High Country Head Start Center

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: HIGH COUNTRY HEAD START CENTER Facility ID: 06000075 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/7/2025 Number Present: 16 Completed Date: 10/7/2025 Age: From 3 To 4 Total Minutes: 260 Time In: 10:10 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this routine unannounced visit was to conduct limited compliance monitoring and offer consultation to the program. The visit summary was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Ronda Rose, lead teacher on site today. Ms. Rose is usually at the Avery Head Start site; however, this facility had some staffing needs today and Ronds knows these children. The computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and left on site. It is also available electronically upon request. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Ms. India Taylor, and I explained the reason for today’s visit. Ms. India informed me that her assistant was out sick today and she had to leave early for a dental appointment. She informed me that she had two substitutes here today since she was leaving soon. I went to the playground where I observed children playing and exploring with a variety of materials. The children were digging, playing on a see-saw, riding toys, climbing on the climbers and dino-climbers. Lunch today consisted of beefaroni, cucumbers, whole grain rolls, cantaloupe and milk. The program does provide transportation. You stated that you transport children aged three through five. I monitored the Thomas Built bus today, tag ZWF-4605. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Intermountain Children`s Services, Inc., is current/active as 10/7/25. There were two (2) new teachers at this facility today, and two (2) new substitutes. I monitored those files. There are eighteen (18) children enrolled and sixteen (16) present today. No children’s files were monitored during today’s routine unannounced visit. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was one hundred (100%) as of 10/7/25. The last annual compliance visit was 5/6/25. The following items were monitored today: Supervision Staff Child Ratios CPR First Aid Special Training Criminal Record Checks Completed Emergency Medical Care Plan Administration of Medication Storage of Hazardous Substances Storage of Medication Adequate/Approved Space General Safety Discipline Program Records License Posted- Five-star license, effective 5/3/24. Permit Restrictions- Daytime care only, meets enhanced space and reduced ratios. The last fire drill was practiced on 9/12/25. A shelter-in-place drill was conducted on 8/27/25. The last playground inspection was on 9/22/25. The last fire inspection was 7/30/25. The last sanitation inspection was completed on 2/5/25 with zero (0) demerits for a superior rating. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. Lead water testing was completed on 10/4/23, without hazards. Lead paint testing and asbestos testing states “survey review by RTI”. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 608 Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, before and after water activity play, after outside play, and after handling animals or animal cages. Children did not wash hands before eating snack today. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c) 716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. Mulch was compacted, especially at the end of the slides measured a maximum of two (2) inches deep. .0605(j) 717 Surfacing did not extend six (6) feet beyond the external limits of the equipment or 3 feet for equipment used only by children less than 2 years of age. All the dino climbers were moved to the end of one of the slides lined up side by side leaving no fall zone at the end of the slide or for each of the dino climbers. .0605(l)(1-2) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. A child opened a gate and rode the tricycle out, but a teacher got to him quickly. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 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. There were broken toys on the playground that had not been removed. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. The registration card and sticker for the tag were both expired as of August 2025. .1002(b) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A teacher told children numerous times that they were acting like babies. .1803(a)(9) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #717 Surfacing did not extend six (6) feet beyond the external limits of the equipment or, 3 feet for equipment used only by children less than 2 years of age. *All the dino climbers were moved to the end of one of the slides lined up side by side leaving no fall zone at the end of the slide or for each of the dino climbers. We discussed that it is difficult to maintain the playground since the space is shared with the older kids on campus. We discussed always doing a sweep of the playground each day to make sure it is ready for children to play on safely. Item #716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. *Mulch was compacted, especially at the end of the slides measured a maximum of two (2) inches deep. Item #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. *There were broken toys on the playground that had not been removed. Two children were playing with a broken toy; The Little Tykes picnic table was missing the table top. Item #1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. *The registration card and sticker for the tag were both expired as of August 2025. Item #1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. *A teacher told children numerous times that they were acting like babies. Item #807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. *A child opened a gate and rode the tricycle out, but a teacher got to him quickly. The playground has four (4) gates and there are usually carabiners on the gates to keep children from being able to open them. The playground is near a driveway and parking lot. Item #608 Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, and before and after water play, after outside play, and/or after handling animals or animal cages. *Children did not wash hands before eating snack today. Achieving Compliance: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by October 21, 2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. 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. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Consultation: • New Environment Rating Scales have arrived! Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE assessments. Go to https://ncrlap.org/ for resources and training opportunities. • We discussed the Pathways to the Stars. Since they are a Head Start program, they will go through pathway three (3). • We discussed getting more carabiners to latch the gates to keep children from being able to open them on their own. A child opened the gate today and rode a tricycle out of the fenced area. • We discussed this facility needing a third teacher due to the behaviors of the children being so high. Rest time was chaotic and loud. If you elect to change and/or alter any previously approved spaces used by children as indicated on the approved indoor and outdoor floor plan, you will need to contact me within thirty (30) days prior to the change. Failure to notify a DCDEE representative may result in a violation of child care requirements. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) states “Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division.” As child care providers, you are a vital part in the prevention and intervention of child maltreatment! You may see potential indicators of maltreatment in the children under your care. Some children may even be more likely to disclose maltreatment to a child care provider than to a family member. It is required that all providers are aware of maltreatment indicators and to report any suspicions of maltreatment. Follow child care rules related to child maltreatment training: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(g) and 10A NCAC 09 .1703(a)(5) states the child care administrator, operator, and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submit an official transcript (if applicable) and apply for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in the operator not complying with the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within 120 days. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within 120 days, the operator shall notify the Division. It is your responsibility to understand the health and safety requirements in child care rule .1102. If the program is out of compliance in accordance with health and safety requirements, Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG), it may affect subsidy funding. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any monitoring visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and want to be a resource for you. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: HIGH COUNTRY HEAD START CENTER Facility ID: 06000075 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/7/2025 Number Present: 16 Completed Date: 10/7/2025 Age: From 3 To 4 Total Minutes: 260 Time In: 10:10 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this routine unannounced visit was to conduct limited compliance monitoring and offer consultation to the program. The visit summary was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Ronda Rose, lead teacher on site today. Ms. Rose is usually at the Avery Head Start site; however, this facility had some staffing needs today and Ronds knows these children. The computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and left on site. It is also available electronically upon request. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Ms. India Taylor, and I explained the reason for today’s visit. Ms. India informed me that her assistant was out sick today and she had to leave early for a dental appointment. She informed me that she had two substitutes here today since she was leaving soon. I went to the playground where I observed children playing and exploring with a variety of materials. The children were digging, playing on a see-saw, riding toys, climbing on the climbers and dino-climbers. Lunch today consisted of beefaroni, cucumbers, whole grain rolls, cantaloupe and milk. The program does provide transportation. You stated that you transport children aged three through five. I monitored the Thomas Built bus today, tag ZWF-4605. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Intermountain Children`s Services, Inc., is current/active as 10/7/25. There were two (2) new teachers at this facility today, and two (2) new substitutes. I monitored those files. There are eighteen (18) children enrolled and sixteen (16) present today. No children’s files were monitored during today’s routine unannounced visit. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was one hundred (100%) as of 10/7/25. The last annual compliance visit was 5/6/25. The following items were monitored today: Supervision Staff Child Ratios CPR First Aid Special Training Criminal Record Checks Completed Emergency Medical Care Plan Administration of Medication Storage of Hazardous Substances Storage of Medication Adequate/Approved Space General Safety Discipline Program Records License Posted- Five-star license, effective 5/3/24. Permit Restrictions- Daytime care only, meets enhanced space and reduced ratios. The last fire drill was practiced on 9/12/25. A shelter-in-place drill was conducted on 8/27/25. The last playground inspection was on 9/22/25. The last fire inspection was 7/30/25. The last sanitation inspection was completed on 2/5/25 with zero (0) demerits for a superior rating. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. Lead water testing was completed on 10/4/23, without hazards. Lead paint testing and asbestos testing states “survey review by RTI”. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 608 Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, before and after water activity play, after outside play, and after handling animals or animal cages. Children did not wash hands before eating snack today. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c) 716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. Mulch was compacted, especially at the end of the slides measured a maximum of two (2) inches deep. .0605(j) 717 Surfacing did not extend six (6) feet beyond the external limits of the equipment or 3 feet for equipment used only by children less than 2 years of age. All the dino climbers were moved to the end of one of the slides lined up side by side leaving no fall zone at the end of the slide or for each of the dino climbers. .0605(l)(1-2) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. A child opened a gate and rode the tricycle out, but a teacher got to him quickly. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 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. There were broken toys on the playground that had not been removed. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. The registration card and sticker for the tag were both expired as of August 2025. .1002(b) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A teacher told children numerous times that they were acting like babies. .1803(a)(9) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #717 Surfacing did not extend six (6) feet beyond the external limits of the equipment or, 3 feet for equipment used only by children less than 2 years of age. *All the dino climbers were moved to the end of one of the slides lined up side by side leaving no fall zone at the end of the slide or for each of the dino climbers. We discussed that it is difficult to maintain the playground since the space is shared with the older kids on campus. We discussed always doing a sweep of the playground each day to make sure it is ready for children to play on safely. Item #716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. *Mulch was compacted, especially at the end of the slides measured a maximum of two (2) inches deep. Item #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. *There were broken toys on the playground that had not been removed. Two children were playing with a broken toy; The Little Tykes picnic table was missing the table top. Item #1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. *The registration card and sticker for the tag were both expired as of August 2025. Item #1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. *A teacher told children numerous times that they were acting like babies. Item #807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. *A child opened a gate and rode the tricycle out, but a teacher got to him quickly. The playground has four (4) gates and there are usually carabiners on the gates to keep children from being able to open them. The playground is near a driveway and parking lot. Item #608 Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, and before and after water play, after outside play, and/or after handling animals or animal cages. *Children did not wash hands before eating snack today. Achieving Compliance: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by October 21, 2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. 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. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Consultation: • New Environment Rating Scales have arrived! Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE assessments. Go to https://ncrlap.org/ for resources and training opportunities. • We discussed the Pathways to the Stars. Since they are a Head Start program, they will go through pathway three (3). • We discussed getting more carabiners to latch the gates to keep children from being able to open them on their own. A child opened the gate today and rode a tricycle out of the fenced area. • We discussed this facility needing a third teacher due to the behaviors of the children being so high. Rest time was chaotic and loud. If you elect to change and/or alter any previously approved spaces used by children as indicated on the approved indoor and outdoor floor plan, you will need to contact me within thirty (30) days prior to the change. Failure to notify a DCDEE representative may result in a violation of child care requirements. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) states “Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division.” As child care providers, you are a vital part in the prevention and intervention of child maltreatment! You may see potential indicators of maltreatment in the children under your care. Some children may even be more likely to disclose maltreatment to a child care provider than to a family member. It is required that all providers are aware of maltreatment indicators and to report any suspicions of maltreatment. Follow child care rules related to child maltreatment training: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(g) and 10A NCAC 09 .1703(a)(5) states the child care administrator, operator, and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submit an official transcript (if applicable) and apply for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in the operator not complying with the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within 120 days. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within 120 days, the operator shall notify the Division. It is your responsibility to understand the health and safety requirements in child care rule .1102. If the program is out of compliance in accordance with health and safety requirements, Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG), it may affect subsidy funding. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any monitoring visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and want to be a resource for you. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: HIGH COUNTRY HEAD START CENTER Facility ID: 06000075 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/7/2025 Number Present: 16 Completed Date: 10/7/2025 Age: From 3 To 4 Total Minutes: 260 Time In: 10:10 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this routine unannounced visit was to conduct limited compliance monitoring and offer consultation to the program. The visit summary was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Ronda Rose, lead teacher on site today. Ms. Rose is usually at the Avery Head Start site; however, this facility had some staffing needs today and Ronds knows these children. The computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and left on site. It is also available electronically upon request. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Ms. India Taylor, and I explained the reason for today’s visit. Ms. India informed me that her assistant was out sick today and she had to leave early for a dental appointment. She informed me that she had two substitutes here today since she was leaving soon. I went to the playground where I observed children playing and exploring with a variety of materials. The children were digging, playing on a see-saw, riding toys, climbing on the climbers and dino-climbers. Lunch today consisted of beefaroni, cucumbers, whole grain rolls, cantaloupe and milk. The program does provide transportation. You stated that you transport children aged three through five. I monitored the Thomas Built bus today, tag ZWF-4605. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Intermountain Children`s Services, Inc., is current/active as 10/7/25. There were two (2) new teachers at this facility today, and two (2) new substitutes. I monitored those files. There are eighteen (18) children enrolled and sixteen (16) present today. No children’s files were monitored during today’s routine unannounced visit. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was one hundred (100%) as of 10/7/25. The last annual compliance visit was 5/6/25. The following items were monitored today: Supervision Staff Child Ratios CPR First Aid Special Training Criminal Record Checks Completed Emergency Medical Care Plan Administration of Medication Storage of Hazardous Substances Storage of Medication Adequate/Approved Space General Safety Discipline Program Records License Posted- Five-star license, effective 5/3/24. Permit Restrictions- Daytime care only, meets enhanced space and reduced ratios. The last fire drill was practiced on 9/12/25. A shelter-in-place drill was conducted on 8/27/25. The last playground inspection was on 9/22/25. The last fire inspection was 7/30/25. The last sanitation inspection was completed on 2/5/25 with zero (0) demerits for a superior rating. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. Lead water testing was completed on 10/4/23, without hazards. Lead paint testing and asbestos testing states “survey review by RTI”. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 608 Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, before and after water activity play, after outside play, and after handling animals or animal cages. Children did not wash hands before eating snack today. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c) 716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. Mulch was compacted, especially at the end of the slides measured a maximum of two (2) inches deep. .0605(j) 717 Surfacing did not extend six (6) feet beyond the external limits of the equipment or 3 feet for equipment used only by children less than 2 years of age. All the dino climbers were moved to the end of one of the slides lined up side by side leaving no fall zone at the end of the slide or for each of the dino climbers. .0605(l)(1-2) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. A child opened a gate and rode the tricycle out, but a teacher got to him quickly. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 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. There were broken toys on the playground that had not been removed. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. The registration card and sticker for the tag were both expired as of August 2025. .1002(b) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A teacher told children numerous times that they were acting like babies. .1803(a)(9) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #717 Surfacing did not extend six (6) feet beyond the external limits of the equipment or, 3 feet for equipment used only by children less than 2 years of age. *All the dino climbers were moved to the end of one of the slides lined up side by side leaving no fall zone at the end of the slide or for each of the dino climbers. We discussed that it is difficult to maintain the playground since the space is shared with the older kids on campus. We discussed always doing a sweep of the playground each day to make sure it is ready for children to play on safely. Item #716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. *Mulch was compacted, especially at the end of the slides measured a maximum of two (2) inches deep. Item #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. *There were broken toys on the playground that had not been removed. Two children were playing with a broken toy; The Little Tykes picnic table was missing the table top. Item #1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. *The registration card and sticker for the tag were both expired as of August 2025. Item #1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. *A teacher told children numerous times that they were acting like babies. Item #807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. *A child opened a gate and rode the tricycle out, but a teacher got to him quickly. The playground has four (4) gates and there are usually carabiners on the gates to keep children from being able to open them. The playground is near a driveway and parking lot. Item #608 Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, and before and after water play, after outside play, and/or after handling animals or animal cages. *Children did not wash hands before eating snack today. Achieving Compliance: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by October 21, 2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. 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. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Consultation: • New Environment Rating Scales have arrived! Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE assessments. Go to https://ncrlap.org/ for resources and training opportunities. • We discussed the Pathways to the Stars. Since they are a Head Start program, they will go through pathway three (3). • We discussed getting more carabiners to latch the gates to keep children from being able to open them on their own. A child opened the gate today and rode a tricycle out of the fenced area. • We discussed this facility needing a third teacher due to the behaviors of the children being so high. Rest time was chaotic and loud. If you elect to change and/or alter any previously approved spaces used by children as indicated on the approved indoor and outdoor floor plan, you will need to contact me within thirty (30) days prior to the change. Failure to notify a DCDEE representative may result in a violation of child care requirements. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) states “Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division.” As child care providers, you are a vital part in the prevention and intervention of child maltreatment! You may see potential indicators of maltreatment in the children under your care. Some children may even be more likely to disclose maltreatment to a child care provider than to a family member. It is required that all providers are aware of maltreatment indicators and to report any suspicions of maltreatment. Follow child care rules related to child maltreatment training: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(g) and 10A NCAC 09 .1703(a)(5) states the child care administrator, operator, and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submit an official transcript (if applicable) and apply for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in the operator not complying with the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within 120 days. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within 120 days, the operator shall notify the Division. It is your responsibility to understand the health and safety requirements in child care rule .1102. If the program is out of compliance in accordance with health and safety requirements, Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG), it may affect subsidy funding. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any monitoring visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and want to be a resource for you. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: HIGH COUNTRY HEAD START CENTER Facility ID: 06000075 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/7/2025 Number Present: 16 Completed Date: 10/7/2025 Age: From 3 To 4 Total Minutes: 260 Time In: 10:10 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this routine unannounced visit was to conduct limited compliance monitoring and offer consultation to the program. The visit summary was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Ronda Rose, lead teacher on site today. Ms. Rose is usually at the Avery Head Start site; however, this facility had some staffing needs today and Ronds knows these children. The computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and left on site. It is also available electronically upon request. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Ms. India Taylor, and I explained the reason for today’s visit. Ms. India informed me that her assistant was out sick today and she had to leave early for a dental appointment. She informed me that she had two substitutes here today since she was leaving soon. I went to the playground where I observed children playing and exploring with a variety of materials. The children were digging, playing on a see-saw, riding toys, climbing on the climbers and dino-climbers. Lunch today consisted of beefaroni, cucumbers, whole grain rolls, cantaloupe and milk. The program does provide transportation. You stated that you transport children aged three through five. I monitored the Thomas Built bus today, tag ZWF-4605. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Intermountain Children`s Services, Inc., is current/active as 10/7/25. There were two (2) new teachers at this facility today, and two (2) new substitutes. I monitored those files. There are eighteen (18) children enrolled and sixteen (16) present today. No children’s files were monitored during today’s routine unannounced visit. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was one hundred (100%) as of 10/7/25. The last annual compliance visit was 5/6/25. The following items were monitored today: Supervision Staff Child Ratios CPR First Aid Special Training Criminal Record Checks Completed Emergency Medical Care Plan Administration of Medication Storage of Hazardous Substances Storage of Medication Adequate/Approved Space General Safety Discipline Program Records License Posted- Five-star license, effective 5/3/24. Permit Restrictions- Daytime care only, meets enhanced space and reduced ratios. The last fire drill was practiced on 9/12/25. A shelter-in-place drill was conducted on 8/27/25. The last playground inspection was on 9/22/25. The last fire inspection was 7/30/25. The last sanitation inspection was completed on 2/5/25 with zero (0) demerits for a superior rating. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. Lead water testing was completed on 10/4/23, without hazards. Lead paint testing and asbestos testing states “survey review by RTI”. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 608 Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, before and after water activity play, after outside play, and after handling animals or animal cages. Children did not wash hands before eating snack today. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c) 716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. Mulch was compacted, especially at the end of the slides measured a maximum of two (2) inches deep. .0605(j) 717 Surfacing did not extend six (6) feet beyond the external limits of the equipment or 3 feet for equipment used only by children less than 2 years of age. All the dino climbers were moved to the end of one of the slides lined up side by side leaving no fall zone at the end of the slide or for each of the dino climbers. .0605(l)(1-2) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. A child opened a gate and rode the tricycle out, but a teacher got to him quickly. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 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. There were broken toys on the playground that had not been removed. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. The registration card and sticker for the tag were both expired as of August 2025. .1002(b) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A teacher told children numerous times that they were acting like babies. .1803(a)(9) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #717 Surfacing did not extend six (6) feet beyond the external limits of the equipment or, 3 feet for equipment used only by children less than 2 years of age. *All the dino climbers were moved to the end of one of the slides lined up side by side leaving no fall zone at the end of the slide or for each of the dino climbers. We discussed that it is difficult to maintain the playground since the space is shared with the older kids on campus. We discussed always doing a sweep of the playground each day to make sure it is ready for children to play on safely. Item #716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. *Mulch was compacted, especially at the end of the slides measured a maximum of two (2) inches deep. Item #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. *There were broken toys on the playground that had not been removed. Two children were playing with a broken toy; The Little Tykes picnic table was missing the table top. Item #1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. *The registration card and sticker for the tag were both expired as of August 2025. Item #1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. *A teacher told children numerous times that they were acting like babies. Item #807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. *A child opened a gate and rode the tricycle out, but a teacher got to him quickly. The playground has four (4) gates and there are usually carabiners on the gates to keep children from being able to open them. The playground is near a driveway and parking lot. Item #608 Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, and before and after water play, after outside play, and/or after handling animals or animal cages. *Children did not wash hands before eating snack today. Achieving Compliance: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by October 21, 2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. 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. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Consultation: • New Environment Rating Scales have arrived! Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE assessments. Go to https://ncrlap.org/ for resources and training opportunities. • We discussed the Pathways to the Stars. Since they are a Head Start program, they will go through pathway three (3). • We discussed getting more carabiners to latch the gates to keep children from being able to open them on their own. A child opened the gate today and rode a tricycle out of the fenced area. • We discussed this facility needing a third teacher due to the behaviors of the children being so high. Rest time was chaotic and loud. If you elect to change and/or alter any previously approved spaces used by children as indicated on the approved indoor and outdoor floor plan, you will need to contact me within thirty (30) days prior to the change. Failure to notify a DCDEE representative may result in a violation of child care requirements. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) states “Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division.” As child care providers, you are a vital part in the prevention and intervention of child maltreatment! You may see potential indicators of maltreatment in the children under your care. Some children may even be more likely to disclose maltreatment to a child care provider than to a family member. It is required that all providers are aware of maltreatment indicators and to report any suspicions of maltreatment. Follow child care rules related to child maltreatment training: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(g) and 10A NCAC 09 .1703(a)(5) states the child care administrator, operator, and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submit an official transcript (if applicable) and apply for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in the operator not complying with the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within 120 days. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within 120 days, the operator shall notify the Division. It is your responsibility to understand the health and safety requirements in child care rule .1102. If the program is out of compliance in accordance with health and safety requirements, Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG), it may affect subsidy funding. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any monitoring visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and want to be a resource for you. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1703 · Violation

Name of Operation: HIGH COUNTRY HEAD START CENTER Facility ID: 06000075 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/7/2025 Number Present: 16 Completed Date: 10/7/2025 Age: From 3 To 4 Total Minutes: 260 Time In: 10:10 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this routine unannounced visit was to conduct limited compliance monitoring and offer consultation to the program. The visit summary was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Ronda Rose, lead teacher on site today. Ms. Rose is usually at the Avery Head Start site; however, this facility had some staffing needs today and Ronds knows these children. The computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and left on site. It is also available electronically upon request. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Ms. India Taylor, and I explained the reason for today’s visit. Ms. India informed me that her assistant was out sick today and she had to leave early for a dental appointment. She informed me that she had two substitutes here today since she was leaving soon. I went to the playground where I observed children playing and exploring with a variety of materials. The children were digging, playing on a see-saw, riding toys, climbing on the climbers and dino-climbers. Lunch today consisted of beefaroni, cucumbers, whole grain rolls, cantaloupe and milk. The program does provide transportation. You stated that you transport children aged three through five. I monitored the Thomas Built bus today, tag ZWF-4605. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Intermountain Children`s Services, Inc., is current/active as 10/7/25. There were two (2) new teachers at this facility today, and two (2) new substitutes. I monitored those files. There are eighteen (18) children enrolled and sixteen (16) present today. No children’s files were monitored during today’s routine unannounced visit. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was one hundred (100%) as of 10/7/25. The last annual compliance visit was 5/6/25. The following items were monitored today: Supervision Staff Child Ratios CPR First Aid Special Training Criminal Record Checks Completed Emergency Medical Care Plan Administration of Medication Storage of Hazardous Substances Storage of Medication Adequate/Approved Space General Safety Discipline Program Records License Posted- Five-star license, effective 5/3/24. Permit Restrictions- Daytime care only, meets enhanced space and reduced ratios. The last fire drill was practiced on 9/12/25. A shelter-in-place drill was conducted on 8/27/25. The last playground inspection was on 9/22/25. The last fire inspection was 7/30/25. The last sanitation inspection was completed on 2/5/25 with zero (0) demerits for a superior rating. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. Lead water testing was completed on 10/4/23, without hazards. Lead paint testing and asbestos testing states “survey review by RTI”. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 608 Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, before and after water activity play, after outside play, and after handling animals or animal cages. Children did not wash hands before eating snack today. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c) 716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. Mulch was compacted, especially at the end of the slides measured a maximum of two (2) inches deep. .0605(j) 717 Surfacing did not extend six (6) feet beyond the external limits of the equipment or 3 feet for equipment used only by children less than 2 years of age. All the dino climbers were moved to the end of one of the slides lined up side by side leaving no fall zone at the end of the slide or for each of the dino climbers. .0605(l)(1-2) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. A child opened a gate and rode the tricycle out, but a teacher got to him quickly. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 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. There were broken toys on the playground that had not been removed. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. The registration card and sticker for the tag were both expired as of August 2025. .1002(b) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A teacher told children numerous times that they were acting like babies. .1803(a)(9) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #717 Surfacing did not extend six (6) feet beyond the external limits of the equipment or, 3 feet for equipment used only by children less than 2 years of age. *All the dino climbers were moved to the end of one of the slides lined up side by side leaving no fall zone at the end of the slide or for each of the dino climbers. We discussed that it is difficult to maintain the playground since the space is shared with the older kids on campus. We discussed always doing a sweep of the playground each day to make sure it is ready for children to play on safely. Item #716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. *Mulch was compacted, especially at the end of the slides measured a maximum of two (2) inches deep. Item #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. *There were broken toys on the playground that had not been removed. Two children were playing with a broken toy; The Little Tykes picnic table was missing the table top. Item #1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. *The registration card and sticker for the tag were both expired as of August 2025. Item #1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. *A teacher told children numerous times that they were acting like babies. Item #807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. *A child opened a gate and rode the tricycle out, but a teacher got to him quickly. The playground has four (4) gates and there are usually carabiners on the gates to keep children from being able to open them. The playground is near a driveway and parking lot. Item #608 Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, and before and after water play, after outside play, and/or after handling animals or animal cages. *Children did not wash hands before eating snack today. Achieving Compliance: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by October 21, 2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. 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. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Consultation: • New Environment Rating Scales have arrived! Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE assessments. Go to https://ncrlap.org/ for resources and training opportunities. • We discussed the Pathways to the Stars. Since they are a Head Start program, they will go through pathway three (3). • We discussed getting more carabiners to latch the gates to keep children from being able to open them on their own. A child opened the gate today and rode a tricycle out of the fenced area. • We discussed this facility needing a third teacher due to the behaviors of the children being so high. Rest time was chaotic and loud. If you elect to change and/or alter any previously approved spaces used by children as indicated on the approved indoor and outdoor floor plan, you will need to contact me within thirty (30) days prior to the change. Failure to notify a DCDEE representative may result in a violation of child care requirements. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) states “Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division.” As child care providers, you are a vital part in the prevention and intervention of child maltreatment! You may see potential indicators of maltreatment in the children under your care. Some children may even be more likely to disclose maltreatment to a child care provider than to a family member. It is required that all providers are aware of maltreatment indicators and to report any suspicions of maltreatment. Follow child care rules related to child maltreatment training: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(g) and 10A NCAC 09 .1703(a)(5) states the child care administrator, operator, and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submit an official transcript (if applicable) and apply for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in the operator not complying with the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within 120 days. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within 120 days, the operator shall notify the Division. It is your responsibility to understand the health and safety requirements in child care rule .1102. If the program is out of compliance in accordance with health and safety requirements, Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG), it may affect subsidy funding. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any monitoring visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and want to be a resource for you. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .2830 · Violation

Name of Operation: HIGH COUNTRY HEAD START CENTER Facility ID: 06000075 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/7/2025 Number Present: 16 Completed Date: 10/7/2025 Age: From 3 To 4 Total Minutes: 260 Time In: 10:10 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this routine unannounced visit was to conduct limited compliance monitoring and offer consultation to the program. The visit summary was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Ronda Rose, lead teacher on site today. Ms. Rose is usually at the Avery Head Start site; however, this facility had some staffing needs today and Ronds knows these children. The computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and left on site. It is also available electronically upon request. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Ms. India Taylor, and I explained the reason for today’s visit. Ms. India informed me that her assistant was out sick today and she had to leave early for a dental appointment. She informed me that she had two substitutes here today since she was leaving soon. I went to the playground where I observed children playing and exploring with a variety of materials. The children were digging, playing on a see-saw, riding toys, climbing on the climbers and dino-climbers. Lunch today consisted of beefaroni, cucumbers, whole grain rolls, cantaloupe and milk. The program does provide transportation. You stated that you transport children aged three through five. I monitored the Thomas Built bus today, tag ZWF-4605. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Intermountain Children`s Services, Inc., is current/active as 10/7/25. There were two (2) new teachers at this facility today, and two (2) new substitutes. I monitored those files. There are eighteen (18) children enrolled and sixteen (16) present today. No children’s files were monitored during today’s routine unannounced visit. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was one hundred (100%) as of 10/7/25. The last annual compliance visit was 5/6/25. The following items were monitored today: Supervision Staff Child Ratios CPR First Aid Special Training Criminal Record Checks Completed Emergency Medical Care Plan Administration of Medication Storage of Hazardous Substances Storage of Medication Adequate/Approved Space General Safety Discipline Program Records License Posted- Five-star license, effective 5/3/24. Permit Restrictions- Daytime care only, meets enhanced space and reduced ratios. The last fire drill was practiced on 9/12/25. A shelter-in-place drill was conducted on 8/27/25. The last playground inspection was on 9/22/25. The last fire inspection was 7/30/25. The last sanitation inspection was completed on 2/5/25 with zero (0) demerits for a superior rating. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. Lead water testing was completed on 10/4/23, without hazards. Lead paint testing and asbestos testing states “survey review by RTI”. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 608 Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, before and after water activity play, after outside play, and after handling animals or animal cages. Children did not wash hands before eating snack today. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c) 716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. Mulch was compacted, especially at the end of the slides measured a maximum of two (2) inches deep. .0605(j) 717 Surfacing did not extend six (6) feet beyond the external limits of the equipment or 3 feet for equipment used only by children less than 2 years of age. All the dino climbers were moved to the end of one of the slides lined up side by side leaving no fall zone at the end of the slide or for each of the dino climbers. .0605(l)(1-2) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. A child opened a gate and rode the tricycle out, but a teacher got to him quickly. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 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. There were broken toys on the playground that had not been removed. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. The registration card and sticker for the tag were both expired as of August 2025. .1002(b) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A teacher told children numerous times that they were acting like babies. .1803(a)(9) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #717 Surfacing did not extend six (6) feet beyond the external limits of the equipment or, 3 feet for equipment used only by children less than 2 years of age. *All the dino climbers were moved to the end of one of the slides lined up side by side leaving no fall zone at the end of the slide or for each of the dino climbers. We discussed that it is difficult to maintain the playground since the space is shared with the older kids on campus. We discussed always doing a sweep of the playground each day to make sure it is ready for children to play on safely. Item #716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. *Mulch was compacted, especially at the end of the slides measured a maximum of two (2) inches deep. Item #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. *There were broken toys on the playground that had not been removed. Two children were playing with a broken toy; The Little Tykes picnic table was missing the table top. Item #1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. *The registration card and sticker for the tag were both expired as of August 2025. Item #1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. *A teacher told children numerous times that they were acting like babies. Item #807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. *A child opened a gate and rode the tricycle out, but a teacher got to him quickly. The playground has four (4) gates and there are usually carabiners on the gates to keep children from being able to open them. The playground is near a driveway and parking lot. Item #608 Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, and before and after water play, after outside play, and/or after handling animals or animal cages. *Children did not wash hands before eating snack today. Achieving Compliance: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by October 21, 2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. 