Pitt County Early Head Start

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: PITT COUNTY EARLY HEAD START Facility ID: 74000901 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/20/2026 Number Present: 77 Completed Date: 5/20/2026 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 272 Time In: 09:08 AM Time Out: 01:40 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. C. Foreman, site supervisor, assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued October 28, 2021, earning 4 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced ratios) and 1 quality point for the programmatic option of staff benefits package and infrastructure of parent involvement. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety six percent as of May 19, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on May 19, 2026, and Economic Improvement Council, Inc. was listed as current- active. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. You visited each space with me. Eight groups of children were observed in the indoor and outdoor learning environments. Children enrolled in spaces #1, and #2, were engaged in outdoor free play with balls, push toys and stationary equipment. Children enrolled in space #3, #4, #5, and #6 had indoor gross motor play with hopping blocks, tunnels and music and movement. Children enrolled in spaces #10 and #11 had a moving up ceremony, where the completed a performance for the families in outdoor space #3.Teachers were observed moving about the assisting the children, singing songs, leading activities and playing with the children. Files of new staff were reviewed. Sanitation and fire inspections remain current. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There were three active wasp nest located on the soffits of the building, on outdoor space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. One Albuterol Sulfate HFA inhaler and one bottle of Benadryl was stored in an unlocked cabinet in space #10. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(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 June 3, 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: LeShaunda McCotter P.O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotter@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: Medication Storage-There was an unlocked cabinet in space #10, where one Albuterol Sulfate HFA inhaler and one bottle of Benadryl was stored. You shared you did a walk-through of the building this morning and the door was locked and the teacher had gone into the cabinet and forgot to lock it back. We discussed having staff slow down, lock the door, and pull on it before walking away to ensure it is locked. Additionally, we discussed adding a visual reminder for staff to see when they closed the door. Outdoor Inspections-In outdoor space #1, there were three active wasp nests on the soffit outside space #10. You shared an inspection of the outdoor space was completed by a staff member this morning, but the wasp nest was not reported to you. Facility maintance immediately sprayed and removed the nest. We discussed the things you are looking for when completing an inspection. Be sure to look up and down for any potential hazards. With warm weather, insects tend to be more active. When completing your daily inspections be sure to look up the side of the building, down on the ground, and inside and under all equipment. Retrain staff on how to complete an inspection and properly report any issues that may arise. Consultation: Medication Documentation Storage- Today, in space #10, there were two albuterol inhalers that did not have a current authorization form stored with it. You were able to locate the current document quickly from the children’s records in the office. We discussed storing a copy of the documents with the medication in the classrooms as best practice. Children’s medical needs may be unique to them and may change over time. Additionally, classroom staff may change. Any staff working with the children need to know the most current information to meet the child’s medical needs. Today was the last day of operation of that classroom for this season, the medications were no longer needed and returned to the parents during the visit. Create a plan for next season to ensure the most current information is available to classroom staff. Documentation Consistency- During a review of the new staff files, I noticed there were several dates for the review of the same policy. Additionally, I noticed that when those topics were covered in the orientation process was different. We discussed how the organization completes the orientation process for new staff. It was shared there are varying levels of orientation that are completed by different staff members within the organization before coming to the individual site, where you complete additional orientation. You share that because of this you could only speak to the sessions that you completed. We discussed how you could be consistent in the review and documentation of training. There were also files with photos of medical documents on file. You shared that staff send the pictures of the medical documents during the application process. We discussed obtaining the original documents to ensure you have a clear, authentic copy to add to the personnel file. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me, LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant at 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@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: PITT COUNTY EARLY HEAD START Facility ID: 74000901 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/20/2026 Number Present: 77 Completed Date: 5/20/2026 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 272 Time In: 09:08 AM Time Out: 01:40 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. C. Foreman, site supervisor, assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued October 28, 2021, earning 4 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced ratios) and 1 quality point for the programmatic option of staff benefits package and infrastructure of parent involvement. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety six percent as of May 19, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on May 19, 2026, and Economic Improvement Council, Inc. was listed as current- active. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. You visited each space with me. Eight groups of children were observed in the indoor and outdoor learning environments. Children enrolled in spaces #1, and #2, were engaged in outdoor free play with balls, push toys and stationary equipment. Children enrolled in space #3, #4, #5, and #6 had indoor gross motor play with hopping blocks, tunnels and music and movement. Children enrolled in spaces #10 and #11 had a moving up ceremony, where the completed a performance for the families in outdoor space #3.Teachers were observed moving about the assisting the children, singing songs, leading activities and playing with the children. Files of new staff were reviewed. Sanitation and fire inspections remain current. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There were three active wasp nest located on the soffits of the building, on outdoor space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. One Albuterol Sulfate HFA inhaler and one bottle of Benadryl was stored in an unlocked cabinet in space #10. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(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 June 3, 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: LeShaunda McCotter P.O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotter@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: Medication Storage-There was an unlocked cabinet in space #10, where one Albuterol Sulfate HFA inhaler and one bottle of Benadryl was stored. You shared you did a walk-through of the building this morning and the door was locked and the teacher had gone into the cabinet and forgot to lock it back. We discussed having staff slow down, lock the door, and pull on it before walking away to ensure it is locked. Additionally, we discussed adding a visual reminder for staff to see when they closed the door. Outdoor Inspections-In outdoor space #1, there were three active wasp nests on the soffit outside space #10. You shared an inspection of the outdoor space was completed by a staff member this morning, but the wasp nest was not reported to you. Facility maintance immediately sprayed and removed the nest. We discussed the things you are looking for when completing an inspection. Be sure to look up and down for any potential hazards. With warm weather, insects tend to be more active. When completing your daily inspections be sure to look up the side of the building, down on the ground, and inside and under all equipment. Retrain staff on how to complete an inspection and properly report any issues that may arise. Consultation: Medication Documentation Storage- Today, in space #10, there were two albuterol inhalers that did not have a current authorization form stored with it. You were able to locate the current document quickly from the children’s records in the office. We discussed storing a copy of the documents with the medication in the classrooms as best practice. Children’s medical needs may be unique to them and may change over time. Additionally, classroom staff may change. Any staff working with the children need to know the most current information to meet the child’s medical needs. Today was the last day of operation of that classroom for this season, the medications were no longer needed and returned to the parents during the visit. Create a plan for next season to ensure the most current information is available to classroom staff. Documentation Consistency- During a review of the new staff files, I noticed there were several dates for the review of the same policy. Additionally, I noticed that when those topics were covered in the orientation process was different. We discussed how the organization completes the orientation process for new staff. It was shared there are varying levels of orientation that are completed by different staff members within the organization before coming to the individual site, where you complete additional orientation. You share that because of this you could only speak to the sessions that you completed. We discussed how you could be consistent in the review and documentation of training. There were also files with photos of medical documents on file. You shared that staff send the pictures of the medical documents during the application process. We discussed obtaining the original documents to ensure you have a clear, authentic copy to add to the personnel file. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me, LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant at 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@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: PITT COUNTY EARLY HEAD START Facility ID: 74000901 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/8/2026 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 1/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 435 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 03:55 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 and to provide technical assistance on section .3200 of the child care rules. S. Brown, Deputy Director and C. Foreman, Center Superviosr, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 10/28/21, earning 4 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced ratios) and 1 quality point for the programmatic option of staff benefits package and infrastructure of parent involvement. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 2/18/25. The sanitation inspection was completed 12/11/25 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 12/10/25 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety seven percent as of 1/6/26. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 1/6/26 and Economic Improvement Council, Inc was listed as current- active. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and the facility email address was updated. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. A new administrator has been assigned. The Preservice Requirements for Administrator of a Child Care Center and Legal Designee forms were left with you during the visit and must be returned to me by January 16, 2026. Eight groups of children were observed in the indoor and outdoor learning environments. Children were engaged in whole group activities, transitions, and personal care routines. Staff were observed leading group time, read stories, and assisting children with problem solving. All classroom spaces have changed their room arrangements by moving the low-lying shelves, creating clear walking paths and sight lines. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken nuggets, peas, pineapple, rolls, 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 December 10, 2025 approved fire inspection was received during the visit, therefore it was not submitted withing one week of the inspection visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Plastic garbage bags were stored in the bathroom drawer of space #1. A plastic zip-lock bag containing spoons was stored in the bathroom drawer in space #4. .0604(q) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. There mouse droppings present in two drawers in the bathrooms in spaces #1 and #4. This is a violation of Sanitation Rule .2831(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 1/22/26, 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: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotter@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: Plastic Bags- Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. In child care facilities, plastic bags should be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. Today there was a plastic zip-lock bag and trash bags in the bathroom drawers of spaces #1 and #4. You removed them during the visit. You shared staff are not to have zip-lock bags in the classrooms and there is specific store spaces for trash bags. We discussed completing classroom observations and spot checking spaces to ensure bags are being stored properly. Pest Control- Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. You reported that you currently receive pest control services monthly, and staff are required to do cleaning daily to deter pests. You stated that there were no previous reports of pest dropping. You stated you will have the facility maintenance staff to check the sink areas to be sure there are no holes near pipes to allow pests in. During the visit, maintenance staff visited each space to clean and disinfect the bathroom drawers. We discussed who often staff are inspecting classrooms and the process for reporting any findings. Fire Inspections- Fire inspections must be obtained annually and submitted to the Division within one week of the inspection visit. You stated you had typed the email and attached the inspection on December 11, 2025. Upon review, you discovered the email was in drafts. We discussed adding me to the email thread sent to the main office. I reminded you that if you do not receive a confirmation email within 24 hours, to reach out to the consultant to confirm the inspection was received. Consultation: 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. Additionally, we reviewed the CQI, Family and Community Engagement, and Quality Initiatives Recognition. You informed me that your facility will pursue Pathway #3: Accreditation and Head Start. Today we reviewed the application and the required items needed for this pathway. Please submit an application for Assessment for a Rated License by April 2026. Additional Comments and Reminders: CBC- Ensuring caregivers complete the required criminal record check process every five years helps to protect children in the facility. Today we reviewed the list of staff that have criminal background checks that will be expiring in the coming months. Staff may submit the required up to six months in advance of the expiration date to obtain a new letter. Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website reflects the following information about your center’s required three-year water testing and one-time lead paint testing, and asbestos testing: Three-year Water Testing – Last completed on 6/11/24 Lead Paint Testing – Survey Review by RTI Asbestos Testing –Survey Review by RTI For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ North Carolina General Statute 14-208 requires sex offenders to register with the North Carolina Department of Justice. The law states that a sex offender shall not knowingly reside within 1,000 feet of the property on which any public or nonpublic school or child care center is located. This does not apply to child care centers that are located on or within 1,000 feet of property of an institution of higher education where the registrant is a student or is employed. All licensed child care centers must register to receive e-mail notification when a registered sex offender moves within a one-mile radius of the center. (§14-208.19) To register for the e-mail notification, go to http://sexoffender.ncsbi.gov. If you have any questions, please contact your local sheriff's department. 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 LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant, 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@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: PITT COUNTY EARLY HEAD START Facility ID: 74000901 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/8/2026 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 1/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 435 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 03:55 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 and to provide technical assistance on section .3200 of the child care rules. S. Brown, Deputy Director and C. Foreman, Center Superviosr, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 10/28/21, earning 4 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced ratios) and 1 quality point for the programmatic option of staff benefits package and infrastructure of parent involvement. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 2/18/25. The sanitation inspection was completed 12/11/25 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 12/10/25 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety seven percent as of 1/6/26. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 1/6/26 and Economic Improvement Council, Inc was listed as current- active. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and the facility email address was updated. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. A new administrator has been assigned. The Preservice Requirements for Administrator of a Child Care Center and Legal Designee forms were left with you during the visit and must be returned to me by January 16, 2026. Eight groups of children were observed in the indoor and outdoor learning environments. Children were engaged in whole group activities, transitions, and personal care routines. Staff were observed leading group time, read stories, and assisting children with problem solving. All classroom spaces have changed their room arrangements by moving the low-lying shelves, creating clear walking paths and sight lines. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken nuggets, peas, pineapple, rolls, 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 December 10, 2025 approved fire inspection was received during the visit, therefore it was not submitted withing one week of the inspection visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Plastic garbage bags were stored in the bathroom drawer of space #1. A plastic zip-lock bag containing spoons was stored in the bathroom drawer in space #4. .0604(q) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. There mouse droppings present in two drawers in the bathrooms in spaces #1 and #4. This is a violation of Sanitation Rule .2831(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 1/22/26, 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: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotter@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: Plastic Bags- Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. In child care facilities, plastic bags should be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. Today there was a plastic zip-lock bag and trash bags in the bathroom drawers of spaces #1 and #4. You removed them during the visit. You shared staff are not to have zip-lock bags in the classrooms and there is specific store spaces for trash bags. We discussed completing classroom observations and spot checking spaces to ensure bags are being stored properly. Pest Control- Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. You reported that you currently receive pest control services monthly, and staff are required to do cleaning daily to deter pests. You stated that there were no previous reports of pest dropping. You stated you will have the facility maintenance staff to check the sink areas to be sure there are no holes near pipes to allow pests in. During the visit, maintenance staff visited each space to clean and disinfect the bathroom drawers. We discussed who often staff are inspecting classrooms and the process for reporting any findings. Fire Inspections- Fire inspections must be obtained annually and submitted to the Division within one week of the inspection visit. You stated you had typed the email and attached the inspection on December 11, 2025. Upon review, you discovered the email was in drafts. We discussed adding me to the email thread sent to the main office. I reminded you that if you do not receive a confirmation email within 24 hours, to reach out to the consultant to confirm the inspection was received. Consultation: 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. Additionally, we reviewed the CQI, Family and Community Engagement, and Quality Initiatives Recognition. You informed me that your facility will pursue Pathway #3: Accreditation and Head Start. Today we reviewed the application and the required items needed for this pathway. Please submit an application for Assessment for a Rated License by April 2026. Additional Comments and Reminders: CBC- Ensuring caregivers complete the required criminal record check process every five years helps to protect children in the facility. Today we reviewed the list of staff that have criminal background checks that will be expiring in the coming months. Staff may submit the required up to six months in advance of the expiration date to obtain a new letter. Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website reflects the following information about your center’s required three-year water testing and one-time lead paint testing, and asbestos testing: Three-year Water Testing – Last completed on 6/11/24 Lead Paint Testing – Survey Review by RTI Asbestos Testing –Survey Review by RTI For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ North Carolina General Statute 14-208 requires sex offenders to register with the North Carolina Department of Justice. The law states that a sex offender shall not knowingly reside within 1,000 feet of the property on which any public or nonpublic school or child care center is located. This does not apply to child care centers that are located on or within 1,000 feet of property of an institution of higher education where the registrant is a student or is employed. All licensed child care centers must register to receive e-mail notification when a registered sex offender moves within a one-mile radius of the center. (§14-208.19) To register for the e-mail notification, go to http://sexoffender.ncsbi.gov. If you have any questions, please contact your local sheriff's department. 