First Choice Learning Academy

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: First Choice Learning Academy Facility ID: 74000954 Consultant: MEGAN BROWN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/10/2026 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 3/10/2026 Age: From 4 To 4 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. D. Ross-Jones, center coordinator, assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 3/11/2025 earning 4 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space and ratio) and 1 quality point for the child care administrator has at least 10 years of documented child care administration work in a licensed program. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety -three percent as of 3/10/26. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 3/10/26 and your facility is not owned by a corporation. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today; all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. Children were observed resting on linen covered cots. Following rest time, children completed routines and sat at child sized tables for snack. Snack was observed and included crackers and apple juice. Violation Number Comment Rule 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There was six pieces of plastic debris on the playground. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. The authorization form for an asthma inhaler expired on 10/25/25. A authorization form was not on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 24, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Megan Brown, Child Care Consultant PO BOX 3187 Greenville, NC 27836 Megan.Brown@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance was provided on the following: Medication Authorization: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. The authorization form for an asthma inhaler expired on 10/25/26. Caregivers/teachers must be diligent in their adherence to the medication administration policy and procedures to prevent any inadvertent medication errors, which may be harmful to the child. There is always a risk that a child may have a negative reaction to a medication, and children should be monitored for serious side effects that may require an emergency response. Check medications regularly to ensure requirements are met. Additional Comments: During the visit an overview of section .3200 of the child care rules was provided. Each of the following pathway options were discussed: Program Assessment Pathway, Classroom and Instructional Quality Pathway, and Accreditation and Head Start Pathway. S. Ward, director, P. Corey, assistant, and I met in the director’s office. You informed me that your facility will pursue Pathway #2: Classroom and Instructional Quality. We reviewed the requirements for this pathway and discussed a timeline to apply for a rated license. During the conversation, we talked about developing a plan to complete the rated license application process by October 2027. Curriculum: This pathway requires curriculum to be implemented for all ages served by the program, ensuring quality practices that are developmentally appropriate for each age group. Child- focused planning through observation of individual growth and development is included in this pathway. You currently use the Creative Curriculum. During the visit I shared with you how to locate the approved list of curriculum's on the Division’s website. You reviewed the Funnydaffer curriculum and indicated you are interested in using the curriculum. The Funnydaffer is approved to be used for School Age children. We discussed that you will indicate on the rated license application your selected curriculum. Family and Community Engagement Foundational Practices: We reviewed the required components of the family and community engagement practices and the items under the three different categories. You identified items under the categories that your facility is currently meeting. You shared that you use the Procare system, and we discussed that Procare can be used as a tool for two-way communication. We also discussed evidence of how those items that are being met should be available for review while the rated license process is completed. Continuous Quality Improvement Plan and Professional Development Plan: This plan is meant to be an intentional process that you will use to identify areas of growth and determine a path toward enhanced teaching, learning and practices that achieve better outcomes for children, staff, and programs. This process will build over time, using established goals to support both you in achieving and maintaining long term quality care within your program. All plans should identify a goal, what is needed to accomplish the goal, why the goal is needed, and an annual review of progress toward the goal. It is possible that a goal is achieved, and a new goal is set during your annual review. It is also possible that there were challenges in completing a goal that are documented during the annual review. Revising and changing goals is expected to be part of this process. You shared your facility goal during the visit and we discussed how you can meet that goal. Education Standards: We reviewed the requirements in education standards for Lead teachers and teachers. You desire a 3 Star license; We reviewed that required 50% lead and 50% other staff at your facility must meet at least the 3 Star education requirements based on their positions. We reviewed the staff education requirements for program coordinator, group leader, and lead teachers. Ensure all staff have WORKS accounts. Coaching/training: Additional coaching or training is required for the administrator at the 3 Star level in the Classroom and Instructional Quality Pathway. We reviewed that you must meet one of the following: five hours of coaching/mentoring, five additional on-going training hours, or complete .5 CEUS. You indicated that you would meet one of the options. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Megan Brown, Child Care Consultant, 252-414-4903, Megan.Brown@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: First Choice Learning Academy Facility ID: 74000954 Consultant: MEGAN BROWN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/10/2026 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 3/10/2026 Age: From 4 To 4 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. D. Ross-Jones, center coordinator, assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 3/11/2025 earning 4 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space and ratio) and 1 quality point for the child care administrator has at least 10 years of documented child care administration work in a licensed program. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety -three percent as of 3/10/26. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 3/10/26 and your facility is not owned by a corporation. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today; all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. Children were observed resting on linen covered cots. Following rest time, children completed routines and sat at child sized tables for snack. Snack was observed and included crackers and apple juice. Violation Number Comment Rule 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There was six pieces of plastic debris on the playground. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. The authorization form for an asthma inhaler expired on 10/25/25. A authorization form was not on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 24, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Megan Brown, Child Care Consultant PO BOX 3187 Greenville, NC 27836 Megan.Brown@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance was provided on the following: Medication Authorization: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. The authorization form for an asthma inhaler expired on 10/25/26. Caregivers/teachers must be diligent in their adherence to the medication administration policy and procedures to prevent any inadvertent medication errors, which may be harmful to the child. There is always a risk that a child may have a negative reaction to a medication, and children should be monitored for serious side effects that may require an emergency response. Check medications regularly to ensure requirements are met. Additional Comments: During the visit an overview of section .3200 of the child care rules was provided. Each of the following pathway options were discussed: Program Assessment Pathway, Classroom and Instructional Quality Pathway, and Accreditation and Head Start Pathway. S. Ward, director, P. Corey, assistant, and I met in the director’s office. You informed me that your facility will pursue Pathway #2: Classroom and Instructional Quality. We reviewed the requirements for this pathway and discussed a timeline to apply for a rated license. During the conversation, we talked about developing a plan to complete the rated license application process by October 2027. Curriculum: This pathway requires curriculum to be implemented for all ages served by the program, ensuring quality practices that are developmentally appropriate for each age group. Child- focused planning through observation of individual growth and development is included in this pathway. You currently use the Creative Curriculum. During the visit I shared with you how to locate the approved list of curriculum's on the Division’s website. You reviewed the Funnydaffer curriculum and indicated you are interested in using the curriculum. The Funnydaffer is approved to be used for School Age children. We discussed that you will indicate on the rated license application your selected curriculum. Family and Community Engagement Foundational Practices: We reviewed the required components of the family and community engagement practices and the items under the three different categories. You identified items under the categories that