Academy Kids Enrichment Center

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: ACADEMY KIDS ENRICHMENT CENTER Facility ID: 41002187 Consultant: SHARON WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/26/2025 Number Present: 28 Completed Date: 8/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. I was greeted by Ms. Toya Blackwell, owner/director of the childcare center. This center currently operates with a Three-Star license, effective December 28, 2018. A full assessment of applicable child care requirements was conducted; I used the Annual Monitoring Checklist during today’s visit. The compliance history is 86% as of August 26, 2025. Twenty-eight (28) children were present today. I observed the children playing outside, completing bathroom routines, eating lunch, and resting. I reviewed staff files and a sampling of children files. Several children had missing forms and staff files were not in order. A sanitation inspection was completed 7/18/25 with a “Superior” classification. A fire inspection was conducted on 4/24/25. Monthly playground and fire drills have been conducted and documentation was available for review. Quarterly disaster drills have also been documented. Upon my arrival, the infant classroom was out of ratio. A substitute staff member arrived approximately 30 minutes later. I will return within 10 business days to follow up and monitor staff-to-child ratios. I observed eight items of non-compliance of childcare rules during the visit today. Violation Number Comment Rule 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. There were six children between the ages of 0 and 1 year present with one staff member. The staff/child ratio for youngest child present was not met. The violation was corrected during the visit when a second staff member arrived in the classroom, bringing it into compliance with the required staff-to-child ratio. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. Peeling paint was observed on the walls in two classrooms. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. In the two-year-old classroom, the gray child-sized couch and chair were torn. .0601(c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The wooden deck leading to the outdoor play area had weak or deteriorating boards. One tricycle and the pink and purple Power-wheel were broken. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. The two substitutes did not have an application on file for review. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A medical exam or health assessment was not on file for three children. GS110-91(1) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A valid qualification letter was not on file and available for review at the facility for the two substitutes. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. The two substitutes did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening, and/or completed health questionnaire, in a medical file. .0701(d) Childcare programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be emailed to me at sharon.y.williams@dhhs.nc.gov on or before September 9, 2025. The letter of compliance should contain the following information: 1. Facility Name 2. Facility ID 3. Date of the letter 4. The violation number. Date the violation was corrected. How the violation was corrected. 5. Signature of the person preparing the letter. TA: Staff/child ratio: Maintaining required staff-to-child ratios and group sizes is essential for ensuring adequate supervision and high-quality care. These standards also promote children’s social development by enabling consistent interaction with a smaller group of peers and familiar staff members. In addition, proper ratios help minimize accidents and ensure effective responses in emergency situations. Based on your current enrollment, the ages of the children in care, and your daily attendance records, an additional staff member is needed to meet ratio requirements. During today’s visit, you shared that staffing challenges over the past several months have impacted your ability to maintain consistent coverage, citing frequent call-outs and no-shows. You also stated that you are actively working to hire reliable, full-time staff. The two substitutes present today were individuals you were able to contact on short notice. Pathways to the Stars The Pathways to the Stars transition will begin soon. In August, a rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform. In September, child care consultants will host in-person facility operator/administrator meetings within the counties they serve to provide additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact me. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: ACADEMY KIDS ENRICHMENT CENTER Facility ID: 41002187 Consultant: SHARON WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/26/2025 Number Present: 28 Completed Date: 8/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. I was greeted by Ms. Toya Blackwell, owner/director of the childcare center. This center currently operates with a Three-Star license, effective December 28, 2018. A full assessment of applicable child care requirements was conducted; I used the Annual Monitoring Checklist during today’s visit. The compliance history is 86% as of August 26, 2025. Twenty-eight (28) children were present today. I observed the children playing outside, completing bathroom routines, eating lunch, and resting. I reviewed staff files and a sampling of children files. Several children had missing forms and staff files were not in order. A sanitation inspection was completed 7/18/25 with a “Superior” classification. A fire inspection was conducted on 4/24/25. Monthly playground and fire drills have been conducted and documentation was available for review. Quarterly disaster drills have also been documented. Upon my arrival, the infant classroom was out of ratio. A substitute staff member arrived approximately 30 minutes later. I will return within 10 business days to follow up and monitor staff-to-child ratios. I observed eight items of non-compliance of childcare rules during the visit today. Violation Number Comment Rule 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. There were six children between the ages of 0 and 1 year present with one staff member. The staff/child ratio for youngest child present was not met. The violation was corrected during the visit when a second staff member arrived in the classroom, bringing it into compliance with the required staff-to-child ratio. