10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: STEPPING STONES LEARNING ACADEMY #4, LLC Facility ID: 26002540 Consultant: SANDRA JOHNSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/9/2025 Number Present: 10 Completed Date: 12/9/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 110 Time In: 01:25 PM Time Out: 03:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a Routine Unannounced Visit. The previous Annual Compliance Visit was completed May 13, 2025, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 100%. This program currently operates with a four-Star License issued. The License was based on the program earning seven points in education standards, two points in program standards, and one quality point by choosing to meet the programmatic option: Meeting Staff Benefits Package and Infrastructure Involvement. The information on record with the DCDEE was verified as correct by Brittany Mack, Administrator, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of Superior completed 7/28/2025. Fire Classification of Approved for Daytime Only completed 10/31/2025. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Ms. Mack, upon entering space children were observed participating in large groups. The teacher read the story “Pete the Cat”. Lunch today was pork chops, peaches, sweet peas, rolls, and milk. Snack served today was graham cookies. An observation was completed in space #1, from 1:50p.m. to 2:05p.m., The teachers were observed sitting at tables with the children while they were having their snack. The children wanted to listen to the song about “Pete the Cat”, while they were having snack. After snack the children transitioned to large group again to end the day. The children sang a goodbye song and then were able to share what was their favorite part of their day was. During today’s visit the previous staff and training worksheets were monitored for compliance with CPR & First Aid Training, CBC, and IT’S SIDS training. Three new staff member files were monitored. At the completion of the visit the visit summary was reviewed with Ms. Mack. The following violation were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The outdoor play area had a metal picnic table sharp edges on the sitting area. This was corrected by the administrator removing the table from the play area. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 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. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on December 23, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to me. Name Sandra Johnson Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 64401 Fayetteville, NC 28306 Sandra.Johnson@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 TA: During my observations today, the children were engaged in playing in free choice play and participating in small group activities. The teachers were sitting with the children and talking with the children. They sat at eye level, supported the children and encouraged them to share. The teachers would help the children with words to use when they got frustrated and did not want to share. I shared with the administrator that the teachers were having good interaction with the children, talking and playing with them. I asked her to share with the teachers to keep helping the children with their conversational speech and giving them the words to use when they need help with solving problems. These things will help with the children’s vocabulary, social and emotional skills. During today’s visit the following information was reviewed and forms left for the Pathways to the Stars. (New QRIS), Education Standards for all positions of each staff member, Staff Information and Education Worksheet, CQI Plan, Family and Community Engagement Standards, Self Study, the Oris Pathways #1, and #2, Program Assessment document, and Classroom and instructional Quality for Centers, and Application for Assessment for a Rated License, and Rated License Assessment Request Review. Ms. Mack and l reviewed all documents. She stated that she is looking to complete pathway #1 for the facility. I shared with Ms. Mack that if she would like help with Pathway 1, she could reach out to me or apply for the Partnership for Children and request additional assistants. We discussed ensuring that all staff have submitted information for their Works account. I shared with her that she can reach out to me through email or via phone with any additional questions. During today’s visit, I discussed access and use of the NCFELD book in the development of activity planning as required by NC Child Care Rule 10A NCAC .0508 Activity Schedules and Plans. Your program has a copy of the publication. Additionally, the publication is available on-line, free of charge, at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/N/NC_Foundations.pdf Training on use of the publication is available through our Partnership for Children, so please encourage Lead Teachers to visit their website ( https://ccpfc.org/ ) and complete the training. Reminders: The DCDEE has a new initiative – Natural Outdoor Learning Initiative. Through this initiative, we hope to increase knowledge and confidence for everyone in developing and implementing best practices to support the creation, programming, and safe use of naturalized outdoor spaces in child care facilities. You can learn more by visiting the NLI website, where you will also find many resources, including an updated Toolkit designed to help you enhance your outdoor learning environment. The downloadable NLI Toolkit is available at: https://naturalearning.org/preschool-outdoor-toolkit Please visit DCDEE’s website for the latest child care updates and information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ Please feel free to contact me at sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov or 910-408-8985 if you have any questions, comments, or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: ratio. Open / not marked corrected.

