Childcare Network #125

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #125 Facility ID: 92003976 Consultant: WANDA FOWLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0425-288L Visit Date: 5/8/2025 Number Present: 80 Completed Date: 5/8/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 60 Time In: 08:00 AM Time Out: 09:00 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor applicable child care requirements during a follow-up visit regarding a report we received about the center related to staff/child ratios. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the center director, Selena Bowe. We discussed the nature of the visit, and she accompanied me on a walk-through of the classrooms to check staff child ratios. OBSERVATIONS All classrooms were found to be in ratios during today’s visit. As we conducted the walk-through additional staff members were arriving and opening the remaining classrooms that had previously been closed. RESOLUTION Based on interviews conducted, a review of center’s records and my observations, there appeared to be enough staff members present in the facility to maintain staff child ratios. I was unable to determine that the center did not comply with the enhanced staff child ratios, therefore, this allegation is UNSUBSTANTIATED. The following violation was observed and recorded during today’s visit. This violation was unrelated to the allegation reported. Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. A board with nails was loose on a bench and there is concrete exposed near the entrance to a classroom on the playground used by two-year-old children. The exposed concrete is a repeat violation. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) The above violations must be corrected immediately. By 5/22/25 please email me a signed letter of compliance. Before the letter is sent, all violations should be corrected; please contact me if additional time is needed to correct a specific violation. Include the following in your letter: facility ID number, list the item number describing how and when the violations were corrected and tell me how you plan to maintain compliance in the future with each item. If you prefer to mail your letter, you may send it to my attention at 2201 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-2201 If the compliance action letter is not received by the due date another visit to the center may be made. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today’s visit, the compliance history score for the center was 93%. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE Having a safe play area is essential to minimizing injuries. There were two safety concerns found today on the playground used by the two-year-old children. There is a piece of concrete exposed near the exit for the 2’s – 2 classroom. This was noted in a previous report and the area had been covered. However, it was exposed again today. The concrete in this area does not appear to be supporting any type of structure, so it may be best to remove it, or another more sufficient covering may be required. In addition, there was a loose board, with exposed nails on the bench on this playground. The director removed the board from the area when it was called to her attention. A center administrator had conducted a morning walk-through of the playground, prior to my arrival, but these concerns were not noted in the report. The classroom and playground checklists are part of the company’s procedures and are incorporated into the center’s corrective action play. The purpose of these checklists is to ensure that the indoor and outdoor learning environments are safe for children. Care should be taken to closely monitor the center facilities when the checklists are completed and to ensure that any needed repairs or safety concerns are noted, so that repairs can be completed in a timely manner. CONSULTATION During the walk through in one of the NC PreK classrooms there was one teacher present, with 10 children. The director stated that the 2nd teacher was helping in another room and should arrive shortly. The teacher arrived in the room 2 – 3 minutes later. We discussed that the ratios for this classroom was 1 to 9, based on NC PreK requirements. After the visit, I learned that there was a recent change to NC PreK staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. The new ratios are 1 to 10 with a group size of 20 children. Because of this rule change, a violation was not documented. The teacher and administrator were unaware of this rule change, so both believed that they were out of ratio during the walk through. It is crucial that staff/child ratios are always maintained to ensure that children are properly supervised and receive good care in a safe environment. Teachers should not permit a parent to leave a child with them, if they have reached their maximum staff/child ratio. Instead they should contact an administrator to see if someone is available to step into the classroom or determine what classroom has available space. In addition, the center is responsible for maintaining accurate attendance and payroll records. Center records should accurately reflect the time that children are present in the building and the staff assigned to each group of children throughout the day. It is recommended that staff sign their time in and out of the classrooms using the Playground Roster. This clearly demonstrates which staff members were present and providing care for the children throughout the day and would clearly demonstrate that the center is maintaining the required staff child ratios throughout the day. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION STATUS A written warning was issued to the center on 2/26/25. It was confirmed that the center received the action on 3/3/25. Item 1: One violation related to the condition of playground equipment and furnishings was noted during today’s visit. Item 2: The maintenance policy and procedures were confirmed to be complaint with the stipulations outlined in the Administrative Action on 3/21/25. During today’s visit I reviewed a selection of the Classroom Sweep Checklists and Classroom Cleaning Checklists. The classrooms also appeared to be clean and no sanitation or safety concerns were noted in the classrooms during today’s visit. Item 3: The staff meeting was conducted on 3/27/25 If you have any further questions or need any assistance, please contact me at 919 218-0988 or wanda.fowler@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #125 Facility ID: 92003976 Consultant: WANDA FOWLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/6/2025 Number Present: 116 Completed Date: 2/6/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor applicable childcare requirements during your annual compliance visit. This documentation was reviewed with you and a copy of the visit summary documentation was given to you at the end of the visit. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the center director, Selena Bowe, and we conducted a general walk through the indoor and outdoor learning environments. I observed infant rest time, groups of children transitioning to the playground and group of children engaged in free play in their classrooms. RATED LICENSE STATUS The program operates with a 5 star-rated license issued on 6/13/24. They received 6 points in program standards, 6 points in staff education and one quality point through the programmatic option of having a staff benefit package and an infrastructure of parent involvement. The program’s “held harmless status” has been extended until the new QRIS is implemented. This means that rated license visits will not be processed until the new rated license process is completed unless the program requests to proceed with a new rated license. All staff should be registered and have their education assessed through WORKS. Best practice would be to complete the registration or confirm previous registration and submit needed transcripts on the first day of employment. Then WORKS would only be updated as staff complete additional education. INSPECTIONS The last sanitation inspection was completed on 9/11/24. The last fire inspection was completed 4/3/24. The last documented fire drill was conducted 2/3/25. The last documented lock down or shelter-in-place drill was conducted 12/3/24. The last documented playground inspection was conducted 2/3/25. NC PRE-K MONITORING Facility Requirements – The program holds a 5 star-rated license issued 6/13/24. NC Pre-K operating hours – the program operates from 7:00 am – 2:30 pm daily. Program Attendance – I observed attendance records during today’s visits. Nutrition – The program provides meals and snacks for the children. Children’s Records- I reviewed 9 children’s files today. Health Assessments – all health assessments were completed for all the files reviewed. Instructional Assessment – The program uses Creative Curriculum Gold Staff/child ratio – The program has a 1/9 ratio. Family Engagement – The program conducts home visits, has a newsletter, parent events throughout the year and parent/teacher conferences. NC Pre-K staff (Admin, LT, and T. Qualification) The staff assigned in the classroom are listed in the NCPreK plan. Two of the lead teachers are listed as approved and the remaining lead teacher and all the teachers are listed as active. I confirm today that all staff are qualified. The program is owned by Child Development Schools North Carolina, LLC, and their status is listed as current and active on the NC Secretary of State website. MONITORING During this visit a full assessment of Child Care Requirements was conducted. The facility was assessed using items noted on the Annual Compliance for Centers checklist. I reviewed 11 staff files for employees working less than 1 year in the center and a sampling of staff files for employees working one year or more in the center. All items reviewed were verified with the exception of items listed below as violations. Staff on-going training was assessed from 3/1/24 – 2/28/25. Violation Number Comment Rule 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. Two emergency medications expired in Nov 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member hired 10/29/24 has not completed First Aid training. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member hired on 10/29/24 has not completed CPR training. .1102(d) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. Three medication authorizations for emergency medication was expired today. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) The above violations must be corrected immediately. By 2/20/25 please email me a signed letter of compliance. Before the letter is sent, all violations should be corrected; please contact me if additional time is needed to correct a specific violation. Include the following in your letter: facility ID number, list the item number describing how and when the violations were corrected and tell me how you plan to maintain compliance in the future with each item. If you prefer to mail your letter, you may send it to my attention at 2201 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-2201 If the compliance action letter is not received by the due date another visit to the center may be made. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today’s visit, the compliance history score for the center was 93%. UPDATES FROM PREVIOUS VISIT The gate with exposed nails was removed and a baby gate was put in its place, until a new gate is installed. The cabinets are scheduled to be replaced early next week. On a visit conducted on 1/29/25 you were instructed to contact Environmental Health to determine if loose siding on the building exterior, on both playgrounds, was a potential hazard for lead-based paint or asbestos. You stated that someone had come earlier to collect samples, but you have not received the results. These areas should be made inaccessible to the children until repairs are made. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE Staff are required to complete CPR and First Aid training within their first 90 days of employment and before its expiration date, thereafter. One staff member was hired on 10/29/24 and has not completed this training. This training is crucial to ensure that all staff are trained and can quickly respond in an emergency. All requirements regarding medication administration are important because if medication is administered improperly, there could be serious consequences for the child. During today’s visit there were two emergency medications that expired in November 2024. In addition, there were three children’s medication authorization forms that were expired. Please note that allergy care plans are valid for one year but the medication administration forms must be updated every 6 months. CONSULTATION Child Care facilities are required to test their drinking and cooking water for lead every three years. Your water was last tested 10/11/23. For information you should contact Clean Water for Carolina Kids. Contact www.cleanwaterforcarolinakids.org for more information. In addition, childcare facilities are now required to test for lead and asbestos hazards in their buildings. You are awaiting the results of the testing. Additional information can be found in the RaiseNC newsletter sent on December 7, 2023. Training in all the required health and safety topics must be completed at least every 5 years. It may be time for your staff to complete this training again. Health and Safety training is available, at no charge, on the DCDEE website, in Moodle. Medication Administration is also a required health and safety training topic. This training is available through Moodle as separate training. Staff should use their individual NCID username and password to access this training. Staff should use their individual NCID username and password to access this training. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment must also be completed at least every 5 years. There is a link to this training on Moodle. AGENCY UPDATES Please check the DCDEE website frequently for updates and changes to childcare requirements. The Child Care Commission is publishing new rules related to the modernization of the Quality Rated License Improvement System in the new year. Once the rules are published there will be a 60-day public comment period. This is an opportunity to give input and ask questions regarding this process. If you have any further questions or need any assistance, please contact me at wanda.fowler@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919 218-0988. 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: Childcare Network #125 Facility ID: 92003976 Consultant: WANDA FOWLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0125-131L Visit Date: 1/29/2025 Number Present: 139 Completed Date: 1/29/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 12:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor applicable childcare requirements regarding a report we received about the center. Upon arrival, I was greeted by an assistant director, Portia McCallop. We discussed the nature of the visit, and she accompanied me on a general walk-through of the indoor and outdoor learning environments. I observed infants resting, and older groups of children engaged in free play activities indoors and outdoors. Allegation #1: There are concerns regarding inadequate supervision in the classroom for three-year-old children. DISCUSSION I interviewed five staff members today. All staff reported that they were unaware of supervision issues in the center. The allegation reported concerns regarding supervision during toileting and diapering in the classroom enrolling three-year-old children, when only one teacher was present. Since I did not observe toileting and diapering during today’s visit, I asked the teacher to explain to me the process for diapering or assisting children when they are using the bathroom. She stated that many of the children in her class are toilet trained, but two still need assistance with toileting and one child wears diapers. She stated that before she begins toileting, she puts art materials or other items on the classroom tables, so the children who are not using the restroom are busy with new activities. She then calls a few children at the time to the bathroom while she stands outside the bathroom, so she can observe the classroom. She stated that if the child needs assistance she quickly steps in the bathroom to help them, or if possible, she directs them to come to her and assists them, I observed a mat that was stored in the bathroom. The teacher stated that she diapers the child on a mat placed on the floor outside the bathroom, so she can observe the children. I asked if there is a process for classroom staff to contact administration if they have a need in the classroom and all staff reported that they use a walkie talkie or the classroom phone to call for help. Most staff stated that administrators are quick to respond to their requests, especially when there is an injury or urgent need. OBSERVATIONS During the walk through, I observed briefly in the classroom named in the report. During the observation, the children were putting on their jackets and preparing to go outside. There was one teacher present with 8 three-year-old children. In addition, there was an aid who works with a child with special needs that is enrolled in the classroom. The aid is present anytime the child is at the center, but I confirmed that she is there to assist the child with special needs and is not counted in staff child ratios. She is also not permitted to diaper the child. During the observation I saw the teacher being attentive and assisting the children who needed help