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. Peeling paint was observed on the walls in two classrooms. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. In the two-year-old classroom, the gray child-sized couch and chair were torn. .0601(c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The wooden deck leading to the outdoor play area had weak or deteriorating boards. One tricycle and the pink and purple Power-wheel were broken. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. The two substitutes did not have an application on file for review. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A medical exam or health assessment was not on file for three children. GS110-91(1) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A valid qualification letter was not on file and available for review at the facility for the two substitutes. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. The two substitutes did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening, and/or completed health questionnaire, in a medical file. .0701(d) Childcare programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be emailed to me at sharon.y.williams@dhhs.nc.gov on or before September 9, 2025. The letter of compliance should contain the following information: 1. Facility Name 2. Facility ID 3. Date of the letter 4. The violation number. Date the violation was corrected. How the violation was corrected. 5. Signature of the person preparing the letter. TA: Staff/child ratio: Maintaining required staff-to-child ratios and group sizes is essential for ensuring adequate supervision and high-quality care. These standards also promote children’s social development by enabling consistent interaction with a smaller group of peers and familiar staff members. In addition, proper ratios help minimize accidents and ensure effective responses in emergency situations. Based on your current enrollment, the ages of the children in care, and your daily attendance records, an additional staff member is needed to meet ratio requirements. During today’s visit, you shared that staffing challenges over the past several months have impacted your ability to maintain consistent coverage, citing frequent call-outs and no-shows. You also stated that you are actively working to hire reliable, full-time staff. The two substitutes present today were individuals you were able to contact on short notice. Pathways to the Stars The Pathways to the Stars transition will begin soon. In August, a rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform. In September, child care consultants will host in-person facility operator/administrator meetings within the counties they serve to provide additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact me. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: ACADEMY KIDS ENRICHMENT CENTER Facility ID: 41002187 Consultant: SHARON WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/26/2025 Number Present: 28 Completed Date: 8/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. I was greeted by Ms. Toya Blackwell, owner/director of the childcare center. This center currently operates with a Three-Star license, effective December 28, 2018. A full assessment of applicable child care requirements was conducted; I used the Annual Monitoring Checklist during today’s visit. The compliance history is 86% as of August 26, 2025. Twenty-eight (28) children were present today. I observed the children playing outside, completing bathroom routines, eating lunch, and resting. I reviewed staff files and a sampling of children files. Several children had missing forms and staff files were not in order. A sanitation inspection was completed 7/18/25 with a “Superior” classification. A fire inspection was conducted on 4/24/25. Monthly playground and fire drills have been conducted and documentation was available for review. Quarterly disaster drills have also been documented. Upon my arrival, the infant classroom was out of ratio. A substitute staff member arrived approximately 30 minutes later. I will return within 10 business days to follow up and monitor staff-to-child ratios. I observed eight items of non-compliance of childcare rules during the visit today. Violation Number Comment Rule 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. There were six children between the ages of 0 and 1 year present with one staff member. The staff/child ratio for youngest child present was not met. The violation was corrected during the visit when a second staff member arrived in the classroom, bringing it into compliance with the required staff-to-child ratio. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. Peeling paint was observed on the walls in two classrooms. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. In the two-year-old classroom, the gray child-sized couch and chair were torn. .0601(c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The wooden deck leading to the outdoor play area had weak or deteriorating boards. One tricycle and the pink and purple Power-wheel were broken. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. The two substitutes did not have an application on file for review. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A medical exam or health assessment was not on file for three children. GS110-91(1) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A valid qualification letter was not on file and available for review at the facility for the two substitutes. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. The two substitutes did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening, and/or completed health questionnaire, in a medical file. .0701(d) Childcare programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be emailed to me at sharon.y.williams@dhhs.nc.gov on or before September 9, 2025. The letter of compliance should contain the following information: 1. Facility Name 2. Facility ID 3. Date of the letter 4. The violation number. Date the violation was corrected. How the violation was corrected. 