your facility is currently meeting. You shared that you use the Procare system, and we discussed that Procare can be used as a tool for two-way communication. We also discussed evidence of how those items that are being met should be available for review while the rated license process is completed. Continuous Quality Improvement Plan and Professional Development Plan: This plan is meant to be an intentional process that you will use to identify areas of growth and determine a path toward enhanced teaching, learning and practices that achieve better outcomes for children, staff, and programs. This process will build over time, using established goals to support both you in achieving and maintaining long term quality care within your program. All plans should identify a goal, what is needed to accomplish the goal, why the goal is needed, and an annual review of progress toward the goal. It is possible that a goal is achieved, and a new goal is set during your annual review. It is also possible that there were challenges in completing a goal that are documented during the annual review. Revising and changing goals is expected to be part of this process. You shared your facility goal during the visit and we discussed how you can meet that goal. Education Standards: We reviewed the requirements in education standards for Lead teachers and teachers. You desire a 3 Star license; We reviewed that required 50% lead and 50% other staff at your facility must meet at least the 3 Star education requirements based on their positions. We reviewed the staff education requirements for program coordinator, group leader, and lead teachers. Ensure all staff have WORKS accounts. Coaching/training: Additional coaching or training is required for the administrator at the 3 Star level in the Classroom and Instructional Quality Pathway. We reviewed that you must meet one of the following: five hours of coaching/mentoring, five additional on-going training hours, or complete .5 CEUS. You indicated that you would meet one of the options. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Megan Brown, Child Care Consultant, 252-414-4903, Megan.Brown@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 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: First Choice Learning Academy Facility ID: 74000954 Consultant: MEGAN BROWN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/6/2025 Number Present: 20 Completed Date: 8/6/2025 Age: From 3 To 9 Total Minutes: 205 Time In: 09:05 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 your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. S. Ward, the administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 3/11/25, earning 4 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space and ratios) and 1 quality point the administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care administration work experience in a licensed program. The sanitation inspection was completed 2/4/25 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 5/1/25 and your facility was approved for day care only. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 8/4/25 and your facility is not owned by a corporation. Children enrolled in classroom space #1 were observed sitting at tables using construction paper and markers to create “get well” cards. In classroom space #2 children sat at a child sized table with the teacher playing a letter matching game. Today’s lunch included meatballs, corn, peaches, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The current fire inspection was conducted on 5/12/25, the previous inspection was conducted on 3/18/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plan in classroom space#1 was dated 7/28-7/31/25. A current plan was not available. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 539 When screen time was provided to school-aged children, it was not offered as a free-choice activity; not used to meet a developmental goal; was not limited to 30 minutes per day and no more than a total of two and a half hours per week, per child; and/or was not documented on a cumulative log or the activity plan that is available for review. In classroom space #1 the screen time log indicated screen time included children playing games on their phones, watching youtube, playing Roblox and Blockblast. .2508(e)(1-5) 606 Running water, soap and individual sanitary towels, or other approved hand-drying devices were not supplied at each lavatory. Hand soap was not available in one bathroom in classroom space #1 and at the sink in classroom space #2. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(b) & (d) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Two boards of the ramp outside of the exit door in classroom space #2 we loose and warped. On the playground there was plants with thorns growing from the ground near the rear of the fence. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. One child being transported did not have an emergency information form or photograph on file. Two children being transported did not have a photograph on file. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 20, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Megan Brown, Child Care Consultant PO BOX 3187 Greenville, NC 27836 Megan.Brown@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance was provided on the following: Fire Inspection: Facility safeguarding is not achieved by one agency carrying out a single regulatory program. Total safeguarding is achieved through a multiplicity of regulatory programs and agencies including sanitation and fire inspectors. Fire inspections should be completed annually and within 12 months of the previous inspection. The current inspection was completed on 5/1/25 and the previous inspection was completed on 3/18/24. Activity plans: Activity plans help teachers to plan for and implement daily activities for children. They provide information to families on activities taking place during their children’s day. Planning for a week of activities helps teachers to obtain and prepare the materials and equipment needed to successfully carry out the activities on the plan. The activity plan posted in the school age classroom was dated 7/28/25-7/31/25. We discussed having activity plans posted for the new week on Friday afternoons to ensure staff are ready for the upcoming week. Safe Environment: Building and physical premises safety refers to actively identifying and mitigating potential hazards within a building or outdoor space that could cause bodily harm. The board on the ramp outside of classroom space #2 was loose and warped. On the playground there was plants with thorns. You stated that you will have the boards replaced and you will take care of the thorns. Transportation: Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death in children two to fourteen years of age in the United States. It is necessary for the safety of children to require that the caregiver/teacher comply with requirements governing the transportation of children in care, in the absence of the parent/guardian. Each child transported must be have on file emergency contact information along with a photograph of each child. This is helpful in identifying children in the event of an emergency/accident. Three school age children did not have a photograph attached to their emergency information. One child did not have permission to transport form. We discussed that parents can email you a picture and then you can print and attach to the document. Screen Time: The screen time provided must be 30 minutes or less daily and no more than two and a half hours per week. Screen time should only be offered to children over three years of age and used to meet a developmental goal. Screen time must be documented on a cumulative log or activity plan. The screen time log reflected children played games, Roblox, Blockblast, and watched YouTube asked, it was reported that children were allowed to use their tablets and phones, and you no longer allow the use of cell phones and tablets in the classroom. Additional Comments: As DCDEE transitions to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: August 18th 1:00pm August 20th at 6:30pm Please make time to attend one of the information sessions. Visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website under the “What’s New” tab to learn more on the Pathways. Reminders: The Martin-Pitt Partnership for Children is able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on child care issues, and assistance with the Environment Rating Scales. Their phone number is (252) 758-8885 or check out their website at mppfc.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Megan Brown, Child Care Consultant, 252-414-4903, Megan.Brown@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252- 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: First Choice Learning Academy Facility ID: 74000954 Consultant: MEGAN BROWN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/6/2025 Number Present: 20 Completed Date: 8/6/2025 Age: From 3 To 9 Total Minutes: 205 Time In: 09:05 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 your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. S. Ward, the administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 3/11/25, earning 4 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space and ratios) and 1 quality point the administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care administration work experience in a licensed program. The sanitation inspection was completed 2/4/25 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 5/1/25 and your facility was approved for day care only. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 8/4/25 and your facility is not owned by a corporation. Children enrolled in classroom space #1 were observed sitting at tables using construction paper and markers to create “get well” cards. In classroom space #2 children sat at a child sized table with the teacher playing a letter matching game. Today’s lunch included meatballs, corn, peaches, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The current fire inspection was conducted on 5/12/25, the previous inspection was conducted on 3/18/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plan in classroom space#1 was dated 7/28-7/31/25. A current plan was not available. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 539 When screen time was provided to school-aged children, it was not offered as a free-choice activity; not used to meet a developmental goal; was not limited to 30 minutes per day and no more than a total of two and a half hours per week, per child; and/or was not documented on a cumulative log or the activity plan that is available for review. In classroom space #1 the screen time log indicated screen time included children playing games on their phones, watching youtube, playing Roblox and Blockblast. .2508(e)(1-5) 606 Running water, soap and individual sanitary towels, or other approved hand-drying devices were not supplied at each lavatory. Hand soap was not available in one bathroom in classroom space #1 and at the sink in classroom space #2. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(b) & (d) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Two boards of the ramp outside of the exit door in classroom space #2 we loose and warped. On the playground there was plants with thorns growing from the ground near the rear of the fence. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. One child being transported did not have an emergency information form or photograph on file. Two children being transported did not have a photograph on file. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 20, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Megan Brown, Child Care Consultant PO BOX 3187 Greenville, NC 27836 Megan.Brown@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance was provided on the following: Fire Inspection: Facility safeguarding is not achieved by one agency carrying out a single regulatory program. Total safeguarding is achieved through a multiplicity of regulatory programs and agencies including sanitation and fire inspectors. Fire inspections should be completed annually and within 12 months of the previous inspection. The current inspection was completed on 5/1/25 and the previous inspection was completed on 3/18/24. Activity plans: Activity plans help teachers to plan for and implement daily activities for children. They provide information to families on activities taking place during their children’s day. Planning for a week of activities helps teachers to obtain and prepare the materials and equipment needed to successfully carry out the activities on the plan. The activity plan posted in the school age classroom was dated 7/28/25-7/31/25. We discussed having activity plans posted for the new week on Friday afternoons to ensure staff are ready for the upcoming week. Safe Environment: Building and physical premises safety refers to actively identifying and mitigating potential hazards within a building or outdoor space that could cause bodily harm. The board on the ramp outside of classroom space #2 was loose and warped. On the playground there was plants with thorns. You stated that you will have the boards replaced and you will take care of the thorns. Transportation: Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death in children two to fourteen years of age in the United States. It is necessary for the safety of children to require that the caregiver/teacher comply with requirements governing the transportation of children in care, in the absence of the parent/guardian. Each child transported must be have on file emergency contact information along with a photograph of each child. This is helpful in identifying children in the event of an emergency/accident. Three school age children did not have a photograph attached to their emergency information. One child did not have permission to transport form. We discussed that parents can email you a picture and then you can print and attach to the document. Screen Time: The screen time provided must be 30 minutes or less daily and no more than two and a half hours per week. Screen time should only be offered to children over three years of age and used to meet a developmental goal. Screen time must be documented on a cumulative log or activity plan. The screen time log reflected children played games, Roblox, Blockblast, and watched YouTube asked, it was reported that children were allowed to use their tablets and phones, and you no longer allow the use of cell phones and tablets in the classroom. Additional Comments: As DCDEE transitions to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: August 18th 1:00pm August 20th at 6:30pm Please make time to attend one of the information sessions. Visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website under the “What’s New” tab to learn more on the Pathways. Reminders: The Martin-Pitt Partnership for Children is able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on child care issues, and assistance with the Environment Rating Scales. Their phone number is (252) 758-8885 or check out their website at mppfc.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Megan Brown, Child Care Consultant, 252-414-4903, Megan.Brown@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252- 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. 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 .1003 · Violation

Name of Operation: First Choice Learning Academy Facility ID: 74000954 Consultant: MEGAN BROWN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/6/2025 Number Present: 20 Completed Date: 8/6/2025 Age: From 3 To 9 Total Minutes: 205 Time In: 09:05 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 your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. S. Ward, the administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 3/11/25, earning 4 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space and ratios) and 1 quality point the administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care administration work experience in a licensed program. The sanitation inspection was completed 2/4/25 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 5/1/25 and your facility was approved for day care only. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 8/4/25 and your facility is not owned by a corporation. Children enrolled in classroom space #1 were observed sitting at tables using construction paper and markers to create “get well” cards. In classroom space #2 children sat at a child sized table with the teacher playing a letter matching game. Today’s lunch included meatballs, corn, peaches, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The current fire inspection was conducted on 5/12/25, the previous inspection was conducted on 3/18/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plan in classroom space#1 was dated 7/28-7/31/25. A current plan was not available. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 539 When screen time was provided to school-aged children, it was not offered as a free-choice activity; not used to meet a developmental goal; was not limited to 30 minutes per day and no more than a total of two and a half hours per week, per child; and/or was not documented on a cumulative log or the activity plan that is available for review. In classroom space #1 the screen time log indicated screen time included children playing games on their phones, watching youtube, playing Roblox and Blockblast. .2508(e)(1-5) 606 Running water, soap and individual sanitary towels, or other approved hand-drying devices were not supplied at each lavatory. Hand soap was not available in one bathroom in classroom space #1 and at the sink in classroom space #2. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(b) & (d) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Two boards of the ramp outside of the exit door in classroom space #2 we loose and warped. On the playground there was plants with thorns growing from the ground near the rear of the fence. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. One child being transported did not have an emergency information form or photograph on file. Two children being transported did not have a photograph on file. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 20, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Megan Brown, Child Care Consultant PO BOX 3187 Greenville, NC 27836 Megan.Brown@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance was provided on the following: Fire Inspection: Facility safeguarding is not achieved by one agency carrying out a single regulatory program. Total safeguarding is achieved through a multiplicity of regulatory programs and agencies including sanitation and fire inspectors. Fire inspections should be completed annually and within 12 months of the previous inspection. The current inspection was completed on 5/1/25 and the previous inspection was completed on 3/18/24. Activity plans: Activity plans help teachers to plan for and implement daily activities for children. They provide information to families on activities taking place during their children’s day. Planning for a week of activities helps teachers to obtain and prepare the materials and equipment needed to successfully carry out the activities on the plan. The activity plan posted in the school age classroom was dated 7/28/25-7/31/25. We discussed having activity plans posted for the new week on Friday afternoons to ensure staff are ready for the upcoming week. Safe Environment: Building and physical premises safety refers to actively identifying and mitigating potential hazards within a building or outdoor space that could cause bodily harm. The board on the ramp outside of classroom space #2 was loose and warped. On the playground there was plants with thorns. You stated that you will have the boards replaced and you will