The items were removed from the outdoor play area during the visit. REMINDERS • The facility's annual fire inspection will expire 10/6/2025. However, you have until the end of the month to get the inspection completed. I encourage you to contact the local fire inspector as soon as possible to schedule an inspection and ensure the inspection is completed before the previous one expires. The inspection should be submitted to the consultant within one (1) week of completion. QRIS/STAR RATED LICENSE We discussed the different pathway options for the new QRIS system. You decided to complete Pathway 2-Classroom and Instructional Quality. We completed an in-depth review of the forms specific to Pathway 2 and you were given the opportunity to ask questions. RESOURCES The Division of Child Development and Early Education's (DCDEE) website is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Visit this website for the most up-to-date child care forms, resources related to child care, and new child care rules/laws. RECALLED ITEMS You can visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website at www.cpsc.gov for more information on recently recalled items. CONTACTS • Hertford-Northampton Smart Start Partnership for Children at 711 East Vance Street, Murfreesboro, NC 27855, 252-398 -4124, northamptonsmartstart.org. • I encourage you to contact Amy Peterson, BSN, RN, Child Care Health Consultant: amy.petersen@dhhs.nc.gov, if additional assistance regarding applicable health and safety practices as is needed. If you have questions related to this visit or if I can be of additional assistance, I can be reached at 252-370-0207 or marquitta.holloman@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact Susan Fuller, Licensing Supervisor at 252-373-9809. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: CREATIVE MINDS LEARNING ACADEMY Facility ID: 66000109 Consultant: MARQUITTA HOLLOMAN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/21/2025 Number Present: 12 Completed Date: 10/21/2025 Age: From 0 To 3 Total Minutes: 170 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 12:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit was to monitor this program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. This facility operates with a Four (4) Star License issued October 25, 2019, earning five (5) points in Program Standards, four (4) points in Staff Education, and one (1) quality point. The last sanitation inspection was completed on February 4, 2025 earning a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was completed on October 16, 2024 and was approved for day time and night care. The fire inspection is due to be completed before the end of the month. The center's last annual compliance visit was on November 26, 2024. M. Ricks, Lead Teacher/Administrative Assistant, was present and available to assist. Twelve (12) children age ranging zero (0) to three (3) years of age were present. Children were observed in free choice play, teacher directed activities, toileting and hand washing routines, outdoor play, and lunch. Lunch consisted of fish sticks, carrots, pears, whole grain crackers, and milk. All interactions with staff and children were positive and nurturing. You stated you do not provide transportation. I used the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Center Item Number Listing as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. Ten percent of staff records and ten percent of children’s records, and all program records were monitored. All records were found to be in compliance. One (1) violation was documented for the outdoor play area. Any violations observed today were discussed with you and documented on the computer- generated visit summary reviewed with you at the end of the visit. The following violations were documented on today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. One (1) yellow table, one (1) yellow chair, and one (1) red table were observed broken in the outdoor play area. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) Child Care Licensing Requirements are established to ensure a safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate environment for all child care facilities. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all licensing requirements that apply for your facility. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with the applicable laws and rules; always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to ensure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the childcare laws and rules on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented were corrected immediately. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today's visit, this facility has maintained an 18-month compliance score of 99%. A copy of the compliance history score was printed and left with you at the conclusion of the visit. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE/ CONSULTATION OUTDOOR PLAY AREA One (1) yellow table, one (1) yellow chair, and one (1) red table were observed broken in the outdoor play area. The items were removed from the outdoor play area during the visit. REMINDERS • The facility's annual fire inspection will expire 10/6/2025. However, you have until the end of the month to get the inspection completed. I encourage you to contact the local fire inspector as soon as possible to schedule an inspection and ensure the inspection is completed before the previous one expires. The inspection should be submitted to the consultant within one (1) week of completion. QRIS/STAR RATED LICENSE We discussed the different pathway options for the new QRIS system. You decided to complete Pathway 2-Classroom and Instructional Quality. We completed an in-depth review of the forms specific to Pathway 2 and you were given the opportunity to ask questions. RESOURCES The Division of Child Development and Early Education's (DCDEE) website