Academy OF Stars

10A NCAC 09 .0714 · Violation

Name of Operation: ACADEMY OF STARS Facility ID: 32001582 Consultant: TONI FULLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0326-188L Visit Date: 3/24/2026 Number Present: 7 Completed Date: 3/24/2026 Age: From 2 To 4 Total Minutes: 145 Time In: 01:00 PM Time Out: 03:25 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced Upon arrival the director greeted me. The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor staff/child ratios, as a follow-up of the 3/19/26 visit. OBSERVATIONS: Upon arrival there were seven preschool age children, resting during naptime in classroom space #3/4 with one caregiver. The caregiver stated that yesterday was her first day of employment at Academy of Stars. The new teacher stated that she would be working M, W, Th, and F from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. The new teacher stated that her work hours on Tuesdays were from 11:30 am to 5:00 pm, because the director was in class on Tuesday afternoons. During today’s visit the new teacher was not sure of the ages of the children present. The teacher stated that she had met a family member for each of the children. During today’s visit I spoke with the director by telephone. The teacher and the director stated that the toddler had not been present today or yesterday. This information could not be verified by reviewing the attendance record. The attendance record reflected the name of only one child for this week. The director had stated during the 3/19/26 visit that most of the children signed in on the Bright Wheel app, instead of on paper. I did not see the toddler today. With the absence of the toddler, it was determined that the center was meeting staff/child ratio requirements during today’s visit. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. There were not activity plans posted for the children for the current week. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 1014 At least one person who meets qualifications for administrator or lead teacher was not on site during operating hours except at the beginning or end of the operating day as described in rule .0714(b). The only staff person on the premises, began employment on 3/23/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0714(b)(1-3) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility for the new teacher, who began employment yesterday, 3/23/26. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. The new teacher, who began employment yesterday, had not completed a medical assessment or negative TB test. .0701(d) 1894 At least one staff member was not present who had successfully completed First Aid and/or CPR training when children were in care. The only staff person on the premises during today's visit did not have current CPR and First Aid training. .1102(c-d) All violations must be corrected immediately. Please send me a signed Corrective Action letter by 4/7/26, stating how each violation has been corrected. I reminded the director that the Corrective Action letter for the 3/19/26 visit was due by 4/6/26. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE was provided today in the following areas: CRIMINAL RECORD CHECK CLEARANCE: I explained to the teacher and the center owner by telephone today that the new teacher must have Criminal Record Check clearance before she could return to work. CPR/FIRST AID training: I talked with the center owner on 3/20/26, explaining that someone was required to be on the premises with current CPR and First Aid training during all operating hours. The owner stated that she understood the requirement. During today’s visit the center owner stated by phone that all the staff were scheduled for CPR and First Aid training tomorrow evening, 3/25/26. TELEPHONE CONVERSATION WITH CENTER OWNER: The center owner stated that another new employee was starting tomorrow, and the new employer met all the requirements. I stated that the new teacher that started yesterday and the new teacher that would begin employment tomorrow could not be left in charge of the children, until they had been employed for three months, in accordance with NC Child Care Rule 10NCAC 0714 (b). During the telephone conversation I reviewed the violations cited today. The owner gave permission for the new teacher to sign the visit summary for today. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION: I stated that an Administrative Action could be issued to Academy of Stars by the NC Division of Child Development and Early Education, based on staff/child ratios, Criminal Record Check requirements, and CPR and First Aid requirements. AGENCY NEWS AND UPDATES: Visit the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ often. Click on the “What’s New” tab for new requirements and updates. CONTACT INFORMATION: Please contact me if I can be of any assistance to you. I can be reached at toni.fuller@dhhs.nc.gov or (919) 819-9366. You can also reach out to the licensing supervisor, Holli Hemby, at holli.hemby@dhhs.nc.gov or (919) 819-9363. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: ACADEMY OF STARS Facility ID: 32001582 Consultant: TONI FULLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0326-188L Visit Date: 3/24/2026 Number Present: 7 Completed Date: 3/24/2026 Age: From 2 To 4 Total Minutes: 145 Time In: 01:00 PM Time Out: 03:25 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced Upon arrival the director greeted me. The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor staff/child ratios, as a follow-up of the 3/19/26 visit. OBSERVATIONS: Upon arrival there were seven preschool age children, resting during naptime in classroom space #3/4 with one caregiver. The caregiver stated that yesterday was her first day of employment at Academy of Stars. The new teacher stated that she would be working M, W, Th, and F from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. The new teacher stated that her work hours on Tuesdays were from 11:30 am to 5:00 pm, because the director was in class on Tuesday afternoons. During today’s visit the new teacher was not sure of the ages of the children present. The teacher stated that she had met a family member for each of the children. During today’s visit I spoke with the director by telephone. The teacher and the director stated that the toddler had not been present today or yesterday. This information could not be verified by reviewing the attendance record. The attendance record reflected the name of only one child for this week. The director had stated during the 3/19/26 visit that most of the children signed in on the Bright Wheel app, instead of on paper. I did not see the toddler today. With the absence of the toddler, it was determined that the center was meeting staff/child ratio requirements during today’s visit. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. There were not activity plans posted for the children for the current week. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 1014 At least one person who meets qualifications for administrator or lead teacher was not on site during operating hours except at the beginning or end of the operating day as described in rule .0714(b). The only staff person on the premises, began employment on 3/23/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0714(b)(1-3) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility for the new teacher, who began employment yesterday, 3/23/26. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. The new teacher, who began employment yesterday, had not completed a medical assessment or negative TB test. .0701(d) 1894 At least one staff member was not present who had successfully completed First Aid and/or CPR training when children were in care. The only staff person on the premises during today's visit did not have current CPR and First Aid training. .1102(c-d) All violations must be corrected immediately. Please send me a signed Corrective Action letter by 4/7/26, stating how each violation has been corrected. I reminded the director that the Corrective Action letter for the 3/19/26 visit was due by 4/6/26. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE was provided today in the following areas: CRIMINAL RECORD CHECK CLEARANCE: I explained to the teacher and the center owner by telephone today that the new teacher must have Criminal Record Check clearance before she could return to work. CPR/FIRST AID training: I talked with the center owner on 3/20/26, explaining that someone was required to be on the premises with current CPR and First Aid training during all operating hours. The owner stated that she understood the requirement. During today’s visit the center owner stated by phone that all the staff were scheduled for CPR and First Aid training tomorrow evening, 3/25/26. TELEPHONE CONVERSATION WITH CENTER OWNER: The center owner stated that another new employee was starting tomorrow, and the new employer met all the requirements. I stated that the new teacher that started yesterday and the new teacher that would begin employment tomorrow could not be left in charge of the children, until they had been employed for three months, in accordance with NC Child Care Rule 10NCAC 0714 (b). During the telephone conversation I reviewed the violations cited today. The owner gave permission for the new teacher to sign the visit summary for today. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION: I stated that an Administrative Action could be issued to Academy of Stars by the NC Division of Child Development and Early Education, based on staff/child ratios, Criminal Record Check requirements, and CPR and First Aid requirements. AGENCY NEWS AND UPDATES: Visit the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ often. Click on the “What’s New” tab for new requirements and updates. CONTACT INFORMATION: Please contact me if I can be of any assistance to you. I can be reached at toni.fuller@dhhs.nc.gov or (919) 819-9366. You can also reach out to the licensing supervisor, Holli Hemby, at holli.hemby@dhhs.nc.gov or (919) 819-9363. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: ACADEMY OF STARS Facility ID: 32001582 Consultant: TONI FULLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0326-188L Visit Date: 3/24/2026 Number Present: 7 Completed Date: 3/24/2026 Age: From 2 To 4 Total Minutes: 145 Time In: 01:00 PM Time Out: 03:25 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced Upon arrival the director greeted me. The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor staff/child ratios, as a follow-up of the 3/19/26 visit. OBSERVATIONS: Upon arrival there were seven preschool age children, resting during naptime in classroom space #3/4 with one caregiver. The caregiver stated that yesterday was her first day of employment at Academy of Stars. The new teacher stated that she would be working M, W, Th, and F from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. The new teacher stated that her work hours on Tuesdays were from 11:30 am to 5:00 pm, because the director was in class on Tuesday afternoons. During today’s visit the new teacher was not sure of the ages of the children present. The teacher stated that she had met a family member for each of the children. During today’s visit I spoke with the director by telephone. The teacher and the director stated that the toddler had not been present today or yesterday. This information could not be verified by reviewing the attendance record. The attendance record reflected the name of only one child for this week. The director had stated during the 3/19/26 visit that most of the children signed in on the Bright Wheel app, instead of on paper. I did not see the toddler today. With the absence of the toddler, it was determined that the center was meeting staff/child ratio requirements during today’s visit. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. There were not activity plans posted for the children for the current week. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 1014 At least one person who meets qualifications for administrator or lead teacher was not on site during operating hours except at the beginning or end of the operating day as described in rule .0714(b). The only staff person on the premises, began employment on 3/23/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0714(b)(1-3) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility for the new teacher, who began employment yesterday, 3/23/26. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. The new teacher, who began employment yesterday, had not completed a medical assessment or negative TB test. .0701(d) 1894 At least one staff member was not present who had successfully completed First Aid and/or CPR training when children were in care. The only staff person on the premises during today's visit did not have current CPR and First Aid training. .1102(c-d) All violations must be corrected immediately. Please send me a signed Corrective Action letter by 4/7/26, stating how each violation has been corrected. I reminded the director that the Corrective Action letter for the 3/19/26 visit was due by 4/6/26. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE was provided today in the following areas: CRIMINAL RECORD CHECK CLEARANCE: I explained to the teacher and the center owner by telephone today that the new teacher must have Criminal Record Check clearance before she could return to work. CPR/FIRST AID training: I talked with the center owner on 3/20/26, explaining that someone was required to be on the premises with current CPR and First Aid training during all operating hours. The owner stated that she understood the requirement. During today’s visit the center owner stated by phone that all the staff were scheduled for CPR and First Aid training tomorrow evening, 3/25/26. TELEPHONE CONVERSATION WITH CENTER OWNER: The center owner stated that another new employee was starting tomorrow, and the new employer met all the requirements. I stated that the new teacher that started yesterday and the new teacher that would begin employment tomorrow could not be left in charge of the children, until they had been employed for three months, in accordance with NC Child Care Rule 10NCAC 0714 (b). During the telephone conversation I reviewed the violations cited today. The owner gave permission for the new teacher to sign the visit summary for today. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION: I stated that an Administrative Action could be issued to Academy of Stars by the NC Division of Child Development and Early Education, based on staff/child ratios, Criminal Record Check requirements, and CPR and First Aid requirements. AGENCY NEWS AND UPDATES: Visit the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ often. Click on the “What’s New” tab for new requirements and updates. CONTACT INFORMATION: Please contact me if I can be of any assistance to you. I can be reached at toni.fuller@dhhs.nc.gov or (919) 819-9366. You can also reach out to the licensing supervisor, Holli Hemby, at holli.hemby@dhhs.nc.gov or (919) 819-9363. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: ACADEMY OF STARS Facility ID: 32001582 Consultant: TONI FULLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/19/2026 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 3/19/2025 Age: From 1 To 3 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 11:45 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced After completing an investigative visit, I conducted a Routine Unannounced visit. The last Annual Compliance visit was conducted on 8/26/25. This center operates with a three-star license, which was issued 11/2/19. The license was re-issued on 4/5/24 to change ownership information on the license. COMPLIANCE HISTORY: The compliance history for this center for the previous eighteen-month timeframe was 95%. During today’s visit all indoor and outdoor licensed space was monitored. OBSERVATIONS: I observed the director reading to the children and engaged in teacher-directed activities. CHILDREN’S RECORDS: Children’s records were not reviewed today. TRANSPORTATION: This program does not offer transportation services. INSPECTIONS: The last documented annual fire inspection was completed on 1/12/26. The last documented sanitation inspection was conducted on 1/8/26. The last documented fire drill was conducted on 2/27/26. The last documented lockdown/shelter-in-place drill was conducted on 2/27/26. The last documented playground inspection was completed on 3/3/26. The last documented water testing for Clean Water for NC Kids was completed on 9/12/24. The center completed Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids on 8/13/24. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. There were no activity plans for the children present today. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 9999 The direct exit from classroom space #5 was locked with a double action. The children were present in this classroom for diaper changing procedures. This is a violation of NC Fire Code. All violations must be corrected immediately. Please send me a signed Corrective Action letter by 4/2/26, stating how each violation has been corrected. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE was provided today in the following areas: NC FIRE CODE: The director and owner stated that the crash bar to exit classroom space #5 was broken. The owner stated that she would have it repairs to correct today’s violation. PLAYGROUND SAFETY TRAINING: The director stated that she completed Playground Safety training on Saturday, 3/14/26. RATED LICENSE: The director had completed the conversion form, indicating that Academy of Stars would complete the star-rated license reassessment, using Pathway I. The director stated that an “outreach assessment” was scheduled to be conducted at the center on 4/7/26, but she planned to reschedule, because the center has no staff. The center owner and I talked about this situation. AGENCY NEWS AND UPDATES: Visit the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ often. Click on the “What’s New” tab for new requirements and updates. CONTACT INFORMATION: Please contact me if I can be of any assistance to you. I can be reached at toni.fuller@dhhs.nc.gov or (919) 819-9366. You can also reach out to the licensing supervisor, Holli Hemby, at holli.hemby@dhhs.nc.gov or (919) 819-9363. 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 .0514 · Violation