take care of the thorns. Transportation: Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death in children two to fourteen years of age in the United States. It is necessary for the safety of children to require that the caregiver/teacher comply with requirements governing the transportation of children in care, in the absence of the parent/guardian. Each child transported must be have on file emergency contact information along with a photograph of each child. This is helpful in identifying children in the event of an emergency/accident. Three school age children did not have a photograph attached to their emergency information. One child did not have permission to transport form. We discussed that parents can email you a picture and then you can print and attach to the document. Screen Time: The screen time provided must be 30 minutes or less daily and no more than two and a half hours per week. Screen time should only be offered to children over three years of age and used to meet a developmental goal. Screen time must be documented on a cumulative log or activity plan. The screen time log reflected children played games, Roblox, Blockblast, and watched YouTube asked, it was reported that children were allowed to use their tablets and phones, and you no longer allow the use of cell phones and tablets in the classroom. Additional Comments: As DCDEE transitions to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: August 18th 1:00pm August 20th at 6:30pm Please make time to attend one of the information sessions. Visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website under the “What’s New” tab to learn more on the Pathways. Reminders: The Martin-Pitt Partnership for Children is able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on child care issues, and assistance with the Environment Rating Scales. Their phone number is (252) 758-8885 or check out their website at mppfc.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Megan Brown, Child Care Consultant, 252-414-4903, Megan.Brown@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252- 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. 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: First Choice Learning Academy Facility ID: 74000954 Consultant: MEGAN BROWN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/6/2025 Number Present: 20 Completed Date: 8/6/2025 Age: From 3 To 9 Total Minutes: 205 Time In: 09:05 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 your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. S. Ward, the administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 3/11/25, earning 4 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space and ratios) and 1 quality point the administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care administration work experience in a licensed program. The sanitation inspection was completed 2/4/25 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 5/1/25 and your facility was approved for day care only. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 8/4/25 and your facility is not owned by a corporation. Children enrolled in classroom space #1 were observed sitting at tables using construction paper and markers to create “get well” cards. In classroom space #2 children sat at a child sized table with the teacher playing a letter matching game. Today’s lunch included meatballs, corn, peaches, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The current fire inspection was conducted on 5/12/25, the previous inspection was conducted on 3/18/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plan in classroom space#1 was dated 7/28-7/31/25. A current plan was not available. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 539 When screen time was provided to school-aged children, it was not offered as a free-choice activity; not used to meet a developmental goal; was not limited to 30 minutes per day and no more than a total of two and a half hours per week, per child; and/or was not documented on a cumulative log or the activity plan that is available for review. In classroom space #1 the screen time log indicated screen time included children playing games on their phones, watching youtube, playing Roblox and Blockblast. .2508(e)(1-5) 606 Running water, soap and individual sanitary towels, or other approved hand-drying devices were not supplied at each lavatory. Hand soap was not available in one bathroom in classroom space #1 and at the sink in classroom space #2. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(b) & (d) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Two boards of the ramp outside of the exit door in classroom space #2 we loose and warped. On the playground there was plants with thorns growing from the ground near the rear of the fence. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. One child being transported did not have an emergency information form or photograph on file. Two children being transported did not have a photograph on file. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 20, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Megan Brown, Child Care Consultant PO BOX 3187 Greenville, NC 27836 Megan.Brown@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance was provided on the following: Fire Inspection: Facility safeguarding is not achieved by one agency carrying out a single regulatory program. Total safeguarding is achieved through a multiplicity of regulatory programs and agencies including sanitation and fire inspectors. Fire inspections should be completed annually and within 12 months of the previous inspection. The current inspection was completed on 5/1/25 and the previous inspection was completed on 3/18/24. Activity plans: Activity plans help teachers to plan for and implement daily activities for children. They provide information to families on activities taking place during their children’s day. Planning for a week of activities helps teachers to obtain and prepare the materials and equipment needed to successfully carry out the activities on the plan. The activity plan posted in the school age classroom was dated 7/28/25-7/31/25. We discussed having activity plans posted for the new week on Friday afternoons to ensure staff are ready for the upcoming week. Safe Environment: Building and physical premises safety refers to actively identifying and mitigating potential hazards within a building or outdoor space that could cause bodily harm. The board on the ramp outside of classroom space #2 was loose and warped. On the playground there was plants with thorns. You stated that you will have the boards replaced and you will take care of the thorns. Transportation: Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death in children two to fourteen years of age in the United States. It is necessary for the safety of children to require that the caregiver/teacher comply with requirements governing the transportation of children in care, in the absence of the parent/guardian. Each child transported must be have on file emergency contact information along with a photograph of each child. This is helpful in identifying children in the event of an emergency/accident. Three school age children did not have a photograph attached to their emergency information. One child did not have permission to transport form. We discussed that parents can email you a picture and then you can print and attach to the document. Screen Time: The screen time provided must be 30 minutes or less daily and no more than two and a half hours per week. Screen time should only be offered to children over three years of age and used to meet a developmental goal. Screen time must be documented on a cumulative log or activity plan. The screen time log reflected children played games, Roblox, Blockblast, and watched YouTube asked, it was reported that children were allowed to use their tablets and phones, and you no longer allow the use of cell phones and tablets in the classroom. Additional Comments: As DCDEE transitions to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: August 18th 1:00pm August 20th at 6:30pm Please make time to attend one of the information sessions. Visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website under the “What’s New” tab to learn more on the Pathways. Reminders: The Martin-Pitt Partnership for Children is able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on child care issues, and assistance with the Environment Rating Scales. Their phone number is (252) 758-8885 or check out their website at mppfc.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Megan Brown, Child Care Consultant, 252-414-4903, Megan.Brown@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252- 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. 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: First Choice Learning Academy Facility ID: 74000954 Consultant: MEGAN BROWN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/6/2025 Number Present: 20 Completed Date: 8/6/2025 Age: From 3 To 9 Total Minutes: 205 Time In: 09:05 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 your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. S. Ward, the administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 3/11/25, earning 4 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space and ratios) and 1 quality point the administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care administration work experience in a licensed program. The sanitation inspection was completed 2/4/25 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 5/1/25 and your facility was approved for day care only. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 8/4/25 and your facility is not owned by a corporation. Children enrolled in classroom space #1 were observed sitting at tables using construction paper and markers to create “get well” cards. In classroom space #2 children sat at a child sized table with the teacher playing a letter matching game. Today’s lunch included meatballs, corn, peaches, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The current fire inspection was conducted on 5/12/25, the previous inspection was conducted on 3/18/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plan in classroom space#1 was dated 7/28-7/31/25. A current plan was not available. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 539 When screen time was provided to school-aged children, it was not offered as a free-choice activity; not used to meet a developmental goal; was not limited to 30 minutes per day and no more than a total of two and a half hours per week, per child; and/or was not documented on a cumulative log or the activity plan that is available for review. In classroom space #1 the screen time log indicated screen time included children playing games on their phones, watching youtube, playing Roblox and Blockblast. .2508(e)(1-5) 606 Running water, soap and individual sanitary towels, or other approved hand-drying devices were not supplied at each lavatory. Hand soap was not available in one bathroom in classroom space #1 and at the sink in classroom space #2. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(b) & (d) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Two boards of the ramp outside of the exit door in classroom space #2 we loose and warped. On the playground there was plants with thorns growing from the ground near the rear of the fence. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. One child being transported did not have an emergency information form or photograph on file. Two children being transported did not have a photograph on file. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 20, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Megan Brown, Child Care Consultant PO BOX 3187 Greenville, NC 27836 Megan.Brown@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance was provided on the following: Fire Inspection: Facility safeguarding is not achieved by one agency carrying out a single regulatory program. Total safeguarding is achieved through a multiplicity of regulatory programs and agencies including sanitation and fire inspectors. Fire inspections should be completed annually and within 12 months of the previous inspection. The current inspection was completed on 5/1/25 and the previous inspection was completed on 3/18/24. Activity plans: Activity plans help teachers to plan for and implement daily activities for children. They provide information to families on activities taking place during their children’s day. Planning for a week of activities helps teachers to obtain and prepare the materials and equipment needed to successfully carry out the activities on the plan. The activity plan posted in the school age classroom was dated 7/28/25-7/31/25. We discussed having activity plans posted for the new week on Friday afternoons to ensure staff are ready for the upcoming week. Safe Environment: Building and physical premises safety refers to actively identifying and mitigating potential hazards within a building or outdoor space that could cause bodily harm. The board on the ramp outside of classroom space #2 was loose and warped. On the playground there was plants with thorns. You stated that you will have the boards replaced and you will take care of the thorns. Transportation: Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death in children two to fourteen years of age in the United States. It is necessary for the safety of children to require that the caregiver/teacher comply with requirements governing the transportation of children in care, in the absence of the parent/guardian. Each child transported must be have on file emergency contact information along with a photograph of each child. This is helpful in identifying children in the event of an emergency/accident. Three school age children did not have a photograph attached to their emergency information. One child did not have permission to transport form. We discussed that parents can email you a picture and then you can print and attach to the document. Screen Time: The screen time provided must be 30 minutes or less daily and no more than two and a half hours per week. Screen time should only be offered to children over three years of age and used to meet a developmental goal. Screen time must be documented on a cumulative log or activity plan. The screen time log reflected children played games, Roblox, Blockblast, and watched YouTube asked, it was reported that children were allowed to use their tablets and phones, and you no longer allow the use of cell phones and tablets in the classroom. Additional Comments: As DCDEE transitions to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: August 18th 1:00pm August 20th at 6:30pm Please make time to attend one of the information sessions. Visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website under the “What’s New” tab to learn more on the Pathways. Reminders: The Martin-Pitt Partnership for Children is able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on child care issues, and assistance with the Environment Rating Scales. Their phone number is (252) 758-8885 or check out their website at mppfc.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Megan Brown, Child Care Consultant, 252-414-4903, Megan.Brown@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252- 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: First Choice Learning Academy Facility ID: 74000954 Consultant: MEGAN BROWN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/17/2025 Number Present: 15 Completed Date: 4/17/2025 Age: From 3 To 9 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. S. Ward, administrator assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 3/11/2025 earning 4 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space and ratio) and 1 quality point for the child care administrator has at least 10 years of documented child care administration work in a licensed program. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety -three percent as of 4/17/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 4/17/25 and your facility is not owned by a corporation. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. The children enrolled in classroom space #1 were observed coloring and completing an easter word search. Children enrolled in classroom space #2 were engaged in free play. Today's lunch hamburger, hot dogs, green beans, applesauce and milk. The violations are as follows: Violation Number Comment Rule 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There was seven pieces of plastic debris on the playground. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. There was an uncovered electrical outlet in classroom space #1 near the front table, and in classroom space #2 there was an uncovered outlet by the fish tank. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. Six of thirteen children being transported did not have a photograph attached to their emergency information. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. Three of thirteen children did not have permission to transport forms on file. .1003(i)(j) – Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 1, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Megan Brown, Child Care Consultant PO BOX 3187 Greenville, NC 27836 Megan.Brown@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance was provided on the following: Transportation: Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death in children two to fourteen years of age in the United States. It is necessary for the safety of children to require that the caregiver/teacher comply with requirements governing the transportation of children in care, in the absence of the parent/guardian. Prior to being transported, permission must be granted by each child’s parent stating when and where the child will be transported to and from. Today three children did not have signed permission to transport form on file. Each child transported must be have on file emergency contact information along with a photograph of each child. This is helpful in identifying children in the event of an emergency/accident. Six children did not have a photograph attached to their emergency information. You begin taking pictures of the children during today’s visit. Outdoor Environment: The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Children are able to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use and all debris is removed prior to use. Additional Comments: We reviewed the outdoor rules about inflatables and grills. Today you were having an Easter celebration at your facility, a bounce house was installed on the playground. You notified all families prior to the event. NCID: Did you know that if you do not login on any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. As part of ongoing efforts to protect state systems and data, the N.C. Department of Information Technology will be changing the minimum length of NCID passwords from eight to 14 characters. When you change your current password after Feb. 23, however, you will be required to create a new one that must: • Be a minimum of 14 characters. • Consist of at least one numeric character, at least one uppercase letter, at least one lowercase letter, and at least one special character such as #, &, * etc. • Passwords shall not contain number or character substitutes to create dictionary words (e.g., d33psl33p for deepsleep). Reminders: The Healthy Social Behaviors (HSB) Project supports teachers to promote healthy social-emotional development and reduce the expulsion rate among young children in licensed child care centers across North Carolina. The team is made up of specialists with early childhood education backgrounds who are passionate about empowering teachers to develop learning environments and teaching practices that promote prosocial skills in young children. To speak to a Behavior Support Advisor contact 1-888-600-1685 option 1 or to submit a question visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc-4ADUCpoHc9MrxFvD15H12AwsNWbUtWEJRXW38q_41Y3hzA/viewform The Martin-Pitt Partnership for Children is able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on child care issues, and assistance with the Environment Rating Scales. Their phone number is (252) 758-8885 or check out their website at mppfc.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Megan Brown, Child Care Consultant, 252-414-4903, Megan.Brown@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252- 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. 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 .1003 · Violation