putting on their coats. The teacher remained close to the children and was quick to redirect inappropriate behavior. RESOLUTION Based on interviews and observations made during today’s visit, I was unable to determine whether there are lapses in supervision in the classroom for three-year-old children. Therefore, this allegation is UNSUBSTANTIATED. Allegation #2 There is a concern related to incident reports. The report stated that center administrators alter the incident reports after the classroom teachers have submitted them. DISCUSSION All staff interviewed today stated that if a child is injured in their classroom, they first take care of the child, notify the office, and complete an incident report which is then given to center administration. The administrators contact the parent and then mark on the incident report how and when the parent was notified and signs the report. Center administrators are also responsible for obtaining a parent signature and giving parents a copy of the incident report. Today no staff reported any knowledge of incident reports being altered or edited by center administrators. I asked the assistant director if incident reports ever needed editing. She stated that occasionally the text explaining how the incident occurred did not match the staff member’s verbal account. In those situations, she stated that they go back to the classroom and ask the teacher to explain again how the incident occurred. If their written description is not consistent with their verbal account, they ask the teacher to write the incident report to match their verbal account. She further stated that they want to always provide the parents with accurate information. OBSERVATIONS During today’s visit I reviewed the center’s incident log binder. The log has tabs separating each month and includes a log of incidents and the incident reports for each month. Today I reviewed incident reports and logs for October 2024 – January 2025. I reviewed 25 to 30 incident reports during this almost 4-month period. As I reviewed the reports, I noticed that the teacher who observed the incident, name was listed on the report and below that was the signature of the administrator who notified the parents. The incident reports were written in a variety of handwriting. The handwriting appeared to be consistent throughout the report, except for the portions completed by the administrators. RESOLUTION Based on interviews and observations made during today’s visit, I was unable to determine whether center administrators altered incident reports after the classroom teachers submitted them. Therefore, this allegation is UNSUBSTANTIATED. Allegation # 3 There is a concern for an unsafe outdoor environment. DISCUSSION Prior to conducting the walk-through, I asked the assistant director to explain the process for reporting and completing maintenance needs. She stated that she conducts a daily walk-through of the classrooms and playgrounds, and she notes any concerns. In addition, teachers report concerns to the center administrators. When repairs are needed, the administrators log into the corporate system and file a maintenance request. I asked her how quickly maintenance staff respond to requests. She stated that it varies depending on the nature of the repair, but typically there is not a long delay. For example, she said that they reported clogged sink drains in the kitchen and staff bathroom and those repairs were completed the next day. Other staff interviewed stated that if they see the repair they report it to the administrators, however, there were discrepancies in how timely repairs are made. Most staff said that they threw away toys that were broken. I reviewed 4 previous months of playground inspections, and the damaged gate was noted on the January inspection report, dated 1/7/25, however it was not noted on previous playground inspections. Other staff reported the gate being damaged since October or November. I then asked the administrator to show me when the work order was submitted. She reviewed requests for their center up to 12/7/24 but was unable to find the work order for the gate repair. OBSERVATIONS During the walk-through I noted safety concerns on the playgrounds and in the classrooms. There is a wooden gate that separates the infant/toddler and two/threes playgrounds. The gate is covered with lattice and sections of the lattice are broken off leaving multiple short, rusty nails exposed. The assistant director pointed this out during the walk-through and stated that a service order had been submitted, but it is taking longer because the gate must be built. She said that she had instructed teachers to stand near the gate area, on both sides of the playground, to keep children from being near the gate. However, during our walk-through I heard the administrator twice direct a teacher to stand near the gate. In addition, there are classrooms using this playground with only one teacher present, so they would be unable to assist a child in need and remain in front of the gate. I explained that the exposed nails are a major safety concern, and the nails should either be covered or the gate removed as soon as possible. In addition, there is exposed concrete on this playground near the entrance to the 3-2 classroom. I also noticed damaged siding on the building on both sides of the playground. The administrator stated that the siding was damaged during the ice and snow last week and it has also been reported to maintenance. On the playground used for the older children, there was peeling paint on a mechanical room door. The administrator stated that she would report that to maintenance. RESOLUTION Based on my observations and interviews conducted I was able to determine that the exposed nails were accessible to children at least since 1/7/25 and possibly longer. Therefore, this allegation is SUBSTANTIATED. Allegation # 4 There are concerns regarding sanitation and health