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: STEPPING STONES LEARNING ACADEMY #4, LLC Facility ID: 26002540 Consultant: SANDRA JOHNSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/9/2025 Number Present: 10 Completed Date: 12/9/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 110 Time In: 01:25 PM Time Out: 03:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a Routine Unannounced Visit. The previous Annual Compliance Visit was completed May 13, 2025, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 100%. This program currently operates with a four-Star License issued. The License was based on the program earning seven points in education standards, two points in program standards, and one quality point by choosing to meet the programmatic option: Meeting Staff Benefits Package and Infrastructure Involvement. The information on record with the DCDEE was verified as correct by Brittany Mack, Administrator, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of Superior completed 7/28/2025. Fire Classification of Approved for Daytime Only completed 10/31/2025. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Ms. Mack, upon entering space children were observed participating in large groups. The teacher read the story “Pete the Cat”. Lunch today was pork chops, peaches, sweet peas, rolls, and milk. Snack served today was graham cookies. An observation was completed in space #1, from 1:50p.m. to 2:05p.m., The teachers were observed sitting at tables with the children while they were having their snack. The children wanted to listen to the song about “Pete the Cat”, while they were having snack. After snack the children transitioned to large group again to end the day. The children sang a goodbye song and then were able to share what was their favorite part of their day was. During today’s visit the previous staff and training worksheets were monitored for compliance with CPR & First Aid Training, CBC, and IT’S SIDS training. Three new staff member files were monitored. At the completion of the visit the visit summary was reviewed with Ms. Mack. The following violation were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The outdoor play area had a metal picnic table sharp edges on the sitting area. This was corrected by the administrator removing the table from the play area. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 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. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on December 23, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to me. Name Sandra Johnson Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 64401 Fayetteville, NC 28306 Sandra.Johnson@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 TA: During my observations today, the children were engaged in playing in free choice play and participating in small group activities. The teachers were sitting with the children and talking with the children. They sat at eye level, supported the children and encouraged them to share. The teachers would help the children with words to use when they got frustrated and did not want to share. I shared with the administrator that the teachers were having good interaction with the children, talking and playing with them. I asked her to share with the teachers to keep helping the children with their conversational speech and giving them the words to use when they need help with solving problems. These things will help with the children’s vocabulary, social and emotional skills. During today’s visit the following information was reviewed and forms left for the Pathways to the Stars. (New QRIS), Education Standards for all positions of each staff member, Staff Information and Education Worksheet, CQI Plan, Family and Community Engagement Standards, Self Study, the Oris Pathways #1, and #2, Program Assessment document, and Classroom and instructional Quality for Centers, and Application for Assessment for a Rated License, and Rated License Assessment Request Review. Ms. Mack and l reviewed all documents. She stated that she is looking to complete pathway #1 for the facility. I shared with Ms. Mack that if she would like help with Pathway 1, she could reach out to me or apply for the Partnership for Children and request additional assistants. We discussed ensuring that all staff have submitted information for their Works account. I shared with her that she can reach out to me through email or via phone with any additional questions. During today’s visit, I discussed access and use of the NCFELD book in the development of activity planning as required by NC Child Care Rule 10A NCAC .0508 Activity Schedules and Plans. Your program has a copy of the publication. Additionally, the publication is available on-line, free of charge, at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/N/NC_Foundations.pdf Training on use of the publication is available through our Partnership for Children, so please encourage Lead Teachers to visit their website ( https://ccpfc.org/ ) and complete the training. Reminders: The DCDEE has a new initiative – Natural Outdoor Learning Initiative. Through this initiative, we hope to increase knowledge and confidence for everyone in developing and implementing best practices to support the creation, programming, and safe use of naturalized outdoor spaces in child care facilities. You can learn more by visiting the NLI website, where you will also find many resources, including an updated Toolkit designed to help you enhance your outdoor learning environment. The downloadable NLI Toolkit is available at: https://naturalearning.org/preschool-outdoor-toolkit Please visit DCDEE’s website for the latest child care updates and information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ Please feel free to contact me at sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov or 910-408-8985 if you have any questions, comments, or concerns. 