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 LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant, 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@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: PITT COUNTY EARLY HEAD START Facility ID: 74000901 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-408L Visit Date: 3/27/2025 Number Present: 68 Completed Date: 3/27/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 252 Time In: 09:27 AM Time Out: 12:19 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 02:50 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: There are allegations of violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, and license restrictions. Today I observed nine groups of children in the indoor and outdoor environments. Groups transitioned to the outdoor learning spaces. Staff assisted children with staying together and sang The Alphabet Song and The Wheels on the Bus as the children moved to and from the indoor and outdoor spaces. At meal times, staff assisted children with handwashing and eating. They sat at the table with the children. Today’s menu consisted of chicken nuggets, baked beans, applesauce, a roll and milk. Regarding the allegation of violations of child care requirements, I completed classroom observations, interviewed the administrator and select staff, reviewed the incident log and reports and reviewed video footage. There was an incident that occurred on March 13, 2025, where a child’s braid was pulled out. The video footage showed three children seated at the table before lunch time. Two children were pulling the arms of the third child, seated in the middle. The child seated on the left stood up and pulled out a braid from the child’s head. During this time, one staff member was assisting children in the bathroom with toileting and handwashing. The other staff member was positioned at the opposite end of the table where the children were seated. The teacher’s head was down looking at another child when the incident occurred. Based on the above information the allegation was confirmed. The following violation was observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. On March 13, 2025, children were not adequately observed during the transaction from bathroom to lunch, resulting in a child's braid being pulled out. .1801(a)(1-5) 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 April 10, 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 considered 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: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant PO Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotter@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 Supervision-Adequate supervision ensures the safety and well-being of children, preventing accidents and injuries, and fostering a secure environment for their development. Teachers should position themselves so that they can observe all of the children: watching, counting, and listening at all times. Transitions are times when heightened observations need to take place. Today, you shared with me that you had a staff meeting on March 14, 2025 where you discussed active supervision, incident reports, classroom monitoring, and transitions. An agenda and sign-in sheet was provided to me during the visit. You shared that you have also added Six Strategies of Active Supervision posters to all of the classrooms. Staff are required to do an interactive activity such as finger plays, sing song, or read stories with children as they wait for lunch to be served. Following the staff meeting you have adjusted the management checklist to include more observations in the classrooms and through the video cameras. During these observations you will take note of supervision, classroom schedule, and transitions. You stated you have contacted Chantel Sherman, Healthy Social Behavior Specialist, to provide technical assistance for your staff. Continue to monitor your staff and review the child care supervision requirements, with an emphasis on body positioning and anticipating children’s behaviors. A violation was documented for failure to maintain compliance with supervision requirements. Violations of this nature directly impact the safety of the children while in your care. In addition, these types of violations have the greatest negative impact on your compliance history. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to monitor compliance with child care requirements. Please be remined that confirmed complaints may result in the issuance of administrative actions. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me, LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant at LeShaunda.McCotter@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: PITT COUNTY EARLY HEAD START Facility ID: 74000901 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/18/2025 Number Present: 40 Completed Date: 2/18/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 415 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 03:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 10/28/21, earning 4 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced ratios) and 1 quality point for the programmatic option of staff benefits package and infrastructure of parent involvement. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 3/6/24. The sanitation inspection was completed 12/11/24 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 12/13/24 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety seven percent as of 2/17/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 2/17/25 and Economic Improvement Council, Inc was listed as current- active. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and the facility email address was updated. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. Ten groups were observed in the indoor and outdoor learning environments. Children enrolled in spaces #1, #2, and #4 sat on the carpet with their teachers for group time. Children sing songs with the teachers, listened to stories and play a listening game. Children enrolled in spaces #3 and #8 moved freely in the outdoor spaces, climbing on the stationary structure, riding on tricycles and sitting in the grassy area. The classrooms are arranged in learning centers with materials on low lying shelves for easy access to the children. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken salad with crackers, peas, oranges and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Documentation of dates of orientation completion was not on file for staff employed on 2/17/20. .1101(a) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Documentation of the completion of health and safety training within the first year of employment was not of file for review for staff employed on 2/17/20. .1102(a) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 3/4/25, 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: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotter@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: Staff Orientation-Each employee who is expected to have contact with children shall receive six clock hours of training in required topic areas within the first two weeks of employment and 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. A list of approved orientation topics and a documentation log along with required timelines can be found on the divisions website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ under the provider documents tab. One new staff member hired on 2/17/20, did not have documentation of orientation on file. The document did not contain the dates of each review of the required topics, nor the administrator’s signature. You stated the orientation occurred under a different administrator and you were unable to obtain a copy of the orientation from your main office. You shared with me that you currently have a system in place that outlines the orientation sessions and what is covered during each session. Completing file audits will help you verify that all required documents are on file and current. Health and Safety Trainings- Child care providers who have direct responsibility for the care and oversight of children, including center administrator, must complete health and safety trainings to comply with the NC Child Care Rules. Training can be taken in-person by contacting your local partnership or on-line through the DCDEE Moodle Portal. Staff employed on 2/17/20, did not have training certificates on file dated within the first year of employment. The staff did complete eight of the ten trainings in November 2023. You stated all staff were requested to complete the trainings in 2023, however the staff recently had problems logging into Moodle to verify all the trainings were complete. You also shared your current practice is to have staff complete the health and safety trainings during orientation to ensure they are complete within the first year of employment. Completing file audits will help you verify that all required trainings are complete and the required documentation is on file. Additional Comments: 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 LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant, 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@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: PITT COUNTY EARLY HEAD START Facility ID: 74000901 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0125-173L Visit Date: 1/27/2025 Number Present: 81 Completed Date: 1/27/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 08:25 AM Time Out: 10:30 AM Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 03:25 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. TaShaunda Hill, Pitt County Environmental Health Specialist accompanied me during today’s visit. The allegations are as follows: There are concerns that effective measures are not being taken to keep uncontained animals off the premises. There is a concern regarding nutrition standards and guidelines. There is a concern that effective measures are not being taken to prevent the spread of communicable diseases. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. Additionally, I observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. Children throughout the facility were having breakfast, transitioning, and having whole group time. Teachers were observed assisting children with handwashing, cleaning, and leading group time. Children were engaged in group time, singing songs with the teacher and listening to a story. Today’s menu consisted of Cheerios, banana, and milk Based on information provided, concerns that effective measures are not being taken to keep uncontained animals off the premises, I completed observations and interviewed select staff. It was reported that there is a monthly pest prevention service. The facility was last visited on January 18, 2025. The facility is inspected by maintenance staff daily, prior to use. There are daily cleaning task, such as cleaning behind and under furniture, removing trash, and declutter to help prevent pest. Based on information received, this allegation is unconfirmed. Based on the information provided regarding concern regarding nutrition standards and guidelines, I completed observations, reviewed meal plans, and interviewed select staff. Food substitutions were noted for today’s meals. Each required component was present. Foods not in its original box were stored in a closed and labeled container with an expiration date. Based on the above information, this allegation was unconfirmed. Regarding the allegation concern that effective measures are not being taken to prevent the spread of communicable disease, I completed observation, reviewed the facility’s sick policies, and interviewed select staff. It was shared that staff was required to work while having symptoms of fever, vomiting, and diarrhea. It was reported this occurred in December 2024 Based on the above information the allegation was confirmed. The following violation was observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Staff were worked a full day in December 2024 with vomiting, diarrhea, and fever symptoms. This a violation of sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2827(e) COMMUNICABLE DISEASES AND CONDITIONS. 