Name of Operation: ACADEMY OF STARS Facility ID: 32001582 Consultant: TONI FULLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/26/2025 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 8/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 205 Time In: 10:20 AM Time Out: 01:45 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 applicable child care requirements during your Annual Compliance visit. The new assistant director facilitated today’s visit. The center owner and center director were not present today. This center operates with a three-star license, which was issued on 11/2/19. The license was re-issued on 4/5/24 to change the name of the owner on the license. The last Annual Compliance visit was conducted on 9/4/24. COMPLIANCE HISTORY: The compliance history for this center for the previous eighteen-month timeframe was 93%. CORPORATION STATUS: According to the information on the NC Secretary of State web site, the status of Academy of Stars is “current-active”. During today’s visit all indoor and outdoor licensed space was monitored. OBSERVATIONS: I visited each classroom and observed the children engaged in a variety of indoor activities. Each classroom had current activity plans posted. The center allergy list was posted in each classroom and in the kitchen. CHILDREN’S RECORDS: Five_ children’s records were reviewed today. STAFF RECORDS: The assistant director could not locate the staff/training worksheet today. All staff files were reviewed during the visit. TRANSPORTATION: This program does not offer transportation services. INSPECTIONS: The last documented annual fire inspection was completed on 1/9/25. The last documented sanitation inspection was conducted on 7/30/25. The last documented fire drill was conducted on 7/21/25. The last documented lockdown/shelter-in-place drill was conducted on 7/25/25. The last documented playground inspection was completed in August 2025. The last documented water testing for Clean Water for NC Kids was completed on 9/12/24. The center completed the lead/asbestos testing for clearance through Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids on 8/13/24. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The refrigerator for infant bottles in classroom space #5 did not have a thermometer. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. The infant did not have the signed form on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). Criminal Record Check clearance had expired for the teacher in classroom space #1/2. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. (1) The director needed 1.5 additional hours of in-service training to meet her yearly requirement. (2) The teacher in classroom space #5 needed 9 additional hours of in-service training to meet her yearly requirement. .1103(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. One staff needed a current annual evaluation on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1308 Application did not include the names of individuals to whom the center may release the child, as authorized by the person who signs the application. One child needed emergency contact information on file, if the parents could not be reached. .0801(a)(7) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. The staff person, who began employment on 6/18/25, needed a negative TB test on file. .0701(d) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. The teacher in classroom space #1/2 had last completed the required Health and Safety trainings in 2018. .1103(b) 9999 The direct exit from classroom space #5 (infant classroom) was not single action. It required two steps to open. This is a violation of NC Fire Code. All violations must be corrected immediately. Please send me a signed Corrective Action letter by 9/9/25, stating how each violation has been corrected. RATED LICENSE: The Pathways to the Stars transition will begin soon. There will be a “rules roll out” module in Moodle soon. I informed the center owner that she should receive an invitation to training on the new QRIS process in September. I stated that free webinars were offered on the ECERS-3 and ITERS-3 through the NC Rated License Assessment Project. www.ncrlap.org. I stated that the webinars could be used to meet yearly in-service training hour requirements. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE was provided today in the following areas: CRIMINAL RECORD CHECK: I stated that the teacher could continue working at the center, but she needed to complete the Criminal Record Check requalification process within the next two weeks. HEALTH AND SAFETY: The owner stated that she had not understood that all the Health and Safety trainings had to be completed every five years. Because she did not understand correctly, the Corrective Action letter for the 9/4/24 visit, regarding the violation of Health and Safety training, was not accurate. I explained the requirements during today’s visit. I gave the assistant director a copy of the Health and Safety training log. IT’S SIDS TRAINING: During today’s visit the caregiver for the infant in classroom space #5 was registered to take the IT’S SIDS training on 10/1/25. The assistant director stated that she would continue to stay in the infant room until the training was completed. The assistant director further stated that she was not in the infant room today to facilitate my visit. Other options for the infant room were discussed during the visit. BSAC (Basic School Age Care) training. I stated that the teacher in classroom space #1/2 needed to take the BSAC training, in accordance with NC Child Care Rule 10NCAC 09 .2510(j), since three Kindergarten age children were enrolled and attending for afterschool care. EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE PLAN: The plan was posted in the office area of the center. I observed verification that the EPR Plan was reviewed with the staff on 1/6/25. The center owner stated that she reviewed the EMC Plan at the same time. I requested that the owner list both the EMC and the EPR Plan in the documentation for the next review. AGENCY NEWS AND UPDATES: Visit the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ often. Click on the “What’s New” tab for new requirements and updates. CONTACT INFORMATION: Please contact me if I can be of any assistance to you. I can be reached at toni.fuller@dhhs.nc.gov or (919) 819-9366. Today’s visit was reviewed with the center owner by phone and with the assistant director. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0606 · Violation

Name of Operation: ACADEMY OF STARS Facility ID: 32001582 Consultant: TONI FULLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/26/2025 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 8/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 205 Time In: 10:20 AM Time Out: 01:45 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 applicable child care requirements during your Annual Compliance visit. The new assistant director facilitated today’s visit. The center owner and center director were not present today. This center operates with a three-star license, which was issued on 11/2/19. The license was re-issued on 4/5/24 to change the name of the owner on the license. The last Annual Compliance visit was conducted on 9/4/24. COMPLIANCE HISTORY: The compliance history for this center for the previous eighteen-month timeframe was 93%. CORPORATION STATUS: According to the information on the NC Secretary of State web site, the status of Academy of Stars is “current-active”. During today’s visit all indoor and outdoor licensed space was monitored. OBSERVATIONS: I visited each classroom and observed the children engaged in a variety of indoor activities. Each classroom had current activity plans posted. The center allergy list was posted in each classroom and in the kitchen. CHILDREN’S RECORDS: Five_ children’s records were reviewed today. STAFF RECORDS: The assistant director could not locate the staff/training worksheet today. All staff files were reviewed during the visit. TRANSPORTATION: This program does not offer transportation services. INSPECTIONS: The last documented annual fire inspection was completed on 1/9/25. The last documented sanitation inspection was conducted on 7/30/25. The last documented fire drill was conducted on 7/21/25. The last documented lockdown/shelter-in-place drill was conducted on 7/25/25. The last documented playground inspection was completed in August 2025. The last documented water testing for Clean Water for NC Kids was completed on 9/12/24. The center completed the lead/asbestos testing for clearance through Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids on 8/13/24. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The refrigerator for infant bottles in classroom space #5 did not have a thermometer. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. The infant did not have the signed form on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). Criminal Record Check clearance had expired for the teacher in classroom space #1/2. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. (1) The director needed 1.5 additional hours of in-service training to meet her yearly requirement. (2) The teacher in classroom space #5 needed 9 additional hours of in-service training to meet her yearly requirement. .1103(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. One staff needed a current annual evaluation on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1308 Application did not include the names of individuals to whom the center may release the child, as authorized by the person who signs the application. One child needed emergency contact information on file, if the parents could not be reached. .0801(a)(7) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. The staff person, who began employment on 6/18/25, needed a negative TB test on file. .0701(d) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. The teacher in classroom space #1/2 had last completed the required Health and Safety trainings in 2018. .1103(b) 9999 The direct exit from classroom space #5 (infant classroom) was not single action. It required two steps to open. This is a violation of NC Fire Code. All violations must be corrected immediately. Please send me a signed Corrective Action letter by 9/9/25, stating how each violation has been corrected. RATED LICENSE: The Pathways to the Stars transition will begin soon. There will be a “rules roll out” module in Moodle soon. I informed the center owner that she should receive an invitation to training on the new QRIS process in September. I stated that free webinars were offered on the ECERS-3 and ITERS-3 through the NC Rated License Assessment Project. www.ncrlap.org. I stated that the webinars could be used to meet yearly in-service training hour requirements. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE was provided today in the following areas: CRIMINAL RECORD CHECK: I stated that the teacher could continue working at the center, but she needed to complete the Criminal Record Check requalification process within the next two weeks. HEALTH AND SAFETY: The owner stated that she had not understood that all the Health and Safety trainings had to be completed every five years. Because she did not understand correctly, the Corrective Action letter for the 9/4/24 visit, regarding the violation of Health and Safety training, was not accurate. I explained the requirements during today’s visit. I gave the assistant director a copy of the Health and Safety training log. IT’S SIDS TRAINING: During today’s visit the caregiver for the infant in classroom space #5 was registered to take the IT’S SIDS training on 10/1/25. The assistant director stated that she would continue to stay in the infant room until the training was completed. The assistant director further stated that she was not in the infant room today to facilitate my visit. Other options for the infant room were discussed during the visit. BSAC (Basic School Age Care) training. I stated that the teacher in classroom space #1/2 needed to take the BSAC training, in accordance with NC Child Care Rule 10NCAC 09 .2510(j), since three Kindergarten age children were enrolled and attending for afterschool care. EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE PLAN: The plan was posted in the office area of the center. I observed verification that the EPR Plan was reviewed with the staff on 1/6/25. The center owner stated that she reviewed the EMC Plan at the same time. I requested that the owner list both the EMC and the EPR Plan in the documentation for the next review. AGENCY NEWS AND UPDATES: Visit the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ often. Click on the “What’s New” tab for new requirements and updates. CONTACT INFORMATION: Please contact me if I can be of any assistance to you. I can be reached at toni.fuller@dhhs.nc.gov or (919) 819-9366. Today’s visit was reviewed with the center owner by phone and with the assistant director. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: ACADEMY OF STARS Facility ID: 32001582 Consultant: TONI FULLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/26/2025 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 8/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 205 Time In: 10:20 AM Time Out: 01:45 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 applicable child care requirements during your Annual Compliance visit. The new assistant director facilitated today’s visit. The center owner and center director were not present today. This center operates with a three-star license, which was issued on 11/2/19. The license was re-issued on 4/5/24 to change the name of the owner on the license. The last Annual Compliance visit was conducted on 9/4/24. COMPLIANCE HISTORY: The compliance history for this center for the previous eighteen-month timeframe was 93%. CORPORATION STATUS: According to the information on the NC Secretary of State web site, the status of Academy of Stars is “current-active”. During today’s visit all indoor and outdoor licensed space was monitored. OBSERVATIONS: I visited each classroom and observed the children engaged in a variety of indoor activities. Each classroom had current activity plans posted. The center allergy list was posted in each classroom and in the kitchen. CHILDREN’S RECORDS: Five_ children’s records were reviewed today. STAFF RECORDS: The assistant director could not locate the staff/training worksheet today. All staff files were reviewed during the visit. TRANSPORTATION: This program does not offer transportation services. INSPECTIONS: The last documented annual fire inspection was completed on 1/9/25. The last documented sanitation inspection was conducted on 7/30/25. The last documented fire drill was conducted on 7/21/25. The last documented lockdown/shelter-in-place drill was conducted on 7/25/25. The last documented playground inspection was completed in August 2025. The last documented water testing for Clean Water for NC Kids was completed on 9/12/24. The center completed the lead/asbestos testing for clearance through Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids on 8/13/24. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The refrigerator for infant bottles in classroom space #5 did not have a thermometer. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. The infant did not have the signed form on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). Criminal Record Check clearance had expired for the teacher in classroom space #1/2. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. (1) The director needed 1.5 additional hours of in-service training to meet her yearly requirement. (2) The teacher in classroom space #5 needed 9 additional hours of in-service training to meet her yearly requirement. .1103(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. One staff needed a current annual evaluation on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1308 Application did not include the names of individuals to whom the center may release the child, as authorized by the person who signs the application. One child needed emergency contact information on file, if the parents could not be reached. .0801(a)(7) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. The staff person, who began employment on 6/18/25, needed a negative TB test on file. .0701(d) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. The teacher in classroom space #1/2 had last completed the required Health and Safety trainings in 2018. .1103(b) 9999 The direct exit from classroom space #5 (infant classroom) was not single action. It required two steps to open. This is a violation of NC Fire Code. All violations must be corrected immediately. Please send me a signed Corrective Action letter by 9/9/25, stating how each violation has been corrected. RATED LICENSE: The Pathways to the Stars transition will begin soon. There will be a “rules roll out” module in Moodle soon. I informed the center owner that she should receive an invitation to training on the new QRIS process in September. I stated that free webinars were offered on the ECERS-3 and ITERS-3 through the NC Rated License Assessment Project. www.ncrlap.org. I stated that the webinars could be used to meet yearly in-service training hour requirements. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE was provided today in the following areas: CRIMINAL RECORD CHECK: I stated that the teacher could continue working at the center, but she needed to complete the Criminal Record Check requalification process within the next two weeks. HEALTH AND SAFETY: The owner stated that she had not understood that all the Health and Safety trainings had to be completed every five years. Because she did not understand correctly, the Corrective Action letter for the 9/4/24 visit, regarding the violation of Health and Safety training, was not accurate. I explained the requirements during today’s visit. I gave the assistant director a copy of the Health and Safety training log. IT’S SIDS TRAINING: During today’s visit the caregiver for the infant in classroom space #5 was registered to take the IT’S SIDS training on 10/1/25. The assistant director stated that she would continue to stay in the infant room until the training was completed. The assistant director further stated that she was not in the infant room today to facilitate my visit. Other options for the infant room were discussed during the visit. BSAC (Basic School Age Care) training. I stated that the teacher in classroom space #1/2 needed to take the BSAC training, in accordance with NC Child Care Rule 10NCAC 09 .2510(j), since three Kindergarten age children were enrolled and attending for afterschool care. EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE PLAN: The plan was posted in the office area of the center. I observed verification that the EPR Plan was reviewed with the staff on 1/6/25. The center owner stated that she reviewed the EMC Plan at the same time. I requested that the owner list both the EMC and the EPR Plan in the documentation for the next review. AGENCY NEWS AND UPDATES: Visit the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ often. Click on the “What’s New” tab for new requirements and updates. CONTACT INFORMATION: Please contact me if I can be of any assistance to you. I can be reached at toni.fuller@dhhs.nc.gov or (919) 819-9366. Today’s visit was reviewed with the center owner by phone and with the assistant director. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: ACADEMY OF STARS Facility ID: 32001582 Consultant: TONI FULLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/4/2024 Number Present: 13 Completed Date: 9/4/2024 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced Upon arrival the center director greeted me. The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor applicable child care requirements during your Annual Compliance visit. The last Annual Compliance visit was conducted on 9/5/23. This center operates with a three-star license, which was issued on 11/2/19. The license was re-issued on 4/5/24 to make a name change on the licensee. COMPLIANCE HISTORY: The compliance history for this center for the previous eighteen-month timeframe was 84%. All indoor and outdoor licensed space was monitored today. OBSERVATIONS: I observed the children engaged in free play activities, enjoying the outdoor environment, eating lunch, and resting during naptime. CHILDREN’S FILES: Six children’s files were reviewed during the visit. LUNCH: The director stated that she typically prepared and served breakfast and lunch each day. The owner’s son delivered lunch today. Lunch consisted of chicken nuggets, French fries, sliced apples and milk. Please remember to change the posted menu. STAFF FILES: The staff and training worksheets were received prior to the visit. Staff files were reviewed during the visit. TRANSPORTATION: This center does not offer transportation services. INSPECTIONS: The last documented annual fire inspection was completed on 1/10/24. The last documented sanitation inspection was conducted on 8/29/24. The last documented fire drill was conducted on 8/12/24. The last documented shelter-in-place drill was conducted on 7/16/24. The last documented playground inspection was completed on 8/6/24. INCIDENT REPORTS: The director stated that no injuries/incidents had occurred during the past year. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR NC KIDS: The center completed the training on 8/13/24. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 508 Special diet or food allergy information was not posted where they can be seen in food preparation and eating areas. According to informaiton, provided by the parent, on one child's application, the child was allergic to eggs and had Benadryl and an Epi-Pen for the allergy. The information was not posted. .0901(g) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There were exposed tree roots in the fenced-in space. The roots were underground on the ends and exposed above ground in the center, creating a tripping hazard for children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. One staff needed an updated Health Questionnaire on file. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff needed updated emergency information on file. .0701(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. The caregiver, substituting in classroom space #1/2 today, did not have Criminal Record Check clearance. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. The subsitute caregiver, working in classroom space #1/2, did not have a file. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. The lead teacher assigned to classroom space #1/2 needed an additional 3 hours of training to meet her yearly requirement. .1103(a) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. The staff person, who completed the Health and Safety trainings on 12/16/18, had not completed the trainings for a second time. .1103(b) All violations must be corrected immediately. Please send me a signed Corrective Action letter by 9/18/24, stating how each violation has been corrected. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE was provided today in the following areas: CRIMINAL RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS: I explained that the substitute caregiver could not assist at the center until she had obtained Criminal Record Check clearance. I reviewed the requirements that needed to be on file for a substitute caregiver. OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT: Technical Assistant was provided on solutions for the exposed tree roots. I stated that the roots could be covered with dirt, or the center could use movable fencing to deny children access to the area where the exposed roots are located. EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE PLAN: Please revise your posted Emergency Medical Care Plan to remove names of staff that are not longer employed. Please review the revised plan with your current staff. As Technical Assistant I stated that the Emergency Medical Care Plan and the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan could be reviewed at the same time each year. Please maintain documentation of the yearly review of both plans. IN-SERVICE TRAINING HOUR REQUIREMENTS: Please record all completed trainings on the ongoing training documentation record for each staff. During the 2025 Annual Compliance visit the training hours recorded, and certificates will be tallied for compliance with each staff’s yearly requirement. The director a given a copy of the ongoing training documentation form. CHILD CARE HEALTH CONSULTANT If you have any health-related questions please reach out to our new Child Care Health Consultant Ellie Morris. Her contact information is below. morrise@email.unc.edu, (919 )809-9645 RATED LICENSE: Please know that the “hold harmless” status for Rated License reassessment has been extended until the new QRIS guidelines are ready for implementation. AGENCY NEWS AND UPDATES: Visit the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ often. Click on the “What’s New” tab for new requirements and updates. Today’s visit was facilitated with the director. The visit summary was reviewed with the center director and by phone with the center owner. During today’s visit I gave the director an addendum page, explaining that the sanitation violation cited during 8/14/24 visit had been re-worded. CONTACT INFORMATION: Please contact me if I can be of any assistance to you. I can be reached at toni.fuller@dhhs.nc.gov or (919) 819-9366. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: ACADEMY OF STARS Facility ID: 32001582 Consultant: TONI FULLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/4/2024 Number Present: 13 Completed Date: 9/4/2024 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced Upon arrival the center director greeted me. The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor applicable child care requirements during your Annual Compliance visit. The last Annual Compliance visit was conducted on 9/5/23. This center operates with a three-star license, which was issued on 11/2/19. The license was re-issued on 4/5/24 to make a name change on the licensee. COMPLIANCE HISTORY: The compliance history for this center for the previous eighteen-month timeframe was 84%. All indoor and outdoor licensed space was monitored today. OBSERVATIONS: I observed the children engaged in free play activities, enjoying the outdoor environment, eating lunch, and resting during naptime. CHILDREN’S FILES: Six children’s files were reviewed during the visit. LUNCH: The director stated that she typically prepared and served breakfast and lunch each day. The owner’s son delivered lunch today. Lunch consisted of chicken nuggets, French fries, sliced apples and milk. Please remember to change the posted menu. STAFF FILES: The staff and training worksheets were received prior to the visit. Staff files were reviewed during the visit. TRANSPORTATION: This center does not offer transportation services. INSPECTIONS: The last documented annual fire inspection was completed on 1/10/24. The last documented sanitation inspection was conducted on 8/29/24. The last documented fire drill was conducted on 8/12/24. The last documented shelter-in-place drill was conducted on 7/16/24. The last documented playground inspection was completed on 8/6/24. INCIDENT REPORTS: The director stated that no injuries/incidents had occurred during the past year. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR NC KIDS: The center completed the training on 8/13/24. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 508 Special diet or food allergy information was not posted where they can be seen in food preparation and eating areas. According to informaiton, provided by the parent, on one child's application, the child was allergic to eggs and had Benadryl and an Epi-Pen for the allergy. The information was not posted. .0901(g) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There were exposed tree roots in the fenced-in space. The roots were underground on the ends and exposed above ground in the center, creating a tripping hazard for children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. One staff needed an updated Health Questionnaire on file. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff needed updated emergency information on file. .0701(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. The caregiver, substituting in classroom space #1/2 today, did not have Criminal Record Check clearance. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. The subsitute caregiver, working in classroom space #1/2, did not have a file. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. The lead teacher assigned to classroom space #1/2 needed an additional 3 hours of training to meet her yearly requirement. .1103(a) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. The staff person, who completed the Health and Safety trainings on 12/16/18, had not completed the trainings for a second time. .1103(b) All violations must be corrected immediately. Please send me a signed Corrective Action letter by 9/18/24, stating how each violation has been corrected. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE was provided today in the following areas: CRIMINAL RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS: I explained that the substitute caregiver could not assist at the center until she had obtained Criminal Record Check clearance. I reviewed the requirements that needed to be on file for a substitute caregiver. OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT: Technical Assistant was provided on solutions for the exposed tree roots. I stated that the roots could be covered with dirt, or the center could use movable fencing to deny children access to the area where the exposed roots are located. EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE PLAN: Please revise your posted Emergency Medical Care Plan to remove names of staff that are not longer employed. Please review the revised plan with your current staff. As Technical Assistant I stated that the Emergency Medical Care Plan and the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan could be reviewed at the same time each year. Please maintain documentation of the yearly review of both plans. IN-SERVICE TRAINING HOUR REQUIREMENTS: Please record all completed trainings on the ongoing training documentation record for each staff. During the 2025 Annual Compliance visit the training hours recorded, and certificates will be tallied for compliance with each staff’s yearly requirement. The director a given a copy of the ongoing training documentation form. CHILD CARE HEALTH CONSULTANT If you have any health-related questions please reach out to our new Child Care Health Consultant Ellie Morris. Her contact information is below. morrise@email.unc.edu, (919 )809-9645 RATED LICENSE: Please know that the “hold harmless” status for Rated License reassessment has been extended until the new QRIS guidelines are ready for implementation. AGENCY NEWS AND UPDATES: Visit the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ often. Click on the “What’s New” tab for new requirements and updates. Today’s visit was facilitated with the director. The visit summary was reviewed with the center director and by phone with the center owner. During today’s visit I gave the director an addendum page, explaining that the sanitation violation cited during 8/14/24 visit had been re-worded. CONTACT INFORMATION: Please contact me if I can be of any assistance to you. I can be reached at toni.fuller@dhhs.nc.gov or (919) 819-9366. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: ACADEMY OF STARS Facility ID: 32001582 Consultant: TONI FULLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/4/2024 Number Present: 13 Completed Date: 9/4/2024 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced Upon arrival the center director greeted me. The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor applicable child care requirements during your Annual Compliance visit. The last Annual Compliance visit was conducted on 9/5/23. This center operates with a three-star license, which was issued on 11/2/19. The license was re-issued on 4/5/24 to make a name change on the licensee. COMPLIANCE HISTORY: The compliance history for this center for the previous eighteen-month timeframe was 84%. All indoor and outdoor licensed space was monitored today. OBSERVATIONS: I observed the children engaged in free play activities, enjoying the outdoor environment, eating lunch, and resting during naptime. CHILDREN’S FILES: Six children’s files were reviewed during the visit. LUNCH: The director stated that she typically prepared and served breakfast and lunch each day. The owner’s son delivered lunch today. Lunch consisted of chicken nuggets, French fries, sliced apples and milk. Please remember to change the posted menu. STAFF FILES: The staff and training worksheets were received prior to the visit. Staff files were reviewed during the visit. TRANSPORTATION: This center does not offer transportation services. INSPECTIONS: The last documented annual fire inspection was completed on 1/10/24. The last documented sanitation inspection was conducted on 8/29/24. The last documented fire drill was conducted on 8/12/24. The last documented shelter-in-place drill was conducted on 7/16/24. The last documented playground inspection was completed on 8/6/24. INCIDENT REPORTS: The director stated that no injuries/incidents had occurred during the past year. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR NC KIDS: The center completed the training on 8/13/24. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 508 Special diet or food allergy information was not posted where they can be seen in food preparation and eating areas. According to informaiton, provided by the parent, on one child's application, the child was allergic to eggs and had Benadryl and an Epi-Pen for the allergy. The information was not posted. .0901(g) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There were exposed tree roots in the fenced-in space. The roots were underground on the ends and exposed above ground in the center, creating a tripping hazard for children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. One staff needed an updated Health Questionnaire on file. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff needed updated emergency information on file. .0701(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. The caregiver, substituting in classroom space #1/2 today, did not have Criminal Record Check clearance. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. The subsitute caregiver, working in classroom space #1/2, did not have a file. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. The lead teacher assigned to classroom space #1/2 needed an additional 3 hours of training to meet her yearly requirement. .1103(a) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. The staff person, who completed the Health and Safety trainings on 12/16/18, had not completed the trainings for a second time. .1103(b) All violations must be corrected immediately. Please send me a signed Corrective Action letter by 9/18/24, stating how each violation has been corrected. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE was provided today in the following areas: CRIMINAL RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS: I explained that the substitute caregiver could not assist at the center until she had obtained Criminal Record Check clearance. I reviewed the requirements that needed to be on file for a substitute caregiver. OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT: Technical Assistant was provided on solutions for the exposed tree roots. I stated that the roots could be covered with dirt, or the center could use movable fencing to deny children access to the area where the exposed roots are located. EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE PLAN: Please revise your posted Emergency Medical Care Plan to remove names of staff that are not longer employed. Please review the revised plan with your current staff. As Technical Assistant I stated that the Emergency Medical Care Plan and the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan could be reviewed at the same time each year. Please maintain documentation of the yearly review of both plans. IN-SERVICE TRAINING HOUR REQUIREMENTS: Please record all completed trainings on the ongoing training documentation record for each staff. During the 2025 Annual Compliance visit the training hours recorded, and certificates will be tallied for compliance with each staff’s yearly requirement. The director a given a copy of the ongoing training documentation form. CHILD CARE HEALTH CONSULTANT If you have any health-related questions please reach out to our new Child Care Health Consultant Ellie Morris. Her contact information is below. morrise@email.unc.edu, (919 )809-9645 RATED LICENSE: Please know that the “hold harmless” status for Rated License reassessment has been extended until the new QRIS guidelines are ready for implementation. AGENCY NEWS AND UPDATES: Visit the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ often. Click on the “What’s New” tab for new requirements and updates. Today’s visit was facilitated with the director. The visit summary was reviewed with the center director and by phone with the center owner. During today’s visit I gave the director an addendum page, explaining that the sanitation violation cited during 8/14/24 visit had been re-worded. CONTACT INFORMATION: Please contact me if I can be of any assistance to you. I can be reached at toni.fuller@dhhs.nc.gov or (919) 819-9366. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: ACADEMY OF STARS Facility ID: 32001582 Consultant: TONI FULLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0824-074L Visit Date: 8/14/2024 Number Present: 12 Completed Date: 8/14/2024 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 180 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 12:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced On August 5, 2024, the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) received an anonymous report alleging non-compliance with NC Child Care Licensing Requirements at this center. Upon arrival at the facility today, I was greeted by the newly re-instated director. I stated that I would enter the current administrator information in the DCDEE Regulatory database. I informed the current director that the Division had received a report of possible non-compliance with the licensing requirements, and I was making today’s unannounced visit to gather information pertaining to the matter. The operator was given the opportunity to ask any questions related to the investigation process. The allegations in the report are: ALLEGATION #1 There are concerns that children are not spoken to in a nurturing and caring manner. ALLEGATION #2 Sanitation and health concerns at the center. ALLEGATION #3 Concerns about outdoor safe environment. Monitoring: Only a partial monitoring of child care requirements was conducted today. I visited each classroom, the kitchen, and the outdoor environment. I observed the children engaged in a variety of indoor activities. I observed that two of the four classrooms (classroom space #3/4 and space #5 were currently closed. The reinstated director stated the owner was trying to hire staff to re-open the classrooms. The center was maintaining adequate staff/child ratios today, and all children were being visually supervised. The reinstated director stated that she was also the cook. During today’s visit she prepared spaghetti with meat sauce, broccoli, pineapple, and milk for lunch. Comments section: During today’s visit I discussed the report with the reinstated director. Allegation #1: NURTURING CARE OF CHILDREN The current director stated that the owner had hired a new director, who was employed for two weeks from 7/29/24 to 8/9/24. The reinstated director stated that the two-week director had worked in classroom space #3/4 with school age children. During today’s visit classroom space #3/4 was closed. There had been 10 children enrolled (5 school age and 5 preschool age). The 5 preschool age children had been reassigned to classroom space #1/2. The reinstated director stated that the 5 school age children were no longer attending. She further stated that if the owner was successful in hiring a teacher for classroom space #3/4, the center would offer a before and after school program for the 2024/2025 school year. The reinstated director stated that she had discussed the two-week director’s rough tone with the owner. The reinstated director stated that the two-week director had been dismissed on 8/9/24 by the owner due to inappropriate tone with the children. During today’s visit I reviewed the file for the two-week director. The file did not include a Criminal Record Check letter or a medical assessment. The reinstated director stated that there were no reference checks for the two-week director and the director had been hired after a telephone interview only with the owner. The file contained a write-up, regarding a verbal confrontation with another teacher and her use of curse words in front of the children. At the close of the visit I was informed that the two-week director may still come to the center to pick-up her grandchild, who was enrolled. Allegation #2: HEALTH AND SANITATION I explained that I had received the sanitation inspections reports conducted at this center on 8/1/24 and 8/7/24. The report for the 8/1/24 inspection resulted in a Provisional classification with 35 demerits to include 3 demerits for pest control (item #48 on the inspection form). The report for the 8/7/24 re-inspection resulted in a Provisional classification with 21 demerits to include 3 demerits for pest control (item #48 on the inspection form) . The 8/1/24 report stated that the Environmental Health Specialist observed flying insects in the facility, along with pest traps on the kitchen counter. The 8/7/24 report stated that the Environmental Health Specialist observed dead insects and evidence of roaches in the kitchen. During today’s visit I observed that the pest traps had been removed, as requested by Durham County Environmental Health. During today’s visit I did not observe any insects/roaches, but the reinstated director confirmed that steps had not been taken yet to resolve the pest control issue. The reinstated director stated that the owner was planning to have an exterminator treat the center. The reinstated director stated that she would remind the owner again today. The reinstated director stated that the Durham County Environmental Health inspector was scheduled to return to the center on 8/28/24 for a re-inspection. I explained the importance of having the extermination treatments completed prior to 8/28/24. Allegation #3: SAFE OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT During today’s visit I did not observe any vermin or health concerns in the fenced-in space. The reinstated director stated that the only vermin that they had observed on the playground this summer was Cicadas. The reinstated director stated that she had not observed any vermin on the playground, since February 2024, when two dead baby snakes were observed. I talked to the reinstated director about including the outdoor environment in the extermination treatments. ALLEGATION RESOLUTION Allegation #1: Based on my interview with the reinstated director today, it was determined that the allegation regarding the nurturing care of children was SUBSTANTIATED. Allegation #2: Based on my observations during today’s visit and based on observations documented by Durham County Environmental Health Specialists on the 8/1/24 and 8/7/24 Provisional sanitation inspection reports, the allegation regarding sanitation and health as it relates to cleanliness and the presence of vermin in the center was SUBSTANTIATED. Allegation #3: Based on my observations today and discussion with the reinstated director, it was determined that the allegation of unsafe outdoor environment was UNSUBSTANTIATED. The following violations were cited during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. When first checked the thermometer in the refrigerator registered 50 degrees. When checked again later, after the director turned the dial for a lower temperature, the thermometer registered 60 degrees. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. A verbal altercation between staff members, containing inappropriate language, occurred in front of children in classroom space #3/4. G.S. 110-91(10) 9999 Pests were not excluded from the child care center. Durham County Environmental Health cited demerits regarding pest control related to insects and roaches during sanitation inspections conducted on 8/1/24 and 8/7/24. This is a violation of a rule in NC Sanitation Requirement 15A NCAC 18A .2831(b). All violations must be corrected immediately. Please send me a signed Corrective Action letter by 8/28/24, stating how each violation has been corrected. Since a violation of nurturing care was cited today, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted. During today’s visit I was given the staff/training worksheet for the upcoming Annual Compliance visit. EXTERMINATION: I recommended that the owner contract with a pest control company to treat the entire center and the outdoor environment on a regular basis until the pest control issues have been completely resolved. ANNUAL COMPLIANCE VISIT: During today’s visit I was given the staff/training worksheet for the upcoming Annual Compliance visit. COMPLIANCE HISTORY: The compliance history for this center for the previous eighteen-month timeframe was 84%. NC FIRE CODE: The director exit from classroom space #1 was secured with a deadbolt lock. Classroom space #1 was currently closed. I reminded the reinstated director that the deadbolt lock could not be used when children were in care in classroom space #1. RATED LICENSE: Please know that “Hold Harmless” for Rated License reassessment has been extended until the new QRIS guidelines are ready for implementation. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION: Please know that The NC Division of Child Development and Early Education could issue An Academy of Stars an Administrative Action, based on the nurturing care of children and sanitation issues. CONTACT INFORMATION: If you have any questions or need further assistance, I can be reached at (919)819-9366 or toni.fuller@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: ACADEMY OF STARS Facility ID: 32001582 Consultant: SHAMEQUA WILKERSON-HARRIS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/30/2024 Number Present: 13 Completed Date: 1/30/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 100 Time In: 10:50 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to assess applicable child-care requirements during your routine unannounced visit. I was greeted by Barbara Freeman, the director. At the time of the visit, there were a total of thirteen (13) children present, ranging in age from infant to four (4) years old and six (3) staff. The children were observed playing with materials, playing outside, and completing routine tasks. LICENSE STATUS Currently, this Child Care Center operates with a three (3) star license issued November 2, 2019, earning four (4) points in education, two (2) points in program standards and one (1) quality point. INSPECTIONS *The last fire drill was conducted 1/3/24. *The last emergency drill was conducted 1/20/24. *The last playground inspection was completed 1/5/24. *The last sanitation was completed on 1/11/24 with a ‘Superior’ classification. MONITORING During today’s visit, a partial assessment was conducted, monitoring all space occupied by the children, including the outdoor play environment. CPR/FA and qualification letters were reviewed. All spaces were monitored for supervision, staff/child ratios, materials, equipment and required postings. The program records were reviewed for current inspections. No children enrolled have medications or medical care plans, so these requirements were not monitored. The provider does not have children 12 months and younger enrolled, therefore safe sleep requirements were not monitored. The following violations were observed and documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not offered in sufficient quantity to allow all children to use them at some time during the day and to allow for a range of choices. Materials in the toddler classroom was not accessible to the children. The shelves were turned not allowing children to access the materials. .0510(e)(3) 490 Caregiver did not interact in a positive manner with each child every day. The teacher in the room assigned to toddler children was using negative words such as no, don't, and stop in a harsh tone while re-directing children. .0511(b) 504 Perishable foods were not stored to protect against spoilage. Bread had an expiration date of 12/21/23 and 1/12/24. 15A NCAC 18A .2806 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The refrigerator maintained a temperature of 53 degrees F. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. Safe sleep checks were not completed for the infant classroom for the last 30 days. .0606(g) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. Attendance was not maintained in the infant classroom for the last week. GS 110-91(9) 9999 A violation of the NC Fire Code was observed today. The direct exit from classroom #1,toddler classroom and classroom #6 were locked during today's' visit. The three classrooms had children under 2 1/2 years old present. To comply with the NC Laws and Rules any violations cited today must be corrected immediately. A compliance letter must be received on or before February 13, 2024, letter must address each violation, explain how it has been corrected and how the violation will maintain compliance in the future. Please make sure to include: -Facility name -Facility ID number -Each item number The letter can be emailed to Shamequa.Wilkerson-Harris@dhhs.nc.gov or mailed to: Shamequa Wilkerson-Harris 300 Sugar Maple Avenue Wake Forest, NC 27587 COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today’s visit, the program’s compliance history was 86%. According to NC General Statue 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history score of at least 75% for the past eighteen months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE During today’s visit, the information below was shared with you to maintain quality within your program and to prevent further violations. NC Fire Code The direct exit in the infant classroom (classroom #6) was locked with a deadbolt lock. The door also has a push bar mechanism. The direct exit for the toddler classroom was locked. The direct exit for the 2/3 classroom was locked. I discussed with the director that the push bar mechanism would deny individuals outside access to enter the center. I also reiterated that classrooms with children 2 ½ years old and under must not be locked while children are in attendance. I would recommend placing the push bar mechanism on all doors for classrooms that need a direct exit. The deadbolt is not needed for the push bar mechanism. CHILDREN MATERIALS The shelving with adequate toys stored on them was not accessible to the children in the toddler classroom. The shelving was turned to deny access to the children. I discussed with the director that the children did not have adequate materials with the shelving turned denying access to the children. The teacher stated that she has two children who put the toys in their mouth. I would recommend using a method to sanitize toys and rotate toys as needed. ATTENDANCE Attendance was not completed daily. I would recommend posting your attendance in a place that you remember to check daily. SAFE SLEEP CHECK I would recommend posting the safe sleep check forms near the crib so that you can remember to check and document every 15 minutes. EXPIRED FOOD I would recommend checking for expired food weekly to make sure food has not expired. REFRIGERATOR I would recommend checking daily to make sure that the refrigerator is reading 45 degrees or below. If the refrigerator is not reading properly, I would recommend adjusting the temperature. NURTURING AND CARE I would recommend positive interaction training for toddlers. This will assist with positive interaction with toddlers. A toddler’s physical and emotional needs should be meet through positive interactions, smiles, hugs, eye contact, proper redirection, and talking. CONSULTATION AND REMINDERS The following items were discussed during today’s visit to improve the quality of your program. ONGOING TRAINING The ongoing training for all staff will need to be completed for the 2023-2024 annual compliance year by RATED LICENSE STATUS On Monday June 12, 2023, the hold harmless legislation was extended and signed into law. All facilities are allowed to remain at their current star level without reassessment until June 30, 2024. Your facility has been determined to be in Cohort 2. Your reassessment year will be between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026. I will reach out to you prior to the beginning of your preparation year. Please use this time to make sure all your staff have a WORKS account with all education information updated. Also review updated resources on the North Carolina Rated License Project (NCRLAP) website (www.ncrlap.org). You may also want to consider the FCCERS-R self-study process and timeline for completion since it must occur over a 3-month time period prior to your rated license reassessment. HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING Health and Safety trainings are now available through Moodle on the DCDEE website. These trainings are provided free of charge. You should use your NCID username and password to access the Moodle portal. The Health and Safety trainings must be renewed at least every five (5) years. If you completed the trainings in 2018, you should begin to retake the training now. HEALTH CONSULTANT Ellie Morrise is the new Child Care Health Consultant. If you should have any health related questions, please reach out to her at morrise@email.unc.edu and/or 919.809.9645. CRIMINAL BACKGROUND As of July 11, 2022, criminal record checks are now to be renewed every five (5) years instead of three (3) years. Please make arrangements to complete your 5-year re-qualification before the expiration date. AGENCY UPDATES Please remember to check the Division of Child Development and Early Education website (ncchildcare.gov) on a weekly basis to stay up to date on all new policies and rules. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact me at Shamequa.Wilkerson-Harris@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919 417-2872. 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