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: STEPPING STONES LEARNING ACADEMY #4, LLC Facility ID: 26002540 Consultant: JENNIFER STRICKLAND Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/16/2024 Number Present: 17 Completed Date: 5/16/2024 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 420 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 with applicable child care requirements pertinent to an Annual Compliance Visit, including compliance with requirements located in Child Care Rule Section .3000, and Health and Safety Training. Space #1 serves children participating in the NC Pre-K program. The last the visit was completed May 22, 2023, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 97% which is above the 75%, that is required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Four (4)-Star License. The License was based on the program earning seven (7) points in education standards, two (2) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet a programmatic option: Meeting Staff Benefits Package and Infrastructure of Parent Involvement. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Brittany Mack, Administrator, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of Superior completed November 27, 2023. Fire Classification of Approved for daytime and night care completed October 16, 2023. Mary E. Dakta, Licensing Supervisor assisted me during today’s visit. Vanessa Hardaway, NC Pre-K Lead Teacher, was present while we observed the indoor and outdoor areas. Ms. Mack came in and assisted us in monitoring the program records. I observed the children participating in bathroom and handwashing routines and eating breakfast, which consisted of Canadian bacon, wheat bread, and milk. The children then participated in group time, reviewing the day's question, "How do you feel about going to kindergarten?" followed by a free choice play in activity areas containing at least three related activities and a sufficient quantity of materials for three children to use. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children enrolled at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. There were 17 children present however only 14 were signed in by their parents. Administrator corrected by adding her initials next to children names and highlighting the space for parents to sign during pick up. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 205 Storage space was not available for each child's personal belongings. Storage was available to individual children; however, some of the items or accessories belonging to a child stored in cubicles or coat hooks should not come into contact with stored items belonging to other children. The teacher pushed items into the space to prevent items from touching. G.S. 110-91(6) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In the outdoor play area there was a picnic table with broken seats that had exposed jagged edges. The administrator cover the broken and jagged edged with duck tape. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Inside an unlocked office space there was a teacher's purse, push pins, and a can of Lysol aerosol stored. .2820(b) 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. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on May 30, 2024, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Jennifer Strickland Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 641 Fayetteville, NC 28302 jennifer.a.strickland@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: NCRLAP: The NC pre-K program has not been assess since 2018. In preparation for the upcoming assessment I encourage the administrator and the teachers to visit the NCRLAP website at www.ncrlap.org for the video resources such as “Language for Learning: Preschoolers. Also available are additional webinars, handouts, and other videos for all Environment Rating Scales. Handwashing: Ask children to wash their hands before and after messy play such as kinetic sand, and play-dough. Block Area: Plastic dinosaurs were one of the supplemental materials in the block building area, however they were moved to a carpeted area away from the block building area during the time the children were engaged in free choice/ teacher directed activities. Consider expanding the block area to allow multiple activities to occur simultaneously weather the children want to work together or independently. DCDEE Website/ Child Care Consultant Contact Information Visit the DCDEE website (https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov) for updated requirements, forms, and other pertinent information. Please feel free to contact me at jennifer.a.strickland@dhhs.nc.gov or 910- 882-2378 if you have any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0302 · Violation

Name of Operation: STEPPING STONES LEARNING ACADEMY #4, LLC Facility ID: 26002540 Consultant: JENNIFER STRICKLAND Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/16/2024 Number Present: 17 Completed Date: 5/16/2024 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 420 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 with applicable child care requirements pertinent to an Annual Compliance Visit, including compliance with requirements located in Child Care Rule Section .3000, and Health and Safety Training. Space #1 serves children participating in the NC Pre-K program. The last the visit was completed May 22, 2023, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 97% which is above the 75%, that is required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Four (4)-Star License. The License was based on the program earning seven (7) points in education standards, two (2) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet a programmatic option: Meeting Staff Benefits Package and Infrastructure of Parent Involvement. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Brittany Mack, Administrator, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of Superior completed November 27, 2023. Fire Classification of Approved for daytime and night care completed October 16, 2023. Mary E. Dakta, Licensing Supervisor assisted me during today’s visit. Vanessa Hardaway, NC Pre-K Lead Teacher, was present while we observed the indoor and outdoor areas. Ms. Mack came in and assisted us in monitoring the program records. I observed the children participating in bathroom and handwashing routines and eating breakfast, which consisted of Canadian bacon, wheat bread, and milk. The children then participated in group time, reviewing the day's question, "How do you feel about going to kindergarten?" followed by a free choice play in activity areas containing at least three related activities and a sufficient quantity of materials for three children to use. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children enrolled at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. There were 17 children present however only 14 were signed in by their parents. Administrator corrected by adding her initials next to children names and highlighting the space for parents to sign during pick up. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 205 Storage space was not available for each child's personal belongings. Storage was available to individual children; however, some of the items or accessories belonging to a child stored in cubicles or coat hooks should not come into contact with stored items belonging to other children. The teacher pushed items into the space to prevent items from touching. G.S. 110-91(6) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In the outdoor play area there was a picnic table with broken seats that had exposed jagged edges. The administrator cover the broken and jagged edged with duck tape. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Inside an unlocked office space there was a teacher's purse, push pins, and a can of Lysol aerosol stored. .2820(b) 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. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on May 30, 2024, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Jennifer Strickland Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 641 Fayetteville, NC 28302 jennifer.a.strickland@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: NCRLAP: The NC pre-K program has not been assess since 2018. In preparation for the upcoming assessment I encourage the administrator and the teachers to visit the NCRLAP website at www.ncrlap.org for the video resources such as “Language for Learning: Preschoolers. Also available are additional webinars, handouts, and other videos for all Environment Rating Scales. Handwashing: Ask children to wash their hands before and after messy play such as kinetic sand, and play-dough. Block Area: Plastic dinosaurs were one of the supplemental materials in the block building area, however they were moved to a carpeted area away from the block building area during the time the children were engaged in free choice/ teacher directed activities. Consider expanding the block area to allow multiple activities to occur simultaneously weather the children want to work together or independently. DCDEE Website/ Child Care Consultant Contact Information Visit the DCDEE website (https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov) for updated requirements, forms, and other pertinent information. Please feel free to contact me at jennifer.a.strickland@dhhs.nc.gov or 910- 882-2378 if you have any questions or concerns. 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: STEPPING STONES LEARNING ACADEMY #4, LLC Facility ID: 26002540 Consultant: JENNIFER STRICKLAND Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/16/2024 Number Present: 17 Completed Date: 5/16/2024 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 420 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 with applicable child care requirements pertinent to an Annual Compliance Visit, including compliance with requirements located in Child Care Rule Section .3000, and Health and Safety Training. Space #1 serves children participating in the NC Pre-K program. The last the visit was completed May 22, 2023, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 97% which is above the 75%, that is required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Four (4)-Star License. The License was based on the program earning seven (7) points in education standards, two (2) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet a programmatic option: Meeting Staff Benefits Package and Infrastructure of Parent Involvement. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Brittany Mack, Administrator, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of Superior completed November 27, 2023. Fire Classification of Approved for daytime and night care completed October 16, 2023. Mary E. Dakta, Licensing Supervisor assisted me during today’s visit. Vanessa Hardaway, NC Pre-K Lead Teacher, was present while we observed the indoor and outdoor areas. Ms. Mack came in and assisted us in monitoring the program records. I observed the children participating in bathroom and handwashing routines and eating breakfast, which consisted of Canadian bacon, wheat bread, and milk. The children then participated in group time, reviewing the day's question, "How do you feel about going to kindergarten?" followed by a free choice play in activity areas containing at least three related activities and a sufficient quantity of materials for three children to use. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children enrolled at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. There were 17 children present however only 14 were signed in by their parents. Administrator corrected by adding her initials next to children names and highlighting the space for parents to sign during pick up. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 205 Storage space was not available for each child's personal belongings. Storage was available to individual children; however, some of the items or accessories belonging to a child stored in cubicles or coat hooks should not come into contact with stored items belonging to other children. The teacher pushed items into the space to prevent items from touching. G.S. 110-91(6) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In the outdoor play area there was a picnic table with broken seats that had exposed jagged edges. The administrator cover the broken and jagged edged with duck tape. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Inside an unlocked office space there was a teacher's purse, push pins, and a can of Lysol aerosol stored. .2820(b) 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. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on May 30, 2024, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Jennifer Strickland Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 641 Fayetteville, NC 28302 jennifer.a.strickland@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: NCRLAP: The NC pre-K program has not been assess since 2018. In preparation for the upcoming assessment I encourage the administrator and the teachers to visit the NCRLAP website at www.ncrlap.org for the video resources such as “Language for Learning: Preschoolers. Also available are additional webinars, handouts, and other videos for all Environment Rating Scales. Handwashing: Ask children to wash their hands before and after messy play such as kinetic sand, and play-dough. Block Area: Plastic dinosaurs were one of the supplemental materials in the block building area, however they were moved to a carpeted area away from the block building area during the time the children were engaged in free choice/ teacher directed activities. Consider expanding the block area to allow multiple activities to occur simultaneously weather the children want to work together or independently. DCDEE Website/ Child Care Consultant Contact Information Visit the DCDEE website (https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov) for updated requirements, forms, and other pertinent information. Please feel free to contact me at jennifer.a.strickland@dhhs.nc.gov or 910- 882-2378 if you have any questions or concerns. 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: STEPPING STONES LEARNING ACADEMY #4, LLC Facility ID: 26002540 Consultant: JENNIFER STRICKLAND Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/16/2024 Number Present: 17 Completed Date: 5/16/2024 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 420 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 with applicable child care requirements pertinent to an Annual Compliance Visit, including compliance with requirements located in Child Care Rule Section .3000, and Health and Safety Training. Space #1 serves children participating in the NC Pre-K program. The last the visit was completed May 22, 2023, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 97% which is above the 75%, that is required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Four (4)-Star License. The License was based on the program earning seven (7) points in education standards, two (2) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet a programmatic option: Meeting Staff Benefits Package and Infrastructure of Parent Involvement. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Brittany Mack, Administrator, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of Superior completed November 27, 2023. Fire Classification of Approved for daytime and night care completed October 16, 2023. Mary E. Dakta, Licensing Supervisor assisted me during today’s visit. Vanessa Hardaway, NC Pre-K Lead Teacher, was present while we observed the indoor and outdoor areas. Ms. Mack came in and assisted us in monitoring the program records. I observed the children participating in bathroom and handwashing routines and eating breakfast, which consisted of Canadian bacon, wheat bread, and milk. The children then participated in group time, reviewing the day's question, "How do you feel about going to kindergarten?" followed by a free choice play in activity areas containing at least three related activities and a sufficient quantity of materials for three children to use. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children enrolled at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. There were 17 children present however only 14 were signed in by their parents. Administrator corrected by adding her initials next to children names and highlighting the space for parents to sign during pick up. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 205 Storage space was not available for each child's personal belongings. Storage was available to individual children; however, some of the items or accessories belonging to a child stored in cubicles or coat hooks should not come into contact with stored items belonging to other children. The teacher pushed items into the space to prevent items from touching. G.S. 110-91(6) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In the outdoor play area there was a picnic table with broken seats that had exposed jagged edges. The administrator cover the broken and jagged edged with duck tape. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Inside an unlocked office space there was a teacher's purse, push pins, and a can of Lysol aerosol stored. .2820(b) 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. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on May 30, 2024, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Jennifer Strickland Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 641 Fayetteville, NC 28302 jennifer.a.strickland@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: NCRLAP: The NC pre-K program has not been assess since 2018. In preparation for the upcoming assessment I encourage the administrator and the teachers to visit the NCRLAP website at www.ncrlap.org for the video resources such as “Language for Learning: Preschoolers. Also available are additional webinars, handouts, and other videos for all Environment Rating Scales. Handwashing: Ask children to wash their hands before and after messy play such as kinetic sand, and play-dough. Block Area: Plastic dinosaurs were one of the supplemental materials in the block building area, however they were moved to a carpeted area away from the block building area during the time the children were engaged in free choice/ teacher directed activities. Consider expanding the block area to allow multiple activities to occur simultaneously weather the children want to work together or independently. DCDEE Website/ Child Care Consultant Contact Information Visit the DCDEE website (https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov) for updated requirements, forms, and other pertinent information. Please feel free to contact me at jennifer.a.strickland@dhhs.nc.gov or 910- 882-2378 if you have any questions or concerns. 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: STEPPING STONES LEARNING ACADEMY #4, LLC Facility ID: 26002540 Consultant: JENNIFER STRICKLAND Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/14/2023 Number Present: 13 Completed Date: 11/14/2023 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 90 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a Routine Unannounced visit. The previous Annual Compliance Visit was completed May 22, 2023, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 97%, which is at or above 75%, as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Four (4)-Star License issued December 2, 2022. The License was based on the program earning seven (7) points in education standards, two (2) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet a programmatic option by having staff benefits package and infrastructure of parent involvement. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Brittney Mack and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of superior completed November 10, 2022. Fire Inspection approved completed October 16, 2023. B. Mack, Administrator, was present and assisted me while I observed the indoor and outdoor areas. Preschool children in space #1 were outdoors engaged in gross motor activities. The children were observed chasing each other, running, bouncing balls, climbing, pulling, and playing with sand. Teachers were positioned on opposite sides to better monitored children. After outdoors the children transitioned indoors and were observed during handwashing and bathroom routines. Lunch served today was beef cheese tacos, soft w/w tortilla, corn, pineapples, and milk At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with B. Mack. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 899 The child care operator did not comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91.The most current sanitation inspection report for the facility was completed November 10, 2022. GS 110-91 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. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on November 28, 2023, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Mail or email the information to: Jennifer Strickland Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 641 Fayetteville, NC 28302 jennifer.a.strickland@dhhs.nc.gov Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: Observation Suggestion: Continue to model positive and respectful ways of engaging children, by standing close to them, reflecting their emotions, and by responding to their attempts to communicate both verbally and nonverbally. Respectful language was used, such as addressing each child by their name and moments were taken to check-in with each child during activities to see how they were doing and what their needs are. Sanitation Inspection: The violation for a current sanitation inspection was cited today. Sanitation inspections are required to be completed at least annually for all licensed child care programs. I suggested B. mack contact Cumberland County Environmental Health Department, request an updated sanitation inspection, and document contact made with the agency. Please scan and email a copy of the sanitation inspection report to me by November 29, 2023, attached to the compliance letter. NCRLAP: I encourage teachers to visit the NCRLAP website at www.ncrlap.org for the video resources such as “Language for Learning: Infants and Toddlers” and “Language for Learning: Preschoolers. Also available are additional webinars, handouts, and other videos for all Environment Rating Scales. Challenging Behaviors: The Challenging Behaviors Hotline has opened. You may speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to challenging behaviors in your facility. Dial 1-888-600-1685 Option 1 or for more information go to www.childcareresourcesinc.org/challenging-behaviors-helpline. Hazardous Plants: It was observed that some classrooms contained living plants in which are used to expose children to nature and allow them the opportunity to take care of living objects. shared a copy of the pamphlet “The Guide to Accidental Plant Poisoning” with the administrator. The pamphlet contains information regarding common nonpoisonous plants that are safe for indoors and outdoors in child care programs. DCDEE Website/ Child Care Consultant Contact Information Visit the DCDEE website (https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov) for updated requirements, forms, and other pertinent information. Please feel free to contact me at jennifer.a.strickland@dhhs.nc.gov or 910- 882-2378 if you have any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: ratio. Open / not marked corrected.