is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Visit this website for the most up-to-date child care forms, resources related to child care, and new child care rules/laws. RECALLED ITEMS You can visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website at www.cpsc.gov for more information on recently recalled items. CONTACTS • Hertford-Northampton Smart Start Partnership for Children at 711 East Vance Street, Murfreesboro, NC 27855, 252-398 -4124, northamptonsmartstart.org. • I encourage you to contact Amy Peterson, BSN, RN, Child Care Health Consultant: amy.petersen@dhhs.nc.gov, if additional assistance regarding applicable health and safety practices as is needed. If you have questions related to this visit or if I can be of additional assistance, I can be reached at 252-370-0207 or marquitta.holloman@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact Susan Fuller, Licensing Supervisor at 252-373-9809. 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: CREATIVE MINDS LEARNING ACADEMY Facility ID: 66000109 Consultant: MARQUITTA HOLLOMAN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/22/2025 Number Present: 14 Completed Date: 4/22/2025 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 115 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 11:40 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit was to monitor this program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. This facility operates with a Four (4) Star License issued October 25, 2019, earning five (5) points in Program Standards, four (4) points in Staff Education, and one (1) quality point. The last sanitation inspection was completed on February 4, 2025 earning a “Superior” classification The last fire inspection was completed on October 16, 2024, and was approved for day time and night care. The center's last annual compliance visit was on November 26, 2024. M. Vaughan, Owner, was present and available to assist, but had to leave before the conclusion of the visit, M. Ricks, Lead Teacher/Administrative Assistant, was available to assist with the remainder of the visit. Fourteen (14) children age ranging zero (0) to ten (10) years of age were present. Children were observed in outdoor play, free choice play, teacher directed activities, toileting and hand washing routines, and lunch. Lunch consisted of corn dogs, baked beans, mixed fruit, whole grain crackers, and milk. All interactions with staff and children were positive and nurturing. You stated you do not provide transportation. The following requirements were monitored during today's visit: Staff/Child Ratio, Supervision, Specialized trainings, Storage of Hazardous Products, Storage of Medication, Adequate/Approved Space, General Safety, Staff Records, Program Records, and License Posted and Permit Restrictions. I used a checklist as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable childcare requirements pertinent to your program. A computer- generated visit summary reviewed and left with you at the end of the visit. The following violations of child care requirements were documented today. Violation Number Comment Rule 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). Criminal Background qualification letter for L. Cotton expired on 2/14/2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) Child Care Licensing Requirements are established to ensure a safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate environment for all child care facilities. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all licensing requirements that apply for your facility. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with the applicable laws and rules; always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to ensure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the childcare laws and rules on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 6, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is accurate documentation. If any information provided in the letter is not accurate, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Marquitta Holloman, Child Care Consultant PO Box 644 Murfreesboro, NC 27855 marquitta.holloman@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today's visit, this facility has maintained an 18-month compliance score of 98%. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE/ CONSULTATION CRIMINAL BACKGROUND The criminal background check for L. Cotton expired 2/14/2025. I encourage you to have the staff complete this as soon as possible. L. Cotton is not allowed to work at the facility until the criminal background check process is completed and she obtains a new qualification letter. RESOURCES The Division of Child Development and Early Education's (DCDEE) website is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Visit this website for the most up-to-date child care forms, resources related to child care, and new child care rules/laws. STAR RATED LICENSE Hold harmless has been extended until the new QRIS is implemented (SB 425). Providers in Cohort 1 are not required to go any further with a rated license assessment unless they want to, and providers in Cohort 2 do not need to start their preparation year unless they want to. This should be the providers’ choice only. 