Name of Operation: First Choice Learning Academy Facility ID: 74000954 Consultant: MEGAN BROWN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/17/2025 Number Present: 15 Completed Date: 4/17/2025 Age: From 3 To 9 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. S. Ward, administrator assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 3/11/2025 earning 4 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space and ratio) and 1 quality point for the child care administrator has at least 10 years of documented child care administration work in a licensed program. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety -three percent as of 4/17/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 4/17/25 and your facility is not owned by a corporation. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. The children enrolled in classroom space #1 were observed coloring and completing an easter word search. Children enrolled in classroom space #2 were engaged in free play. Today's lunch hamburger, hot dogs, green beans, applesauce and milk. The violations are as follows: Violation Number Comment Rule 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There was seven pieces of plastic debris on the playground. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. There was an uncovered electrical outlet in classroom space #1 near the front table, and in classroom space #2 there was an uncovered outlet by the fish tank. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. Six of thirteen children being transported did not have a photograph attached to their emergency information. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. Three of thirteen children did not have permission to transport forms on file. .1003(i)(j) – Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 1, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Megan Brown, Child Care Consultant PO BOX 3187 Greenville, NC 27836 Megan.Brown@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance was provided on the following: Transportation: Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death in children two to fourteen years of age in the United States. It is necessary for the safety of children to require that the caregiver/teacher comply with requirements governing the transportation of children in care, in the absence of the parent/guardian. Prior to being transported, permission must be granted by each child’s parent stating when and where the child will be transported to and from. Today three children did not have signed permission to transport form on file. Each child transported must be have on file emergency contact information along with a photograph of each child. This is helpful in identifying children in the event of an emergency/accident. Six children did not have a photograph attached to their emergency information. You begin taking pictures of the children during today’s visit. Outdoor Environment: The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Children are able to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use and all debris is removed prior to use. Additional Comments: We reviewed the outdoor rules about inflatables and grills. Today you were having an Easter celebration at your facility, a bounce house was installed on the playground. You notified all families prior to the event. NCID: Did you know that if you do not login on any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. As part of ongoing efforts to protect state systems and data, the N.C. Department of Information Technology will be changing the minimum length of NCID passwords from eight to 14 characters. When you change your current password after Feb. 23, however, you will be required to create a new one that must: • Be a minimum of 14 characters. • Consist of at least one numeric character, at least one uppercase letter, at least one lowercase letter, and at least one special character such as #, &, * etc. • Passwords shall not contain number or character substitutes to create dictionary words (e.g., d33psl33p for deepsleep). Reminders: The Healthy Social Behaviors (HSB) Project supports teachers to promote healthy social-emotional development and reduce the expulsion rate among young children in licensed child care centers across North Carolina. The team is made up of specialists with early childhood education backgrounds who are passionate about empowering teachers to develop learning environments and teaching practices that promote prosocial skills in young children. To speak to a Behavior Support Advisor contact 1-888-600-1685 option 1 or to submit a question visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc-4ADUCpoHc9MrxFvD15H12AwsNWbUtWEJRXW38q_41Y3hzA/viewform The Martin-Pitt Partnership for Children is able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on child care issues, and assistance with the Environment Rating Scales. Their phone number is (252) 758-8885 or check out their website at mppfc.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Megan Brown, Child Care Consultant, 252-414-4903, Megan.Brown@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252- 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. 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: First Choice Learning Academy Facility ID: 74000954 Consultant: MEGAN BROWN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/17/2025 Number Present: 15 Completed Date: 4/17/2025 Age: From 3 To 9 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. S. Ward, administrator assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 3/11/2025 earning 4 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space and ratio) and 1 quality point for the child care administrator has at least 10 years of documented child care administration work in a licensed program. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety -three percent as of 4/17/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 4/17/25 and your facility is not owned by a corporation. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. The children enrolled in classroom space #1 were observed coloring and completing an easter word search. Children enrolled in classroom space #2 were engaged in free play. Today's lunch hamburger, hot dogs, green beans, applesauce and milk. The violations are as follows: Violation Number Comment Rule 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There was seven pieces of plastic debris on the playground. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. There was an uncovered electrical outlet in classroom space #1 near the front table, and in classroom space #2 there was an uncovered outlet by the fish tank. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. Six of thirteen children being transported did not have a photograph attached to their emergency information. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. Three of thirteen children did not have permission to transport forms on file. .1003(i)(j) – Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 1, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Megan Brown, Child Care Consultant PO BOX 3187 Greenville, NC 27836 Megan.Brown@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance was provided on the following: Transportation: Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death in children two to fourteen years of age in the United States. It is necessary for the safety of children to require that the caregiver/teacher comply with requirements governing the transportation of children in care, in the absence of the parent/guardian. Prior to being transported, permission must be granted by each child’s parent stating when and where the child will be transported to and from. Today three children did not have signed permission to transport form on file. Each child transported must be have on file emergency contact information along with a photograph of each child. This is helpful in identifying children in the event of an emergency/accident. Six children did not have a photograph attached to their emergency information. You begin taking pictures of the children during today’s visit. Outdoor Environment: The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Children are able to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use and all debris is removed prior to use. Additional Comments: We reviewed the outdoor rules about inflatables and grills. Today you were having an Easter celebration at your facility, a bounce house was installed on the playground. You notified all families prior to the event. NCID: Did you know that if you do not login on any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. As part of ongoing efforts to protect state systems and data, the N.C. Department of Information Technology will be changing the minimum length of NCID passwords from eight to 14 characters. When you change your current password after Feb. 23, however, you will be required to create a new one that must: • Be a minimum of 14 characters. • Consist of at least one numeric character, at least one uppercase letter, at least one lowercase letter, and at least one special character such as #, &, * etc. • Passwords shall not contain number or character substitutes to create dictionary words (e.g., d33psl33p for deepsleep). Reminders: The Healthy Social Behaviors (HSB) Project supports teachers to promote healthy social-emotional development and reduce the expulsion rate among young children in licensed child care centers across North Carolina. The team is made up of specialists with early childhood education backgrounds who are passionate about empowering teachers to develop learning environments and teaching practices that promote prosocial skills in young children. To speak to a Behavior Support Advisor contact 1-888-600-1685 option 1 or to submit a question visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc-4ADUCpoHc9MrxFvD15H12AwsNWbUtWEJRXW38q_41Y3hzA/viewform The Martin-Pitt Partnership for Children is able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on child care issues, and assistance with the Environment Rating Scales. Their phone number is (252) 758-8885 or check out their website at mppfc.