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: STEPPING STONES LEARNING ACADEMY #4, LLC Facility ID: 26002540 Consultant: JENNIFER STRICKLAND Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/14/2023 Number Present: 13 Completed Date: 11/14/2023 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 90 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a Routine Unannounced visit. The previous Annual Compliance Visit was completed May 22, 2023, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 97%, which is at or above 75%, as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Four (4)-Star License issued December 2, 2022. The License was based on the program earning seven (7) points in education standards, two (2) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet a programmatic option by having staff benefits package and infrastructure of parent involvement. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Brittney Mack and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of superior completed November 10, 2022. Fire Inspection approved completed October 16, 2023. B. Mack, Administrator, was present and assisted me while I observed the indoor and outdoor areas. Preschool children in space #1 were outdoors engaged in gross motor activities. The children were observed chasing each other, running, bouncing balls, climbing, pulling, and playing with sand. Teachers were positioned on opposite sides to better monitored children. After outdoors the children transitioned indoors and were observed during handwashing and bathroom routines. Lunch served today was beef cheese tacos, soft w/w tortilla, corn, pineapples, and milk At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with B. Mack. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 899 The child care operator did not comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91.The most current sanitation inspection report for the facility was completed November 10, 2022. GS 110-91 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. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on November 28, 2023, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Mail or email the information to: Jennifer Strickland Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 641 Fayetteville, NC 28302 jennifer.a.strickland@dhhs.nc.gov Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: Observation Suggestion: Continue to model positive and respectful ways of engaging children, by standing close to them, reflecting their emotions, and by responding to their attempts to communicate both verbally and nonverbally. Respectful language was used, such as addressing each child by their name and moments were taken to check-in with each child during activities to see how they were doing and what their needs are. Sanitation Inspection: The violation for a current sanitation inspection was cited today. Sanitation inspections are required to be completed at least annually for all licensed child care programs. I suggested B. mack contact Cumberland County Environmental Health Department, request an updated sanitation inspection, and document contact made with the agency. Please scan and email a copy of the sanitation inspection report to me by November 29, 2023, attached to the compliance letter. NCRLAP: I encourage teachers to visit the NCRLAP website at www.ncrlap.org for the video resources such as “Language for Learning: Infants and Toddlers” and “Language for Learning: Preschoolers. Also available are additional webinars, handouts, and other videos for all Environment Rating Scales. Challenging Behaviors: The Challenging Behaviors Hotline has opened. You may speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to challenging behaviors in your facility. Dial 1-888-600-1685 Option 1 or for more information go to www.childcareresourcesinc.org/challenging-behaviors-helpline. Hazardous Plants: It was observed that some classrooms contained living plants in which are used to expose children to nature and allow them the opportunity to take care of living objects. shared a copy of the pamphlet “The Guide to Accidental Plant Poisoning” with the administrator. The pamphlet contains information regarding common nonpoisonous plants that are safe for indoors and outdoors in child care programs. DCDEE Website/ Child Care Consultant Contact Information Visit the DCDEE website (https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov) for updated requirements, forms, and other pertinent information. Please feel free to contact me at jennifer.a.strickland@dhhs.nc.gov or 910- 882-2378 if you have any questions or concerns. 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