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 on 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 1-800-859-0829 and someone will assist you. PATHWAYS TO THE PROFESSION The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) prioritizes increasing career pathways for future ECE teachers. However, after lengthy careful consideration DCDEE has reluctantly decided it will not bring back the Early Childhood Equivalency Exam due to concerns about academic integrity. We make this decision to ensure fair and equitable opportunity for all aspiring early childhood teachers, uphold minimum educational standards, and keep staff and children in licensed child care environments safe. Note, other Pathways to the Profession of Early Childhood Teacher still include: • EDU 119 – Introduction to Early Childhood Education: This 12-week course introduces the foundations of culturally responsive, equitable and inclusive early childhood education. Available at many N.C. Community Colleges with online, evening, or in-person options. Upon successful completion of EDU-119, the student earns the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential and qualifies to be a lead teacher in a child care center. • Test-Out Option for EDU 119: An early childhood professional who has gained knowledge through work and lived experience and/or professional development may be able to receive Credit for Prior Learning by taking a challenge exam for EDU119. Contact a local N.C. Community College for testing information. • EDU 3119 – Intro to Early Childhood Education: This new short-term (8-week) continuing education offering is designed to prepare students to work in a childcare facility. Students learn how to design developmentally appropriate and inclusive lesson plans and activities for young children in alignment with NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development and state regulations. At the end of the course, students will have obtained a qualifying letter which provides eligibility for employment in a N.C. child care facility. Contact a local N.C. Community College to see if this course is available near you. • Child Development Associate® Credential (CDA): DCDEE is still offering free memberships for a limited time to the ECE workforce to enroll in Teaching Strategies Quorum® online teacher education platform. Get support as a new teacher, or complete CDA Coursework and get guidance for portfolio development. Coursework is also available in Spanish on Quorum. Scholarships for CDA course materials are available through TEACH Early Childhood® North Carolina Scholarship Program. Remember lead teachers lacking the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential have six months to enroll in EDU 119 or a DCDEE-approved equivalent, plus up to 18 months to complete the course. RECALLED ITEMS You can visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website at www.cpsc.gov for more information on recently recalled items. CONTACTS • Hertford-Northampton Smart Start Partnership for Children at 711 East Vance Street, Murfreesboro, NC 27855, 252-398 -4124, northamptonsmartstart.org. • I encourage you to contact Stacy Rosser, Regional Child Care Health Consultant, at stacy_rosser@unc.edu or 252-557- 4208, if additional assistance regarding applicable health and safety practices as is needed. If you have questions related to this visit or if I can be of additional assistance, I can be reached at 252-370-0207 or marquitta.holloman@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact Susan Fuller, Licensing Supervisor, at 252-373-9809. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: CREATIVE MINDS LEARNING ACADEMY Facility ID: 66000109 Consultant: MARQUITTA HOLLOMAN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/22/2025 Number Present: 14 Completed Date: 4/22/2025 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 115 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 11:40 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit was to monitor this program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. This facility operates with a Four (4) Star License issued October 25, 2019, earning five (5) points in Program Standards, four (4) points in Staff Education, and one (1) quality point. The last sanitation inspection was completed on February 4, 2025 earning a “Superior” classification The last fire inspection was completed on October 16, 2024, and was approved for day time and night care. The center's last annual compliance visit was on November 26, 2024. M. Vaughan, Owner, was present and available to assist, but had to leave before the conclusion of the visit, M. Ricks, Lead Teacher/Administrative Assistant, was available to assist with the remainder of the visit. Fourteen (14) children age ranging zero (0) to ten (10) years of age were present. Children were observed in outdoor play, free choice play, teacher directed activities, toileting and hand washing routines, and lunch. Lunch consisted of corn dogs, baked beans, mixed fruit, whole grain crackers, and milk. All interactions with staff and children were positive and nurturing. You stated you do not provide transportation. The following requirements were monitored during today's visit: Staff/Child Ratio, Supervision, Specialized trainings, Storage of Hazardous Products, Storage of Medication, Adequate/Approved Space, General Safety, Staff Records, Program Records, and License Posted and Permit Restrictions. I used a checklist as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable childcare requirements pertinent to your program. A computer- generated visit summary reviewed and left with you at the end of the visit. The following violations of child care requirements were documented today. Violation Number Comment Rule 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). Criminal Background qualification letter for L. Cotton expired on 2/14/2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) Child Care Licensing Requirements are established to ensure a safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate environment for all child care facilities. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all licensing requirements that apply for your facility. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with the applicable laws and rules; always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to ensure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the childcare laws and rules on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 6, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is accurate documentation. If any information provided in the letter is not accurate, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Marquitta Holloman, Child Care Consultant PO Box 644 Murfreesboro, NC 27855 marquitta.holloman@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today's visit, this facility has maintained an 18-month compliance score of 98%. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE/ CONSULTATION CRIMINAL BACKGROUND The criminal background check for L. Cotton expired 2/14/2025. I encourage you to have the staff complete this as soon as possible. L. Cotton is not allowed to work at the facility until the criminal background check process is completed and she obtains a new qualification letter. RESOURCES The Division of Child Development and Early Education's (DCDEE) website is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Visit this website for the most up-to-date child care forms, resources related to child care, and new child care rules/laws. STAR RATED LICENSE Hold harmless has been extended until the new QRIS is implemented (SB 425). Providers in Cohort 1 are not required to go any further with a rated license assessment unless they want to, and providers in Cohort 2 do not need to start their preparation year unless they want to. This should be the providers’ choice only. 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 on 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 1-800-859-0829 and someone will assist you. PATHWAYS TO THE PROFESSION The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) prioritizes increasing career pathways for future ECE teachers. However, after lengthy careful consideration DCDEE has reluctantly decided it will not bring back the Early Childhood Equivalency Exam due to concerns about academic integrity. We make this decision to ensure fair and equitable opportunity for all aspiring early childhood teachers, uphold minimum educational standards, and keep staff and children in licensed child care environments safe. Note, other Pathways to the Profession of Early Childhood Teacher still include: • EDU 119 – Introduction to Early Childhood Education: This 12-week course introduces the foundations of culturally responsive, equitable and inclusive early childhood education. Available at many N.C. Community Colleges with online, evening, or in-person options. Upon successful completion of EDU-119, the student earns the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential and qualifies to be a lead teacher in a child care center. • Test-Out Option for EDU 119: An early childhood professional who has gained knowledge through work and lived experience and/or professional development may be able to receive Credit for Prior Learning by taking a challenge exam for EDU119. Contact a local N.C. Community College for testing information. • EDU 3119 – Intro to Early Childhood Education: This new short-term (8-week) continuing education offering is designed to prepare students to work in a childcare facility. Students learn how to design developmentally appropriate and inclusive lesson plans and activities for young children in alignment with NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development and state regulations. At the end of the course, students will have obtained a qualifying letter which provides eligibility for employment in a N.C. child care facility. Contact a local N.C. Community College to see if this course is available near you. • Child Development Associate® Credential (CDA): DCDEE is still offering free memberships for a limited time to the ECE workforce to enroll in Teaching Strategies Quorum® online teacher education platform. Get support as a new teacher, or complete CDA Coursework and get guidance for portfolio development. Coursework is also available in Spanish on Quorum. Scholarships for CDA course materials are available through TEACH Early Childhood® North Carolina Scholarship Program. Remember lead teachers lacking the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential have six months to enroll in EDU 119 or a DCDEE-approved equivalent, plus up to 18 months to complete the course. RECALLED ITEMS You can visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website at www.cpsc.gov for more information on recently recalled items. CONTACTS • Hertford-Northampton Smart Start Partnership for Children at 711 East Vance Street, Murfreesboro, NC 27855, 252-398 -4124, northamptonsmartstart.org. • I encourage you to contact Stacy Rosser, Regional Child Care Health Consultant, at stacy_rosser@unc.edu or 252-557- 4208, if additional assistance regarding applicable health and safety practices as is needed. If you have questions related to this visit or if I can be of additional assistance, I can be reached at 252-370-0207 or marquitta.holloman@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact Susan Fuller, Licensing Supervisor, at 252-373-9809. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: CREATIVE MINDS LEARNING ACADEMY Facility ID: 66000109 Consultant: MARQUITTA HOLLOMAN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/21/2023 Number Present: 22 Completed Date: 12/21/2023 Age: From 1 To 12 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit was to monitor this program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. This facility operates with a Four (4) Star License issued October 25, 2019, earning five (5) points in Program Standards, four (4) points in Staff Education, and one (1) quality point. The last sanitation inspection was completed on December 13, 2022 earning a “Superior” classification. The sanitation inspection is expired, and the facility has not obtained a current inspection. The last fire inspection was completed on October 31, 2023 and was approved for day time and night care. The center's last annual compliance visit was on January 23, 