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. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Consultation: • New Environment Rating Scales have arrived! Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE assessments. Go to https://ncrlap.org/ for resources and training opportunities. • We discussed the Pathways to the Stars. Since they are a Head Start program, they will go through pathway three (3). • We discussed getting more carabiners to latch the gates to keep children from being able to open them on their own. A child opened the gate today and rode a tricycle out of the fenced area. • We discussed this facility needing a third teacher due to the behaviors of the children being so high. Rest time was chaotic and loud. If you elect to change and/or alter any previously approved spaces used by children as indicated on the approved indoor and outdoor floor plan, you will need to contact me within thirty (30) days prior to the change. Failure to notify a DCDEE representative may result in a violation of child care requirements. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) states “Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division.” As child care providers, you are a vital part in the prevention and intervention of child maltreatment! You may see potential indicators of maltreatment in the children under your care. Some children may even be more likely to disclose maltreatment to a child care provider than to a family member. It is required that all providers are aware of maltreatment indicators and to report any suspicions of maltreatment. Follow child care rules related to child maltreatment training: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(g) and 10A NCAC 09 .1703(a)(5) states the child care administrator, operator, and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submit an official transcript (if applicable) and apply for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in the operator not complying with the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within 120 days. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within 120 days, the operator shall notify the Division. It is your responsibility to understand the health and safety requirements in child care rule .1102. If the program is out of compliance in accordance with health and safety requirements, Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG), it may affect subsidy funding. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any monitoring visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and want to be a resource for you. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: HIGH COUNTRY HEAD START CENTER Facility ID: 06000075 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/7/2025 Number Present: 16 Completed Date: 10/7/2025 Age: From 3 To 4 Total Minutes: 260 Time In: 10:10 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this routine unannounced visit was to conduct limited compliance monitoring and offer consultation to the program. The visit summary was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Ronda Rose, lead teacher on site today. Ms. Rose is usually at the Avery Head Start site; however, this facility had some staffing needs today and Ronds knows these children. The computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and left on site. It is also available electronically upon request. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Ms. India Taylor, and I explained the reason for today’s visit. Ms. India informed me that her assistant was out sick today and she had to leave early for a dental appointment. She informed me that she had two substitutes here today since she was leaving soon. I went to the playground where I observed children playing and exploring with a variety of materials. The children were digging, playing on a see-saw, riding toys, climbing on the climbers and dino-climbers. Lunch today consisted of beefaroni, cucumbers, whole grain rolls, cantaloupe and milk. The program does provide transportation. You stated that you transport children aged three through five. I monitored the Thomas Built bus today, tag ZWF-4605. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Intermountain Children`s Services, Inc., is current/active as 10/7/25. There were two (2) new teachers at this facility today, and two (2) new substitutes. I monitored those files. There are eighteen (18) children enrolled and sixteen (16) present today. No children’s files were monitored during today’s routine unannounced visit. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was one hundred (100%) as of 10/7/25. The last annual compliance visit was 5/6/25. The following items were monitored today: Supervision Staff Child Ratios CPR First Aid Special Training Criminal Record Checks Completed Emergency Medical Care Plan Administration of Medication Storage of Hazardous Substances Storage of Medication Adequate/Approved Space General Safety Discipline Program Records License Posted- Five-star license, effective 5/3/24. Permit Restrictions- Daytime care only, meets enhanced space and reduced ratios. The last fire drill was practiced on 9/12/25. A shelter-in-place drill was conducted on 8/27/25. The last playground inspection was on 9/22/25. The last fire inspection was 7/30/25. The last sanitation inspection was completed on 2/5/25 with zero (0) demerits for a superior rating. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. Lead water testing was completed on 10/4/23, without hazards. Lead paint testing and asbestos testing states “survey review by RTI”. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 608 Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, before and after water activity play, after outside play, and after handling animals or animal cages. Children did not wash hands before eating snack today. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c) 716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. Mulch was compacted, especially at the end of the slides measured a maximum of two (2) inches deep. .0605(j) 717 Surfacing did not extend six (6) feet beyond the external limits of the equipment or 3 feet for equipment used only by children less than 2 years of age. All the dino climbers were moved to the end of one of the slides lined up side by side leaving no fall zone at the end of the slide or for each of the dino climbers. .0605(l)(1-2) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. A child opened a gate and rode the tricycle out, but a teacher got to him quickly. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 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. There were broken toys on the playground that had not been removed. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. The registration card and sticker for the tag were both expired as of August 2025. .1002(b) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A teacher told children numerous times that they were acting like babies. .1803(a)(9) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #717 Surfacing did not extend six (6) feet beyond the external limits of the equipment or, 3 feet for equipment used only by children less than 2 years of age. *All the dino climbers were moved to the end of one of the slides lined up side by side leaving no fall zone at the end of the slide or for each of the dino climbers. We discussed that it is difficult to maintain the playground since the space is shared with the older kids on campus. We discussed always doing a sweep of the playground each day to make sure it is ready for children to play on safely. Item #716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. *Mulch was compacted, especially at the end of the slides measured a maximum of two (2) inches deep. Item #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. *There were broken toys on the playground that had not been removed. Two children were playing with a broken toy; The Little Tykes picnic table was missing the table top. Item #1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. *The registration card and sticker for the tag were both expired as of August 2025. Item #1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. *A teacher told children numerous times that they were acting like babies. Item #807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. *A child opened a gate and rode the tricycle out, but a teacher got to him quickly. The playground has four (4) gates and there are usually carabiners on the gates to keep children from being able to open them. The playground is near a driveway and parking lot. Item #608 Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, and before and after water play, after outside play, and/or after handling animals or animal cages. *Children did not wash hands before eating snack today. Achieving Compliance: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by October 21, 2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. 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. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Consultation: • New Environment Rating Scales have arrived! Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE assessments. Go to https://ncrlap.org/ for resources and training opportunities. • We discussed the Pathways to the Stars. Since they are a Head Start program, they will go through pathway three (3). • We discussed getting more carabiners to latch the gates to keep children from being able to open them on their own. A child opened the gate today and rode a tricycle out of the fenced area. • We discussed this facility needing a third teacher due to the behaviors of the children being so high. Rest time was chaotic and loud. If you elect to change and/or alter any previously approved spaces used by children as indicated on the approved indoor and outdoor floor plan, you will need to contact me within thirty (30) days prior to the change. Failure to notify a DCDEE representative may result in a violation of child care requirements. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) states “Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division.” As child care providers, you are a vital part in the prevention and intervention of child maltreatment! You may see potential indicators of maltreatment in the children under your care. Some children may even be more likely to disclose maltreatment to a child care provider than to a family member. It is required that all providers are aware of maltreatment indicators and to report any suspicions of maltreatment. Follow child care rules related to child maltreatment training: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(g) and 10A NCAC 09 .1703(a)(5) states the child care administrator, operator, and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submit an official transcript (if applicable) and apply for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in the operator not complying with the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within 120 days. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within 120 days, the operator shall notify the Division. It is your responsibility to understand the health and safety requirements in child care rule .1102. If the program is out of compliance in accordance with health and safety requirements, Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG), it may affect subsidy funding. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any monitoring visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and want to be a resource for you. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: HIGH COUNTRY HEAD START CENTER Facility ID: 06000075 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/4/2023 Number Present: 17 Completed Date: 10/4/2023 Age: From 3 To 4 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Jessica Sullins, lead teacher, during the visit. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was emailed to you. Jessica Sullins, lead teacher, was available and assisted me during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including (but not limited to), supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-one (91%) percentage as of 10/4/23. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Incorporation, Intermountain Children`s Services, Inc. is listed as current/active as of 10/04/23. However, the registered agent is listed as the past Executive Director. The registered agent needs to be updated. Permit type – Five (5) star license, dated April 16, 2018 Special Services/Restrictions – Daytime care only, no cooking allowed in building, meets reduced ratios and enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 10/25/22. The last fire drill was practiced on 9/26/23. The last lock down drill was practiced on 8/31/23. The last playground inspection was documented on 10/2/23. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/22/23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 09/25/23 with zero (0) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum Teaching Strategies Gold. Today, when I arrived, the group was gone to the library off campus. After going back through my emails, I realized this is an activity that they do every Wednesday. I proceeded to inspect the playground area and the classroom. While checking the indoor space, I proceeded to check the children and staff files. While I was checking files, the bus returned about the same time as the cook brought lunch from the other Head Start Site nearby where lunch is prepared. I observed children preparing for lunch and sitting down to a family style dining experience consisting of meat loaf, creamed potatoes, green beans, pears, whole grain rolls and milk. I observed children cleaning up from lunch and preparing for rest time while settling down for rest time. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing (DCDEE-0357) as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. For specific rule references, refer to Chapter 110 General Statues Child Care Facilities, Chapter nine (9) Child Care Rule (10A NCAC 09) and Section 2800 Sanitation of Child Care Center (15A NCAC 18A) for additional information. Updated copies of these rules can be located on our website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ The program does provide transportation to and from school for five (5) to fourteen (14) children and all seventeen enrolled children on field trips. During today’s visit, I monitored emergency information, permission to transport forms for all children being transported, and the bus log. On the Head Start bus that I monitored; I observed first aid kits and fire extinguishers on the vehicle. I observed a 2011, Thomas Bus, license number ZWF-4605. This vehicle was clean, in good repair, had working seatbelts, had adequate tire tread, and was current on inspection and insurance. Your next inspection date on this vehicle is due August 31, 2024. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Three staff (CS, AB and AP) did not have six (6) hours of orientation during the first two (2) weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #1067 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. Note: Three staff (CS, AB and AP) did not have six (6) hours of orientation during the first two (2) weeks of employment. Corrective Action Plan: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by October 18, 2023. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box 253 Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. 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. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Consultation is provided as follows: • The Summary of the law needs to be updated to the newest version. • I spoke to the Executive Director of Intermountain Children’s Services, Inc. I walked her through the process of changing the registered agent. • We discussed orientation hours and how the required trainings can’t be counted as orientation hours. Orientation hours need to be specific to the agency/center’s policies. The number of hours in the first two (2) weeks must total at least six (6) hours. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Stabilization Grant, please contact Kaitlyn Marshall, Child Care Consultant, at 828-713-8192 or email kaitlyn.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov. If you elect to change and/or alter any previously approved spaces used by children as indicated on the approved indoor and outdoor floor plan, you will need to contact me within thirty (30) days prior to the change. Failure to notify a DCDEE representative may result in a violation of child care requirements. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) states “Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division.” As child care providers, you are a vital part in the prevention and intervention of child maltreatment! You may see potential indicators of maltreatment in the children under your care. Some children may even be more likely to disclose maltreatment to a child care provider than to a family member. It is required that all providers are aware of maltreatment indicators and to report any suspicions of maltreatment. Follow child care rules related to child maltreatment training: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(g) and 10A NCAC 09 .1703(a)(5) states the child care administrator, operator, and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submit an official transcript (if applicable) and apply for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in the operator not complying with the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within 120 days. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within 120 days, the operator shall notify the Division. It is your responsibility to understand the health and safety requirements in child care rule .1102. If the program is out of compliance in accordance with health and safety requirements, Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG), it may affect subsidy funding. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and want to be a resource for you. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1101 · Violation

Name of Operation: HIGH COUNTRY HEAD START CENTER Facility ID: 06000075 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/4/2023 Number Present: 17 Completed Date: 10/4/2023 Age: From 3 To 4 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Jessica Sullins, lead teacher, during the visit. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was emailed to you. Jessica Sullins, lead teacher, was available and assisted me during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including (but not limited to), supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-one (91%) percentage as of 10/4/23. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Incorporation, Intermountain Children`s Services, Inc. is listed as current/active as of 10/04/23. However, the registered agent is listed as the past Executive Director. The registered agent needs to be updated. Permit type – Five (5) star license, dated April 16, 2018 Special Services/Restrictions – Daytime care only, no cooking allowed in building, meets reduced ratios and enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 10/25/22. The last fire drill was practiced on 9/26/23. The last lock down drill was practiced on 8/31/23. The last playground inspection was documented on 10/2/23. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/22/23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 09/25/23 with zero (0) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum Teaching Strategies Gold. Today, when I arrived, the group was gone to the library off campus. After going back through my emails, I realized this is an activity that they do every Wednesday. I proceeded to inspect the playground area and the classroom. While checking the indoor space, I proceeded to check the children and staff files. While I was checking files, the bus returned about the same time as the cook brought lunch from the other Head Start Site nearby where lunch is prepared. I observed children preparing for lunch and sitting down to a family style dining experience consisting of meat loaf, creamed potatoes, green beans, pears, whole grain rolls and milk. I observed children cleaning up from lunch and preparing for rest time while settling down for rest time. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing (DCDEE-0357) as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. For specific rule references, refer to Chapter 110 General Statues Child Care Facilities, Chapter nine (9) Child Care Rule (10A NCAC 09) and Section 2800 Sanitation of Child Care Center (15A NCAC 18A) for additional information. Updated copies of these rules can be located on our website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ The program does provide transportation to and from school for five (5) to fourteen (14) children and all seventeen enrolled children on field trips. During today’s visit, I monitored emergency information, permission to transport forms for all children being transported, and the bus log. On the Head Start bus that I monitored; I observed first aid kits and fire extinguishers on the vehicle. I observed a 2011, Thomas Bus, license number ZWF-4605. This vehicle was clean, in good repair, had working seatbelts, had adequate tire tread, and was current on inspection and insurance. Your next inspection date on this vehicle is due August 31, 2024. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Three staff (CS, AB and AP) did not have six (6) hours of orientation during the first two (2) weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #1067 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. Note: Three staff (CS, AB and AP) did not have six (6) hours of orientation during the first two (2) weeks of employment. Corrective Action Plan: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by October 18, 2023. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box 253 Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. 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. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Consultation is provided as follows: • The Summary of the law needs to be updated to the newest version. • I spoke to the Executive Director of Intermountain Children’s Services, Inc. I walked her through the process of changing the registered agent. • We discussed orientation hours and how the required trainings can’t be counted as orientation hours. Orientation hours need to be specific to the agency/center’s policies. The number of hours in the first two (2) weeks must total at least six (6) hours. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Stabilization Grant, please contact Kaitlyn Marshall, Child Care Consultant, at 828-713-8192 or email kaitlyn.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov. If you elect to change and/or alter any previously approved spaces used by children as indicated on the approved indoor and outdoor floor plan, you will need to contact me within thirty (30) days prior to the change. Failure to notify a DCDEE representative may result in a violation of child care requirements. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) states “Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division.” As child care providers, you are a vital part in the prevention and intervention of child maltreatment! You may see potential indicators of maltreatment in the children under your care. Some children may even be more likely to disclose maltreatment to a child care provider than to a family member. It is required that all providers are aware of maltreatment indicators and to report any suspicions of maltreatment. Follow child care rules related to child maltreatment training: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(g) and 10A NCAC 09 .1703(a)(5) states the child care administrator, operator, and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submit an official transcript (if applicable) and apply for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in the operator not complying with the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within 120 days. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within 120 days, the operator shall notify the Division. It is your responsibility to understand the health and safety requirements in child care rule .1102. If the program is out of compliance in accordance with health and safety requirements, Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG), it may affect subsidy funding. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and want to be a resource for you. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: HIGH COUNTRY HEAD START CENTER Facility ID: 06000075 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/4/2023 Number Present: 17 Completed Date: 10/4/2023 Age: From 3 To 4 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Jessica Sullins, lead teacher, during the visit. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was emailed to you. Jessica Sullins, lead teacher, was available and assisted me during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including (but not limited to), supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-one (91%) percentage as of 10/4/23. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Incorporation, Intermountain Children`s Services, Inc. is listed as current/active as of 10/04/23. However, the registered agent is listed as the past Executive Director. The registered agent needs to be updated. Permit type – Five (5) star license, dated April 16, 2018 Special Services/Restrictions – Daytime care only, no cooking allowed in building, meets reduced ratios and enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 10/25/22. The last fire drill was practiced on 9/26/23. The last lock down drill was practiced on 8/31/23. The last playground inspection was documented on 10/2/23. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/22/23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 09/25/23 with zero (0) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum Teaching Strategies Gold. Today, when I arrived, the group was gone to the library off campus. After going back through my emails, I realized this is an activity that they do every Wednesday. I proceeded to inspect the playground area and the classroom. While checking the indoor space, I proceeded to check the children and staff files. While I was checking files, the bus returned about the same time as the cook brought lunch from the other Head Start Site nearby where lunch is prepared. I observed children preparing for lunch and sitting down to a family style dining experience consisting of meat loaf, creamed potatoes, green beans, pears, whole grain rolls and milk. I observed children cleaning up from lunch and preparing for rest time while settling down for rest time. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing (DCDEE-0357) as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. For specific rule references, refer to Chapter 110 General Statues Child Care Facilities, Chapter nine (9) Child Care Rule (10A NCAC 09) and Section 2800 Sanitation of Child Care Center (15A NCAC 18A) for additional information. Updated copies of these rules can be located on our website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ The program does provide transportation to and from school for five (5) to fourteen (14) children and all seventeen enrolled children on field trips. During today’s visit, I monitored emergency information, permission to transport forms for all children being transported, and the bus log. On the Head Start bus that I monitored; I observed first aid kits and fire extinguishers on the vehicle. I observed a 2011, Thomas Bus, license number ZWF-4605. This vehicle was clean, in good repair, had working seatbelts, had adequate tire tread, and was current on inspection and insurance. Your next inspection date on this vehicle is due August 31, 2024. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Three staff (CS, AB and AP) did not have six (6) hours of orientation during the first two (2) weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #1067 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. Note: Three staff (CS, AB and AP) did not have six (6) hours of orientation during the first two (2) weeks of employment. Corrective Action Plan: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by October 18, 2023. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box 253 Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. 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. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Consultation is provided as follows: • The Summary of the law needs to be updated to the newest version. • I spoke to the Executive Director of Intermountain Children’s Services, Inc. I walked her through the process of changing the registered agent. • We discussed orientation hours and how the required trainings can’t be counted as orientation hours. Orientation hours need to be specific to the agency/center’s policies. The number of hours in the first two (2) weeks must total at least six (6) hours. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Stabilization Grant, please contact Kaitlyn Marshall, Child Care Consultant, at 828-713-8192 or email kaitlyn.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov. If you elect to change and/or alter any previously approved spaces used by children as indicated on the approved indoor and outdoor floor plan, you will need to contact me within thirty (30) days prior to the change. Failure to notify a DCDEE representative may result in a violation of child care requirements. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) states “Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division.” As child care providers, you are a vital part in the prevention and intervention of child maltreatment! You may see potential indicators of maltreatment in the children under your care. Some children may even be more likely to disclose maltreatment to a child care provider than to a family member. It is required that all providers are aware of maltreatment indicators and to report any suspicions of maltreatment. Follow child care rules related to child maltreatment training: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(g) and 10A NCAC 09 .1703(a)(5) states the child care administrator, operator, and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submit an official transcript (if applicable) and apply for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in the operator not complying with the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within 120 days. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within 120 days, the operator shall notify the Division. It is your responsibility to understand the health and safety requirements in child care rule .1102. If the program is out of compliance in accordance with health and safety requirements, Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG), it may affect subsidy funding. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and want to be a resource for you. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1703 · Violation

Name of Operation: HIGH COUNTRY HEAD START CENTER Facility ID: 06000075 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/4/2023 Number Present: 17 Completed Date: 10/4/2023 Age: From 3 To 4 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Jessica Sullins, lead teacher, during the visit. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was emailed to you. Jessica Sullins, lead teacher, was available and assisted me during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including (but not limited to), supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-one (91%) percentage as of 10/4/23. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Incorporation, Intermountain Children`s Services, Inc. is listed as current/active as of 10/04/23. However, the registered agent is listed as the past Executive Director. The registered agent needs to be updated. Permit type – Five (5) star license, dated April 16, 2018 Special Services/Restrictions – Daytime care only, no cooking allowed in building, meets reduced ratios and enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 10/25/22. The last fire drill was practiced on 9/26/23. The last lock down drill was practiced on 8/31/23. The last playground inspection was documented on 10/2/23. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/22/23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 09/25/23 with zero (0) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum Teaching Strategies Gold. Today, when I arrived, the group was gone to the library off campus. After going back through my emails, I realized this is an activity that they do every Wednesday. I proceeded to inspect the playground area and the classroom. While checking the indoor space, I proceeded to check the children and staff files. While I was checking files, the bus returned about the same time as the cook brought lunch from the other Head Start Site nearby where lunch is prepared. I observed children preparing for lunch and sitting down to a family style dining experience consisting of meat loaf, creamed potatoes, green beans, pears, whole grain rolls and milk. I observed children cleaning up from lunch and preparing for rest time while settling down for rest time. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing (DCDEE-0357) as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. For specific rule references, refer to Chapter 110 General Statues Child Care Facilities, Chapter nine (9) Child Care Rule (10A NCAC 09) and Section 2800 Sanitation of Child Care Center (15A NCAC 18A) for additional information. Updated copies of these rules can be located on our website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ The program does provide transportation to and from school for five (5) to fourteen (14) children and all seventeen enrolled children on field trips. During today’s visit, I monitored emergency information, permission to transport forms for all children being transported, and the bus log. On the Head Start bus that I monitored; I observed first aid kits and fire extinguishers on the vehicle. I observed a 2011, Thomas Bus, license number ZWF-4605. This vehicle was clean, in good repair, had working seatbelts, had adequate tire tread, and was current on inspection and insurance. Your next inspection date on this vehicle is due August 31, 2024. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Three staff (CS, AB and AP) did not have six (6) hours of orientation during the first two (2) weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #1067 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. Note: Three staff (CS, AB and AP) did not have six (6) hours of orientation during the first two (2) weeks of employment. Corrective Action Plan: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by October 18, 2023. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box 253 Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. 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. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Consultation is provided as follows: • The Summary of the law needs to be updated to the newest version. • I spoke to the Executive Director of Intermountain Children’s Services, Inc. I walked her through the process of changing the registered agent. • We discussed orientation hours and how the required trainings can’t be counted as orientation hours. Orientation hours need to be specific to the agency/center’s policies. The number of hours in the first two (2) weeks must total at least six (6) hours. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Stabilization Grant, please contact Kaitlyn Marshall, Child Care Consultant, at 828-713-8192 or email kaitlyn.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov. If you elect to change and/or alter any previously approved spaces used by children as indicated on the approved indoor and outdoor floor plan, you will need to contact me within thirty (30) days prior to the change. Failure to notify a DCDEE representative may result in a violation of child care requirements. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) states “Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division.” As child care providers, you are a vital part in the prevention and intervention of child maltreatment! You may see potential indicators of maltreatment in the children under your care. Some children may even be more likely to disclose maltreatment to a child care provider than to a family member. It is required that all providers are aware of maltreatment indicators and to report any suspicions of maltreatment. Follow child care rules related to child maltreatment training: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(g) and 10A NCAC 09 .1703(a)(5) states the child care administrator, operator, and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submit an official transcript (if applicable) and apply for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in the operator not complying with the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within 120 days. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within 120 days, the operator shall notify the Division. It is your responsibility to understand the health and safety requirements in child care rule .1102. If the program is out of compliance in accordance with health and safety requirements, Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG), it may affect subsidy funding. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and want to be a resource for you. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .2830 · Violation