related to soiled cabinets under classroom sinks. DISCUSSION The administrator stated that classroom staff are responsible for cleaning their rooms. I pointed out areas where additional cleaning is needed as we conducted the walk-through. She stated that the sinks, with the soiled cabinets, are not used by the children. Instead, there are sinks installed in the bathroom for hand washing. I pointed out that with broken child locks, the children do have access to these soiled areas under the sink and this area under the sinks should be cleaned. OBSERVATIONS During the walk through I observed soiled areas under the sinks in two classrooms enrolling younger children. There were functioning child locks on one of the sinks, so the soil was not accessible to the children. The 2nd sink in the room identified as 3-2 also had built up grime in the sink cabinet and the child locks were not working so I was able to easily open the door. In addition, the sink and diapering areas, and cabinets need deep cleaning in most of the classrooms enrolling children ranging from 1 to 3 years. There was also wall damage, peeling paint and soiled walls in the classrooms. The administrator stated that these rooms are on the schedule to be painted soon and that the classrooms enrolling children who are 4-year-old or older were recently painted. RESOLUTION Based on my observations and interviews conducted I was able to determine that children in room 3-2 have access to the soiled areas under the sink in the classroom, because the child locks are broken. Therefore, this allegation is SUBSTANTIATED. The following violations were observed and recorded during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 504 Perishable foods were not stored to protect against spoilage. Leftover milk, stored in an open container was place in a low sink where it was accessible to children. 15A NCAC 18A .2806 604 Lavatories were not kept clean, in good repair and kept free of storage. The cabinets under two sinks were soiled and the counter tops and cabinet doors were dirty. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(a) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. A playground gate has exposed nails, concrete is exposed near the classroom entrance on the playground used by two and three-year-old children, siding is damaged, has peeling paint or is displaced in areas of both playground and the mechanical room door on the playground used by the older children has peeling paint. There were multiple cabinet doors with broken hinges in the classrooms. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. A staff member's purse was stored on a low area in an unlocked closet. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) The above violations must be corrected immediately. By 2/12/25 please email me a signed letter of compliance. Before the letter is sent, all violations should be corrected; please contact me if additional time is needed to correct a specific violation. Include the following in your letter: facility ID number, list the item number describing how and when the violations were corrected and tell me how you plan to maintain compliance in the future with each item. If the compliance action letter is not received by the due date another visit to the center may be made and additional violations may be added. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today’s visit, the compliance history score for the center was 96%. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE It is important that all equipment and furnishings be sturdy and in good repair so that the children and staff are not exposed to any potential dangers. The gate separating the infant/toddler playground from the 2s/3s playground is missing strips of lattice, leaving small rusty nails exposed. Outside classroom 3-2 there is concrete exposed near their entrance to the playground. There were two cabinets with broken hinges, so when the door is opened the cabinet door is not secured. On all playgrounds the siding, near the bottom of the building, along the sidewalk area is damaged, has peeling paint or has slid out of place. There is also peeling paint on the mechanical room door located on the playground used by the older children. All these items should be repaired promptly as they pose potential risks. Given the age of the building, it is recommended that you reach out to your environmental health specialist regarding lead based paint or asbestos testing. In the 3-2 classroom there was an open container of milk stored in a low classroom sink. I asked about the contents of the container, and I was told that leftover milk, from the children’s cups and unused portions are stored in the container, because they are not permitted to pour milk down the sink. The containers are collected, and the milk is taken to the kitchen for disposal. I explained that the children should not have access to leftover milk because it may be spoiled or contaminated. The container was moved to a higher shelf and staff were reminded not to store this in the sink. Children need clean classrooms to reduce the risk of spreading germs and exposing children to potential contamination. In two classroom enrolling children aged 1 – 3 years, there were two sink cabinets that were heavily soiled under the sinks. One of these cabinets had working child safety locks, but the other sink’s safety locks were not working, and the cabinet was easily opened. In addition, cabinets and countertops around the sinks and diapering areas were soiled and should be deep cleaned. A cleaning schedule and routine classroom checks may help keep teachers on task for general classroom cleaning. In NC PreK 3 there was a staff purse stored in an unlocked closet. Staff should ensure that their personal items are inaccessible to children, meaning that they should be stored in locked areas or at least 5 feet above ground. This protects the children from the risk of being exposed to potentially hazardous items belonging to the teachers. The administrator moved the purse to a higher shelf in the closet. CONSULTATION The substantiation of any allegation may result in an Administrative Action, up to and including revocation of the license, being issued to the program. All classrooms were meeting required staff child ratios. However, there are challenges for staff who are working alone with a group of children. If staffing permits, extra staff should assist in classrooms where ratios only require one teacher, especially in classrooms where children are still in diapers or are not using the bathrooms independently or during classroom transitions. If you have any further questions or need any assistance, please contact me at 919 218-0988 or wanda.fowler@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