2023. M. Vaughan, Owner, was present and available to assist. Twenty-two (22) children age ranging zero (0) to twelve (12) years of age were present. Children were observed in outdoor play, free choice play, teacher directed activities, toileting and hand washing routines, and lunch. Lunch consisted of sliced turkey, green beans, pineapple, crackers, and milk. All interactions with staff and children were positive and nurturing. You stated you do not provide transportation. I used the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Center Item Number Listing as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. Any violations observed today were discussed with you and documented on the visit summary left with you at the conclusion of the visit. The following violations of child care requirements were documented today. Violation Number Comment Rule 104 Center has not passed required sanitation inspection and received an approved or superior rating. The sanitation inspection was not completed before it expired. The last sanitation inspection was completed 12/13/2022. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(b) Child Care Licensing Requirements are established to ensure a safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate environment for all child care facilities. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all licensing requirements that apply to your facility. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with the applicable laws and rules; always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to ensure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the childcare laws and rules on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today's visit, this facility has maintained an 18-month compliance score of 96%. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE/ CONSULTATION ANNUAL INSPECTIONS The sanitation inspection was not completed before the previous expired. The last sanitation inspection was completed on December 13, 2022. You stated you contacted the sanitation inspector before the inspection expired and she stated she would be here before the center closes for the holidays. All inspections should be completed before the expiration of the previous inspection. RESOURCES STAR RATED LICENSE I informed you information regarding the preparation for the star rated license assessment process is located on the Division of Child Development (https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/) and North Carolina Rated License Project website. I recommended you and staff visit ncrlap.org to obtain detailed information about how the process will be implemented and review prep year activities and ideas offered. More information will be provided regarding your programs rated license assessment timeframe. DCDEE WORKS: Please continue to keep your Staff and Training worksheets up to date. Update the worksheets when changes are made, such as hiring new staff, additional coursework, or training. We discussed making sure you submit your education transcripts to the “WORKS” system, so your education can be evaluated. If the education information is not in the “WORKS” system when the star-rated license is reassessed it could affect the points in the education standards component. Please contact the WORKS department if you have questions on what is needed. The information is below 919-814-6350 or dcdee.works@dhhs.nc.gov. DCDEE FORMS AND RULES The Division of Child Development and Early Education's (DCDEE) website is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Visit this website for the most up-to-date child care forms, resources related to child care, and new child care rules/laws. 2023 ANNUAL LICENSE FEES There are a few changes to the Annual License Fee process this year: • All invoices will be emailed, and no paper copies will be sent through the U.S. Postal Service. • All invoices will be emailed by December 1, 2023 and will include the invoice number and total amount due. • All payments are due no later than December 31, 2023 Payments must be submitted online only through the Division’s website using a Mastercard or Visa debit or credit card, or by e-check. Providers will need their Facility ID number and their 2023 Invoice number to complete the payment process. Annual license fees do not apply to state or public-school operated child care facilities, or to religious sponsored facilities operated pursuant to a Notice of Compliance. Failure to pay the license fee is a violation of NCGS § 110-90(1a) and can result in a revocation of your child care license. In addition, unpaid license fees will be assessed a 10% late fee and accrued interest as established by NCGS § 147-86.23. If you have any questions, check the short Frequently Asked Questions on our website for answers or email DCDEE_LF@dhhs.nc.gov CONTACTS • Hertford-Northampton Smart Start Partnership for Children at 711 East Vance Street, Murfreesboro, NC 27855, 252-398 -4124, northamptonsmartstart.org. • I encourage you to contact Trey Breedlove, Child Care Health Consultant, at (252) 534-5841, if additional assistance regarding applicable health and safety practices as needed. If you have questions related to this visit or if I can be of additional assistance, I can be reached at 252-370-0207 or marquitta.holloman@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact Susan Fuller, Licensing Supervisor at 252-373-9809. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: CREATIVE MINDS LEARNING ACADEMY Facility ID: 66000109 Consultant: MARQUITTA HOLLOMAN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/21/2023 Number Present: 22 Completed Date: 12/21/2023 Age: From 1 To 12 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit was to monitor this program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. This facility operates with a Four (4) Star License issued October 25, 2019, earning five (5) points in Program Standards, four (4) points in Staff Education, and one (1) quality point. The last sanitation inspection was completed on December 13, 2022 earning a “Superior” classification. The sanitation inspection is expired, and the facility has not obtained a current inspection. The last fire inspection was completed on October 31, 2023 and was approved for day time and night care. The center's last annual compliance visit was on January 23, 2023. M. Vaughan, Owner, was present and available to assist. Twenty-two (22) children age ranging zero (0) to twelve (12) years of age were present. Children were observed in outdoor play, free choice play, teacher directed activities, toileting and hand washing routines, and lunch. Lunch consisted of sliced turkey, green beans, pineapple, crackers, and milk. All interactions with staff and children were positive and nurturing. You stated you do not provide transportation. I used the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Center Item Number Listing as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. Any violations observed today were discussed with you and documented on the visit summary left with you at the conclusion of the visit. The following violations of child care requirements were documented today. Violation Number Comment Rule 104 Center has not passed required sanitation inspection and received an approved or superior rating. The sanitation inspection was not completed before it expired. The last sanitation inspection was completed 12/13/2022. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(b) Child Care Licensing Requirements are established to ensure a safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate environment for all child care facilities. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all licensing requirements that apply to your facility. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with the applicable laws and rules; always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to ensure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the childcare laws and rules on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today's visit, this facility has maintained an 18-month compliance score of 96%. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE/ CONSULTATION ANNUAL INSPECTIONS The sanitation inspection was not completed before the previous expired. The last sanitation inspection was completed on December 13, 2022. You stated you contacted the sanitation inspector before the inspection expired and she stated she would be here before the center closes for the holidays. All inspections should be completed before the expiration of the previous inspection. RESOURCES STAR RATED LICENSE I informed you information regarding the preparation for the star rated license assessment process is located on the Division of Child Development (https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/) and North Carolina Rated License Project website. I recommended you and staff visit ncrlap.org to obtain detailed information about how the process will be implemented and review prep year activities and ideas offered. More information will be provided regarding your programs rated license assessment timeframe. DCDEE WORKS: Please continue to keep your Staff and Training worksheets up to date. Update the worksheets when changes are made, such as hiring new staff, additional coursework, or training. We discussed making sure you submit your education transcripts to the “WORKS” system, so your education can be evaluated. If the education information is not in the “WORKS” system when the star-rated license is reassessed it could affect the points in the education standards component. Please contact the WORKS department if you have questions on what is needed. The information is below 919-814-6350 or dcdee.works@dhhs.nc.gov. DCDEE FORMS AND RULES The Division of Child Development and Early Education's (DCDEE) website is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Visit this website for the most up-to-date child care forms, resources related to child care, and new child care rules/laws. 2023 ANNUAL LICENSE FEES There are a few changes to the Annual License Fee process this year: • All invoices will be emailed, and no paper copies will be sent through the U.S. Postal Service. • All invoices will be emailed by December 1, 2023 and will include the invoice number and total amount due. • All payments are due no later than December 31, 2023 Payments must be submitted online only through the Division’s website using a Mastercard or Visa debit or credit card, or by e-check. Providers will need their Facility ID number and their 2023 Invoice number to complete the payment process. Annual license fees do not apply to state or public-school operated child care facilities, or to religious sponsored facilities operated pursuant to a Notice of Compliance. Failure to pay the license fee is a violation of NCGS § 110-90(1a) and can result in a revocation of your child care license. In addition, unpaid license fees will be assessed a 10% late fee and accrued interest as established by NCGS § 147-86.23. If you have any questions, check the short Frequently Asked Questions on our website for answers or email DCDEE_LF@dhhs.nc.gov CONTACTS • Hertford-Northampton Smart Start Partnership for Children at 711 East Vance Street, Murfreesboro, NC 27855, 252-398 -4124, northamptonsmartstart.org. • I encourage you to contact Trey Breedlove, Child Care Health Consultant, at (252) 534-5841, if additional assistance regarding applicable health and safety practices as needed. If you have questions related to this visit or if I can be of additional assistance, I can be reached at 252-370-0207 or marquitta.holloman@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact Susan Fuller, Licensing Supervisor at 252-373-9809. 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