5. Signature of the person preparing the letter. TA: Staff/child ratio: Maintaining required staff-to-child ratios and group sizes is essential for ensuring adequate supervision and high-quality care. These standards also promote children’s social development by enabling consistent interaction with a smaller group of peers and familiar staff members. In addition, proper ratios help minimize accidents and ensure effective responses in emergency situations. Based on your current enrollment, the ages of the children in care, and your daily attendance records, an additional staff member is needed to meet ratio requirements. During today’s visit, you shared that staffing challenges over the past several months have impacted your ability to maintain consistent coverage, citing frequent call-outs and no-shows. You also stated that you are actively working to hire reliable, full-time staff. The two substitutes present today were individuals you were able to contact on short notice. Pathways to the Stars The Pathways to the Stars transition will begin soon. In August, a rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform. In September, child care consultants will host in-person facility operator/administrator meetings within the counties they serve to provide additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact me. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. 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

GS110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: ACADEMY KIDS ENRICHMENT CENTER Facility ID: 41002187 Consultant: SHARON WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/26/2025 Number Present: 28 Completed Date: 8/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. I was greeted by Ms. Toya Blackwell, owner/director of the childcare center. This center currently operates with a Three-Star license, effective December 28, 2018. A full assessment of applicable child care requirements was conducted; I used the Annual Monitoring Checklist during today’s visit. The compliance history is 86% as of August 26, 2025. Twenty-eight (28) children were present today. I observed the children playing outside, completing bathroom routines, eating lunch, and resting. I reviewed staff files and a sampling of children files. Several children had missing forms and staff files were not in order. A sanitation inspection was completed 7/18/25 with a “Superior” classification. A fire inspection was conducted on 4/24/25. Monthly playground and fire drills have been conducted and documentation was available for review. Quarterly disaster drills have also been documented. Upon my arrival, the infant classroom was out of ratio. A substitute staff member arrived approximately 30 minutes later. I will return within 10 business days to follow up and monitor staff-to-child ratios. I observed eight items of non-compliance of childcare rules during the visit today. Violation Number Comment Rule 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. There were six children between the ages of 0 and 1 year present with one staff member. The staff/child ratio for youngest child present was not met. The violation was corrected during the visit when a second staff member arrived in the classroom, bringing it into compliance with the required staff-to-child ratio. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. Peeling paint was observed on the walls in two classrooms. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. In the two-year-old classroom, the gray child-sized couch and chair were torn. .0601(c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The wooden deck leading to the outdoor play area had weak or deteriorating boards. One tricycle and the pink and purple Power-wheel were broken. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. The two substitutes did not have an application on file for review. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A medical exam or health assessment was not on file for three children. GS110-91(1) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A valid qualification letter was not on file and available for review at the facility for the two substitutes. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. The two substitutes did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening, and/or completed health questionnaire, in a medical file. .0701(d) Childcare programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be emailed to me at sharon.y.williams@dhhs.nc.gov on or before September 9, 2025. The letter of compliance should contain the following information: 1. Facility Name 2. Facility ID 3. Date of the letter 4. The violation number. Date the violation was corrected. How the violation was corrected. 5. Signature of the person preparing the letter. TA: Staff/child ratio: Maintaining required staff-to-child ratios and group sizes is essential for ensuring adequate supervision and high-quality care. These standards also promote children’s social development by enabling consistent interaction with a smaller group of peers and familiar staff members. In addition, proper ratios help minimize accidents and ensure effective responses in emergency situations. Based on your current enrollment, the ages of the children in care, and your daily attendance records, an additional staff member is needed to meet ratio requirements. During today’s visit, you shared that staffing challenges over the past several months have impacted your ability to maintain consistent coverage, citing frequent call-outs and no-shows. You also stated that you are actively working to hire reliable, full-time staff. The two substitutes present today were individuals you were able to contact on short notice. Pathways to the Stars The Pathways to the Stars transition will begin soon. In August, a rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform. In September, child care consultants will host in-person facility operator/administrator meetings within the counties they serve to provide additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact me. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. 