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #125 Facility ID: 92003976 Consultant: WANDA FOWLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0125-131L Visit Date: 1/29/2025 Number Present: 139 Completed Date: 1/29/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 12:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor applicable childcare requirements regarding a report we received about the center. Upon arrival, I was greeted by an assistant director, Portia McCallop. We discussed the nature of the visit, and she accompanied me on a general walk-through of the indoor and outdoor learning environments. I observed infants resting, and older groups of children engaged in free play activities indoors and outdoors. Allegation #1: There are concerns regarding inadequate supervision in the classroom for three-year-old children. DISCUSSION I interviewed five staff members today. All staff reported that they were unaware of supervision issues in the center. The allegation reported concerns regarding supervision during toileting and diapering in the classroom enrolling three-year-old children, when only one teacher was present. Since I did not observe toileting and diapering during today’s visit, I asked the teacher to explain to me the process for diapering or assisting children when they are using the bathroom. She stated that many of the children in her class are toilet trained, but two still need assistance with toileting and one child wears diapers. She stated that before she begins toileting, she puts art materials or other items on the classroom tables, so the children who are not using the restroom are busy with new activities. She then calls a few children at the time to the bathroom while she stands outside the bathroom, so she can observe the classroom. She stated that if the child needs assistance she quickly steps in the bathroom to help them, or if possible, she directs them to come to her and assists them, I observed a mat that was stored in the bathroom. The teacher stated that she diapers the child on a mat placed on the floor outside the bathroom, so she can observe the children. I asked if there is a process for classroom staff to contact administration if they have a need in the classroom and all staff reported that they use a walkie talkie or the classroom phone to call for help. Most staff stated that administrators are quick to respond to their requests, especially when there is an injury or urgent need. OBSERVATIONS During the walk through, I observed briefly in the classroom named in the report. During the observation, the children were putting on their jackets and preparing to go outside. There was one teacher present with 8 three-year-old children. In addition, there was an aid who works with a child with special needs that is enrolled in the classroom. The aid is present anytime the child is at the center, but I confirmed that she is there to assist the child with special needs and is not counted in staff child ratios. She is also not permitted to diaper the child. During the observation I saw the teacher being attentive and assisting the children who needed help putting on their coats. The teacher remained close to the children and was quick to redirect inappropriate behavior. RESOLUTION Based on interviews and observations made during today’s visit, I was unable to determine whether there are lapses in supervision in the classroom for three-year-old children. Therefore, this allegation is UNSUBSTANTIATED. Allegation #2 There is a concern related to incident reports. The report stated that center administrators alter the incident reports after the classroom teachers have submitted them. DISCUSSION All staff interviewed today stated that if a child is injured in their classroom, they first take care of the child, notify the office, and complete an incident report which is then given to center administration. The administrators contact the parent and then mark on the incident report how and when the parent was notified and signs the report. Center administrators are also responsible for obtaining a parent signature and giving parents a copy of the incident report. Today no staff reported any knowledge of incident reports being altered or edited by center administrators. I asked the assistant director if incident reports ever needed editing. She stated that occasionally the text explaining how the incident occurred did not match the staff member’s verbal account. In those situations, she stated that they go back to the classroom and ask the teacher to explain again how the incident occurred. If their written description is not consistent with their verbal account, they ask the teacher to write the incident report to match their verbal account. She further stated that they want to always provide the parents with accurate information. OBSERVATIONS During today’s visit I reviewed the center’s incident log binder. The log has tabs separating each month and includes a log of incidents and the incident reports for each month. Today I reviewed incident reports and logs for October 2024 – January 2025. I reviewed 25 to 30 incident reports during this almost 4-month period. As I reviewed the reports, I noticed that the teacher who observed the incident, name was listed on the report and below that was the signature of the administrator who notified the parents. The incident reports were written in a variety of handwriting. The handwriting appeared to be consistent throughout the report, except for the portions completed by the administrators. RESOLUTION Based on interviews and observations made during today’s visit, I was unable to determine whether center administrators altered incident reports after the classroom teachers submitted them. Therefore, this allegation is UNSUBSTANTIATED. Allegation # 3 There is a concern for an unsafe outdoor environment. DISCUSSION Prior to conducting the walk-through, I asked the assistant director to explain the process for reporting and completing maintenance needs. She stated that she conducts a daily walk-through of the classrooms and playgrounds, and she notes any concerns. In addition, teachers report concerns to the center administrators. When repairs are needed, the administrators log into the corporate system and file a maintenance request. I asked her how quickly maintenance staff respond to requests. She stated that it varies depending on the nature of the repair, but typically there is not a long delay. For example, she said that they reported clogged sink drains in the kitchen and staff bathroom and those repairs were completed the next day. Other staff interviewed stated that if they see the repair they report it to the administrators, however, there were discrepancies in how timely repairs are made. Most staff said that they threw away toys that were broken. I reviewed 4 previous months of playground inspections, and the damaged gate was noted on the January inspection report, dated 1/7/25, however it was not noted on previous playground inspections. Other staff reported the gate being damaged since October or November. I then asked the administrator to show me when the work order was submitted. She reviewed requests for their center up to 12/7/24 but was unable to find the work order for the gate repair. OBSERVATIONS During the walk-through I noted safety concerns on the playgrounds and in the classrooms. There is a wooden gate that separates the infant/toddler and two/threes playgrounds. The gate is covered with lattice and sections of the lattice are broken off leaving multiple short, rusty nails exposed. The assistant director pointed this out during the walk-through and stated that a service order had been submitted, but it is taking longer because the gate must be built. She said that she had instructed teachers to stand near the gate area, on both sides of the playground, to keep children from being near the gate. However, during our walk-through I heard the administrator twice direct a teacher to stand near the gate. In addition, there are classrooms using this playground with only one teacher present, so they would be unable to assist a child in need and remain in front of the gate. I explained that the exposed nails are a major safety concern, and the nails should either be covered or the gate removed as soon as possible. In addition, there is exposed concrete on this playground near the entrance to the 3-2 classroom. I also noticed damaged siding on the building on both sides of the playground. The administrator stated that the siding was damaged during the ice and snow last week and it has also been reported to maintenance. On the playground used for the older children, there was peeling paint on a mechanical room door. The administrator stated that she would report that to maintenance. RESOLUTION Based on my observations and interviews conducted I was able to determine that the exposed nails were accessible to children at least since 1/7/25 and possibly longer. Therefore, this allegation is SUBSTANTIATED. Allegation # 4 There are concerns regarding sanitation and health related to soiled cabinets under classroom sinks. DISCUSSION The administrator stated that classroom staff are responsible for cleaning their rooms. I pointed out areas where additional cleaning is needed as we conducted the walk-through. She stated that the sinks, with the soiled cabinets, are not used by the children. Instead, there are sinks installed in the bathroom for hand washing. I pointed out that with broken child locks, the children do have access to these soiled areas under the sink and this area under the sinks should be cleaned. OBSERVATIONS During the walk through I observed soiled areas under the sinks in two classrooms enrolling younger children. There were functioning child locks on one of the sinks, so the soil was not accessible to the children. The 2nd sink in the room identified as 3-2 also had built up grime in the sink cabinet and the child locks were not working so I was able to easily open the door. In addition, the sink and diapering areas, and cabinets need deep cleaning in most of the classrooms enrolling children ranging from 1 to 3 years. There was also wall damage, peeling paint and soiled walls in the classrooms. The administrator stated that these rooms are on the schedule to be painted soon and that the classrooms enrolling children who are 4-year-old or older were recently painted. RESOLUTION Based on my observations and interviews conducted I was able to determine that children in room 3-2 have access to the soiled areas under the sink in the classroom, because the child locks are broken. Therefore, this allegation is SUBSTANTIATED. The following violations were observed and recorded during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 504 Perishable foods were not stored to protect against spoilage. Leftover milk, stored in an open container was place in a low sink where it was accessible to children. 