10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: SURF CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRESCHOOL Facility ID: 71000270 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/4/2025 Number Present: 36 Completed Date: 9/4/2025 Age: From 4 To 4 Total Minutes: 92 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 12:17 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements. Limited child care requirements pertinent to this visit type were monitored. Child Care Consultant, Natalie Pond, accompanied and assisted me with this visit. This facility currently operates with a Five Star License that was issued to this facility on March 9, 2024, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 3-5 with a first shift capacity of 60, meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios minus 1. As of April 1, 2025, this facility has an 18-month compliance history of 88%. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance 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. Pender County Schools operates this program. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on April 2, 2025. The new school year began on August 25, 2025, and there are four new staff. Files for new staff were monitored today. Sanitation Inspection – 03/27/2025 – 0 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 10/08/2024 – PASS There are four indoor spaces, and one outdoor space approved for use; three out of the four classrooms are being utilized by NC Pre-K children. There are thirty-eight children enrolled and thirty-six children, aged 4, were present today. Accurate attendance sheets were observed in each classroom. Preschool children in space #2 were observed participating in group time; they were sitting on the carpet listening as the teacher read a book to them. Preschool children in space #3 were observed cleaning up from free play and transitioning to story time on the carpeted area. Preschool children in space #4 were observed participating in free choice activities; teacher was on the floor engaging with their children as they played. Free choice activities included Legos, magnifiers, sensory table, play doh, and blocks. All children completed bathroom and handwashing routines then lined up to go to the school cafeteria for lunch. I observed one teacher in the front of the line and the second teacher in the back of the line and each teacher counted the children to ensure the correct number of children were accounted for. The reminder STOP sign was not observed posted at the enter/exit doors of building but at the classroom doors to remind staff to check the chart, count the children, walk the entire room, count again, and confirm with each other that they have the same number of children present and accounted for. Today’s lunch consisted of cheeseburger, green beans, mozz cheese sticks, blueberries, cantaloupe, and milk. Each classroom had spaces arranged into activity areas that include art, literacy, computers, listening, blocks, science, library, dramatic play, manipulative, music, and writing. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible and observed in each classroom. Activity plans and daily schedules were available for each group of children and observed posted in each classroom. During today's visit child care requirements monitored for compliance included supervision, staff/child ratio, CPR and First Aid, Criminal Record Checks, storage of hazardous substances and medications, approved space, posting of the license, and other applicable requirements. There was one violation observed today. Violation must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with all applicable child care requirements is always required. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The double gate in this area is not secure – easily opens even with a chain attached. The fence by the double gate is slack/loose making it unstable. These hazards need to be immediately addressed by replacing or repairing. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) For your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violation must be corrected immediately. On or before September 18, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected as well as how compliance will be maintained in the future. The time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. 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. Technical Assistance regarding violations cited Outdoor Fence Play Area - The double gate in this area is not secure – easily opens even with a chain attached. The fence by the double gate is slack/loose making it unstable. These hazards need to be immediately addressed by replacing or repairing. This is a relatively new fence, and you should contact the installers and or maintenance regarding these hazards. Removing the hazards will allow children to be free to safely explore and to make discoveries. This is the key to learning and making discoveries that support learning. Some of these concerns were documented during your last visit that was conducted on April 2, 2025, The children’s safety is always our main priority. A safe outdoor environment must be always maintained. This facility has installed a new swing set. The new swing set was restricted for use by NC PreK children until approved. Today, the fall zones and surfacing for the new swing set were measured and found to be in compliance. Therefore, it is approved for use by the NC PreK children. Reminder - Information for the swing set and must be on site and available for review. Other Information Criminal Background Check Information – Stacie Poulin, Executive Director for Pender County Schools Preschool Program, has completed the required ABCMS training and is currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information at facilities by verifying the 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. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on June 6, 2024. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint-Exempt N/A • Asbestos-Exempt N/A Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, and it may be requested to verify compliance. Use this link to view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition 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: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and will be posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •In September, child care consultants will host in-person facility operator/administrator meetings within the counties they serve to provide additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. Be on the watch out for additional emails from your consultant. •Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to seeing you at these upcoming informational settings and working with you on your pathway to the stars! Remember! You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). Reminders - For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ Documentation was completed electronically on site, signed, and emailed to Ms. Poulin, per her request. As we discussed, this computer-generated visit summary serves as completion of the annual compliance visit. Please remember it is your responsibility to always comply with all child care rules and requirements. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SURF CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRESCHOOL Facility ID: 71000270 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/4/2025 Number Present: 36 Completed Date: 9/4/2025 Age: From 4 To 4 Total Minutes: 92 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 12:17 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements. Limited child care requirements pertinent to this visit type were monitored. Child Care Consultant, Natalie Pond, accompanied and assisted me with this visit. This facility currently operates with a Five Star License that was issued to this facility on March 9, 2024, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 3-5 with a first shift capacity of 60, meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios minus 1. As of April 1, 2025, this facility has an 18-month compliance history of 88%. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance 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. Pender County Schools operates this program. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on April 2, 2025. The new school year began on August 25, 2025, and there are four new staff. Files for new staff were monitored today. Sanitation Inspection – 03/27/2025 – 0 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 10/08/2024 – PASS There are four indoor spaces, and one outdoor space approved for use; three out of the four classrooms are being utilized by NC Pre-K children. There are thirty-eight children enrolled and thirty-six children, aged 4, were present today. Accurate attendance sheets were observed in each classroom. Preschool children in space #2 were observed participating in group time; they were sitting on the carpet listening as the teacher read a book to them. Preschool children in space #3 were observed cleaning up from free play and transitioning to story time on the carpeted area. Preschool children in space #4 were observed participating in free choice activities; teacher was on the floor engaging with their children as they played. Free choice activities included Legos, magnifiers, sensory table, play doh, and blocks. All children completed bathroom and handwashing routines then lined up to go to the school cafeteria for lunch. I observed one teacher in the front of the line and the second teacher in the back of the line and each teacher counted the children to ensure the correct number of children were accounted for. The reminder STOP sign was not observed posted at the enter/exit doors of building but at the classroom doors to remind staff to check the chart, count the children, walk the entire room, count again, and confirm with each other that they have the same number of children present and accounted for. Today’s lunch consisted of cheeseburger, green beans, mozz cheese sticks, blueberries, cantaloupe, and milk. Each classroom had spaces arranged into activity areas that include art, literacy, computers, listening, blocks, science, library, dramatic play, manipulative, music, and writing. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible and observed in each classroom. Activity plans and daily schedules were available for each group of children and observed posted in each classroom. During today's visit child care requirements monitored for compliance included supervision, staff/child ratio, CPR and First Aid, Criminal Record Checks, storage of hazardous substances and medications, approved space, posting of the license, and other applicable requirements. There was one violation observed today. Violation must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with all applicable child care requirements is always required. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The double gate in this area is not secure – easily opens even with a chain attached. The fence by the double gate is slack/loose making it unstable. These hazards need to be immediately addressed by replacing or repairing. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) For your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violation must be corrected immediately. On or before September 18, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected as well as how compliance will be maintained in the future. The time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. 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. Technical Assistance regarding violations cited Outdoor Fence Play Area - The double gate in this area is not secure – easily opens even with a chain attached. The fence by the double gate is slack/loose making it unstable. These hazards need to be immediately addressed by replacing or repairing. This is a relatively new fence, and you should contact the installers and or maintenance regarding these hazards. Removing the hazards will allow children to be free to safely explore and to make discoveries. This is the key to learning and making discoveries that support learning. Some of these concerns were documented during your last visit that was conducted on April 2, 2025, The children’s safety is always our main priority. A safe outdoor environment must be always maintained. This facility has installed a new swing set. The new swing set was restricted for use by NC PreK children until approved. Today, the fall zones and surfacing for the new swing set were measured and found to be in compliance. Therefore, it is approved for use by the NC PreK children. Reminder - Information for the swing set and must be on site and available for review. Other Information Criminal Background Check Information – Stacie Poulin, Executive Director for Pender County Schools Preschool Program, has completed the required ABCMS training and is currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information at facilities by verifying the 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. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on June 6, 2024. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint-Exempt N/A • Asbestos-Exempt N/A Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, and it may be requested to verify compliance. Use this link to view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition 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: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and will be posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •In September, child care consultants will host in-person facility operator/administrator meetings within the counties they serve to provide additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. Be on the watch out for additional emails from your consultant. •Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to seeing you at these upcoming informational settings and working with you on your pathway to the stars! Remember! You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). Reminders - For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ Documentation was completed electronically on site, signed, and emailed to Ms. Poulin, per her request. As we discussed, this computer-generated visit summary serves as completion of the annual compliance visit. Please remember it is your responsibility to always comply with all child care rules and requirements. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: SURF CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRESCHOOL Facility ID: 71000270 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/2/2025 Number Present: 37 Completed Date: 4/2/2025 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 11:30 AM Time Out: 01:45 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 compliance during your annual compliance. Child care requirements pertinent to this visit type were monitored. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. This facility currently operates with a Five Star License that was issued to this facility on March 9, 2024, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 3-5 with a first shift capacity of 60, meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios minus 1. As of April 1, 2025, this facility has an 18-month compliance history of 86%. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance 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. Pender County Schools operates this program. This was a second annual compliance visit conducted at this facility instead of a routine announced visit to move the annual compliance visit from the beginning of the school year to Spring. There have been no new staff hired since the last annual compliance visit was conducted on September 3, 2024. Sanitation Inspection – 09/09/2024 – 0 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 09/10/2024 – PASS There are four indoor spaces, and one outdoor space approved for use; three out of the four classrooms are being utilized by NC Pre-K children. There are thirty-nine children enrolled and thirty-six children, ages 3-5, were present today. Accurate attendance sheets were observed in each classroom. When I arrived, all children were observed lining up to go to the school cafeteria for lunch. I observed one teacher in the front of the line and the second teacher in the back of the line and each teacher counted the children to ensure the correct number of children were accounted for. I observed the reminder STOP sign posted at the enter/exit doors of building and classrooms that reminds staff to check the chart, count the children, walk the entire room, count again, and confirm with each other that they have the same number of children present and accounted for. Today’s lunch consisted of BBQ chicken or ham/cheese sandwich, pasta salad, corn, pears apples, and milk. As children ate lunch, caregivers were within arm’s reach and engaged children in conversations. After lunch, children returned to their classroom, completed handwashing/bathroom routines, and prepared for nap/rest time. Children were resting on appropriately spaced covered mats with blankets, lights were off, and soft music played in the background making the space conducive to rest. Each classroom had spaces arranged into activity areas that include art, literacy, computers, listening, blocks, science, library, dramatic play, manipulative, music, and writing. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible and observed in each classroom. Activity plans and daily schedules were available for each group of children and observed posted in each classroom. After nap/rest time, children ate snack. Snack consisted of goldfish crackers and apple juice. After snack, children prepared for dismissal for the day. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 7:20am to 1:50pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, Brigance Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. Developmental screenings and health assessments including vision, hearing, and dental screenings were on file for all NC Pre-K children’s files reviewed. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed in children’s files and on the Teaching Strategies GOLD website. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2024-2025 was signed by Stacie Poulin, Preschool Program Executive Director for Pender County Schools, during an on-site visit October 2, 2024. It was noted that all requirements were in compliance. There were five violations observed today. Violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with all applicable child care requirements is always required. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. This information was not available in space #6; the last posted activity plan was dated for February 2025. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. There was not a fire drill recorded on the record for March 2025. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 807 A safe indoor environment was not provided for the children. The fence in several areas is not secured to the ground on the bottom – there is space between the ground and fencing that a child could possibly get themselves or a body part stuck. Other areas of the fence are slack/loose making it unstable. The back gate in this area is not secure – easily opens even with a chain attached. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. This information was not completed for bus driver. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. This information was not on file for substitute caregiver in space #8. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) For your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. On or before April 16, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected as well as how compliance will be maintained in the future. The time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. 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. Technical Assistance regarding violations cited A safe outdoor environment must be always maintained. During today’s visit, the fence in several areas is not touching the ground on the bottom – there is space between the ground and fencing that a child could possibly get themselves or a body part stuck. Other areas of the fence are slack/loose making it unstable. The back gate in this area is not secure – easily opens even with a chain attached. These hazards need to be immediately addressed by replacing or repairing. This is a relatively new fence, and you should contact the installers and or maintenance regarding these hazards. Removing the hazards will allow children to be free to safely explore and to make discoveries. This is the key to learning and making discoveries that support learning. Qualification Letter - A valid qualification letter should be on file and available for review at the facility for all staff prior to employment. Staff include all substitutes and bus drivers. Substitute, Alexandra Healy, did not have a qualification on file, however, I was able to verify qualification letter in ABCMS system. Also, prior to the end of my visit, a copy of the qualification letter for Ms. Healy was received via email and filed. The bus driver, Robert Germain, was not on the premises during my visit. However, some staff reported children have been left alone with bus driver when bus monitor is completing other task prior to boarding the bus for departure. Children should not be left alone with anyone that has not completed the criminal background process and received a valid qualification letter. Also, there is a note in Ms. Germain's file stating that he did not complete and sign off on policies received form because he has not received the policies nor have they been reviewed with him and he has been employed since September 2024. Activity Plans - A current activity plan must be posted for each group of children. Teachers may refer to their phone or computer to enhance/track/and update activity plans, but it also must be printed and posted for reference. Fire Drill – A fire drill was not recorded for March 2025. However, Lead Teacher – Tammy Meadows stated a fire drill was conducted on March 31, 2025. Ms. Meadows made the correction to the fire drill report during my visit. Fire drills should be recorded at the time the drill is conducted to ensure fire drill report is accurate at all times. Consultation Staff Files - All staff should have a complete file available for review from their first day of employment. Please ensure staff files are organized according to the file checklists for staff and substitutes found on the DCDEE website. This updated checklist reflects revised child care rules and lists deadlines for completion of certain documents. I suggest you use this checklist to review the file for any new staff member who are hired to ensure all requirements are met by specified deadlines. All staff members must be included on your Staff and Training Worksheet and ensure you keep it updated as needed. This document should serve as a tracking tool for required paperwork and deadlines. Ensure that dates of review of the Emergency Medical Care Plan and Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan are documented at least annually. You may wish to delegate some recordkeeping responsibilities to another staff member who has good organizational skills and is able to assist. This will allow you to trust that accurate records are kept while you focus on other aspects of managing your facility. A complete file for all staff must have all required information either on-site or included on the on-site verification form, no exceptions. Staff/Child Ratio – There were no staff/child ratio violations observed today. However, it was concerning as some staff were very comfortable leaving the classroom to complete other task such as picking up snack and informing other teachers in other classrooms of their location. Prior to staff leaving the classroom or building, Grace Moore – Education Coordinator, stepped in classroom so staff member could go get snacks for the children. Staff/child ratio must be always maintained and during naptime at least one person in each room, visually supervising all children, and the total number of required staff on the premises within calling distance of each room. When a staff member leaves the building will not be considered “calling distance of each room.” Other Information: Health & Safety Training - Staff members, who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. Ensure this information is maintained on file. New staff members have one year to complete these required trainings except for Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training which must be completed within 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Substitutes who work more than 10 days within 12 months must also complete Health and Safety trainings. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - The registration and enrollment for all three testing programs must be completed – water, lead-based paint and asbestos. I verified through the website Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids that you have completed all three testing programs. Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, and it may be requested to verify compliance. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Enrollment in the lead-based paint and asbestos testing programs is required for all facilities by May 31, 2025. This applies to private centers, FCCH and child care programs in the public schools. DPI Pre-K programs do not need to enroll separately as public schools will be tested. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Rated License Reassessment Information - There are no longer any cohorts. The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you may not be required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however you may request one voluntarily. Today I encourage you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your additional caregivers on new assessment tools if you are still interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. The new tools are the “3” versions, and I will share more information about training opportunities as they become available. Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is always maintained. Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation during your next visit. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. To gain access to the Provider Portal complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training on DCDEE's Moodle. The training consists of watching a short video then taking a test about the video. A certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the test. Email the certificate along with your full name, position, and Facility ID to DCDEE_ABCMS_Provider@dhhs.nc.gov to get access to the portal. Access will then be granted within two business days. If you have general questions, please continue to use DHHS.CBC.Unit@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. 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. Documentation was completed electronically, signed, and emailed to Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director – per her request. Please remember it is your responsibility to always comply with all child care rules and requirements. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: SURF CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRESCHOOL Facility ID: 71000270 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/2/2025 Number Present: 37 Completed Date: 4/2/2025 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 11:30 AM Time Out: 01:45 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 compliance during your annual compliance. Child care requirements pertinent to this visit type were monitored. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. This facility currently operates with a Five Star License that was issued to this facility on March 9, 2024, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 3-5 with a first shift capacity of 60, meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios minus 1. As of April 1, 2025, this facility has an 18-month compliance history of 86%. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance 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. Pender County Schools operates this program. This was a second annual compliance visit conducted at this facility instead of a routine announced visit to move the annual compliance visit from the beginning of the school year to Spring. There have been no new staff hired since the last annual compliance visit was conducted on September 3, 2024. Sanitation Inspection – 09/09/2024 – 0 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 09/10/2024 – PASS There are four indoor spaces, and one outdoor space approved for use; three out of the four classrooms are being utilized by NC Pre-K children. There are thirty-nine children enrolled and thirty-six children, ages 3-5, were present today. Accurate attendance sheets were observed in each classroom. When I arrived, all children were observed lining up to go to the school cafeteria for lunch. I observed one teacher in the front of the line and the second teacher in the back of the line and each teacher counted the children to ensure the correct number of children were accounted for. I observed the reminder STOP sign posted at the enter/exit doors of building and classrooms that reminds staff to check the chart, count the children, walk the entire room, count again, and confirm with each other that they have the same number of children present and accounted for. Today’s lunch consisted of BBQ chicken or ham/cheese sandwich, pasta salad, corn, pears apples, and milk. As children ate lunch, caregivers were within arm’s reach and engaged children in conversations. After lunch, children returned to their classroom, completed handwashing/bathroom routines, and prepared for nap/rest time. Children were resting on appropriately spaced covered mats with blankets, lights were off, and soft music played in the background making the space conducive to rest. Each classroom had spaces arranged into activity areas that include art, literacy, computers, listening, blocks, science, library, dramatic play, manipulative, music, and writing. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible and observed in each classroom. Activity plans and daily schedules were available for each group of children and observed posted in each classroom. After nap/rest time, children ate snack. Snack consisted of goldfish crackers and apple juice. After snack, children prepared for dismissal for the day. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 7:20am to 1:50pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, Brigance Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. Developmental screenings and health assessments including vision, hearing, and dental screenings were on file for all NC Pre-K children’s files reviewed. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed in children’s files and on the Teaching Strategies GOLD website. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2024-2025 was signed by Stacie Poulin, Preschool Program Executive Director for Pender County Schools, during an on-site visit October 2, 2024. It was noted that all requirements were in compliance. There were five violations observed today. Violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with all applicable child care requirements is always required. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. This information was not available in space #6; the last posted activity plan was dated for February 2025. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. There was not a fire drill recorded on the record for March 2025. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 807 A safe indoor environment was not provided for the children. The fence in several areas is not secured to the ground on the bottom – there is space between the ground and fencing that a child could possibly get themselves or a body part stuck. Other areas of the fence are slack/loose making it unstable. The back gate in this area is not secure – easily opens even with a chain attached. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. This information was not completed for bus driver. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. This information was not on file for substitute caregiver in space #8. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) For your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. On or before April 16, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected as well as how compliance will be maintained in the future. The time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. 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. Technical Assistance regarding violations cited A safe outdoor environment must be always maintained. During today’s visit, the fence in several areas is not touching the ground on the bottom – there is space between the ground and fencing that a child could possibly get themselves or a body part stuck. Other areas of the fence are slack/loose making it unstable. The back gate in this area is not secure – easily opens even with a chain attached. These hazards need to be immediately addressed by replacing or repairing. This is a relatively new fence, and you should contact the installers and or maintenance regarding these hazards. Removing the hazards will allow children to be free to safely explore and to make discoveries. This is the key to learning and making discoveries that support learning. Qualification Letter - A valid qualification letter should be on file and available for review at the facility for all staff prior to employment. Staff include all substitutes and bus drivers. Substitute, Alexandra Healy, did not have a qualification on file, however, I was able to verify qualification letter in ABCMS system. Also, prior to the end of my visit, a copy of the qualification letter for Ms. Healy was received via email and filed. The bus driver, Robert Germain, was not on the premises during my visit. However, some staff reported children have been left alone with bus driver when bus monitor is completing other task prior to boarding the bus for departure. Children should not be left alone with anyone that has not completed the criminal background process and received a valid qualification letter. Also, there is a note in Ms. Germain's file stating that he did not complete and sign off on policies received form because he has not received the policies nor have they been reviewed with him and he has been employed since September 2024. Activity Plans - A current activity plan must be posted for each group of children. Teachers may refer to their phone or computer to enhance/track/and update activity plans, but it also must be printed and posted for reference. Fire Drill – A fire drill was not recorded for March 2025. However, Lead Teacher – Tammy Meadows stated a fire drill was conducted on March 31, 2025. Ms. Meadows made the correction to the fire drill report during my visit. Fire drills should be recorded at the time the drill is conducted to ensure fire drill report is accurate at all times. Consultation Staff Files - All staff should have a complete file available for review from their first day of employment. Please ensure staff files are organized according to the file checklists for staff and substitutes found on the DCDEE website. This updated checklist reflects revised child care rules and lists deadlines for completion of certain documents. I suggest you use this checklist to review the file for any new staff member who are hired to ensure all requirements are met by specified deadlines. All staff members must be included on your Staff and Training Worksheet and ensure you keep it updated as needed. This document should serve as a tracking tool for required paperwork and deadlines. Ensure that dates of review of the Emergency Medical Care Plan and Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan are documented at least annually. You may wish to delegate some recordkeeping responsibilities to another staff member who has good organizational skills and is able to assist. This will allow you to trust that accurate records are kept while you focus on other aspects of managing your facility. A complete file for all staff must have all required information either on-site or included on the on-site verification form, no exceptions. Staff/Child Ratio – There were no staff/child ratio violations observed today. However, it was concerning as some staff were very comfortable leaving the classroom to complete other task such as picking up snack and informing other teachers in other classrooms of their location. Prior to staff leaving the classroom or building, Grace Moore – Education Coordinator, stepped in classroom so staff member could go get snacks for the children. Staff/child ratio must be always maintained and during naptime at least one person in each room, visually supervising all children, and the total number of required staff on the premises within calling distance of each room. When a staff member leaves the building will not be considered “calling distance of each room.” Other Information: Health & Safety Training - Staff members, who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. Ensure this information is maintained on file. New staff members have one year to complete these required trainings except for Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training which must be completed within 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Substitutes who work more than 10 days within 12 months must also complete Health and Safety trainings. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - The registration and enrollment for all three testing programs must be completed – water, lead-based paint and asbestos. I verified through the website Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids that you have completed all three testing programs. Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, and it may be requested to verify compliance. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Enrollment in the lead-based paint and asbestos testing programs is required for all facilities by May 31, 2025. This applies to private centers, FCCH and child care programs in the public schools. DPI Pre-K programs do not need to enroll separately as public schools will be tested. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Rated License Reassessment Information - There are no longer any cohorts. The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you may not be required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however you may request one voluntarily. Today I encourage you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your additional caregivers on new assessment tools if you are still interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. The new tools are the “3” versions, and I will share more information about training opportunities as they become available. Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is always maintained. Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation during your next visit. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. To gain access to the Provider Portal complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training on DCDEE's Moodle. The training consists of watching a short video then taking a test about the video. A certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the test. Email the certificate along with your full name, position, and Facility ID to DCDEE_ABCMS_Provider@dhhs.nc.gov to get access to the portal. Access will then be granted within two business days. If you have general questions, please continue to use DHHS.CBC.Unit@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. 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. Documentation was completed electronically, signed, and emailed to Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director – per her request. Please remember it is your responsibility to always comply with all child care rules and requirements. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .3009 · Violation

Name of Operation: SURF CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRESCHOOL Facility ID: 71000270 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/2/2025 Number Present: 37 Completed Date: 4/2/2025 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 11:30 AM Time Out: 01:45 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 compliance during your annual compliance. Child care requirements pertinent to this visit type were monitored. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. This facility currently operates with a Five Star License that was issued to this facility on March 9, 2024, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 3-5 with a first shift capacity of 60, meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios minus 1. As of April 1, 2025, this facility has an 18-month compliance history of 86%. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance 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. Pender County Schools operates this program. This was a second annual compliance visit conducted at this facility instead of a routine announced visit to move the annual compliance visit from the beginning of the school year to Spring. There have been no new staff hired since the last annual compliance visit was conducted on September 3, 2024. Sanitation Inspection – 09/09/2024 – 0 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 09/10/2024 – PASS There are four indoor spaces, and one outdoor space approved for use; three out of the four classrooms are being utilized by NC Pre-K children. There are thirty-nine children enrolled and thirty-six children, ages 3-5, were present today. Accurate attendance sheets were observed in each classroom. When I arrived, all children were observed lining up to go to the school cafeteria for lunch. I observed one teacher in the front of the line and the second teacher in the back of the line and each teacher counted the children to ensure the correct number of children were accounted for. I observed the reminder STOP sign posted at the enter/exit doors of building and classrooms that reminds staff to check the chart, count the children, walk the entire room, count again, and confirm with each other that they have the same number of children present and accounted for. Today’s lunch consisted of BBQ chicken or ham/cheese sandwich, pasta salad, corn, pears apples, and milk. As children ate lunch, caregivers were within arm’s reach and engaged children in conversations. After lunch, children returned to their classroom, completed handwashing/bathroom routines, and prepared for nap/rest time. Children were resting on appropriately spaced covered mats with blankets, lights were off, and soft music played in the background making the space conducive to rest. Each classroom had spaces arranged into activity areas that include art, literacy, computers, listening, blocks, science, library, dramatic play, manipulative, music, and writing. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible and observed in each classroom. Activity plans and daily schedules were available for each group of children and observed posted in each classroom. After nap/rest time, children ate snack. Snack consisted of goldfish crackers and apple juice. After snack, children prepared for dismissal for the day. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 7:20am to 1:50pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, Brigance Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. Developmental screenings and health assessments including vision, hearing, and dental screenings were on file for all NC Pre-K children’s files reviewed. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed in children’s files and on the Teaching Strategies GOLD website. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2024-2025 was signed by Stacie Poulin, Preschool Program Executive Director for Pender County Schools, during an on-site visit October 2, 2024. It was noted that all requirements were in compliance. There were five violations observed today. Violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with all applicable child care requirements is always required. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. This information was not available in space #6; the last posted activity plan was dated for February 2025. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. There was not a fire drill recorded on the record for March 2025. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 807 A safe indoor environment was not provided for the children. The fence in several areas is not secured to the ground on the bottom – there is space between the ground and fencing that a child could possibly get themselves or a body part stuck. Other areas of the fence are slack/loose making it unstable. The back gate in this area is not secure – easily opens even with a chain attached. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. This information was not completed for bus driver. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. This information was not on file for substitute caregiver in space #8. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) For your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. On or before April 16, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected as well as how compliance will be maintained in the future. The time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. 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. Technical Assistance regarding violations cited A safe outdoor environment must be always maintained. During today’s visit, the fence in several areas is not touching the ground on the bottom – there is space between the ground and fencing that a child could possibly get themselves or a body part stuck. Other areas of the fence are slack/loose making it unstable. The back gate in this area is not secure – easily opens even with a chain attached. These hazards need to be immediately addressed by replacing or repairing. This is a relatively new fence, and you should contact the installers and or maintenance regarding these hazards. Removing the hazards will allow children to be free to safely explore and to make discoveries. This is the key to learning and making discoveries that support learning. Qualification Letter - A valid qualification letter should be on file and available for review at the facility for all staff prior to employment. Staff include all substitutes and bus drivers. Substitute, Alexandra Healy, did not have a qualification on file, however, I was able to verify qualification letter in ABCMS system. Also, prior to the end of my visit, a copy of the qualification letter for Ms. Healy was received via email and filed. The bus driver, Robert Germain, was not on the premises during my visit. However, some staff reported children have been left alone with bus driver when bus monitor is completing other task prior to boarding the bus for departure. Children should not be left alone with anyone that has not completed the criminal background process and received a valid qualification letter. Also, there is a note in Ms. Germain's file stating that he did not complete and sign off on policies received form because he has not received the policies nor have they been reviewed with him and he has been employed since September 2024. Activity Plans - A current activity plan must be posted for each group of children. Teachers may refer to their phone or computer to enhance/track/and update activity plans, but it also must be printed and posted for reference. Fire Drill – A fire drill was not recorded for March 2025. However, Lead Teacher – Tammy Meadows stated a fire drill was conducted on March 31, 2025. Ms. Meadows made the correction to the fire drill report during my visit. Fire drills should be recorded at the time the drill is conducted to ensure fire drill report is accurate at all times. Consultation Staff Files - All staff should have a complete file available for review from their first day of employment. Please ensure staff files are organized according to the file checklists for staff and substitutes found on the DCDEE website. This updated checklist reflects revised child care rules and lists deadlines for completion of certain documents. I suggest you use this checklist to review the file for any new staff member who are hired to ensure all requirements are met by specified deadlines. All staff members must be included on your Staff and Training Worksheet and ensure you keep it updated as needed. This document should serve as a tracking tool for required paperwork and deadlines. Ensure that dates of review of the Emergency Medical Care Plan and Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan are documented at least annually. You may wish to delegate some recordkeeping responsibilities to another staff member who has good organizational skills and is able to assist. This will allow you to trust that accurate records are kept while you focus on other aspects of managing your facility. A complete file for all staff must have all required information either on-site or included on the on-site verification form, no exceptions. Staff/Child Ratio – There were no staff/child ratio violations observed today. However, it was concerning as some staff were very comfortable leaving the classroom to complete other task such as picking up snack and informing other teachers in other classrooms of their location. Prior to staff leaving the classroom or building, Grace Moore – Education Coordinator, stepped in classroom so staff member could go get snacks for the children. Staff/child ratio must be always maintained and during naptime at least one person in each room, visually supervising all children, and the total number of required staff on the premises within calling distance of each room. When a staff member leaves the building will not be considered “calling distance of each room.” Other Information: Health & Safety Training - Staff members, who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. Ensure this information is maintained on file. New staff members have one year to complete these required trainings except for Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training which must be completed within 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Substitutes who work more than 10 days within 12 months must also complete Health and Safety trainings. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - The registration and enrollment for all three testing programs must be completed – water, lead-based paint and asbestos. I verified through the website Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids that you have completed all three testing programs. Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, and it may be requested to verify compliance. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Enrollment in the lead-based paint and asbestos testing programs is required for all facilities by May 31, 2025. This applies to private centers, FCCH and child care programs in the public schools. DPI Pre-K programs do not need to enroll separately as public schools will be tested. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Rated License Reassessment Information - There are no longer any cohorts. The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you may not be required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however you may request one voluntarily. Today I encourage you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your additional caregivers on new assessment tools if you are still interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. The new tools are the “3” versions, and I will share more information about training opportunities as they become available. Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is always maintained. Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation during your next visit. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. To gain access to the Provider Portal complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training on DCDEE's Moodle. The training consists of watching a short video then taking a test about the video. A certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the test. Email the certificate along with your full name, position, and Facility ID to DCDEE_ABCMS_Provider@dhhs.nc.gov to get access to the portal. Access will then be granted within two business days. If you have general questions, please continue to use DHHS.CBC.Unit@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. 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. Documentation was completed electronically, signed, and emailed to Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director – per her request. Please remember it is your responsibility to always comply with all child care rules and requirements. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SURF CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRESCHOOL Facility ID: 71000270 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/2/2025 Number Present: 37 Completed Date: 4/2/2025 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 11:30 AM Time Out: 01:45 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 compliance during your annual compliance. Child care requirements pertinent to this visit type were monitored. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. This facility currently operates with a Five Star License that was issued to this facility on March 9, 2024, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 3-5 with a first shift capacity of 60, meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios minus 1. As of April 1, 2025, this facility has an 18-month compliance history of 86%. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance 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. Pender County Schools operates this program. This was a second annual compliance visit conducted at this facility instead of a routine announced visit to move the annual compliance visit from the beginning of the school year to Spring. There have been no new staff hired since the last annual compliance visit was conducted on September 3, 2024. Sanitation Inspection – 09/09/2024 – 0 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 09/10/2024 – PASS There are four indoor spaces, and one outdoor space approved for use; three out of the four classrooms are being utilized by NC Pre-K children. There are thirty-nine children enrolled and thirty-six children, ages 3-5, were present today. Accurate attendance sheets were observed in each classroom. When I arrived, all children were observed lining up to go to the school cafeteria for lunch. I observed one teacher in the front of the line and the second teacher in the back of the line and each teacher counted the children to ensure the correct number of children were accounted for. I observed the reminder STOP sign posted at the enter/exit doors of building and classrooms that reminds staff to check the chart, count the children, walk the entire room, count again, and confirm with each other that they have the same number of children present and accounted for. Today’s lunch consisted of BBQ chicken or ham/cheese sandwich, pasta salad, corn, pears apples, and milk. As children ate lunch, caregivers were within arm’s reach and engaged children in conversations. After lunch, children returned to their classroom, completed handwashing/bathroom routines, and prepared for nap/rest time. Children were resting on appropriately spaced covered mats with blankets, lights were off, and soft music played in the background making the space conducive to rest. Each classroom had spaces arranged into activity areas that include art, literacy, computers, listening, blocks, science, library, dramatic play, manipulative, music, and writing. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible and observed in each classroom. Activity plans and daily schedules were available for each group of children and observed posted in each classroom. After nap/rest time, children ate snack. Snack consisted of goldfish crackers and apple juice. After snack, children prepared for dismissal for the day. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 7:20am to 1:50pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, Brigance Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. Developmental screenings and health assessments including vision, hearing, and dental screenings were on file for all NC Pre-K children’s files reviewed. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed in children’s files and on the Teaching Strategies GOLD website. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2024-2025 was signed by Stacie Poulin, Preschool Program Executive Director for Pender County Schools, during an on-site visit October 2, 2024. It was noted that all requirements were in compliance. There were five violations observed today. Violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with all applicable child care requirements is always required. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. This information was not available in space #6; the last posted activity plan was dated for February 2025. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. There was not a fire drill recorded on the record for March 2025. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 807 A safe indoor environment was not provided for the children. The fence in several areas is not secured to the ground on the bottom – there is space between the ground and fencing that a child could possibly get themselves or a body part stuck. Other areas of the fence are slack/loose making it unstable. The back gate in this area is not secure – easily opens even with a chain attached. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. This information was not completed for bus driver. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. This information was not on file for substitute caregiver in space #8. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) For your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. On or before April 16, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected as well as how compliance will be maintained in the future. The time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. 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. Technical Assistance regarding violations cited A safe outdoor environment must be always maintained. During today’s visit, the fence in several areas is not touching the ground on the bottom – there is space between the ground and fencing that a child could possibly get themselves or a body part stuck. Other areas of the fence are slack/loose making it unstable. The back gate in this area is not secure – easily opens even with a chain attached. These hazards need to be immediately addressed by replacing or repairing. This is a relatively new fence, and you should contact the installers and or maintenance regarding these hazards. Removing the hazards will allow children to be free to safely explore and to make discoveries. This is the key to learning and making discoveries that support learning. Qualification Letter - A valid qualification letter should be on file and available for review at the facility for all staff prior to employment. Staff include all substitutes and bus drivers. Substitute, Alexandra Healy, did not have a qualification on file, however, I was able to verify qualification letter in ABCMS system. Also, prior to the end of my visit, a copy of the qualification letter for Ms. Healy was received via email and filed. The bus driver, Robert Germain, was not on the premises during my visit. However, some staff reported children have been left alone with bus driver when bus monitor is completing other task prior to boarding the bus for departure. Children should not be left alone with anyone that has not completed the criminal background process and received a valid qualification letter. Also, there is a note in Ms. Germain's file stating that he did not complete and sign off on policies received form because he has not received the policies nor have they been reviewed with him and he has been employed since September 2024. Activity Plans - A current activity plan must be posted for each group of children. Teachers may refer to their phone or computer to enhance/track/and update activity plans, but it also must be printed and posted for reference. Fire Drill – A fire drill was not recorded for March 2025. However, Lead Teacher – Tammy Meadows stated a fire drill was conducted on March 31, 2025. Ms. Meadows made the correction to the fire drill report during my visit. Fire drills should be recorded at the time the drill is conducted to ensure fire drill report is accurate at all times. Consultation Staff Files - All staff should have a complete file available for review from their first day of employment. Please ensure staff files are organized according to the file checklists for staff and substitutes found on the DCDEE website. This updated checklist reflects revised child care rules and lists deadlines for completion of certain documents. I suggest you use this checklist to review the file for any new staff member who are hired to ensure all requirements are met by specified deadlines. All staff members must be included on your Staff and Training Worksheet and ensure you keep it updated as needed. This document should serve as a tracking tool for required paperwork and deadlines. Ensure that dates of review of the Emergency Medical Care Plan and Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan are documented at least annually. You may wish to delegate some recordkeeping responsibilities to another staff member who has good organizational skills and is able to assist. This will allow you to trust that accurate records are kept while you focus on other aspects of managing your facility. A complete file for all staff must have all required information either on-site or included on the on-site verification form, no exceptions. Staff/Child Ratio – There were no staff/child ratio violations observed today. However, it was concerning as some staff were very comfortable leaving the classroom to complete other task such as picking up snack and informing other teachers in other classrooms of their location. Prior to staff leaving the classroom or building, Grace Moore – Education Coordinator, stepped in classroom so staff member could go get snacks for the children. Staff/child ratio must be always maintained and during naptime at least one person in each room, visually supervising all children, and the total number of required staff on the premises within calling distance of each room. When a staff member leaves the building will not be considered “calling distance of each room.” Other Information: Health & Safety Training - Staff members, who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. Ensure this information is maintained on file. New staff members have one year to complete these required trainings except for Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training which must be completed within 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Substitutes who work more than 10 days within 12 months must also complete Health and Safety trainings. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - The registration and enrollment for all three testing programs must be completed – water, lead-based paint and asbestos. I verified through the website Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids that you have completed all three testing programs. Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, and it may be requested to verify compliance. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Enrollment in the lead-based paint and asbestos testing programs is required for all facilities by May 31, 2025. This applies to private centers, FCCH and child care programs in the public schools. DPI Pre-K programs do not need to enroll separately as public schools will be tested. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Rated License Reassessment Information - There are no longer any cohorts. The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you may not be required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however you may request one voluntarily. Today I encourage you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your additional caregivers on new assessment tools if you are still interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. The new tools are the “3” versions, and I will share more information about training opportunities as they become available. Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is always maintained. Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation during your next visit. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. To gain access to the Provider Portal complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training on DCDEE's Moodle. The training consists of watching a short video then taking a test about the video. A certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the test. Email the certificate along with your full name, position, and Facility ID to DCDEE_ABCMS_Provider@dhhs.nc.gov to get access to the portal. Access will then be granted within two business days. If you have general questions, please continue to use DHHS.CBC.Unit@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. 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. Documentation was completed electronically, signed, and emailed to Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director – per her request. Please remember it is your responsibility to always comply with all child care rules and requirements. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: SURF CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRESCHOOL Facility ID: 71000270 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/2/2025 Number Present: 37 Completed Date: 4/2/2025 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 11:30 AM Time Out: 01:45 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 compliance during your annual compliance. Child care requirements pertinent to this visit type were monitored. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. This facility currently operates with a Five Star License that was issued to this facility on March 9, 2024, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 3-5 with a first shift capacity of 60, meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios minus 1. As of April 1, 2025, this facility has an 18-month compliance history of 86%. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance 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. Pender County Schools operates this program. This was a second annual compliance visit conducted at this facility instead of a routine announced visit to move the annual compliance visit from the beginning of the school year to Spring. There have been no new staff hired since the last annual compliance visit was conducted on September 3, 2024. Sanitation Inspection – 09/09/2024 – 0 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 09/10/2024 – PASS There are four indoor spaces, and one outdoor space approved for use; three out of the four classrooms are being utilized by NC Pre-K children. There are thirty-nine children enrolled and thirty-six children, ages 3-5, were present today. Accurate attendance sheets were observed in each classroom. When I arrived, all children were observed lining up to go to the school cafeteria for lunch. I observed one teacher in the front of the line and the second teacher in the back of the line and each teacher counted the children to ensure the correct number of children were accounted for. I observed the reminder STOP sign posted at the enter/exit doors of building and classrooms that reminds staff to check the chart, count the children, walk the entire room, count again, and confirm with each other that they have the same number of children present and accounted for. Today’s lunch consisted of BBQ chicken or ham/cheese sandwich, pasta salad, corn, pears apples, and milk. As children ate lunch, caregivers were within arm’s reach and engaged children in conversations. After lunch, children returned to their classroom, completed handwashing/bathroom routines, and prepared for nap/rest time. Children were resting on appropriately spaced covered mats with blankets, lights were off, and soft music played in the background making the space conducive to rest. Each classroom had spaces arranged into activity areas that include art, literacy, computers, listening, blocks, science, library, dramatic play, manipulative, music, and writing. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible and observed in each classroom. Activity plans and daily schedules were available for each group of children and observed posted in each classroom. After nap/rest time, children ate snack. Snack consisted of goldfish crackers and apple juice. After snack, children prepared for dismissal for the day. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 7:20am to 1:50pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, Brigance Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. Developmental screenings and health assessments including vision, hearing, and dental screenings were on file for all NC Pre-K children’s files reviewed. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed in children’s files and on the Teaching Strategies GOLD website. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2024-2025 was signed by Stacie Poulin, Preschool Program Executive Director for Pender County Schools, during an on-site visit October 2, 2024. It was noted that all requirements were in compliance. There were five violations observed today. Violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with all applicable child care requirements is always required. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. This information was not available in space #6; the last posted activity plan was dated for February 2025. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. There was not a fire drill recorded on the record for March 2025. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 807 A safe indoor environment was not provided for the children. The fence in several areas is not secured to the ground on the bottom – there is space between the ground and fencing that a child could possibly get themselves or a body part stuck. Other areas of the fence are slack/loose making it unstable. The back gate in this area is not secure – easily opens even with a chain attached. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. This information was not completed for bus driver. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. This information was not on file for substitute caregiver in space #8. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) For your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. On or before April 16, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected as well as how compliance will be maintained in the future. The time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. 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. Technical Assistance regarding violations cited A safe outdoor environment must be always maintained. During today’s visit, the fence in several areas is not touching the ground on the bottom – there is space between the ground and fencing that a child could possibly get themselves or a body part stuck. Other areas of the fence are slack/loose making it unstable. The back gate in this area is not secure – easily opens even with a chain attached. These hazards need to be immediately addressed by replacing or repairing. This is a relatively new fence, and you should contact the installers and or maintenance regarding these hazards. Removing the hazards will allow children to be free to safely explore and to make discoveries. This is the key to learning and making discoveries that support learning. Qualification Letter - A valid qualification letter should be on file and available for review at the facility for all staff prior to employment. Staff include all substitutes and bus drivers. Substitute, Alexandra Healy, did not have a qualification on file, however, I was able to verify qualification letter in ABCMS system. Also, prior to the end of my visit, a copy of the qualification letter for Ms. Healy was received via email and filed. The bus driver, Robert Germain, was not on the premises during my visit. However, some staff reported children have been left alone with bus driver when bus monitor is completing other task prior to boarding the bus for departure. Children should not be left alone with anyone that has not completed the criminal background process and received a valid qualification letter. Also, there is a note in Ms. Germain's file stating that he did not complete and sign off on policies received form because he has not received the policies nor have they been reviewed with him and he has been employed since September 2024. Activity Plans - A current activity plan must be posted for each group of children. Teachers may refer to their phone or computer to enhance/track/and update activity plans, but it also must be printed and posted for reference. Fire Drill – A fire drill was not recorded for March 2025. However, Lead Teacher – Tammy Meadows stated a fire drill was conducted on March 31, 2025. Ms. Meadows made the correction to the fire drill report during my visit. Fire drills should be recorded at the time the drill is conducted to ensure fire drill report is accurate at all times. Consultation Staff Files - All staff should have a complete file available for review from their first day of employment. Please ensure staff files are organized according to the file checklists for staff and substitutes found on the DCDEE website. This updated checklist reflects revised child care rules and lists deadlines for completion of certain documents. I suggest you use this checklist to review the file for any new staff member who are hired to ensure all requirements are met by specified deadlines. All staff members must be included on your Staff and Training Worksheet and ensure you keep it updated as needed. This document should serve as a tracking tool for required paperwork and deadlines. Ensure that dates of review of the Emergency Medical Care Plan and Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan are documented at least annually. You may wish to delegate some recordkeeping responsibilities to another staff member who has good organizational skills and is able to assist. This will allow you to trust that accurate records are kept while you focus on other aspects of managing your facility. A complete file for all staff must have all required information either on-site or included on the on-site verification form, no exceptions. Staff/Child Ratio – There were no staff/child ratio violations observed today. However, it was concerning as some staff were very comfortable leaving the classroom to complete other task such as picking up snack and informing other teachers in other classrooms of their location. Prior to staff leaving the classroom or building, Grace Moore – Education Coordinator, stepped in classroom so staff member could go get snacks for the children. Staff/child ratio must be always maintained and during naptime at least one person in each room, visually supervising all children, and the total number of required staff on the premises within calling distance of each room. When a staff member leaves the building will not be considered “calling distance of each room.” Other Information: Health & Safety Training - Staff members, who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. Ensure this information is maintained on file. New staff members have one year to complete these required trainings except for Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training which must be completed within 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Substitutes who work more than 10 days within 12 months must also complete Health and Safety trainings. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - The registration and enrollment for all three testing programs must be completed – water, lead-based paint and asbestos. I verified through the website Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids that you have completed all three testing programs. Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, and it may be requested to verify compliance. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Enrollment in the lead-based paint and asbestos testing programs is required for all facilities by May 31, 2025. This applies to private centers, FCCH and child care programs in the public schools. DPI Pre-K programs do not need to enroll separately as public schools will be tested. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Rated License Reassessment Information - There are no longer any cohorts. The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you may not be required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however you may request one voluntarily. Today I encourage you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your additional caregivers on new assessment tools if you are still interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. The new tools are the “3” versions, and I will share more information about training opportunities as they become available. Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is always maintained. Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation during your next visit. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. To gain access to the Provider Portal complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training on DCDEE's Moodle. The training consists of watching a short video then taking a test about the video. A certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the test. Email the certificate along with your full name, position, and Facility ID to DCDEE_ABCMS_Provider@dhhs.nc.gov to get access to the portal. Access will then be granted within two business days. If you have general questions, please continue to use DHHS.CBC.Unit@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. 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. Documentation was completed electronically, signed, and emailed to Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director – per her request. Please remember it is your responsibility to always comply with all child care rules and requirements. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SURF CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRESCHOOL Facility ID: 71000270 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/2/2025 Number Present: 37 Completed Date: 4/2/2025 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 11:30 AM Time Out: 01:45 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 compliance during your annual compliance. Child care requirements pertinent to this visit type were monitored. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. This facility currently operates with a Five Star License that was issued to this facility on March 9, 2024, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 3-5 with a first shift capacity of 60, meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios minus 1. As of April 1, 2025, this facility has an 18-month compliance history of 86%. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance 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. Pender County Schools operates this program. This was a second annual compliance visit conducted at this facility instead of a routine announced visit to move the annual compliance visit from the beginning of the school year to Spring. There have been no new staff hired since the last annual compliance visit was conducted on September 3, 2024. Sanitation Inspection – 09/09/2024 – 0 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 09/10/2024 – PASS There are four indoor spaces, and one outdoor space approved for use; three out of the four classrooms are being utilized by NC Pre-K children. There are thirty-nine children enrolled and thirty-six children, ages 3-5, were present today. Accurate attendance sheets were observed in each classroom. When I arrived, all children were observed lining up to go to the school cafeteria for lunch. I observed one teacher in the front of the line and the second teacher in the back of the line and each teacher counted the children to ensure the correct number of children were accounted for. I observed the reminder STOP sign posted at the enter/exit doors of building and classrooms that reminds staff to check the chart, count the children, walk the entire room, count again, and confirm with each other that they have the same number of children present and accounted for. Today’s lunch consisted of BBQ chicken or ham/cheese sandwich, pasta salad, corn, pears apples, and milk. As children ate lunch, caregivers were within arm’s reach and engaged children in conversations. After lunch, children returned to their classroom, completed handwashing/bathroom routines, and prepared for nap/rest time. Children were resting on appropriately spaced covered mats with blankets, lights were off, and soft music played in the background making the space conducive to rest. Each classroom had spaces arranged into activity areas that include art, literacy, computers, listening, blocks, science, library, dramatic play, manipulative, music, and writing. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible and observed in each classroom. Activity plans and daily schedules were available for each group of children and observed posted in each classroom. After nap/rest time, children ate snack. Snack consisted of goldfish crackers and apple juice. After snack, children prepared for dismissal for the day. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 7:20am to 1:50pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, Brigance Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. Developmental screenings and health assessments including vision, hearing, and dental screenings were on file for all NC Pre-K children’s files reviewed. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed in children’s files and on the Teaching Strategies GOLD website. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2024-2025 was signed by Stacie Poulin, Preschool Program Executive Director for Pender County Schools, during an on-site visit October 2, 2024. It was noted that all requirements were in compliance. There were five violations observed today. Violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with all applicable child care requirements is always required. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. This information was not available in space #6; the last posted activity plan was dated for February 2025. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. There was not a fire drill recorded on the record for March 2025. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 807 A safe indoor environment was not provided for the children. The fence in several areas is not secured to the ground on the bottom – there is space between the ground and fencing that a child could possibly get themselves or a body part stuck. Other areas of the fence are slack/loose making it unstable. The back gate in this area is not secure – easily opens even with a chain attached. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. This information was not completed for bus driver. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. This information was not on file for substitute caregiver in space #8. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) For your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. On or before April 16, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected as well as how compliance will be maintained in the future. The time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. 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. Technical Assistance regarding violations cited A safe outdoor environment must be always maintained. During today’s visit, the fence in several areas is not touching the ground on the bottom – there is space between the ground and fencing that a child could possibly get themselves or a body part stuck. Other areas of the fence are slack/loose making it unstable. The back gate in this area is not secure – easily opens even with a chain attached. These hazards need to be immediately addressed by replacing or repairing. This is a relatively new fence, and you should contact the installers and or maintenance regarding these hazards. Removing the hazards will allow children to be free to safely explore and to make discoveries. This is the key to learning and making discoveries that support learning. Qualification Letter - A valid qualification letter should be on file and available for review at the facility for all staff prior to employment. Staff include all substitutes and bus drivers. Substitute, Alexandra Healy, did not have a qualification on file, however, I was able to verify qualification letter in ABCMS system. Also, prior to the end of my visit, a copy of the qualification letter for Ms. Healy was received via email and filed. The bus driver, Robert Germain, was not on the premises during my visit. However, some staff reported children have been left alone with bus driver when bus monitor is completing other task prior to boarding the bus for departure. Children should not be left alone with anyone that has not completed the criminal background process and received a valid qualification letter. Also, there is a note in Ms. Germain's file stating that he did not complete and sign off on policies received form because he has not received the policies nor have they been reviewed with him and he has been employed since September 2024. Activity Plans - A current activity plan must be posted for each group of children. Teachers may refer to their phone or computer to enhance/track/and update activity plans, but it also must be printed and posted for reference. Fire Drill – A fire drill was not recorded for March 2025. However, Lead Teacher – Tammy Meadows stated a fire drill was conducted on March 31, 2025. Ms. Meadows made the correction to the fire drill report during my visit. Fire drills should be recorded at the time the drill is conducted to ensure fire drill report is accurate at all times. Consultation Staff Files - All staff should have a complete file available for review from their first day of employment. Please ensure staff files are organized according to the file checklists for staff and substitutes found on the DCDEE website. This updated checklist reflects revised child care rules and lists deadlines for completion of certain documents. I suggest you use this checklist to review the file for any new staff member who are hired to ensure all requirements are met by specified deadlines. All staff members must be included on your Staff and Training Worksheet and ensure you keep it updated as needed. This document should serve as a tracking tool for required paperwork and deadlines. Ensure that dates of review of the Emergency Medical Care Plan and Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan are documented at least annually. You may wish to delegate some recordkeeping responsibilities to another staff member who has good organizational skills and is able to assist. This will allow you to trust that accurate records are kept while you focus on other aspects of managing your facility. A complete file for all staff must have all required information either on-site or included on the on-site verification form, no exceptions. Staff/Child Ratio – There were no staff/child ratio violations observed today. However, it was concerning as some staff were very comfortable leaving the classroom to complete other task such as picking up snack and informing other teachers in other classrooms of their location. Prior to staff leaving the classroom or building, Grace Moore – Education Coordinator, stepped in classroom so staff member could go get snacks for the children. Staff/child ratio must be always maintained and during naptime at least one person in each room, visually supervising all children, and the total number of required staff on the premises within calling distance of each room. When a staff member leaves the building will not be considered “calling distance of each room.” Other Information: Health & Safety Training - Staff members, who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. Ensure this information is maintained on file. New staff members have one year to complete these required trainings except for Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training which must be completed within 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Substitutes who work more than 10 days within 12 months must also complete Health and Safety trainings. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - The registration and enrollment for all three testing programs must be completed – water, lead-based paint and asbestos. I verified through the website Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids that you have completed all three testing programs. Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, and it may be requested to verify compliance. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Enrollment in the lead-based paint and asbestos testing programs is required for all facilities by May 31, 2025. This applies to private centers, FCCH and child care programs in the public schools. DPI Pre-K programs do not need to enroll separately as public schools will be tested. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Rated License Reassessment Information - There are no longer any cohorts. The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you may not be required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however you may request one voluntarily. Today I encourage you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your additional caregivers on new assessment tools if you are still interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. The new tools are the “3” versions, and I will share more information about training opportunities as they become available. Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is always maintained. Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation during your next visit. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. To gain access to the Provider Portal complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training on DCDEE's Moodle. The training consists of watching a short video then taking a test about the video. A certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the test. Email the certificate along with your full name, position, and Facility ID to DCDEE_ABCMS_Provider@dhhs.nc.gov to get access to the portal. Access will then be granted within two business days. If you have general questions, please continue to use DHHS.CBC.Unit@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. 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. Documentation was completed electronically, signed, and emailed to Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director – per her request. Please remember it is your responsibility to always comply with all child care rules and requirements. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0901 · Violation

Name of Operation: SURF CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRESCHOOL Facility ID: 71000270 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/10/2024 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 9/10/2024 Age: From 3 To 4 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 11:30 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced follow-up visit today was to monitor this facility for compliance with applicable child care requirements and verify compliance with criminal record check and unapproved space violations documented during your annual compliance visit conducted on September 3, 2024. This facility currently operates with a Five Star License that was issued to this facility on March 9, 2024, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 3-5 with a first shift capacity of 60, meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios minus 1, and outdoor play area limited to kindergarten playground – no equipment approved. This program is operated by Pender County Schools. As of September 9, 2024, this facility has an 18-month compliance history of 92%. 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. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet all applicable requirements at all times. There are thirty-five children enrolled and thirty-one children, ages 3-4, were present today. Accurate attendance sheets were observed in each classroom. NC PreK students in spaces #6, #7, #8 were observed going to the cafeteria for lunch. Lunch consisted of spaghetti or cheeseburger, broccoli, orange slices, pineapples, and milk. After lunch, children observed nap/rest time. Covered cots with blankets were appropriately spaced, blinds were closed, lights were off as soft music played. Staff/child ratios were in compliance. Ensure the classroom staff to child ratio form is completed accurately; the ratio should be 1:10 with a maximum group size of 15 because that is the maximum capacity for each classroom. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. There was one violation observed today. Violation was corrected during the visit; therefore, a letter of compliance is not required. Continued compliance with all applicable child care requirements is required. Violation Number Comment Rule 526 Menus for all meals and snacks were not current. The current lunch menu was not posted; the menu posted was from last week dated, September 2-6, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) A current menu was printed and posted during the visit. Nutrition rules require that meals and snacks are planned at least 1 week in advance and menus are posted. If an unusual circumstance arises and the plans change for what is being served, the changes must be recorded on the menu prior to the food being served. Any meals served must comply with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. A link to these meal patterns can be found in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901. Comments regarding compliance verification: As stated in the annual compliance visit summary conducted on September 3, 2024, all violations must be corrected immediately and a compliance letter verifying this must be received by September 17, 2024; it must address how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Criminal Background Check/Qualifying Letter - During the annual compliance visit conducted on September 3, 2024, two violations were documented for non-compliance with criminal background check requirements. I shared the child care rules regarding criminal background checks in General Statute 110-90.2(b) and section .2703 of the child care rulebook. During today’s visit, Principal, Franklin Bailey, was not observed on the premises. NC PreK staff stated that they had not seen Mr. Bailey. According to Stacie Poulin, , Executive Director for Pender County School Preschool Program, Mr. Bailey completed the criminal background check process on September 4, 2024, and it is showing in our system as, “in process.” After conducting the annual compliance visit on September 3, 2024, Mr. Bailey and Ms. Poulin were informed that he cannot be on the premises until a qualification letter is received. Once received, a copy of the qualification letter must be submitted to me and kept on-site in the staff file for review during monitoring visits. I advised Ms. Poulin and staff to track the criminal background check process and follow-up with me when completed. You were reminded a valid criminal background qualification letter is required for any staff prior to working in the NC Pre-K program. I recommended developing a plan to ensure the Criminal Background Check process is completed for new staff prior to employment and prior to the expiration date of the current qualification letter to avoid receiving violations. I informed you the criminal background check renewal process can be completed up to 6 months early. Implementing proactive strategies will help ensure accurate qualifying letter are on file for all staff and at all times. Unapproved Space and Equipment – All spaces (indoor and outdoor) and outdoor equipment must be approved prior to being used by children. The measurements for new fenced outdoor play area were received via an aerial google map – the playground is oddly shaped. The space measures 6377 square feet, which is 64 children at 100 square feet per child. There was also one piece of stationary equipment located on this playground. The information for the stationary equipment regarding age appropriateness was emailed to me on September 6, 2024. According to the information received, this piece of equipment is appropriate for ages 2-5 and was installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Therefore, this piece of stationary equipment is determined to safe for children in care and it is approved. Ensure manufacturer’s instructions and information regarding this piece of equipment is kept on site and available for review. Documentation and space calculation sheet for outdoor play area was completed and a copy was emailed to you regarding the number of children allowed based on square footage. Permit Information – The restriction, outdoor play area limited to kindergarten playground – no equipment approved, will be changed to outdoor play area limited to approved NC PreK fenced playground area. Paperwork will be completed regarding this change and a new license will be issued. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during any visit is legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified and/or repeated violations are documented, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility's Star Rated License could be issued. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Documentation was completed electronically, signed, and emailed to Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director / Director – per her request. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SURF CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRESCHOOL Facility ID: 71000270 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/10/2024 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 9/10/2024 Age: From 3 To 4 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 11:30 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced follow-up visit today was to monitor this facility for compliance with applicable child care requirements and verify compliance with criminal record check and unapproved space violations documented during your annual compliance visit conducted on September 3, 2024. This facility currently operates with a Five Star License that was issued to this facility on March 9, 2024, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 3-5 with a first shift capacity of 60, meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios minus 1, and outdoor play area limited to kindergarten playground – no equipment approved. This program is operated by Pender County Schools. As of September 9, 2024, this facility has an 18-month compliance history of 92%. 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. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet all applicable requirements at all times. There are thirty-five children enrolled and thirty-one children, ages 3-4, were present today. Accurate attendance sheets were observed in each classroom. NC PreK students in spaces #6, #7, #8 were observed going to the cafeteria for lunch. Lunch consisted of spaghetti or cheeseburger, broccoli, orange slices, pineapples, and milk. After lunch, children observed nap/rest time. Covered cots with blankets were appropriately spaced, blinds were closed, lights were off as soft music played. Staff/child ratios were in compliance. Ensure the classroom staff to child ratio form is completed accurately; the ratio should be 1:10 with a maximum group size of 15 because that is the maximum capacity for each classroom. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. There was one violation observed today. Violation was corrected during the visit; therefore, a letter of compliance is not required. Continued compliance with all applicable child care requirements is required. Violation Number Comment Rule 526 Menus for all meals and snacks were not current. The current lunch menu was not posted; the menu posted was from last week dated, September 2-6, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) A current menu was printed and posted during the visit. Nutrition rules require that meals and snacks are planned at least 1 week in advance and menus are posted. If an unusual circumstance arises and the plans change for what is being served, the changes must be recorded on the menu prior to the food being served. Any meals served must comply with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. A link to these meal patterns can be found in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901. Comments regarding compliance verification: As stated in the annual compliance visit summary conducted on September 3, 2024, all violations must be corrected immediately and a compliance letter verifying this must be received by September 17, 2024; it must address how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Criminal Background Check/Qualifying Letter - During the annual compliance visit conducted on September 3, 2024, two violations were documented for non-compliance with criminal background check requirements. I shared the child care rules regarding criminal background checks in General Statute 110-90.2(b) and section .2703 of the child care rulebook. During today’s visit, Principal, Franklin Bailey, was not observed on the premises. NC PreK staff stated that they had not seen Mr. Bailey. According to Stacie Poulin, , Executive Director for Pender County School Preschool Program, Mr. Bailey completed the criminal background check process on September 4, 2024, and it is showing in our system as, “in process.” After conducting the annual compliance visit on September 3, 2024, Mr. Bailey and Ms. Poulin were informed that he cannot be on the premises until a qualification letter is received. Once received, a copy of the qualification letter must be submitted to me and kept on-site in the staff file for review during monitoring visits. I advised Ms. Poulin and staff to track the criminal background check process and follow-up with me when completed. You were reminded a valid criminal background qualification letter is required for any staff prior to working in the NC Pre-K program. I recommended developing a plan to ensure the Criminal Background Check process is completed for new staff prior to employment and prior to the expiration date of the current qualification letter to avoid receiving violations. I informed you the criminal background check renewal process can be completed up to 6 months early. Implementing proactive strategies will help ensure accurate qualifying letter are on file for all staff and at all times. Unapproved Space and Equipment – All spaces (indoor and outdoor) and outdoor equipment must be approved prior to being used by children. The measurements for new fenced outdoor play area were received via an aerial google map – the playground is oddly shaped. The space measures 6377 square feet, which is 64 children at 100 square feet per child. There was also one piece of stationary equipment located on this playground. The information for the stationary equipment regarding age appropriateness was emailed to me on September 6, 2024. According to the information received, this piece of equipment is appropriate for ages 2-5 and was installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Therefore, this piece of stationary equipment is determined to safe for children in care and it is approved. Ensure manufacturer’s instructions and information regarding this piece of equipment is kept on site and available for review. Documentation and space calculation sheet for outdoor play area was completed and a copy was emailed to you regarding the number of children allowed based on square footage. Permit Information – The restriction, outdoor play area limited to kindergarten playground – no equipment approved, will be changed to outdoor play area limited to approved NC PreK fenced playground area. Paperwork will be completed regarding this change and a new license will be issued. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during any visit is legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified and/or repeated violations are documented, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility's Star Rated License could be issued. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Documentation was completed electronically, signed, and emailed to Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director / Director – per her request. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: SURF CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRESCHOOL Facility ID: 71000270 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/3/2024 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 9/3/2024 Age: From 3 To 4 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose today’s visit was to monitor compliance during your annual compliance. Child care requirements pertinent to this visit type were monitored. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. This facility currently operates with a Five Star License that was issued to this facility on March 9, 2024, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 3-5 with a first shift capacity of 60, meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios minus 1. As of September 3, 2024, this facility has an 18-month compliance history of 98%. This program is operated by Pender County Schools. Due to a location change, a temporary license was issued to this facility on September 8, 2023. Sanitation Inspection – 04/02/2024 – 2 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 03/21/2024 – PASS There are four indoor spaces, and one outdoor space (kindergarten playground) approved for use; three out of the four classrooms are being utilized by NC Pre-K children. There are thirty-five children enrolled and thirty-four children, ages 3-4, were present today. Accurate attendance sheets were observed in each classroom. Each classroom had spaces arranged into activity areas that include art, literacy, computers, listening, blocks, science, library, dramatic play, manipulative, music, and writing. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible and observed in each classroom. Activity plans and daily schedules were available for each group of children and observed posted in each classroom. NC PreK students in space #7 were observed participating in free choice activities. Free choice activities included dramatic play, puzzles, blocks, playing with Play-Doh, and completing art activities. NC PreK students in spaces #6 and #8 were observed playing outside in a new fenced in area, that included one piece of stationary equipment. Prior to today’s visit, I had no knowledge of this new play area or new piece of stationary equipment. Caregivers stated equipment was installed last year after spring break. Children also completed routines and had lunch. Lunch consisted of beef fingers or creamy parmesan with creamy Italian rice, baby carrots or celery sticks, applesauce or mixed fruit, and milk. After lunch, children observed nap/rest time. Covered cots with blankets were appropriately spaced, lights were dimmed or off as soft music played making atmosphere conducive to resting. Staff/child ratios were in compliance. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. Staggered enrollment started for NC Pre-K students on August 26, 2024, and today is the first full day for all NC Pre-K students. The NC Pre-K Monitoring Tool has not been completed yet; it will be reviewed during another visit. The program follows the Pender County School calendar, the length of the day meets requirements, and all staff meet education requirements. The Creative Curriculum 5th Addition has been implemented and the assessment tool, Teaching Strategies Gold, is in place. Three formal assessments with parent conferences are scheduled throughout the school year. Portfolios are maintained on Teacher Strategies Gold by taking pictures of the children’s work and uploading them to the program. All required screenings will be completed the required timeline. There were seven violations observed today. All violations must be corrected immediately. 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. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet all applicable requirements at all times. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Violation Number Comment Rule 209 Children used space that was not approved. Facility has a new fenced outdoor play area and children were observed playing in new fenced play area today. GS 110-91(1)&(4-5) 218 Outdoor play area did not provide an area that is shaded. Children were observed playing on a new fenced outdoor play area and there was no shaded area provided. 10A NCAC 09 .1402(d) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not 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. AC unit was leaking and children were observed playing in the liquid that appeared to be water. The liquid/water was puddled; standing water can be a breeding ground for pests. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. New Principal was hired for this school year, 2024 -2025, has not completed the criminal background check process. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. A complete file for new principal was not available for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. This information was not available for new principal. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1865 The operator did not maintain the manufacturer's instructions on file electronically or in paper format for any outdoor play structures purchased or installed on or after September 1, 2017. This information for the new stationary equipment in the new fenced outdoor play area was not available. .0605(b) Comments regarding violations cited Unapproved Space and Equipment – All spaces (indoor and outdoor) and outdoor equipment must be approved prior to being used by children. Since my last visit on February 14, 2024, you have installed a new fenced outdoor play area with one piece of stationary equipment. Information for the stationary equipment was not on site and available for review. I had no knowledge of this new fenced outdoor play area and new stationary equipment prior to today’s visit. New fenced outdoor play area was measured and approved. New stationary equipment was monitored for compliance and once manufacturer’s information is received and equipment is determined to safe for children in care; it will be approved. Documentation and space calculation sheet for outdoor play area will be completed and a copy will be emailed to you regarding the number of children allowed based on square footage. Outdoor Area - An outdoor A/C unit is leaking, and I observed children playing in the liquid today. The liquid appears to be water. However, children should not be allowed to play in this water as it may possibly contain chemicals. Children are redirected from the area and kept in the area where it is safe for them to play. I would suggest that you temporarily place orange cones around the area to keep children away and as a long-term fix, possibly installing a drain. You may also want to contact maintenance to make a visit and make any necessary repairs. Also, standing water can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes, waterborne pathogens, and other harmful microorganisms that can spread diseases. Staff Records - All required paperwork, on site and off site, for Principal must be on file. All staff, including Principal, must review the Shaken Baby Head Trauma Policy and a signed acknowledgement with all the required information must be available for review. Off-Site Records Verification form for staff must include names of ALL staff members, including principals. Criminal Background Check Process/Qualifying Letter - A criminal background check for Principal, Franklin Bailey has not been completed. Mr. Bailey was hired this school year, 2024-2025. Mr. Bailey was not available, but I informed Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director and NC Pre-K Contractor that Mr. Bailey is not allowed on the premises of Surf City Elementary School until he completes the criminal background check process and obtains a qualification letter. Pre-Service Administrator Form - A Pre-Service Administrator form for the Principal, Mr. Bailey, has not been completed and submitted for review. Form was emailed to Ms. Poulin; facility; form must be completed by Mr. Bailey. Once Ms. Bailey completes form, submit it back to me. Mr. Baily will also need to upload her education information into the Workforce Education Unit System. In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. On or before September 17, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected as well as how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. Email the information to me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. Due to the violations cited, a follow up visit will be conducted to ensure compliance is maintained at all times. Failure to maintain compliance may result in an administrative action being issued at your facility. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Other Information: Health & Safety Training - All staff members must complete Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 within one year of being hired and every five years thereafter. New staff must complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicious of Child Maltreatment within 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. These trainings must be renewed every five years. Reminder: When completing line 17 of the staff and training worksheet, you will need to include the date that each staff member completed these required trainings. Use the Health and Safety Training Record which is found on the DCDEE website under Provider Documents and Forms to track the completion of these trainings. Certificates will need to be attached to the training record for verification purposes. Rated License Reassessment Information - Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due to be completed in March 2025. There are no cohorts anymore. Hold harmless for rated license reassessments have been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. Operators are not required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however operators may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your additional caregivers on new assessment tools if you are still interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. The new tools are the “3” versions, and I will share more information about training opportunities as they become available. Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you hire new staff or as staff complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is maintained at all times, so you must ensure you monitor staff qualifications and percentages in advance of your upcoming reassessment. Provider Portal - DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to: •See applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster •See the real-time background check status of staff members •Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits To gain access to the Provider Portal complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training on DCDEE's Moodle. The training consists of watching a short video then taking a test about the video. A certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the test. Email the certificate along with your full name, position, and Facility ID to DCDEE_ABCMS_Provider@dhhs.nc.gov to get access to the portal. Access will then be granted within 2 business days. If you have general questions, please continue to use DHHS.CBC.Unit@dhhs.nc.gov. FYI - Lead Testing – DPI Pre-K programs do not need to enroll separately as public schools will be tested as a whole. All facilities must enroll in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Steps: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-leadbased-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa. Documentation was completed electronically, signed, and emailed to Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director / Director – per her request. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .1402 · Violation

Name of Operation: SURF CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRESCHOOL Facility ID: 71000270 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/3/2024 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 9/3/2024 Age: From 3 To 4 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose today’s visit was to monitor compliance during your annual compliance. Child care requirements pertinent to this visit type were monitored. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. This facility currently operates with a Five Star License that was issued to this facility on March 9, 2024, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 3-5 with a first shift capacity of 60, meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios minus 1. As of September 3, 2024, this facility has an 18-month compliance history of 98%. This program is operated by Pender County Schools. Due to a location change, a temporary license was issued to this facility on September 8, 2023. Sanitation Inspection – 04/02/2024 – 2 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 03/21/2024 – PASS There are four indoor spaces, and one outdoor space (kindergarten playground) approved for use; three out of the four classrooms are being utilized by NC Pre-K children. There are thirty-five children enrolled and thirty-four children, ages 3-4, were present today. Accurate attendance sheets were observed in each classroom. Each classroom had spaces arranged into activity areas that include art, literacy, computers, listening, blocks, science, library, dramatic play, manipulative, music, and writing. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible and observed in each classroom. Activity plans and daily schedules were available for each group of children and observed posted in each classroom. NC PreK students in space #7 were observed participating in free choice activities. Free choice activities included dramatic play, puzzles, blocks, playing with Play-Doh, and completing art activities. NC PreK students in spaces #6 and #8 were observed playing outside in a new fenced in area, that included one piece of stationary equipment. Prior to today’s visit, I had no knowledge of this new play area or new piece of stationary equipment. Caregivers stated equipment was installed last year after spring break. Children also completed routines and had lunch. Lunch consisted of beef fingers or creamy parmesan with creamy Italian rice, baby carrots or celery sticks, applesauce or mixed fruit, and milk. After lunch, children observed nap/rest time. Covered cots with blankets were appropriately spaced, lights were dimmed or off as soft music played making atmosphere conducive to resting. Staff/child ratios were in compliance. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. Staggered enrollment started for NC Pre-K students on August 26, 2024, and today is the first full day for all NC Pre-K students. The NC Pre-K Monitoring Tool has not been completed yet; it will be reviewed during another visit. The program follows the Pender County School calendar, the length of the day meets requirements, and all staff meet education requirements. The Creative Curriculum 5th Addition has been implemented and the assessment tool, Teaching Strategies Gold, is in place. Three formal assessments with parent conferences are scheduled throughout the school year. Portfolios are maintained on Teacher Strategies Gold by taking pictures of the children’s work and uploading them to the program. All required screenings will be completed the required timeline. There were seven violations observed today. All violations must be corrected immediately. 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. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet all applicable requirements at all times. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Violation Number Comment Rule 209 Children used space that was not approved. Facility has a new fenced outdoor play area and children were observed playing in new fenced play area today. GS 110-91(1)&(4-5) 218 Outdoor play area did not provide an area that is shaded. Children were observed playing on a new fenced outdoor play area and there was no shaded area provided. 10A NCAC 09 .1402(d) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not 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. AC unit was leaking and children were observed playing in the liquid that appeared to be water. The liquid/water was puddled; standing water can be a breeding ground for pests. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. New Principal was hired for this school year, 2024 -2025, has not completed the criminal background check process. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. A complete file for new principal was not available for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. This information was not available for new principal. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1865 The operator did not maintain the manufacturer's instructions on file electronically or in paper format for any outdoor play structures purchased or installed on or after September 1, 2017. This information for the new stationary equipment in the new fenced outdoor play area was not available. .0605(b) Comments regarding violations cited Unapproved Space and Equipment – All spaces (indoor and outdoor) and outdoor equipment must be approved prior to being used by children. Since my last visit on February 14, 2024, you have installed a new fenced outdoor play area with one piece of stationary equipment. Information for the stationary equipment was not on site and available for review. I had no knowledge of this new fenced outdoor play area and new stationary equipment prior to today’s visit. New fenced outdoor play area was measured and approved. New stationary equipment was monitored for compliance and once manufacturer’s information is received and equipment is determined to safe for children in care; it will be approved. Documentation and space calculation sheet for outdoor play area will be completed and a copy will be emailed to you regarding the number of children allowed based on square footage. Outdoor Area - An outdoor A/C unit is leaking, and I observed children playing in the liquid today. The liquid appears to be water. However, children should not be allowed to play in this water as it may possibly contain chemicals. Children are redirected from the area and kept in the area where it is safe for them to play. I would suggest that you temporarily place orange cones around the area to keep children away and as a long-term fix, possibly installing a drain. You may also want to contact maintenance to make a visit and make any necessary repairs. Also, standing water can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes, waterborne pathogens, and other harmful microorganisms that can spread diseases. Staff Records - All required paperwork, on site and off site, for Principal must be on file. All staff, including Principal, must review the Shaken Baby Head Trauma Policy and a signed acknowledgement with all the required information must be available for review. Off-Site Records Verification form for staff must include names of ALL staff members, including principals. Criminal Background Check Process/Qualifying Letter - A criminal background check for Principal, Franklin Bailey has not been completed. Mr. Bailey was hired this school year, 2024-2025. Mr. Bailey was not available, but I informed Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director and NC Pre-K Contractor that Mr. Bailey is not allowed on the premises of Surf City Elementary School until he completes the criminal background check process and obtains a qualification letter. Pre-Service Administrator Form - A Pre-Service Administrator form for the Principal, Mr. Bailey, has not been completed and submitted for review. Form was emailed to Ms. Poulin; facility; form must be completed by Mr. Bailey. Once Ms. Bailey completes form, submit it back to me. Mr. Baily will also need to upload her education information into the Workforce Education Unit System. In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. On or before September 17, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected as well as how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. Email the information to me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. Due to the violations cited, a follow up visit will be conducted to ensure compliance is maintained at all times. Failure to maintain compliance may result in an administrative action being issued at your facility. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Other Information: Health & Safety Training - All staff members must complete Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 within one year of being hired and every five years thereafter. New staff must complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicious of Child Maltreatment within 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. These trainings must be renewed every five years. Reminder: When completing line 17 of the staff and training worksheet, you will need to include the date that each staff member completed these required trainings. Use the Health and Safety Training Record which is found on the DCDEE website under Provider Documents and Forms to track the completion of these trainings. Certificates will need to be attached to the training record for verification purposes. Rated License Reassessment Information - Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due to be completed in March 2025. There are no cohorts anymore. Hold harmless for rated license reassessments have been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. Operators are not required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however operators may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your additional caregivers on new assessment tools if you are still interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. The new tools are the “3” versions, and I will share more information about training opportunities as they become available. Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you hire new staff or as staff complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is maintained at all times, so you must ensure you monitor staff qualifications and percentages in advance of your upcoming reassessment. Provider Portal - DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to: •See applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster •See the real-time background check status of staff members •Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits To gain access to the Provider Portal complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training on DCDEE's Moodle. The training consists of watching a short video then taking a test about the video. A certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the test. Email the certificate along with your full name, position, and Facility ID to DCDEE_ABCMS_Provider@dhhs.nc.gov to get access to the portal. Access will then be granted within 2 business days. If you have general questions, please continue to use DHHS.CBC.Unit@dhhs.nc.gov. FYI - Lead Testing – DPI Pre-K programs do not need to enroll separately as public schools will be tested as a whole. All facilities must enroll in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Steps: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-leadbased-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa. Documentation was completed electronically, signed, and emailed to Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director / Director – per her request. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SURF CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRESCHOOL Facility ID: 71000270 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/3/2024 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 9/3/2024 Age: From 3 To 4 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose today’s visit was to monitor compliance during your annual compliance. Child care requirements pertinent to this visit type were monitored. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. This facility currently operates with a Five Star License that was issued to this facility on March 9, 2024, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 3-5 with a first shift capacity of 60, meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios minus 1. As of September 3, 2024, this facility has an 18-month compliance history of 98%. This program is operated by Pender County Schools. Due to a location change, a temporary license was issued to this facility on September 8, 2023. Sanitation Inspection – 04/02/2024 – 2 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 03/21/2024 – PASS There are four indoor spaces, and one outdoor space (kindergarten playground) approved for use; three out of the four classrooms are being utilized by NC Pre-K children. There are thirty-five children enrolled and thirty-four children, ages 3-4, were present today. Accurate attendance sheets were observed in each classroom. Each classroom had spaces arranged into activity areas that include art, literacy, computers, listening, blocks, science, library, dramatic play, manipulative, music, and writing. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible and observed in each classroom. Activity plans and daily schedules were available for each group of children and observed posted in each classroom. NC PreK students in space #7 were observed participating in free choice activities. Free choice activities included dramatic play, puzzles, blocks, playing with Play-Doh, and completing art activities. NC PreK students in spaces #6 and #8 were observed playing outside in a new fenced in area, that included one piece of stationary equipment. Prior to today’s visit, I had no knowledge of this new play area or new piece of stationary equipment. Caregivers stated equipment was installed last year after spring break. Children also completed routines and had lunch. Lunch consisted of beef fingers or creamy parmesan with creamy Italian rice, baby carrots or celery sticks, applesauce or mixed fruit, and milk. After lunch, children observed nap/rest time. Covered cots with blankets were appropriately spaced, lights were dimmed or off as soft music played making atmosphere conducive to resting. Staff/child ratios were in compliance. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. Staggered enrollment started for NC Pre-K students on August 26, 2024, and today is the first full day for all NC Pre-K students. The NC Pre-K Monitoring Tool has not been completed yet; it will be reviewed during another visit. The program follows the Pender County School calendar, the length of the day meets requirements, and all staff meet education requirements. The Creative Curriculum 5th Addition has been implemented and the assessment tool, Teaching Strategies Gold, is in place. Three formal assessments with parent conferences are scheduled throughout the school year. Portfolios are maintained on Teacher Strategies Gold by taking pictures of the children’s work and uploading them to the program. All required screenings will be completed the required timeline. There were seven violations observed today. All violations must be corrected immediately. 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. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet all applicable requirements at all times. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Violation Number Comment Rule 209 Children used space that was not approved. Facility has a new fenced outdoor play area and children were observed playing in new fenced play area today. GS 110-91(1)&(4-5) 218 Outdoor play area did not provide an area that is shaded. Children were observed playing on a new fenced outdoor play area and there was no shaded area provided. 10A NCAC 09 .1402(d) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not 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. AC unit was leaking and children were observed playing in the liquid that appeared to be water. The liquid/water was puddled; standing water can be a breeding ground for pests. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. New Principal was hired for this school year, 2024 -2025, has not completed the criminal background check process. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. A complete file for new principal was not available for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. This information was not available for new principal. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1865 The operator did not maintain the manufacturer's instructions on file electronically or in paper format for any outdoor play structures purchased or installed on or after September 1, 2017. This information for the new stationary equipment in the new fenced outdoor play area was not available. .0605(b) Comments regarding violations cited Unapproved Space and Equipment – All spaces (indoor and outdoor) and outdoor equipment must be approved prior to being used by children. Since my last visit on February 14, 2024, you have installed a new fenced outdoor play area with one piece of stationary equipment. Information for the stationary equipment was not on site and available for review. I had no knowledge of this new fenced outdoor play area and new stationary equipment prior to today’s visit. New fenced outdoor play area was measured and approved. New stationary equipment was monitored for compliance and once manufacturer’s information is received and equipment is determined to safe for children in care; it will be approved. Documentation and space calculation sheet for outdoor play area will be completed and a copy will be emailed to you regarding the number of children allowed based on square footage. Outdoor Area - An outdoor A/C unit is leaking, and I observed children playing in the liquid today. The liquid appears to be water. However, children should not be allowed to play in this water as it may possibly contain chemicals. Children are redirected from the area and kept in the area where it is safe for them to play. I would suggest that you temporarily place orange cones around the area to keep children away and as a long-term fix, possibly installing a drain. You may also want to contact maintenance to make a visit and make any necessary repairs. Also, standing water can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes, waterborne pathogens, and other harmful microorganisms that can spread diseases. Staff Records - All required paperwork, on site and off site, for Principal must be on file. All staff, including Principal, must review the Shaken Baby Head Trauma Policy and a signed acknowledgement with all the required information must be available for review. Off-Site Records Verification form for staff must include names of ALL staff members, including principals. Criminal Background Check Process/Qualifying Letter - A criminal background check for Principal, Franklin Bailey has not been completed. Mr. Bailey was hired this school year, 2024-2025. Mr. Bailey was not available, but I informed Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director and NC Pre-K Contractor that Mr. Bailey is not allowed on the premises of Surf City Elementary School until he completes the criminal background check process and obtains a qualification letter. Pre-Service Administrator Form - A Pre-Service Administrator form for the Principal, Mr. Bailey, has not been completed and submitted for review. Form was emailed to Ms. Poulin; facility; form must be completed by Mr. Bailey. Once Ms. Bailey completes form, submit it back to me. Mr. Baily will also need to upload her education information into the Workforce Education Unit System. In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. On or before September 17, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected as well as how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. Email the information to me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. Due to the violations cited, a follow up visit will be conducted to ensure compliance is maintained at all times. Failure to maintain compliance may result in an administrative action being issued at your facility. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Other Information: Health & Safety Training - All staff members must complete Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 within one year of being hired and every five years thereafter. New staff must complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicious of Child Maltreatment within 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. These trainings must be renewed every five years. Reminder: When completing line 17 of the staff and training worksheet, you will need to include the date that each staff member completed these required trainings. Use the Health and Safety Training Record which is found on the DCDEE website under Provider Documents and Forms to track the completion of these trainings. Certificates will need to be attached to the training record for verification purposes. Rated License Reassessment Information - Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due to be completed in March 2025. There are no cohorts anymore. Hold harmless for rated license reassessments have been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. Operators are not required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however operators may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your additional caregivers on new assessment tools if you are still interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. The new tools are the “3” versions, and I will share more information about training opportunities as they become available. Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you hire new staff or as staff complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is maintained at all times, so you must ensure you monitor staff qualifications and percentages in advance of your upcoming reassessment. Provider Portal - DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to: •See applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster •See the real-time background check status of staff members •Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits To gain access to the Provider Portal complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training on DCDEE's Moodle. The training consists of watching a short video then taking a test about the video. A certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the test. Email the certificate along with your full name, position, and Facility ID to DCDEE_ABCMS_Provider@dhhs.nc.gov to get access to the portal. Access will then be granted within 2 business days. If you have general questions, please continue to use DHHS.CBC.Unit@dhhs.nc.gov. FYI - Lead Testing – DPI Pre-K programs do not need to enroll separately as public schools will be tested as a whole. All facilities must enroll in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Steps: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-leadbased-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa. Documentation was completed electronically, signed, and emailed to Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director / Director – per her request. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: SURF CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRESCHOOL Facility ID: 71000270 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/3/2024 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 9/3/2024 Age: From 3 To 4 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose today’s visit was to monitor compliance during your annual compliance. Child care requirements pertinent to this visit type were monitored. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. This facility currently operates with a Five Star License that was issued to this facility on March 9, 2024, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 3-5 with a first shift capacity of 60, meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios minus 1. As of September 3, 2024, this facility has an 18-month compliance history of 98%. This program is operated by Pender County Schools. Due to a location change, a temporary license was issued to this facility on September 8, 2023. Sanitation Inspection – 04/02/2024 – 2 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 03/21/2024 – PASS There are four indoor spaces, and one outdoor space (kindergarten playground) approved for use; three out of the four classrooms are being utilized by NC Pre-K children. There are thirty-five children enrolled and thirty-four children, ages 3-4, were present today. Accurate attendance sheets were observed in each classroom. Each classroom had spaces arranged into activity areas that include art, literacy, computers, listening, blocks, science, library, dramatic play, manipulative, music, and writing. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible and observed in each classroom. Activity plans and daily schedules were available for each group of children and observed posted in each classroom. NC PreK students in space #7 were observed participating in free choice activities. Free choice activities included dramatic play, puzzles, blocks, playing with Play-Doh, and completing art activities. NC PreK students in spaces #6 and #8 were observed playing outside in a new fenced in area, that included one piece of stationary equipment. Prior to today’s visit, I had no knowledge of this new play area or new piece of stationary equipment. Caregivers stated equipment was installed last year after spring break. Children also completed routines and had lunch. Lunch consisted of beef fingers or creamy parmesan with creamy Italian rice, baby carrots or celery sticks, applesauce or mixed fruit, and milk. After lunch, children observed nap/rest time. Covered cots with blankets were appropriately spaced, lights were dimmed or off as soft music played making atmosphere conducive to resting. Staff/child ratios were in compliance. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. Staggered enrollment started for NC Pre-K students on August 26, 2024, and today is the first full day for all NC Pre-K students. The NC Pre-K Monitoring Tool has not been completed yet; it will be reviewed during another visit. The program follows the Pender County School calendar, the length of the day meets requirements, and all staff meet education requirements. The Creative Curriculum 5th Addition has been implemented and the assessment tool, Teaching Strategies Gold, is in place. Three formal assessments with parent conferences are scheduled throughout the school year. Portfolios are maintained on Teacher Strategies Gold by taking pictures of the children’s work and uploading them to the program. All required screenings will be completed the required timeline. There were seven violations observed today. All violations must be corrected immediately. 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. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet all applicable requirements at all times. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Violation Number Comment Rule 209 Children used space that was not approved. Facility has a new fenced outdoor play area and children were observed playing in new fenced play area today. GS 110-91(1)&(4-5) 218 Outdoor play area did not provide an area that is shaded. Children were observed playing on a new fenced outdoor play area and there was no shaded area provided. 10A NCAC 09 .1402(d) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not 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. AC unit was leaking and children were observed playing in the liquid that appeared to be water. The liquid/water was puddled; standing water can be a breeding ground for pests. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. New Principal was hired for this school year, 2024 -2025, has not completed the criminal background check process. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. A complete file for new principal was not available for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. This information was not available for new principal. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1865 The operator did not maintain the manufacturer's instructions on file electronically or in paper format for any outdoor play structures purchased or installed on or after September 1, 2017. This information for the new stationary equipment in the new fenced outdoor play area was not available. .0605(b) Comments regarding violations cited Unapproved Space and Equipment – All spaces (indoor and outdoor) and outdoor equipment must be approved prior to being used by children. Since my last visit on February 14, 2024, you have installed a new fenced outdoor play area with one piece of stationary equipment. Information for the stationary equipment was not on site and available for review. I had no knowledge of this new fenced outdoor play area and new stationary equipment prior to today’s visit. New fenced outdoor play area was measured and approved. New stationary equipment was monitored for compliance and once manufacturer’s information is received and equipment is determined to safe for children in care; it will be approved. Documentation and space calculation sheet for outdoor play area will be completed and a copy will be emailed to you regarding the number of children allowed based on square footage. Outdoor Area - An outdoor A/C unit is leaking, and I observed children playing in the liquid today. The liquid appears to be water. However, children should not be allowed to play in this water as it may possibly contain chemicals. Children are redirected from the area and kept in the area where it is safe for them to play. I would suggest that you temporarily place orange cones around the area to keep children away and as a long-term fix, possibly installing a drain. You may also want to contact maintenance to make a visit and make any necessary repairs. Also, standing water can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes, waterborne pathogens, and other harmful microorganisms that can spread diseases. Staff Records - All required paperwork, on site and off site, for Principal must be on file. All staff, including Principal, must review the Shaken Baby Head Trauma Policy and a signed acknowledgement with all the required information must be available for review. Off-Site Records Verification form for staff must include names of ALL staff members, including principals. Criminal Background Check Process/Qualifying Letter - A criminal background check for Principal, Franklin Bailey has not been completed. Mr. Bailey was hired this school year, 2024-2025. Mr. Bailey was not available, but I informed Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director and NC Pre-K Contractor that Mr. Bailey is not allowed on the premises of Surf City Elementary School until he completes the criminal background check process and obtains a qualification letter. Pre-Service Administrator Form - A Pre-Service Administrator form for the Principal, Mr. Bailey, has not been completed and submitted for review. Form was emailed to Ms. Poulin; facility; form must be completed by Mr. Bailey. Once Ms. Bailey completes form, submit it back to me. Mr. Baily will also need to upload her education information into the Workforce Education Unit System. In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. On or before September 17, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected as well as how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. Email the information to me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. Due to the violations cited, a follow up visit will be conducted to ensure compliance is maintained at all times. Failure to maintain compliance may result in an administrative action being issued at your facility. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Other Information: Health & Safety Training - All staff members must complete Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 within one year of being hired and every five years thereafter. New staff must complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicious of Child Maltreatment within 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. These trainings must be renewed every five years. Reminder: When completing line 17 of the staff and training worksheet, you will need to include the date that each staff member completed these required trainings. Use the Health and Safety Training Record which is found on the DCDEE website under Provider Documents and Forms to track the completion of these trainings. Certificates will need to be attached to the training record for verification purposes. Rated License Reassessment Information - Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due to be completed in March 2025. There are no cohorts anymore. Hold harmless for rated license reassessments have been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. Operators are not required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however operators may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your additional caregivers on new assessment tools if you are still interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. The new tools are the “3” versions, and I will share more information about training opportunities as they become available. Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you hire new staff or as staff complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is maintained at all times, so you must ensure you monitor staff qualifications and percentages in advance of your upcoming reassessment. Provider Portal - DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to: •See applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster •See the real-time background check status of staff members •Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits To gain access to the Provider Portal complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training on DCDEE's Moodle. The training consists of watching a short video then taking a test about the video. A certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the test. Email the certificate along with your full name, position, and Facility ID to DCDEE_ABCMS_Provider@dhhs.nc.gov to get access to the portal. Access will then be granted within 2 business days. If you have general questions, please continue to use DHHS.CBC.Unit@dhhs.nc.gov. FYI - Lead Testing – DPI Pre-K programs do not need to enroll separately as public schools will be tested as a whole. All facilities must enroll in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Steps: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-leadbased-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa. Documentation was completed electronically, signed, and emailed to Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director / Director – per her request. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: SURF CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRESCHOOL Facility ID: 71000270 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/3/2024 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 9/3/2024 Age: From 3 To 4 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose today’s visit was to monitor compliance during your annual compliance. Child care requirements pertinent to this visit type were monitored. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. This facility currently operates with a Five Star License that was issued to this facility on March 9, 2024, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 3-5 with a first shift capacity of 60, meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios minus 1. As of September 3, 2024, this facility has an 18-month compliance history of 98%. This program is operated by Pender County Schools. Due to a location change, a temporary license was issued to this facility on September 8, 2023. Sanitation Inspection – 04/02/2024 – 2 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 03/21/2024 – PASS There are four indoor spaces, and one outdoor space (kindergarten playground) approved for use; three out of the four classrooms are being utilized by NC Pre-K children. There are thirty-five children enrolled and thirty-four children, ages 3-4, were present today. Accurate attendance sheets were observed in each classroom. Each classroom had spaces arranged into activity areas that include art, literacy, computers, listening, blocks, science, library, dramatic play, manipulative, music, and writing. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible and observed in each classroom. Activity plans and daily schedules were available for each group of children and observed posted in each classroom. NC PreK students in space #7 were observed participating in free choice activities. Free choice activities included dramatic play, puzzles, blocks, playing with Play-Doh, and completing art activities. NC PreK students in spaces #6 and #8 were observed playing outside in a new fenced in area, that included one piece of stationary equipment. Prior to today’s visit, I had no knowledge of this new play area or new piece of stationary equipment. Caregivers stated equipment was installed last year after spring break. Children also completed routines and had lunch. Lunch consisted of beef fingers or creamy parmesan with creamy Italian rice, baby carrots or celery sticks, applesauce or mixed fruit, and milk. After lunch, children observed nap/rest time. Covered cots with blankets were appropriately spaced, lights were dimmed or off as soft music played making atmosphere conducive to resting. Staff/child ratios were in compliance. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. Staggered enrollment started for NC Pre-K students on August 26, 2024, and today is the first full day for all NC Pre-K students. The NC Pre-K Monitoring Tool has not been completed yet; it will be reviewed during another visit. The program follows the Pender County School calendar, the length of the day meets requirements, and all staff meet education requirements. The Creative Curriculum 5th Addition has been implemented and the assessment tool, Teaching Strategies Gold, is in place. Three formal assessments with parent conferences are scheduled throughout the school year. Portfolios are maintained on Teacher Strategies Gold by taking pictures of the children’s work and uploading them to the program. All required screenings will be completed the required timeline. There were seven violations observed today. All violations must be corrected immediately. 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. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet all applicable requirements at all times. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Violation Number Comment Rule 209 Children used space that was not approved. Facility has a new fenced outdoor play area and children were observed playing in new fenced play area today. GS 110-91(1)&(4-5) 218 Outdoor play area did not provide an area that is shaded. Children were observed playing on a new fenced outdoor play area and there was no shaded area provided. 10A NCAC 09 .1402(d) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not 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. AC unit was leaking and children were observed playing in the liquid that appeared to be water. The liquid/water was puddled; standing water can be a breeding ground for pests. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. New Principal was hired for this school year, 2024 -2025, has not completed the criminal background check process. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. A complete file for new principal was not available for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. This information was not available for new principal. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1865 The operator did not maintain the manufacturer's instructions on file electronically or in paper format for any outdoor play structures purchased or installed on or after September 1, 2017. This information for the new stationary equipment in the new fenced outdoor play area was not available. .0605(b) Comments regarding violations cited Unapproved Space and Equipment – All spaces (indoor and outdoor) and outdoor equipment must be approved prior to being used by children. Since my last visit on February 14, 2024, you have installed a new fenced outdoor play area with one piece of stationary equipment. Information for the stationary equipment was not on site and available for review. I had no knowledge of this new fenced outdoor play area and new stationary equipment prior to today’s visit. New fenced outdoor play area was measured and approved. New stationary equipment was monitored for compliance and once manufacturer’s information is received and equipment is determined to safe for children in care; it will be approved. Documentation and space calculation sheet for outdoor play area will be completed and a copy will be emailed to you regarding the number of children allowed based on square footage. Outdoor Area - An outdoor A/C unit is leaking, and I observed children playing in the liquid today. The liquid appears to be water. However, children should not be allowed to play in this water as it may possibly contain chemicals. Children are redirected from the area and kept in the area where it is safe for them to play. I would suggest that you temporarily place orange cones around the area to keep children away and as a long-term fix, possibly installing a drain. You may also want to contact maintenance to make a visit and make any necessary repairs. Also, standing water can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes, waterborne pathogens, and other harmful microorganisms that can spread diseases. Staff Records - All required paperwork, on site and off site, for Principal must be on file. All staff, including Principal, must review the Shaken Baby Head Trauma Policy and a signed acknowledgement with all the required information must be available for review. Off-Site Records Verification form for staff must include names of ALL staff members, including principals. Criminal Background Check Process/Qualifying Letter - A criminal background check for Principal, Franklin Bailey has not been completed. Mr. Bailey was hired this school year, 2024-2025. Mr. Bailey was not available, but I informed Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director and NC Pre-K Contractor that Mr. Bailey is not allowed on the premises of Surf City Elementary School until he completes the criminal background check process and obtains a qualification letter. Pre-Service Administrator Form - A Pre-Service Administrator form for the Principal, Mr. Bailey, has not been completed and submitted for review. Form was emailed to Ms. Poulin; facility; form must be completed by Mr. Bailey. Once Ms. Bailey completes form, submit it back to me. Mr. Baily will also need to upload her education information into the Workforce Education Unit System. In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. On or before September 17, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected as well as how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. Email the information to me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. Due to the violations cited, a follow up visit will be conducted to ensure compliance is maintained at all times. Failure to maintain compliance may result in an administrative action being issued at your facility. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Other Information: Health & Safety Training - All staff members must complete Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 within one year of being hired and every five years thereafter. New staff must complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicious of Child Maltreatment within 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. These trainings must be renewed every five years. Reminder: When completing line 17 of the staff and training worksheet, you will need to include the date that each staff member completed these required trainings. Use the Health and Safety Training Record which is found on the DCDEE website under Provider Documents and Forms to track the completion of these trainings. Certificates will need to be attached to the training record for verification purposes. Rated License Reassessment Information - Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due to be completed in March 2025. There are no cohorts anymore. Hold harmless for rated license reassessments have been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. Operators are not required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however operators may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your additional caregivers on new assessment tools if you are still interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. The new tools are the “3” versions, and I will share more information about training opportunities as they become available. Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you hire new staff or as staff complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is maintained at all times, so you must ensure you monitor staff qualifications and percentages in advance of your upcoming reassessment. Provider Portal - DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to: •See applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster •See the real-time background check status of staff members •Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits To gain access to the Provider Portal complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training on DCDEE's Moodle. The training consists of watching a short video then taking a test about the video. A certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the test. Email the certificate along with your full name, position, and Facility ID to DCDEE_ABCMS_Provider@dhhs.nc.gov to get access to the portal. Access will then be granted within 2 business days. If you have general questions, please continue to use DHHS.CBC.Unit@dhhs.nc.gov. FYI - Lead Testing – DPI Pre-K programs do not need to enroll separately as public schools will be tested as a whole. All facilities must enroll in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Steps: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-leadbased-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa. Documentation was completed electronically, signed, and emailed to Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director / Director – per her request. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SURF CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRESCHOOL Facility ID: 71000270 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/3/2024 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 9/3/2024 Age: From 3 To 4 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose today’s visit was to monitor compliance during your annual compliance. Child care requirements pertinent to this visit type were monitored. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. This facility currently operates with a Five Star License that was issued to this facility on March 9, 2024, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 3-5 with a first shift capacity of 60, meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios minus 1. As of September 3, 2024, this facility has an 18-month compliance history of 98%. This program is operated by Pender County Schools. Due to a location change, a temporary license was issued to this facility on September 8, 2023. Sanitation Inspection – 04/02/2024 – 2 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 03/21/2024 – PASS There are four indoor spaces, and one outdoor space (kindergarten playground) approved for use; three out of the four classrooms are being utilized by NC Pre-K children. There are thirty-five children enrolled and thirty-four children, ages 3-4, were present today. Accurate attendance sheets were observed in each classroom. Each classroom had spaces arranged into activity areas that include art, literacy, computers, listening, blocks, science, library, dramatic play, manipulative, music, and writing. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible and observed in each classroom. Activity plans and daily schedules were available for each group of children and observed posted in each classroom. NC PreK students in space #7 were observed participating in free choice activities. Free choice activities included dramatic play, puzzles, blocks, playing with Play-Doh, and completing art activities. NC PreK students in spaces #6 and #8 were observed playing outside in a new fenced in area, that included one piece of stationary equipment. Prior to today’s visit, I had no knowledge of this new play area or new piece of stationary equipment. Caregivers stated equipment was installed last year after spring break. Children also completed routines and had lunch. Lunch consisted of beef fingers or creamy parmesan with creamy Italian rice, baby carrots or celery sticks, applesauce or mixed fruit, and milk. After lunch, children observed nap/rest time. Covered cots with blankets were appropriately spaced, lights were dimmed or off as soft music played making atmosphere conducive to resting. Staff/child ratios were in compliance. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. Staggered enrollment started for NC Pre-K students on August 26, 2024, and today is the first full day for all NC Pre-K students. The NC Pre-K Monitoring Tool has not been completed yet; it will be reviewed during another visit. The program follows the Pender County School calendar, the length of the day meets requirements, and all staff meet education requirements. The Creative Curriculum 5th Addition has been implemented and the assessment tool, Teaching Strategies Gold, is in place. Three formal assessments with parent conferences are scheduled throughout the school year. Portfolios are maintained on Teacher Strategies Gold by taking pictures of the children’s work and uploading them to the program. All required screenings will be completed the required timeline. There were seven violations observed today. All violations must be corrected immediately. 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. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet all applicable requirements at all times. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Violation Number Comment Rule 209 Children used space that was not approved. Facility has a new fenced outdoor play area and children were observed playing in new fenced play area today. GS 110-91(1)&(4-5) 218 Outdoor play area did not provide an area that is shaded. Children were observed playing on a new fenced outdoor play area and there was no shaded area provided. 10A NCAC 09 .1402(d) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not 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. AC unit was leaking and children were observed playing in the liquid that appeared to be water. The liquid/water was puddled; standing water can be a breeding ground for pests. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. New Principal was hired for this school year, 2024 -2025, has not completed the criminal background check process. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. A complete file for new principal was not available for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. This information was not available for new principal. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1865 The operator did not maintain the manufacturer's instructions on file electronically or in paper format for any outdoor play structures purchased or installed on or after September 1, 2017. This information for the new stationary equipment in the new fenced outdoor play area was not available. .0605(b) Comments regarding violations cited Unapproved Space and Equipment – All spaces (indoor and outdoor) and outdoor equipment must be approved prior to being used by children. Since my last visit on February 14, 2024, you have installed a new fenced outdoor play area with one piece of stationary equipment. Information for the stationary equipment was not on site and available for review. I had no knowledge of this new fenced outdoor play area and new stationary equipment prior to today’s visit. New fenced outdoor play area was measured and approved. New stationary equipment was monitored for compliance and once manufacturer’s information is received and equipment is determined to safe for children in care; it will be approved. Documentation and space calculation sheet for outdoor play area will be completed and a copy will be emailed to you regarding the number of children allowed based on square footage. Outdoor Area - An outdoor A/C unit is leaking, and I observed children playing in the liquid today. The liquid appears to be water. However, children should not be allowed to play in this water as it may possibly contain chemicals. Children are redirected from the area and kept in the area where it is safe for them to play. I would suggest that you temporarily place orange cones around the area to keep children away and as a long-term fix, possibly installing a drain. You may also want to contact maintenance to make a visit and make any necessary repairs. Also, standing water can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes, waterborne pathogens, and other harmful microorganisms that can spread diseases. Staff Records - All required paperwork, on site and off site, for Principal must be on file. All staff, including Principal, must review the Shaken Baby Head Trauma Policy and a signed acknowledgement with all the required information must be available for review. Off-Site Records Verification form for staff must include names of ALL staff members, including principals. Criminal Background Check Process/Qualifying Letter - A criminal background check for Principal, Franklin Bailey has not been completed. Mr. Bailey was hired this school year, 2024-2025. Mr. Bailey was not available, but I informed Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director and NC Pre-K Contractor that Mr. Bailey is not allowed on the premises of Surf City Elementary School until he completes the criminal background check process and obtains a qualification letter. Pre-Service Administrator Form - A Pre-Service Administrator form for the Principal, Mr. Bailey, has not been completed and submitted for review. Form was emailed to Ms. Poulin; facility; form must be completed by Mr. Bailey. Once Ms. Bailey completes form, submit it back to me. Mr. Baily will also need to upload her education information into the Workforce Education Unit System. In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. On or before September 17, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected as well as how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. Email the information to me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. Due to the violations cited, a follow up visit will be conducted to ensure compliance is maintained at all times. Failure to maintain compliance may result in an administrative action being issued at your facility. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Other Information: Health & Safety Training - All staff members must complete Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 within one year of being hired and every five years thereafter. New staff must complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicious of Child Maltreatment within 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. These trainings must be renewed every five years. Reminder: When completing line 17 of the staff and training worksheet, you will need to include the date that each staff member completed these required trainings. Use the Health and Safety Training Record which is found on the DCDEE website under Provider Documents and Forms to track the completion of these trainings. Certificates will need to be attached to the training record for verification purposes. Rated License Reassessment Information - Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due to be completed in March 2025. There are no cohorts anymore. Hold harmless for rated license reassessments have been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. Operators are not required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however operators may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your additional caregivers on new assessment tools if you are still interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. The new tools are the “3” versions, and I will share more information about training opportunities as they become available. Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you hire new staff or as staff complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is maintained at all times, so you must ensure you monitor staff qualifications and percentages in advance of your upcoming reassessment. Provider Portal - DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to: •See applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster •See the real-time background check status of staff members •Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits To gain access to the Provider Portal complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training on DCDEE's Moodle. The training consists of watching a short video then taking a test about the video. A certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the test. Email the certificate along with your full name, position, and Facility ID to DCDEE_ABCMS_Provider@dhhs.nc.gov to get access to the portal. Access will then be granted within 2 business days. If you have general questions, please continue to use DHHS.CBC.Unit@dhhs.nc.gov. FYI - Lead Testing – DPI Pre-K programs do not need to enroll separately as public schools will be tested as a whole. All facilities must enroll in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Steps: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-leadbased-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa. Documentation was completed electronically, signed, and emailed to Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director / Director – per her request. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SURF CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRESCHOOL Facility ID: 71000270 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/14/2024 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 2/14/2024 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 85 Time In: 11:50 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for the facility’s third temporary time period visit. The facility’s Temporary License was issued September 8, 2023, and is valid through March 8, 2024. Restrictions on the permit include a first shift capacity of 60 children ages 3 to 5 years old; meets enhanced space and enhanced ratios minus one. Child Care Consultant, April Bosse, accompanied and assisted me with this visit. This facility is owned and operated by Pender County Schools. As of February 9, 2024, your facility has an eighteen-month compliance history of 97%. Sanitation Inspection – 09/25/2023 – 4 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 08/24/2023 – PASS The center had the following items posted/located in a prominent place in the center for parents and available for me to review: the Temporary License, current menu, Safe Arrival and Departure Procedure, fire drill log, emergency phone numbers, and the Summary of the NC Child Care Law. There are three classrooms are operating with forty-four children enrolled and thirty-four children present. All children were appropriately supervised. All approved indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Daily schedules were available for each group of children. Preschool children in Spaces 6, 7, and 8 were in the cafeteria eating lunch when we arrived. Lunch for today consisted of chicken fingers, peas, fruit cocktail, and milk. After exiting the cafeteria, children walked to the classrooms, placed any items in cubbies and washed hands before laying down on individual mats with individual linens. Lights were dimmed and soft music played as staff walked around the room to supervise children on mats. Staff/child ratios were in compliance. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. There are two new staff members. The files for these staff members were reviewed today. There was one violation observed today. The violation must be corrected immediately. 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. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet all applicable requirements at all times. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Violation Number Comment Rule 1835 The medical action plan was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. A child in Space 7 did not have a medical action plan on file and available for review for the inhaler provided for them. .0801(b) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received by February 20, 2024, describing how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 Comments regarding information: Action Plan - Today the Asthma Action Plan for one child in Space 3 was not on file. For any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services, a medical action plan shall be attached to the application. The medical action plan shall be completed by the child's parent or a health care professional. Today there was a permission to administer medication form on file, but you stated that the nurse did not provide you with a copy of the action plan if there was one provided. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Summary of Rated License Reassessment Information: This facility is a location change for formerly licensed North Topsail Elementary School Preschool, ID# 71000169. A location change was completed on September 8, 2023. The facility is now licensed as Surf City Elementary School Preschool, ID# 71000270 with a temporary license valid from September 8, 2023, to March 8, 2024. All points from the rated license issued to ID# 71000169 on July 6, 2022,are being carried forward to ID# 71000270 at the conclusion of the Temporary License, as follows: >Program Standards: This program meets enhanced space and enhanced ratios minus one requirements. The Environment Rating Scales were completed March 21, 2022. The facility earned a 6.28 on the ECERS-R. The facility earns 7 points in Program Standards. >Education: 7 Points based on Admin = 7, LTs = 7, Ts = 7, PC =N/A, GLs = N/A >Quality Point: Your program meets requirements for a Quality Point in the Programmatic option for having a staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. Your facility earns 1 Quality The facility will be issued a 5-star license at the expiration of their temporary license based on the last reassessment completed due to it being a location change. Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment is due to be completed in July 2025. DCDEE has developed a 3-Cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. You are in the 3rd Cohort system. We will be working together through this process, and I will provide guidance along the way. I will reach out to you prior to the beginning of the preparation year of your assigned cohort and will provide guidance to assist you as you begin the process. As discussed today, reassessments will not become mandatory again until July 1, 2024, and your facility has been placed into “Cohort 3.” Placement in this cohort means you will have from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, to plan and prepare for your reassessment, with your reassessment being due between July 1, 2026, and June 30, 2027. In your planning year, you may review resources available at www.ncrlap.org and contact Smart Start of Pender County or Region 4 CCR&R for assistance with completion of the self-study component of the environment rating scales. Your planning year is an opportunity for you to focus on the quality of your program as well as consider strategies to help maintain or increase your star rating. Ensure all staff have a WORKS account. Staff need to ensure current education information has been submitted to WORKS and they have requested the appropriate evaluation for their position. It typically takes WORKS 4-6 weeks to complete an evaluation. Documentation was completed electronically, signed, and emailed to Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director / Director – per her request. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .1703 · Violation