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: ACADEMY KIDS ENRICHMENT CENTER Facility ID: 41002187 Consultant: SHARON WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/26/2025 Number Present: 28 Completed Date: 8/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. I was greeted by Ms. Toya Blackwell, owner/director of the childcare center. This center currently operates with a Three-Star license, effective December 28, 2018. A full assessment of applicable child care requirements was conducted; I used the Annual Monitoring Checklist during today’s visit. The compliance history is 86% as of August 26, 2025. Twenty-eight (28) children were present today. I observed the children playing outside, completing bathroom routines, eating lunch, and resting. I reviewed staff files and a sampling of children files. Several children had missing forms and staff files were not in order. A sanitation inspection was completed 7/18/25 with a “Superior” classification. A fire inspection was conducted on 4/24/25. Monthly playground and fire drills have been conducted and documentation was available for review. Quarterly disaster drills have also been documented. Upon my arrival, the infant classroom was out of ratio. A substitute staff member arrived approximately 30 minutes later. I will return within 10 business days to follow up and monitor staff-to-child ratios. I observed eight items of non-compliance of childcare rules during the visit today. Violation Number Comment Rule 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. There were six children between the ages of 0 and 1 year present with one staff member. The staff/child ratio for youngest child present was not met. The violation was corrected during the visit when a second staff member arrived in the classroom, bringing it into compliance with the required staff-to-child ratio. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. Peeling paint was observed on the walls in two classrooms. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. In the two-year-old classroom, the gray child-sized couch and chair were torn. .0601(c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The wooden deck leading to the outdoor play area had weak or deteriorating boards. One tricycle and the pink and purple Power-wheel were broken. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. The two substitutes did not have an application on file for review. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A medical exam or health assessment was not on file for three children. GS110-91(1) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A valid qualification letter was not on file and available for review at the facility for the two substitutes. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. The two substitutes did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening, and/or completed health questionnaire, in a medical file. .0701(d) Childcare programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be emailed to me at sharon.y.williams@dhhs.nc.gov on or before September 9, 2025. The letter of compliance should contain the following information: 1. Facility Name 2. Facility ID 3. Date of the letter 4. The violation number. Date the violation was corrected. How the violation was corrected. 5. Signature of the person preparing the letter. TA: Staff/child ratio: Maintaining required staff-to-child ratios and group sizes is essential for ensuring adequate supervision and high-quality care. These standards also promote children’s social development by enabling consistent interaction with a smaller group of peers and familiar staff members. In addition, proper ratios help minimize accidents and ensure effective responses in emergency situations. Based on your current enrollment, the ages of the children in care, and your daily attendance records, an additional staff member is needed to meet ratio requirements. During today’s visit, you shared that staffing challenges over the past several months have impacted your ability to maintain consistent coverage, citing frequent call-outs and no-shows. You also stated that you are actively working to hire reliable, full-time staff. The two substitutes present today were individuals you were able to contact on short notice. Pathways to the Stars The Pathways to the Stars transition will begin soon. In August, a rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform. In September, child care consultants will host in-person facility operator/administrator meetings within the counties they serve to provide additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact me. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. 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 .2809 · Violation

Name of Operation: ACADEMY KIDS ENRICHMENT CENTER Facility ID: 41002187 Consultant: SHARON WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-454L Visit Date: 4/9/2025 Number Present: 27 Completed Date: 4/9/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 110 Time In: 01:10 PM Time Out: 03:00 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 for compliance of child care rules, after receiving a complaint report regarding violations of child care rules regarding nurture and care. Meg Riddle, Licensing Supervisor accompanied me on today’s visit. Upon arrival at the facility, we were greeted by the administrator, Ms. Toya Blackwell. I stated the purpose of the visit Meg and I began a walk-through of the facility and recorded attendance and monitored staff/child ratios. When we arrived in Space 2, there were ten (10) children (ages 1-2) with one teacher. The second teacher arrived approximately five minutes from lunch. In Space 1a/b there were sixteen children (ages under 1 to 5 years) with one teacher and the administrator. In Space 1a/b the attendance for today and April 8, 2025 was not completed. During the walkthrough, children were observed napping. There were three items of non-compliance observed during today’s visit that were not related to information in the complaint report. The corresponding three violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. When we arrived in Space 2, there were ten (10) children (ages 1-2) with one teacher. In Space 1a/b the infants were combined with the 3-4 year old and one school age child. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 1245 For each child, there was not at least 30 sq. ft. inside space per the total licensed capacity and 100 sq. ft. outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time. Enhanced space allows for 12 children and 16 children were present when we arrived. 10A NCAC 09 .2809(a) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In Space 1a/b the daily attendance was not documented for April 8-9, 2025. GS 110-91(9) Childcare programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be emailed to me on or before April 18, 2025. The letter of compliance should contain the following information: 1. Facility Name 2. Facility ID 3. Date of the letter 4. The violation number. The date the violation was corrected. How the violation was corrected. 5. Signature of the person preparing the letter. A follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: sharon.y.williams@dhhs.nc.gov Findings: During the visit we were unable to determine violations regarding nurture and care; therefore the report could not be substantiated. However, there were three violations cited not related to the complaint report regarding, staff/child ratio and group size, space capacity and documentation of attendance. The following items were discussed with the Administrator to improve the quality of your program: Arrival and Departure Times: It is essential to maintain accurate daily records of children's arrival and departure times at the center. We emphasized the importance of documenting attendance as children come and go. Staff/Child Ratios and Group Size: To ensure compliance with group size and staff-to-child ratios, during nap time and staff breaks. Inform families when the classroom reaches full capacity and encourage them to call ahead before dropping off their child outside of their regular schedule. Additionally, it may be beneficial to suggest that families have a backup childcare provider available in case of emergencies. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: ACADEMY KIDS ENRICHMENT CENTER Facility ID: 41002187 Consultant: SHARON WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-454L Visit Date: 4/9/2025 Number Present: 27 Completed Date: 4/9/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 110 Time In: 01:10 PM Time Out: 03:00 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 for compliance of child care rules, after receiving a complaint report regarding violations of child care rules regarding nurture and care. Meg Riddle, Licensing Supervisor accompanied me on today’s visit. Upon arrival at the facility, we were greeted by the administrator, Ms. Toya Blackwell. I stated the purpose of the visit Meg and I began a walk-through of the facility and recorded attendance and monitored staff/child ratios. When we arrived in Space 2, there were ten (10) children (ages 1-2) with one teacher. The second teacher arrived approximately five minutes from lunch. In Space 1a/b there were sixteen children (ages under 1 to 5 years) with one teacher and the administrator. In Space 1a/b the attendance for today and April 8, 2025 was not completed. During the walkthrough, children were observed napping. There were three items of non-compliance observed during today’s visit that were not related to information in the complaint report. The corresponding three violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. When we arrived in Space 2, there were ten (10) children (ages 1-2) with one teacher. In Space 1a/b the infants were combined with the 3-4 year old and one school age child. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 1245 For each child, there was not at least 30 sq. ft. inside space per the total licensed capacity and 100 sq. ft. outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time. Enhanced space allows for 12 children and 16 children were present when we arrived. 10A NCAC 09 .2809(a) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In Space 1a/b the daily attendance was not documented for April 8-9, 2025. GS 110-91(9) Childcare programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be emailed to me on or before April 18, 2025. The letter of compliance should contain the following information: 1. Facility Name 2. Facility ID 3. Date of the letter 4. The violation number. The date the violation was corrected. How the violation was corrected. 5. Signature of the person preparing the letter. A follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: sharon.y.williams@dhhs.nc.gov Findings: During the visit we were unable to determine violations regarding nurture and care; therefore the report could not be substantiated. However, there were three violations cited not related to the complaint report regarding, staff/child ratio and group size, space capacity and documentation of attendance. The following items were discussed with the Administrator to improve the quality of your program: Arrival and Departure Times: It is essential to maintain accurate daily records of children's arrival and departure times at the center. We emphasized the importance of documenting attendance as children come and go. Staff/Child Ratios and Group Size: To ensure compliance with group size and staff-to-child ratios, during nap time and staff breaks. Inform families when the classroom reaches full capacity and encourage them to call ahead before dropping off their child outside of their regular schedule. Additionally, it may be beneficial to suggest that families have a backup childcare provider available in case of emergencies. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me. 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: ACADEMY KIDS ENRICHMENT CENTER Facility ID: 41002187 Consultant: SHARON WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-454L Visit Date: 4/9/2025 Number Present: 27 Completed Date: 4/9/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 110 Time In: 01:10 PM Time Out: 03:00 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 for compliance of child care rules, after receiving a complaint report regarding violations of child care rules regarding nurture and care. Meg Riddle, Licensing Supervisor accompanied me on today’s visit. Upon arrival at the facility, we were greeted by the administrator, Ms. Toya Blackwell. I stated the purpose of the visit Meg and I began a walk-through of the facility and recorded attendance and monitored staff/child ratios. When we arrived in Space 2, there were ten (10) children (ages 1-2) with one teacher. The second teacher arrived approximately five minutes from lunch. In Space 1a/b there were sixteen children (ages under 1 to 5 years) with one teacher and the administrator. In Space 1a/b the attendance for today and April 8, 2025 was not completed. During the walkthrough, children were observed napping. There were three items of non-compliance observed during today’s visit that were not related to information in the complaint report. The corresponding three violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. When we arrived in Space 2, there were ten (10) children (ages 1-2) with one teacher. In Space 1a/b the infants were combined with the 3-4 year old and one school age child. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 1245 For each child, there was not at least 30 sq. ft. inside space per the total licensed capacity and 100 sq. ft. outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time. Enhanced space allows for 12 children and 16 children were present when we arrived. 10A NCAC 09 .2809(a) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In Space 1a/b the daily attendance was not documented for April 8-9, 2025. GS 110-91(9) Childcare programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be emailed to me on or before April 18, 2025. The letter of compliance should contain the following information: 1. Facility Name 2. Facility ID 3. Date of the letter 4. The violation number. The date the violation was corrected. How the violation was corrected. 5. Signature of the person preparing the letter. A follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: sharon.y.williams@dhhs.nc.gov Findings: During the visit we were unable to determine violations regarding nurture and care; therefore the report could not be substantiated. However, there were three violations cited not related to the complaint report regarding, staff/child ratio and group size, space capacity and documentation of attendance. The following items were discussed with the Administrator to improve the quality of your program: Arrival and Departure Times: It is essential to maintain accurate daily records of children's arrival and departure times at the center. We emphasized the importance of documenting attendance as children come and go. Staff/Child Ratios and Group Size: To ensure compliance with group size and staff-to-child ratios, during nap time and staff breaks. Inform families when the classroom reaches full capacity and encourage them to call ahead before dropping off their child outside of their regular schedule. Additionally, it may be beneficial to suggest that families have a backup childcare provider available in case of emergencies. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: ACADEMY KIDS ENRICHMENT CENTER Facility ID: 41002187 Consultant: SHERRY PROCTOR Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/12/2024 Number Present: 24 Completed Date: 9/12/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 10:15 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 visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. I was greeted by Ms. Toya Blackwell, owner/director of the childcare center. The This center currently operates with a Three-Star license, effective December 28, 2018. An approved fire inspection was conducted on December 18, 2024, and I received a copy. The latest sanitation inspection was conducted on July 17, 2024, with a Superior score. The compliance history is 96% as of September 11, 2024. A full assessment of applicable child care requirements was conducted, I used the Annual Monitoring Checklist during today’s visit. Due to a teacher calling out today, Ms Blackwell is providing care the infant classroom. Today twenty-four children are attending. I walked through the center, I observed the children and gathered attendance. Children were participating in group activities, circle time and individual play. The classrooms are supplied with activities and toys for the children. I observed the outdoor play area. The playground does not have climbing equipment and does not have fall zones. There are items for the children to chose from for outdoor play. I reviewed staff files and a sampling of children files. Several children had missing forms and staff files were not in order. All staff have CBC Qualification letters. The toddler’s classroom was out of ratio. I will be returning within 10 business days to monitor ratios. At that time Ms Blackwell assured me she would have all the children and staff files completed. Ms. White, Lead teacher with preschool child had all of her training hours. I observed three items of non-compliance of childcare rules during the visit today. Violation Number Comment Rule 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. A group of children had 6 children ages 1 year of age, 2 children 2 years of age with one teacher. Ratios are to maintained for the youngest child. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. Staff files were not in order and one staff member does not have a completed file. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1327 Accurate records were not maintained for all children. Children's files were not maintained and are missing necessary items. G.S. 110-91(9) In order to maintain compliance with North Carolina child care laws and rules, the above violations must be corrected immediately. Due to the violation in ratios a correction is not required at this time. I will make a follow-up visit Access to the ABCMS requires the successful completion of a MOODLE course consisting of a short video followed by a test. Please complete the process for your facility as soon as possible. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest childcare/early education at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. All Health and Safety trainings are located on MOODLE. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is located on this website, https://www.preventchildabusenc.org. The most up-to-date childcare rules are on the DCDEE website. Moodle also has other trainings, and they are free. Please keep in mind these trainings must be completed within one year of hire and once every five years. You will still need to complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training through Prevent Child Abuse NC within 90 days of employment and the training must be completed every five years. When the Suspicious of Child Maltreatment is completed you must print you certification of completion immediately. If you go out of the program your certification is not save and you will need to retake the training. If you have any questions or if I may be of further assistance, please contact me at 336-964-0881 or by email at sherry.proctor@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time and cooperation during the visit today. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: ACADEMY KIDS ENRICHMENT CENTER Facility ID: 41002187 Consultant: SHERRY PROCTOR Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/12/2024 Number Present: 24 Completed Date: 9/12/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 10:15 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 visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. I was greeted by Ms. Toya Blackwell, owner/director of the childcare center. The This center currently operates with a Three-Star license, effective December 28, 2018. An approved fire inspection was conducted on December 18, 2024, and I received a copy. The latest sanitation inspection was conducted on July 17, 2024, with a Superior score. The compliance history is 96% as of September 11, 2024. A full assessment of applicable child care requirements was conducted, I used the Annual Monitoring Checklist during today’s visit. Due to a teacher calling out today, Ms Blackwell is providing care the infant classroom. Today twenty-four children are attending. I walked through the center, I observed the children and gathered attendance. Children were participating in group activities, circle time and individual play. The classrooms are supplied with activities and toys for the children. I observed the outdoor play area. The playground does not have climbing equipment and does not have fall zones. There are items for the children to chose from for outdoor play. I reviewed staff files and a sampling of children files. Several children had missing forms and staff files were not in order. All staff have CBC Qualification letters. The toddler’s classroom was out of ratio. I will be returning within 10 business days to monitor ratios. At that time Ms Blackwell assured me she would have all the children and staff files completed. Ms. White, Lead teacher with preschool child had all of her training hours. I observed three items of non-compliance of childcare rules during the visit today. Violation Number Comment Rule 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. A group of children had 6 children ages 1 year of age, 2 children 2 years of age with one teacher. Ratios are to maintained for the youngest child. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. Staff files were not in order and one staff member does not have a completed file. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1327 Accurate records were not maintained for all children. Children's files were not maintained and are missing necessary items. G.S. 110-91(9) In order to maintain compliance with North Carolina child care laws and rules, the above violations must be corrected immediately. Due to the violation in ratios a correction is not required at this time. I will make a follow-up visit Access to the ABCMS requires the successful completion of a MOODLE course consisting of a short video followed by a test. Please complete the process for your facility as soon as possible. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest childcare/early education at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. All Health and Safety trainings are located on MOODLE. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is located on this website, https://www.preventchildabusenc.org. The most up-to-date childcare rules are on the DCDEE website. Moodle also has other trainings, and they are free. Please keep in mind these trainings must be completed within one year of hire and once every five years. You will still need to complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training through Prevent Child Abuse NC within 90 days of employment and the training must be completed every five years. When the Suspicious of Child Maltreatment is completed you must print you certification of completion immediately. If you go out of the program your certification is not save and you will need to retake the training. If you have any questions or if I may be of further assistance, please contact me at 336-964-0881 or by email at sherry.proctor@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time and cooperation during the visit today. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: ACADEMY KIDS ENRICHMENT CENTER Facility ID: 41002187 Consultant: SAMANTHA MCLEOD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/20/2024 Number Present: 28 Completed Date: 5/20/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced A routine unannounced visit was conducted today to assess compliance with applicable childcare requirements. This facility currently operates with a Three Star license issued on December 28, 2018. Upon arrival to the facility, I was greeted by the administrator, Ms. Toya Blackwell. Ms. Blackwell assisted me during my visit today. A walk-thru of the indoor spaces used by the children was monitored. Twenty-eight (28) children were present during today’s visit. The children were observed during center time playing in various, meal time, and during several transitions. I monitored staff/ child ratios and supervision as I walked throughout the facility and found both in compliance. All staff had current Criminal Background qualifying letters on file and current CPR/First Aid Training as required. A sanitation inspection was conducted on April 3, 2024. This facility received a superior classification and fourteen (14) demerits. Monthly fire drills and playground inspections have been documented as well as quarterly disaster drills. The following violations of childcare requirements were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 468 When three year old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. In the space for school-age children a sufficient amount of materials were not observed in each activity area. .0510(d)(1) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. A sofa in the space for toddler children was in poor repair. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. .1102(a) Child Care facilities must maintain compliance with applicable childcare requirements at all times. In order to maintain compliance with North Carolina childcare laws and rules, the above violation must be corrected immediately. Please send a letter of compliance stating how the above violation was corrected and what you will do in the future to prevent this violation from being cited. Please email me this letter by June 3, 2024. CONSULTATION AND RESOURCES: Technical assistance regarding how to achieve and maintain compliance was offered. Health & Safety Requirements were also reviewed. HEALTH & SAFETY CHILD CARE TRAININGS: The CCDF Health and Safety trainings are now available in the DCDEE Moodle learning platform. Please keep in mind these trainings must be completed within 1 year of hire and once every 5 years. You will still need to complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training through Prevent Child Abuse NC within 90 days of employment. Moodle can also be accessed https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/ or thru DCDEE's homepage https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ Remember the following: 1. Print all certificates once you have completed the course for each of the 11 topic areas. 2. Document on Health & Safety Training Record (available on DCDEE website) 3. After 1st year, complete training in each topic area at least every five years, except for CPR/First Aid (every 2 years) and Safe Sleep Training (every 3 years) **Please keep these training certificates along with the Health & Safety Training Record log available for review Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment Child care staff are expected to be well informed about child abuse and neglect issues and adequately trained to prevent and recognize potential maltreatment. All staff are required to complete the training within 90 days of hire. The training may be accessed via the DCDEE website at www.ncchildcare.nc.gov. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment is also available on Prevent Child Abuse NC website, www.preventchildabusenc.org, free of charge, and counts toward Health and Safety Training. This training is part of the Health & Safety Training and should be completed again within 5 yrs. **ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN OVER TWO YEARS OF AGE: We also discussed the requirements for activities for children two years of age and older. --Keep in mind that each activity area must contain enough materials to allow three related activities to occur at the same time. The materials and equipment must be in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area. --You must have at least four of the following activity areas available daily: art and other creative play, books, blocks and block building, manipulative and family living and dramatic play. --In addition to these activity areas, you must have enough materials and equipment in sufficient quantity. --You must also provide materials and opportunities for music and rhythm activities, science and nature activities, and sand and water play for each group of children at least once per week. **Note: If you have a Two to Five Star license, you must have all five of the activity areas mentioned above available daily. Also music and rhythm, science and nature, sand and water must be offered to each group of children at least once per week. Please refer to section .2806 Care Giving Activities (enhanced requirements) in your Child Care Requirements Book, for additional information. RATED LICENSE UPDATE: The hold harmless legislation was extended and signed into law on Monday June 12, 2023. This legislation allows facilities to remain at their current star level without a reassessment until June 30, 2024. To prepare for the reassessment process, DCDEE has developed a cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. You have been made aware that you are in COHORT #1. Your preparation year for your three-year reassessment is July 2023-June 2024. If possible, we will align the reassessment with your annual compliance visit timeframe. I recommend you consider completing the following tasks and activities that will help prepare you for your reassessment year, which will be sometime between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025. --Have all staff update their WORKS account to reflect all currently completed coursework (DCDEE-WORKS) --Determine whether you wish to have the Environment Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment conducted. --Request technical assistance with your Child Care Consultant and local partners --Participate in local CCR&R and NCPC quality related training/workshops (CCRR Information) --Reach out to your local Community College to discuss educational opportunities **During the Fall of 2023 you stated you did not want to have a practice assessment conducted. UPDATED RULES: Effective July 1, 2023, we have new rules posted on the DCDEE website. The changes are within the rules for: staff/child ratios and group sizes .0713, cooperative arrangements .2513, and enhanced space requirements .2809. Please refer to the website for more information. NEW CHILD CARE SANITATION RULES: The NC Children’s Environmental Health has re-adopted child care sanitation rules effective July 1, 2023. These rules can be found on the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/S/Section_2800_Sanitation_of_Child_Care_Centers.pdf. For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ You were provided an opportunity to ask questions regarding interpretation and implementation of all child care requirements. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any further questions or concerns, please contact me at: Samantha R. McLeod Child Care Consultant (336) 580-5363 (336) 559-3513 (fax) samantha.mcleod@dhhs.nc.gov www.ncchildcare.nc.gov (DCDEE Website) Mailing Address: 2201 Mail Service Road Raleigh, NC 27699 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