Name of Operation: HIGH COUNTRY HEAD START CENTER Facility ID: 06000075 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/4/2023 Number Present: 17 Completed Date: 10/4/2023 Age: From 3 To 4 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Jessica Sullins, lead teacher, during the visit. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was emailed to you. Jessica Sullins, lead teacher, was available and assisted me during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including (but not limited to), supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-one (91%) percentage as of 10/4/23. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Incorporation, Intermountain Children`s Services, Inc. is listed as current/active as of 10/04/23. However, the registered agent is listed as the past Executive Director. The registered agent needs to be updated. Permit type – Five (5) star license, dated April 16, 2018 Special Services/Restrictions – Daytime care only, no cooking allowed in building, meets reduced ratios and enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 10/25/22. The last fire drill was practiced on 9/26/23. The last lock down drill was practiced on 8/31/23. The last playground inspection was documented on 10/2/23. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/22/23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 09/25/23 with zero (0) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum Teaching Strategies Gold. Today, when I arrived, the group was gone to the library off campus. After going back through my emails, I realized this is an activity that they do every Wednesday. I proceeded to inspect the playground area and the classroom. While checking the indoor space, I proceeded to check the children and staff files. While I was checking files, the bus returned about the same time as the cook brought lunch from the other Head Start Site nearby where lunch is prepared. I observed children preparing for lunch and sitting down to a family style dining experience consisting of meat loaf, creamed potatoes, green beans, pears, whole grain rolls and milk. I observed children cleaning up from lunch and preparing for rest time while settling down for rest time. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing (DCDEE-0357) as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. For specific rule references, refer to Chapter 110 General Statues Child Care Facilities, Chapter nine (9) Child Care Rule (10A NCAC 09) and Section 2800 Sanitation of Child Care Center (15A NCAC 18A) for additional information. Updated copies of these rules can be located on our website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ The program does provide transportation to and from school for five (5) to fourteen (14) children and all seventeen enrolled children on field trips. During today’s visit, I monitored emergency information, permission to transport forms for all children being transported, and the bus log. On the Head Start bus that I monitored; I observed first aid kits and fire extinguishers on the vehicle. I observed a 2011, Thomas Bus, license number ZWF-4605. This vehicle was clean, in good repair, had working seatbelts, had adequate tire tread, and was current on inspection and insurance. Your next inspection date on this vehicle is due August 31, 2024. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Three staff (CS, AB and AP) did not have six (6) hours of orientation during the first two (2) weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #1067 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. Note: Three staff (CS, AB and AP) did not have six (6) hours of orientation during the first two (2) weeks of employment. Corrective Action Plan: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by October 18, 2023. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box 253 Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. 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. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Consultation is provided as follows: • The Summary of the law needs to be updated to the newest version. • I spoke to the Executive Director of Intermountain Children’s Services, Inc. I walked her through the process of changing the registered agent. • We discussed orientation hours and how the required trainings can’t be counted as orientation hours. Orientation hours need to be specific to the agency/center’s policies. The number of hours in the first two (2) weeks must total at least six (6) hours. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Stabilization Grant, please contact Kaitlyn Marshall, Child Care Consultant, at 828-713-8192 or email kaitlyn.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov. If you elect to change and/or alter any previously approved spaces used by children as indicated on the approved indoor and outdoor floor plan, you will need to contact me within thirty (30) days prior to the change. Failure to notify a DCDEE representative may result in a violation of child care requirements. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) states “Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division.” As child care providers, you are a vital part in the prevention and intervention of child maltreatment! You may see potential indicators of maltreatment in the children under your care. Some children may even be more likely to disclose maltreatment to a child care provider than to a family member. It is required that all providers are aware of maltreatment indicators and to report any suspicions of maltreatment. Follow child care rules related to child maltreatment training: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(g) and 10A NCAC 09 .1703(a)(5) states the child care administrator, operator, and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submit an official transcript (if applicable) and apply for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in the operator not complying with the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within 120 days. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within 120 days, the operator shall notify the Division. It is your responsibility to understand the health and safety requirements in child care rule .1102. If the program is out of compliance in accordance with health and safety requirements, Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG), it may affect subsidy funding. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and want to be a resource for you. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: HIGH COUNTRY HEAD START CENTER Facility ID: 06000075 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/4/2023 Number Present: 17 Completed Date: 10/4/2023 Age: From 3 To 4 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Jessica Sullins, lead teacher, during the visit. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was emailed to you. Jessica Sullins, lead teacher, was available and assisted me during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including (but not limited to), supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-one (91%) percentage as of 10/4/23. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Incorporation, Intermountain Children`s Services, Inc. is listed as current/active as of 10/04/23. However, the registered agent is listed as the past Executive Director. The registered agent needs to be updated. Permit type – Five (5) star license, dated April 16, 2018 Special Services/Restrictions – Daytime care only, no cooking allowed in building, meets reduced ratios and enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 10/25/22. The last fire drill was practiced on 9/26/23. The last lock down drill was practiced on 8/31/23. The last playground inspection was documented on 10/2/23. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/22/23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 09/25/23 with zero (0) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum Teaching Strategies Gold. Today, when I arrived, the group was gone to the library off campus. After going back through my emails, I realized this is an activity that they do every Wednesday. I proceeded to inspect the playground area and the classroom. While checking the indoor space, I proceeded to check the children and staff files. While I was checking files, the bus returned about the same time as the cook brought lunch from the other Head Start Site nearby where lunch is prepared. I observed children preparing for lunch and sitting down to a family style dining experience consisting of meat loaf, creamed potatoes, green beans, pears, whole grain rolls and milk. I observed children cleaning up from lunch and preparing for rest time while settling down for rest time. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing (DCDEE-0357) as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. For specific rule references, refer to Chapter 110 General Statues Child Care Facilities, Chapter nine (9) Child Care Rule (10A NCAC 09) and Section 2800 Sanitation of Child Care Center (15A NCAC 18A) for additional information. Updated copies of these rules can be located on our website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ The program does provide transportation to and from school for five (5) to fourteen (14) children and all seventeen enrolled children on field trips. During today’s visit, I monitored emergency information, permission to transport forms for all children being transported, and the bus log. On the Head Start bus that I monitored; I observed first aid kits and fire extinguishers on the vehicle. I observed a 2011, Thomas Bus, license number ZWF-4605. This vehicle was clean, in good repair, had working seatbelts, had adequate tire tread, and was current on inspection and insurance. Your next inspection date on this vehicle is due August 31, 2024. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Three staff (CS, AB and AP) did not have six (6) hours of orientation during the first two (2) weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #1067 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. Note: Three staff (CS, AB and AP) did not have six (6) hours of orientation during the first two (2) weeks of employment. Corrective Action Plan: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by October 18, 2023. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box 253 Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. 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. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Consultation is provided as follows: • The Summary of the law needs to be updated to the newest version. • I spoke to the Executive Director of Intermountain Children’s Services, Inc. I walked her through the process of changing the registered agent. • We discussed orientation hours and how the required trainings can’t be counted as orientation hours. Orientation hours need to be specific to the agency/center’s policies. The number of hours in the first two (2) weeks must total at least six (6) hours. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Stabilization Grant, please contact Kaitlyn Marshall, Child Care Consultant, at 828-713-8192 or email kaitlyn.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov. If you elect to change and/or alter any previously approved spaces used by children as indicated on the approved indoor and outdoor floor plan, you will need to contact me within thirty (30) days prior to the change. Failure to notify a DCDEE representative may result in a violation of child care requirements. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) states “Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division.” As child care providers, you are a vital part in the prevention and intervention of child maltreatment! You may see potential indicators of maltreatment in the children under your care. Some children may even be more likely to disclose maltreatment to a child care provider than to a family member. It is required that all providers are aware of maltreatment indicators and to report any suspicions of maltreatment. Follow child care rules related to child maltreatment training: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(g) and 10A NCAC 09 .1703(a)(5) states the child care administrator, operator, and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submit an official transcript (if applicable) and apply for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in the operator not complying with the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within 120 days. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within 120 days, the operator shall notify the Division. It is your responsibility to understand the health and safety requirements in child care rule .1102. If the program is out of compliance in accordance with health and safety requirements, Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG), it may affect subsidy funding. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and want to be a resource for you. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times