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 February 10, 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 considered 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: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant PO Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotter@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: Reduce the Spread of Communicable Diseases- Sick teachers shouldn't come to class because they risk spreading their illness to children and other staff members, potentially impacting the health of others. Today, it was shared that staff are required to come to work when they are sick. In December of 2024, staff worked all day when they had vomiting, diarrhea, and fever symptoms. You shared that staff work to reduce the spread of illnesses by deep cleaning and sanitizing. Staff should be excluded and stay home to allow them to recover and prevent the spread of germs within the preschool environment. Please review the list of communicable diseases and review your facility’s sick policy to ensure you the proper precautions are made to ensure the health and safety of the children in care. Please be remined that confirmed complaint may result in the issuance of administrative actions. A follow-up visit may be conducted in the near future to monitor compliance with child care requirements. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me, LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant at LeShaunda.McCotter@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: PITT COUNTY EARLY HEAD START Facility ID: 74000901 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/6/2024 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 3/6/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 327 Time In: 08:08 AM Time Out: 01:35 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. Tameria Williams, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me during the visit. L. Byrd, Deputy Director, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 10/28/21, earning 4 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced ratios) and 1 quality point for the programmatic option of staff benefits package and infrastructure of parent involvement. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 3/22/23. The sanitation inspection was completed 12/19/23 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 12/13/23 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty two percent as of 3/5/24. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 3/5/24 and Economic Improvement Council, Inc was listed as current- active. 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. Ten groups were observed today. You greeted us in the lobby. Two staff were in the lobby greeting families and conducted health checks, before escorting them to class. As children arrived to classroom spaces, teachers greeted them and assisted with handwashing. Children engaged indoor free play until it was time for breakfast. Following breakfast, teachers assisted children with personal care needs, indoor free play and indoor gross motor play. The classrooms were arranged in learning centers, including blocks, reading, art, dramatic play and manipulatives. The outdoor areas provide stationary climbing structures, balls, tricycles, hula hoops, and sensory tables to promote vigorous gross motor play. diaper changing procedures were observed. Breakfast was observed and consisted of Cheerios, pineapples, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 609 Staff did not wash their hands thoroughly before beginning work, before/after handling food, before bottle feeding or serving to other children, after toileting or handling body fluids, after diaper changing and after handling soiled items. One staff located in space # 6, did not wash hands cleaning a child's nose. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(a) 811 Potentially hazardous items including but not limited to power tools, nails, chemicals, propane stoves, lawn mowers, gasoline, or kerosene were not stored in locked areas, removed from the premises, or made inaccessible to children. Two lawn mowers, two gas powered weed eaters, two gas cans, one gas powered blower, two cans of engine fuel and one bottle of round up was stored in the storage shed outside the fenced area of outdoor space #4. .0604(a) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 3/20/24, 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: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotter@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: Storage of Hazardous Items- Hazardous items must be kept in locked storage. Today I observed an unlocked storage shed outside outdoor space #4. The shed contained gas powered lawn care equipment, gas canisters, two cans of engine fuel, and a bottle of round up. A new pad lock was installed on the shed doors during the visit. We discussed the importance of checking the outdoor areas every morning prior to the children arriving to the facility. We also discussed the importance of facilities maintenance staff locking the doors after use. Hand washing: Hand hygiene is the most important way to reduce the spread of infection. Staff must wash their hands thoroughly before beginning work, before/after handling food, before bottle feeding or serving to other children, after toileting or handling body fluids, after diaper changing and/or after handling soiled items. During today’s visit, one staff located in space #6 did not wash their hands after cleaning a child’s nose and continued to help children put the blocks on the shelf. The staff wash hands upon request. We discussed reviewing when proper hand washing routines should be completed. Additional Comments: Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules (updated 1/1/24) and environmental health rules (updated 7/1/23) in North Carolina, the Items Number Listing (can be used as a detailed checklist of required items) and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Check the designated facility email at least weekly to stay current with communication and email blasts from DCDEE. If your email is not the facility email, sign up for email blasts on the What’s New page for general information and communication from DCDEE. 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 LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant, 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@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