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Megan Brown, Child Care Consultant, 252-414-4903, Megan.Brown@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252- 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: First Choice Learning Academy Facility ID: 74000954 Consultant: LAKISHA SKINNER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/18/2025 Number Present: 13 Completed Date: 2/18/2025 Age: From 5 To 9 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 01:15 PM Time Out: 03:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced * The purpose of today's visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the third temporary time period visit. You, S. Ward, administrator, assisted me with the visit. This facility was issued a temporary license on 9/10/24 with a restriction of daytime care to serve children 3-12 years old. During this visit, we walked through the entire facility observing the indoor and outdoor environment, but a full assessment was not completed for each space. The facility was assessed for supervision, staff/child ratio, and health and safety requirements. Children exited the childcare van, entered and performed handwashing routines. Graham crackers and apple juice were served during afternoon snack. Program records, including fire drills and monthly outdoor area inspections were complete and current. A “Superior” sanitation inspection was completed on 2/4/25. You must complete your annual fire inspection before 3/2025. Submit the original completed and approved fire inspection form to your child care consultant within one week after it is completed. You can obtain the annual fire inspection form under the provider tab, then provider documents and forms tab at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. COMPLIANCE HISTORY - Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The compliance history for this facility prior to today’s visit is 94%. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 3/4/25, how and when the violation(s) were corrected. If a facility’s compliance history falls below 75% over an eighteen-month time frame, some type of administrative action may be issued. Violation Number Comment Rule 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. Certification in first aid for the individual hired on 11/8/24 was to be completed by 2/8/25. The individual has not completed the training to date. .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. Certification in CPR for the individual hired on 11/8/24 was to be completed by 2/8/25. The individual has not completed the training to date. .1102(d) * COMPLIANCE HISTORY - Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The compliance history for this facility prior to today’s visit is 94%. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 3/4/25, how and when the violation(s) were corrected. If a facility’s compliance history falls below 75% over an eighteen-month time frame, some type of administrative action may be issued. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Lakisha Skinner, Child Care Consultant PO BOX 431 Grimesland, NC 27837 Lakisha.Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance w/ Documented Violation(s): First Aid and CPR Training for Staff–To ensure the health and safety of children in a child care setting, someone who is qualified to respond to life threatening emergencies must be in attendance at all times. First aid skills are the most likely tools caregivers will need. Minor injuries are common. For emergency situations that require attention from a health professional, first aid procedures can be used to control the situation until a health professional can provide definitive care. The CPR and First Aid certification for the caregiver hired on 11/8/24 was to be completed within 90 days (2/8/25). The training is scheduled for this evening 2/18/25. The knowledge and ability to perform emergency measures on another person whose breathing or heart activity has stopped is critical to potentially saving a life. Documentation of the successful completion of pediatric first aid and demonstration of pediatric CPR skills in the facility must be available for review and is required before the expiration date listed on your card every two years. Rated License Summary: Education Standards - Your program earned 4 points in the Education component. A copy of each applicable staff education worksheet was reviewed and left with you today. Program Standards – Once the violations documented today have been corrected, the facility will meet minimal childcare requirements. You did not request an Environmental Rating Scale Assessment. You have chosen to meet enhanced ratios and space earning 2 points in Program Standards. Quality Point – You have chosen to meet Educational Option: The child care administrator has at least 10 years of documented child care administrative work experience in a licensed program that can be verified by the Division, therefore your program earned 1 Quality Point. Total – 4 + 2 + 1 = 7 = 3 Star License. A new license will be mailed directly to you and must be posted upon receipt. At that time, return the Temporary license to me as it remains the property of the State of North Carolina. Reminders: All staff must have completed the required applicable Health and Safety Training and On-Going Training requirements and have documentation on file for review prior to one year of employment. Emergency Preparedness and Response Training - We discussed the emergency preparedness and response training that is required within the first year of licensure. Once the training is complete you must create the EPR plan within 4 months. Provider Access to ABCMS – As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Annual Licensing Fee: Child Care Centers are required to pay an annual license fee in accordance with North Carolina General Statute 110-90.1(a). The amount of your fee is based on the licensed capacity as it appears on your child care license on October 1 of each year. You will receive an invoice from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Controller, each year. The license fee is due within thirty (30) days of the date on the invoice. Late or non-payment of your license fee will result in an administrative action, up to and including Revocation of your child care license. It is your responsibility, as a child care operator, to ensure that the license fee is paid in full and in a timely manner. Quality Child Care: Providing quality child care is essential for children. There is ample research demonstrating that high-quality child-care experiences have many benefits to children and society and that quality child care is linked to children’s improved school performance. Classrooms with a planned curriculum have a more positive impact on child outcomes than one with no set curriculum. A comprehensive curriculum will address all areas of a child’s development including social and emotional, physical and health, cognition and general knowledge, and language and communication. For example, activities promoting literacy, math and science concepts, music and art are typically included. Be sure to review the five developmental domains as part of the NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development. A PDF of Foundations can be found On the Division’s website. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Your file will be transferred to Megan Brown, child care consultant after the temporary license time period has ended. You can contact Megan at 252-414-4903 or at: Megan.Brown@dhhs.nc.gov. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at (252) 820-5976, Lakisha.Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. 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. 110-102 · Violation