15A NCAC 18A .2806 604 Lavatories were not kept clean, in good repair and kept free of storage. The cabinets under two sinks were soiled and the counter tops and cabinet doors were dirty. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(a) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. A playground gate has exposed nails, concrete is exposed near the classroom entrance on the playground used by two and three-year-old children, siding is damaged, has peeling paint or is displaced in areas of both playground and the mechanical room door on the playground used by the older children has peeling paint. There were multiple cabinet doors with broken hinges in the classrooms. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. A staff member's purse was stored on a low area in an unlocked closet. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) The above violations must be corrected immediately. By 2/12/25 please email me a signed letter of compliance. Before the letter is sent, all violations should be corrected; please contact me if additional time is needed to correct a specific violation. Include the following in your letter: facility ID number, list the item number describing how and when the violations were corrected and tell me how you plan to maintain compliance in the future with each item. If the compliance action letter is not received by the due date another visit to the center may be made and additional violations may be added. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today’s visit, the compliance history score for the center was 96%. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE It is important that all equipment and furnishings be sturdy and in good repair so that the children and staff are not exposed to any potential dangers. The gate separating the infant/toddler playground from the 2s/3s playground is missing strips of lattice, leaving small rusty nails exposed. Outside classroom 3-2 there is concrete exposed near their entrance to the playground. There were two cabinets with broken hinges, so when the door is opened the cabinet door is not secured. On all playgrounds the siding, near the bottom of the building, along the sidewalk area is damaged, has peeling paint or has slid out of place. There is also peeling paint on the mechanical room door located on the playground used by the older children. All these items should be repaired promptly as they pose potential risks. Given the age of the building, it is recommended that you reach out to your environmental health specialist regarding lead based paint or asbestos testing. In the 3-2 classroom there was an open container of milk stored in a low classroom sink. I asked about the contents of the container, and I was told that leftover milk, from the children’s cups and unused portions are stored in the container, because they are not permitted to pour milk down the sink. The containers are collected, and the milk is taken to the kitchen for disposal. I explained that the children should not have access to leftover milk because it may be spoiled or contaminated. The container was moved to a higher shelf and staff were reminded not to store this in the sink. Children need clean classrooms to reduce the risk of spreading germs and exposing children to potential contamination. In two classroom enrolling children aged 1 – 3 years, there were two sink cabinets that were heavily soiled under the sinks. One of these cabinets had working child safety locks, but the other sink’s safety locks were not working, and the cabinet was easily opened. In addition, cabinets and countertops around the sinks and diapering areas were soiled and should be deep cleaned. A cleaning schedule and routine classroom checks may help keep teachers on task for general classroom cleaning. In NC PreK 3 there was a staff purse stored in an unlocked closet. Staff should ensure that their personal items are inaccessible to children, meaning that they should be stored in locked areas or at least 5 feet above ground. This protects the children from the risk of being exposed to potentially hazardous items belonging to the teachers. The administrator moved the purse to a higher shelf in the closet. CONSULTATION The substantiation of any allegation may result in an Administrative Action, up to and including revocation of the license, being issued to the program. All classrooms were meeting required staff child ratios. However, there are challenges for staff who are working alone with a group of children. If staffing permits, extra staff should assist in classrooms where ratios only require one teacher, especially in classrooms where children are still in diapers or are not using the bathrooms independently or during classroom transitions. If you have any further questions or need any assistance, please contact me at 919 218-0988 or wanda.fowler@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

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #125 Facility ID: 92003976 Consultant: NICOLE MILLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0324-260A Visit Date: 3/25/2024 Number Present: 63 Completed Date: 3/25/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 100 Time In: 11:20 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Portia McCallop, assistant director, accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Selena Bowe, director, Portia McCallop, and three additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Staff members were unable to provide an explanation for the scratches and scrapes the child received while in care. The staff members did not attend to the child in a nurturing and caring manner resulting in the scrapes and scratches. G.S. 110-91(10) You may contact me, Nicole Miller, Investigations Consultant, at 919-397-8451 or Nicole.p.miller@dhhs.nc.gov. Ms. Sheronda Harris, Supervisor, may be contacted at sheronda.harris@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. 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