Name of Operation: SURF CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRESCHOOL Facility ID: 71000270 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/11/2023 Number Present: 30 Completed Date: 10/11/2023 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 75 Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 01:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for the facility’s first temporary time period visit. The facility’s Temporary License was issued September 8, 2023 and is valid through March 8, 2024. Restrictions on the permit include a first shift capacity of 60 children ages 3 to 5 years old; meets enhanced space and enhanced ratios minus one. This facility is owned and operated by Pender County Schools. As of March 10, 2023, your facility has an eighteen-month compliance history of 98%. Sanitation Inspection – 09/25/2023 – 4 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 08/24/2023 – PASS The center had the following items posted/located in a prominent place in the center for parents and available for me to review: the Temporary License, current menu, Safe Arrival and Departure Procedure, fire drill log, emergency phone numbers, and the Summary of the NC Child Care Law. There are four indoor spaces and one outdoor space(kindergarten playground) approved for use; three out of the four classrooms are being utilized by NC Pre-K children. There are thirty two children enrolled and thirty one children, ages 3-5, were present today. Accurate attendance sheets were observed in the classrooms. Each classroom had spaces arranged into activity areas that include art, literacy, computers, listening, blocks, science, library, dramatic play, manipulative, music and writing. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible and observed in each classroom. Activity plans and daily schedules were available for each group of children and observed posted in each classroom. All children in classrooms #6, #7, and #8 were observing nap/rest time. The lights were off, each child had a covered mat with blankets, and music played making the area conducive to nap time. Mats were appropriately spaced. Staff/child ratios were in compliance. All children were adequately supervised. The following violation was observed today and must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Violation Number Comment Rule 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. A substitute was working in the NC PreK classroom, space #8, without a qualifying letter. Substitute is employed full-time with Pender County Schools and works in the classroom for exceptional children and was filling in due to a regular NC PreK teacher being absent. Employee was sent back to her normal classroom and informed she cannot work/fill in until criminal background check process is complete and qualifying letter has been received. G.S. 110-90.2(b) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violation must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received October 18, 2023 describing how violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 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. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance regarding violation cited - Prior to employment in the NC PreK program, staff, including substitutes, must have completed the criminal background check process and have a valid qualification letter on file and available for review, no exceptions. S. Hong was present in space #8; she started the criminal background check process on September 28, 2023 but a qualifying letter has not been received. Ms. Hong is employed full-time with Pender County Schools and works in the classroom for exceptional children. Ms. Hong was filling in due to a regular NC PreK teacher being absent. During today’s visit, a NC PreK staff member with a valid qualification letter replaced Ms. Hong in space #8 and Ms. Hong was sent back to her normal classroom, which is not licensed, and informed she cannot work/fill in until criminal background check process is complete and qualifying letter has been received. I also spoke with Ms. Poulin and explained to her that Ms. Hong cannot be in the classroom with NC PreK children until a criminal background check is completed and qualification letter received and on file. Ms. Poulin stated she understood. Other Information: During your next temporary time period visit, children’s records and staff files will be monitored. Staff and training worksheet was emailed to Stacie Poulin, Pender County Schools Preschool Program Executive Director, to be completed and submitted to me by November 1, 2023. Ensure all children’s files, staff files, and facility/program records are current and contain all the required information. During the September 5, 2023 prelicensing visit, it was determined that a fence needed to be installed to keep children safe from traffic of school buses and cars in the parking lot, which is located in close proximity to the NC PreK building. You submitted a quote from Black Dog fencing, an incident IQ work order with information on timeframe of installation of fence, photos of the temporary fencing installed, and photos of how the unapproved playground structures have been roped off. Based on the work order for the fence to be installed, there is a timeline of four weeks. Today, I observed workers installing the fence. You will need to keep me updated regarding the completion of the installation of fence. Also, during today’s visit, a teacher in space #7 expressed interest in the possibility of the NC PreK students being allowed to play in the fenced area once the fence is installed. I advised that once the fence is installed, I could come out to measure a particular space; however, you will need to keep in mind that outdoor space is measured at 100 square feet per child. Also, there are some concerns with some tripping hazards due to water washing away sand and making ruts in that area also; this is a safety concern and should be addressed with you maintenance department Health and Safety Training These training topics outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1703(b) must be completed within the first year of employment for new staff, with the exception of Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment – it must be completed within 90 days of hire. After initial completion of Health and Safety Trainings, they must be completed every five years. Use the Health and Safety Training Record which is found on the DCDEE website under Provider Documents and Forms to track the completion of these trainings. During today visit, all existing staff have completed these trainings and trainings are documented on the required form. New staff are in the process of completed these trainings within the required timeframe. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Rated License Reassessment Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment is due to be completed in July 2025. DCDEE has developed a 3-Cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. You are in the 3rd Cohort system. We will be working together through this process, and I will provide guidance along the way. I will reach out to you prior to the beginning of the preparation year of your assigned cohort and will provide guidance to assist you as you begin the process. As discussed today, reassessments will not become mandatory again until July 1, 2024, and your facility has been placed into “Cohort 3.” Placement in this cohort means you will have from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026 to plan and prepare for your reassessment, with your reassessment being due between July 1, 2026 and June 30, 2027. In your planning year, you may review resources available at www.ncrlap.org and contact One Place for assistance. A follow-up visit will be conducted to ensure compliance with criminal background check and all applicable child care requirements are being maintained. Documentation was completed electronically, signed, and emailed to Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director / Director – per her request. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SURF CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRESCHOOL Facility ID: 71000270 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/11/2023 Number Present: 30 Completed Date: 10/11/2023 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 75 Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 01:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for the facility’s first temporary time period visit. The facility’s Temporary License was issued September 8, 2023 and is valid through March 8, 2024. Restrictions on the permit include a first shift capacity of 60 children ages 3 to 5 years old; meets enhanced space and enhanced ratios minus one. This facility is owned and operated by Pender County Schools. As of March 10, 2023, your facility has an eighteen-month compliance history of 98%. Sanitation Inspection – 09/25/2023 – 4 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 08/24/2023 – PASS The center had the following items posted/located in a prominent place in the center for parents and available for me to review: the Temporary License, current menu, Safe Arrival and Departure Procedure, fire drill log, emergency phone numbers, and the Summary of the NC Child Care Law. There are four indoor spaces and one outdoor space(kindergarten playground) approved for use; three out of the four classrooms are being utilized by NC Pre-K children. There are thirty two children enrolled and thirty one children, ages 3-5, were present today. Accurate attendance sheets were observed in the classrooms. Each classroom had spaces arranged into activity areas that include art, literacy, computers, listening, blocks, science, library, dramatic play, manipulative, music and writing. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible and observed in each classroom. Activity plans and daily schedules were available for each group of children and observed posted in each classroom. All children in classrooms #6, #7, and #8 were observing nap/rest time. The lights were off, each child had a covered mat with blankets, and music played making the area conducive to nap time. Mats were appropriately spaced. Staff/child ratios were in compliance. All children were adequately supervised. The following violation was observed today and must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Violation Number Comment Rule 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. A substitute was working in the NC PreK classroom, space #8, without a qualifying letter. Substitute is employed full-time with Pender County Schools and works in the classroom for exceptional children and was filling in due to a regular NC PreK teacher being absent. Employee was sent back to her normal classroom and informed she cannot work/fill in until criminal background check process is complete and qualifying letter has been received. G.S. 110-90.2(b) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violation must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received October 18, 2023 describing how violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 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. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance regarding violation cited - Prior to employment in the NC PreK program, staff, including substitutes, must have completed the criminal background check process and have a valid qualification letter on file and available for review, no exceptions. S. Hong was present in space #8; she started the criminal background check process on September 28, 2023 but a qualifying letter has not been received. Ms. Hong is employed full-time with Pender County Schools and works in the classroom for exceptional children. Ms. Hong was filling in due to a regular NC PreK teacher being absent. During today’s visit, a NC PreK staff member with a valid qualification letter replaced Ms. Hong in space #8 and Ms. Hong was sent back to her normal classroom, which is not licensed, and informed she cannot work/fill in until criminal background check process is complete and qualifying letter has been received. I also spoke with Ms. Poulin and explained to her that Ms. Hong cannot be in the classroom with NC PreK children until a criminal background check is completed and qualification letter received and on file. Ms. Poulin stated she understood. Other Information: During your next temporary time period visit, children’s records and staff files will be monitored. Staff and training worksheet was emailed to Stacie Poulin, Pender County Schools Preschool Program Executive Director, to be completed and submitted to me by November 1, 2023. Ensure all children’s files, staff files, and facility/program records are current and contain all the required information. During the September 5, 2023 prelicensing visit, it was determined that a fence needed to be installed to keep children safe from traffic of school buses and cars in the parking lot, which is located in close proximity to the NC PreK building. You submitted a quote from Black Dog fencing, an incident IQ work order with information on timeframe of installation of fence, photos of the temporary fencing installed, and photos of how the unapproved playground structures have been roped off. Based on the work order for the fence to be installed, there is a timeline of four weeks. Today, I observed workers installing the fence. You will need to keep me updated regarding the completion of the installation of fence. Also, during today’s visit, a teacher in space #7 expressed interest in the possibility of the NC PreK students being allowed to play in the fenced area once the fence is installed. I advised that once the fence is installed, I could come out to measure a particular space; however, you will need to keep in mind that outdoor space is measured at 100 square feet per child. Also, there are some concerns with some tripping hazards due to water washing away sand and making ruts in that area also; this is a safety concern and should be addressed with you maintenance department Health and Safety Training These training topics outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1703(b) must be completed within the first year of employment for new staff, with the exception of Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment – it must be completed within 90 days of hire. After initial completion of Health and Safety Trainings, they must be completed every five years. Use the Health and Safety Training Record which is found on the DCDEE website under Provider Documents and Forms to track the completion of these trainings. During today visit, all existing staff have completed these trainings and trainings are documented on the required form. New staff are in the process of completed these trainings within the required timeframe. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Rated License Reassessment Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment is due to be completed in July 2025. DCDEE has developed a 3-Cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. You are in the 3rd Cohort system. We will be working together through this process, and I will provide guidance along the way. I will reach out to you prior to the beginning of the preparation year of your assigned cohort and will provide guidance to assist you as you begin the process. As discussed today, reassessments will not become mandatory again until July 1, 2024, and your facility has been placed into “Cohort 3.” Placement in this cohort means you will have from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026 to plan and prepare for your reassessment, with your reassessment being due between July 1, 2026 and June 30, 2027. In your planning year, you may review resources available at www.ncrlap.org and contact One Place for assistance. A follow-up visit will be conducted to ensure compliance with criminal background check and all applicable child care requirements are being maintained. Documentation was completed electronically, signed, and emailed to Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director / Director – per her request. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SURF CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRESCHOOL Facility ID: 71000270 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/11/2023 Number Present: 30 Completed Date: 10/11/2023 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 75 Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 01:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for the facility’s first temporary time period visit. The facility’s Temporary License was issued September 8, 2023 and is valid through March 8, 2024. Restrictions on the permit include a first shift capacity of 60 children ages 3 to 5 years old; meets enhanced space and enhanced ratios minus one. This facility is owned and operated by Pender County Schools. As of March 10, 2023, your facility has an eighteen-month compliance history of 98%. Sanitation Inspection – 09/25/2023 – 4 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 08/24/2023 – PASS The center had the following items posted/located in a prominent place in the center for parents and available for me to review: the Temporary License, current menu, Safe Arrival and Departure Procedure, fire drill log, emergency phone numbers, and the Summary of the NC Child Care Law. There are four indoor spaces and one outdoor space(kindergarten playground) approved for use; three out of the four classrooms are being utilized by NC Pre-K children. There are thirty two children enrolled and thirty one children, ages 3-5, were present today. Accurate attendance sheets were observed in the classrooms. Each classroom had spaces arranged into activity areas that include art, literacy, computers, listening, blocks, science, library, dramatic play, manipulative, music and writing. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible and observed in each classroom. Activity plans and daily schedules were available for each group of children and observed posted in each classroom. All children in classrooms #6, #7, and #8 were observing nap/rest time. The lights were off, each child had a covered mat with blankets, and music played making the area conducive to nap time. Mats were appropriately spaced. Staff/child ratios were in compliance. All children were adequately supervised. The following violation was observed today and must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Violation Number Comment Rule 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. A substitute was working in the NC PreK classroom, space #8, without a qualifying letter. Substitute is employed full-time with Pender County Schools and works in the classroom for exceptional children and was filling in due to a regular NC PreK teacher being absent. Employee was sent back to her normal classroom and informed she cannot work/fill in until criminal background check process is complete and qualifying letter has been received. G.S. 110-90.2(b) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violation must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received October 18, 2023 describing how violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 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. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance regarding violation cited - Prior to employment in the NC PreK program, staff, including substitutes, must have completed the criminal background check process and have a valid qualification letter on file and available for review, no exceptions. S. Hong was present in space #8; she started the criminal background check process on September 28, 2023 but a qualifying letter has not been received. Ms. Hong is employed full-time with Pender County Schools and works in the classroom for exceptional children. Ms. Hong was filling in due to a regular NC PreK teacher being absent. During today’s visit, a NC PreK staff member with a valid qualification letter replaced Ms. Hong in space #8 and Ms. Hong was sent back to her normal classroom, which is not licensed, and informed she cannot work/fill in until criminal background check process is complete and qualifying letter has been received. I also spoke with Ms. Poulin and explained to her that Ms. Hong cannot be in the classroom with NC PreK children until a criminal background check is completed and qualification letter received and on file. Ms. Poulin stated she understood. Other Information: During your next temporary time period visit, children’s records and staff files will be monitored. Staff and training worksheet was emailed to Stacie Poulin, Pender County Schools Preschool Program Executive Director, to be completed and submitted to me by November 1, 2023. Ensure all children’s files, staff files, and facility/program records are current and contain all the required information. During the September 5, 2023 prelicensing visit, it was determined that a fence needed to be installed to keep children safe from traffic of school buses and cars in the parking lot, which is located in close proximity to the NC PreK building. You submitted a quote from Black Dog fencing, an incident IQ work order with information on timeframe of installation of fence, photos of the temporary fencing installed, and photos of how the unapproved playground structures have been roped off. Based on the work order for the fence to be installed, there is a timeline of four weeks. Today, I observed workers installing the fence. You will need to keep me updated regarding the completion of the installation of fence. Also, during today’s visit, a teacher in space #7 expressed interest in the possibility of the NC PreK students being allowed to play in the fenced area once the fence is installed. I advised that once the fence is installed, I could come out to measure a particular space; however, you will need to keep in mind that outdoor space is measured at 100 square feet per child. Also, there are some concerns with some tripping hazards due to water washing away sand and making ruts in that area also; this is a safety concern and should be addressed with you maintenance department Health and Safety Training These training topics outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1703(b) must be completed within the first year of employment for new staff, with the exception of Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment – it must be completed within 90 days of hire. After initial completion of Health and Safety Trainings, they must be completed every five years. Use the Health and Safety Training Record which is found on the DCDEE website under Provider Documents and Forms to track the completion of these trainings. During today visit, all existing staff have completed these trainings and trainings are documented on the required form. New staff are in the process of completed these trainings within the required timeframe. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Rated License Reassessment Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment is due to be completed in July 2025. DCDEE has developed a 3-Cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. You are in the 3rd Cohort system. We will be working together through this process, and I will provide guidance along the way. I will reach out to you prior to the beginning of the preparation year of your assigned cohort and will provide guidance to assist you as you begin the process. As discussed today, reassessments will not become mandatory again until July 1, 2024, and your facility has been placed into “Cohort 3.” Placement in this cohort means you will have from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026 to plan and prepare for your reassessment, with your reassessment being due between July 1, 2026 and June 30, 2027. In your planning year, you may review resources available at www.ncrlap.org and contact One Place for assistance. A follow-up visit will be conducted to ensure compliance with criminal background check and all applicable child care requirements are being maintained. Documentation was completed electronically, signed, and emailed to Stacie Poulin, PCS Preschool Program Executive Director / Director – per her request. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times