Name of Operation: First Choice Learning Academy Facility ID: 74000954 Consultant: LAKISHA SKINNER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/29/2024 Number Present: 0 Completed Date: 10/29/2024 Age: From 0 To 0 Total Minutes: 280 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced * The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a first temporary time period visit. This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued September 10, 2024. The temporary license is valid through March 10, 2025. This facility is owned and operated by S. Ward. Ms. Ward and P. Peele, administrative assistant, assisted with today’s visit. No children were present. You indicated the enrolled preschool children were not present today and the school-aged children will attend in the afternoon. Children’s artwork was displayed throughout each space at the children’s eye level. The fenced outdoor space located at the rear of the facility includes portable play equipment as well as a shaded play space. Staff, children, and program were monitored. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 115 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not posted in a prominent place in the center. A signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled was not on file for five (5) out of the five (5) children's records reviewed. G.S. 110-102 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A medical exam or health assessment record was on file for a child enrolled on 9/23/24. GS110-91(1) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. The application for enrollment for a child enrolled on 9/23/24 did not include the hospital preference, telephone number, and the child's date of birth. .0801(a)(1-7) 1832 Application did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. The health care needs section of the application for enrollment for one (1) out of the five (5) files reviewed was not completed by the parent. .0801 (a)(5) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. Two (2) out of the five (5) files reviewed did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt and explanation of the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma policy. .0608(b)(1-6) * COMPLIANCE HISTORY - Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 11/12/24, how and when the violations were corrected. If a facility’s compliance history falls below 75% over an eighteen-month time frame, some type of administrative action may be issued. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Lakisha Skinner, Child Care Consultant PO BOX 431 Grimesland, NC 27837 Lakisha.Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE WITH THE DOCUMENTED VIOLATION (S): Children's Records - Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important because it demonstrates compliance with the child care rules and ensures the health and safety of each child. Children's records are required to completed and maintained for each child who attends your child care (full-time, part-time, or drop-in). Within 30 days of the child's first day of enrollment a medical exam or health assessment must be on file for each child. One child enrolled on September 23, 2024, has a medical exam or health assessment on file from 2020. You indicated the child was enrolled in your first location and you thought you could use the medical report from 2020. Medical reports cannot exceed 12 months and must be received within 30 days of enrollment. It is best practice to require this item upon enrollment. The first day a child attends there must be documentation of the receipt of the Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy and a signed notification of the summary of law. Two (2) out of the five (5) children files did not have documentation of Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma Policy. Five (5) out of the five (5) children’s files did not have documentation of the receipt of the NC Summary of Law. You indicated the child’s parent came in and due to staffing and attending to the needs of the facility you forgot to have the parent sign the acknowledgements. Children’s files are individualized and include information unique to each child enrolled. Have the parent verify documentation of receipt for the children immediately and submit documentation of correction within two (2) weeks of today’s visit. Child’s Application for Enrollment - Emergency information is the key to obtaining needed care in emergency situations. In the event of an emergency, child care providers must know about a child’s special health care needs, so they can offer protection for that child. This requires you to obtain the health and safety needs of individual children prior to enrollment. I observed the following on the child’s application for enrollment: One (1) out of five (5) children’s files was missing -the birthdate date, the telephone number for the hospital preference and the hospital preference. The health care needs section of the enrollment application for one (1) out of the five (5) was incomplete. You indicated you were going to complete an audit of your files. During the enrollment process it is imperative that you ensure all required forms are completed and reviewed for accuracy. ADDITIONAL COMMENTS: UNANNOUNCED VISITS - I will conduct two additional temporary time period visit. Ensure you document new staff on the staff and training worksheets for future monitoring. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Lakisha Skinner, Child Care Consultant, 252-820-5976, Lakisha.Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. 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: First Choice Learning Academy Facility ID: 74000954 Consultant: LAKISHA SKINNER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/29/2024 Number Present: 0 Completed Date: 10/29/2024 Age: From 0 To 0 Total Minutes: 280 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced * The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a first temporary time period visit. This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued September 10, 2024. The temporary license is valid through March 10, 2025. This facility is owned and operated by S. Ward. Ms. Ward and P. Peele, administrative assistant, assisted with today’s visit. No children were present. You indicated the enrolled preschool children were not present today and the school-aged children will attend in the afternoon. Children’s artwork was displayed throughout each space at the children’s eye level. The fenced outdoor space located at the rear of the facility includes portable play equipment as well as a shaded play space. Staff, children, and program were monitored. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 115 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not posted in a prominent place in the center. A signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled was not on file for five (5) out of the five (5) children's records reviewed. G.S. 110-102 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A medical exam or health assessment record was on file for a child enrolled on 9/23/24. GS110-91(1) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. The application for enrollment for a child enrolled on 9/23/24 did not include the hospital preference, telephone number, and the child's date of birth. .0801(a)(1-7) 1832 Application did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. The health care needs section of the application for enrollment for one (1) out of the five (5) files reviewed was not completed by the parent. .0801 (a)(5) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. Two (2) out of the five (5) files reviewed did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt and explanation of the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma policy. .0608(b)(1-6) * COMPLIANCE HISTORY - Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 11/12/24, how and when the violations were corrected. If a facility’s compliance history falls below 75% over an eighteen-month time frame, some type of administrative action may be issued. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Lakisha Skinner, Child Care Consultant PO BOX 431 Grimesland, NC 27837 Lakisha.Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE WITH THE DOCUMENTED VIOLATION (S): Children's Records - Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important because it demonstrates compliance with the child care rules and ensures the health and safety of each child. Children's records are required to completed and maintained for each child who attends your child care (full-time, part-time, or drop-in). Within 30 days of the child's first day of enrollment a medical exam or health assessment must be on file for each child. One child enrolled on September 23, 2024, has a medical exam or health assessment on file from 2020. You indicated the child was enrolled in your first location and you thought you could use the medical report from 2020. Medical reports cannot exceed 12 months and must be received within 30 days of enrollment. It is best practice to require this item upon enrollment. The first day a child attends there must be documentation of the receipt of the Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy and a signed notification of the summary of law. Two (2) out of the five (5) children files did not have documentation of Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma Policy. Five (5) out of the five (5) children’s files did not have documentation of the receipt of the NC Summary of Law. You indicated the child’s parent came in and due to staffing and attending to the needs of the facility you forgot to have the parent sign the acknowledgements. Children’s files are individualized and include information unique to each child enrolled. Have the parent verify documentation of receipt for the children immediately and submit documentation of correction within two (2) weeks of today’s visit. Child’s Application for Enrollment - Emergency information is the key to obtaining needed care in emergency situations. In the event of an emergency, child care providers must know about a child’s special health care needs, so they can offer protection for that child. This requires you to obtain the health and safety needs of individual children prior to enrollment. I observed the following on the child’s application for enrollment: One (1) out of five (5) children’s files was missing -the birthdate date, the telephone number for the hospital preference and the hospital preference. The health care needs section of the enrollment application for one (1) out of the five (5) was incomplete. You indicated you were going to complete an audit of your files. During the enrollment process it is imperative that you ensure all required forms are completed and reviewed for accuracy. ADDITIONAL COMMENTS: UNANNOUNCED VISITS - I will conduct two additional temporary time period visit. Ensure you document new staff on the staff and training worksheets for future monitoring. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Lakisha Skinner, Child Care Consultant, 252-820-5976, Lakisha.Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. 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