Steps To Hope Academy

10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/8/2026 Number Present: 29 Completed Date: 6/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:05 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 limited child care requirements and review the rated license during the third temporary time period visit. This facility is on a temporary license due to a change of ownership. Dawn McCrary, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on the visit. Carrie Jo Fienne, Administrator, was on-site and available to answer and ask questions. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and reviewed with you. The printed visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy left with you. A copy was also emailed to Kim Rath, Legal Operator. Currently this center operates with a Temporary License, issued 2/2/26 and is effective through 8/2/26. The restrictions include first shift only for fifty-nine (59) children, ages 0-12 years old, meets enhanced ratios and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and the organization, STH Ventures Inc., is listed as active-current. If any changes to the organization need to be made, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The approved fire inspection was completed on 3/17/26. The last fire drill was practiced on 5/19/26. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 4/29/26. The last playground inspection was completed on 5/19/26. The emergency medical care (EMC) plan was posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. A sanitation inspection was conducted on 3/6/26 with thirteen (13) demerits for a Superior rating. Lead water test results were completed on 1/27/25. Per the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, the building was built in 1984 and is not subject to lead based paint testing and after asbestos testing, no hazards were identified. An approved building inspection dated 4/22/26 with five (5) rooms approved for occupancy by children was received. The original was collected during the visit. The EPR plan was on 5/6/26. The children were observed during routine care, free play, and outdoor play. Teachers were engaged with children. Adequate supervision was provided during the walk through. Three (3) new staff files were reviewed. There was limited monitoring of existing staff files. All staff files had application reviews to determine the number of years of early childhood experience. To serve children on subsidy vouchers, the facility must transition to a three-star license or higher. If the facility cannot achieve a three-star license or higher, no children can be served that receive subsidy vouchers. A rated license application was received on 5/22/26 and you have chosen the classroom and instructional quality pathway instead of the program assessment pathway due to staff not completing the three-month self-study. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 431 The activity plan did not provide at least 4 different activities daily listed in GS 110-91(12): art/creative play; books; blocks; manipulatives; and family living and dramatic play, including one of which is outdoors if weather conditions permit. The activity plans throughout the facility did not provide at least 4 different activities daily. .0508(g)(2) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Outdoor space #1 has multiple pieces of equipment with rust; cycles, drums, train, and xylophone. .0601(c) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. One (1) staff hired on 4/28/26 only had four (4) hours of new staff orientation training within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. Five (5) staff have not been assigned to the child care facility in the ABCMS provider portal. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement on or before 6/22/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243-2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Achieving Compliance – rule references are noted in the cited violations * Safe Outdoor Environment – Item #705 To achieve compliance, the equipment with rust will need to be made inaccessible to children and repaired by sanding/painting. Rust presents a direct threat to human health. While the rust itself is generally non-toxic if ingested, it acts as a carrier for dangerous bacteria. *Activity Plans – Item #431 To achieve compliance, blocks and block building, art and other creative play, manipulatives, and/or dramatic play would be added to activity plans. For minimum requirements, activity plans must include required activities for a variety of experiences in the activity areas. *DCDEE Criminal Background Check (CBC) report of new and terminated staff – Item #1805 To achieve compliance, the five (5) staff, R. Vasquez, E. Lopez, E. Terry, and J. Hubbard must be added to the Automatic Background Check Management System (ABCMS) provider portal and assigned to the facility. There was one (1) staff that needs to be terminated from the facility. This is a repeat violation from 4/20/26. *New Staff Orientation Documentation – Item #1067 To achieve compliance, an additional two (2) hours of training on the required topics. Having a complete new staff orientation on the topics required helps staff better understand what is required at the child care facility. The program must maintain a 75% or higher compliance history score to be eligible for a 2-5 star rated license. We discussed you chose the classroom and instructional quality pathway and referred to the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES. The following was verified to be in process or completed for the classroom and instructional quality pathway based on star level met. 10A NCAC 09 .3205 CLASSROOM AND INSTRUCTIONAL QUALITY PATHWAY FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *You stated you would like to choose enhanced staff/child ratios and enhanced space options at the four star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3209 REDUCED, ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes for a rated license for child care centers. (b) Enhanced staff/child ratio means that the center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 1 Year 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 10A NCAC 09 .3210 ENHANCED SPACE REQUIRMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS In order for a child care center to meet enhanced space requirements: (1) There shall be at least 30 square feet inside space per child per the total licensed capacity and 100 square feet outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time; and (2) There shall be an area that can be arranged for administrative and private conference activities. *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices through the planning phase were verified based on the potential star level earned. Reminder that the practices must be implemented and maintained. *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement (CQI) plans for the facility and individual staff. The CQI plan for the facility has been started and is in process; the form was collected during the visit. The facility CQI plan must be completed within one year. The individual CQI plans for staff have been started and are in process. The staff CQI plans must be completed by each staff member’s one year. Reminder that the CQI plans are continuous and once one is completed, another must be started to meet this annual requirement. *Evidence of the administrator completing training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children. Training certificate for the Creative Curriculum was not available for review for the administrator. The training certificate for Teaching Strategies Gold assessment was available for review for the administrator. You stated you will take the Infant/Toddler/2 and Preschool trainings for Creative Curriculum and email me the certificates for review. *Evidence of the administrator participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f,10). You stated you plan to complete five (5) additional annual training hours. Reminder that this is annual requirement and must be completed within the first year upon issuance of the rated license, and every year thereafter. This is also in addition to annual on-going training requirements. * Evidence of all lead teachers participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f, 11). You stated the lead teachers plan to complete five (5) hours of coaching/mentoring. Reminder that this is annual requirement and must be completed within the first year upon issuance of the rated license, and every year thereafter. This is also in addition to annual on-going training requirements. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. All staff were due to have education evaluated by WORKS on or before 5/15/26. If staff have DCDEE WORKS accounts without education evaluated for their position or do not have a DCDEE WORKS account, then it may result in a one star level for education. *C. Fiene, Administrator – DCDEE WORKS account shows meets Level III Administrator equivalency *S. Clay, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows meets LT requirements plus nine (9) additional semester hours in early childhood development *C. Martinez, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows meets LT requirements plus eleven (11) additional semester hours in early childhood development *E. Terry, Lead Teacher - DCDEE WORKS account shows no education to evaluate *J. Hubbard, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows pending evaluation for lead teacher position *V. Fowler, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows a two year degree in early childhood education *R. Vasquez-Gomez, Teacher - DCDEE WORKS account shows registration in process *Evidence of implementing a curriculum that has been approved by the Commission. The curriculum implemented Creative Curriculum. An invoice is needed to verify the Creative Curriculum is accessible. The SmartTeach app is being used to create the activity plans. *Evidence of conducting on-going formative assessments that have been approved by the Commission and sharing results with parents at least twice annually. The approved assessment used is teaching strategies gold and an invoice is needed to verify the assessment is accessible. It was verified that on-going formative assessments will be shared with parents during the months of July and January, and at least once per year is required at the four star level. This is an on-going requirement at the four star level. Lead teachers plan to make anecdotal notes, take photos, work samples, etc. Based on staff with education in their DCDEE WORKS accounts and options to complete CEUs, a four-star license can be achieved. The recognition of quality initiatives has not emailed to me. This will need to be received by the week of 6/29/26 if you choose. Consultation: The compliance history of the facility prior to today’s visit was eighty-six percent (86%). An email was received from Kim Rath to request an age range change from 0-12 years to 0-5 years. Based on space #4, there is not a direct exit to the outdoors. A restriction will be added to the license to state that children under 2.5 years must be in rooms with direct exits. The file for the facility will be transferred to Dawn McCrary, Child Care Consultant, once the rated license has been issued. You can contact Ms. McCrary at dawn.mccrary@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.556.3088. We discussed that the cardboard blocks in space #3 are starting to show wear and may need repair or replacement. We discussed the sanitation requirement below. A plan is needed determine where the cots from space #4 can be stored, since storage is not allowed in the bathroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2818 LAVATORIES (a) In child care centers, lavatories shall be kept clean and in good repair and shall not be used for storage. ... We discussed health and safety training rule below. E. Terry is due to complete Health and Safety training by one year of employment, 6/23/26. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment…. Below are a couple of resource websites for natural playgrounds: https://naturalearning.org/ https://natureexplore.org/ Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or my supervisor, Bonnie Mathis at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .3205 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/8/2026 Number Present: 29 Completed Date: 6/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:05 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 limited child care requirements and review the rated license during the third temporary time period visit. This facility is on a temporary license due to a change of ownership. Dawn McCrary, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on the visit. Carrie Jo Fienne, Administrator, was on-site and available to answer and ask questions. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and reviewed with you. The printed visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy left with you. A copy was also emailed to Kim Rath, Legal Operator. Currently this center operates with a Temporary License, issued 2/2/26 and is effective through 8/2/26. The restrictions include first shift only for fifty-nine (59) children, ages 0-12 years old, meets enhanced ratios and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and the organization, STH Ventures Inc., is listed as active-current. If any changes to the organization need to be made, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The approved fire inspection was completed on 3/17/26. The last fire drill was practiced on 5/19/26. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 4/29/26. The last playground inspection was completed on 5/19/26. The emergency medical care (EMC) plan was posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. A sanitation inspection was conducted on 3/6/26 with thirteen (13) demerits for a Superior rating. Lead water test results were completed on 1/27/25. Per the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, the building was built in 1984 and is not subject to lead based paint testing and after asbestos testing, no hazards were identified. An approved building inspection dated 4/22/26 with five (5) rooms approved for occupancy by children was received. The original was collected during the visit. The EPR plan was on 5/6/26. The children were observed during routine care, free play, and outdoor play. Teachers were engaged with children. Adequate supervision was provided during the walk through. Three (3) new staff files were reviewed. There was limited monitoring of existing staff files. All staff files had application reviews to determine the number of years of early childhood experience. To serve children on subsidy vouchers, the facility must transition to a three-star license or higher. If the facility cannot achieve a three-star license or higher, no children can be served that receive subsidy vouchers. A rated license application was received on 5/22/26 and you have chosen the classroom and instructional quality pathway instead of the program assessment pathway due to staff not completing the three-month self-study. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 431 The activity plan did not provide at least 4 different activities daily listed in GS 110-91(12): art/creative play; books; blocks; manipulatives; and family living and dramatic play, including one of which is outdoors if weather conditions permit. The activity plans throughout the facility did not provide at least 4 different activities daily. .0508(g)(2) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Outdoor space #1 has multiple pieces of equipment with rust; cycles, drums, train, and xylophone. .0601(c) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. One (1) staff hired on 4/28/26 only had four (4) hours of new staff orientation training within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. Five (5) staff have not been assigned to the child care facility in the ABCMS provider portal. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement on or before 6/22/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243-2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Achieving Compliance – rule references are noted in the cited violations * Safe Outdoor Environment – Item #705 To achieve compliance, the equipment with rust will need to be made inaccessible to children and repaired by sanding/painting. Rust presents a direct threat to human health. While the rust itself is generally non-toxic if ingested, it acts as a carrier for dangerous bacteria. *Activity Plans – Item #431 To achieve compliance, blocks and block building, art and other creative play, manipulatives, and/or dramatic play would be added to activity plans. For minimum requirements, activity plans must include required activities for a variety of experiences in the activity areas. *DCDEE Criminal Background Check (CBC) report of new and terminated staff – Item #1805 To achieve compliance, the five (5) staff, R. Vasquez, E. Lopez, E. Terry, and J. Hubbard must be added to the Automatic Background Check Management System (ABCMS) provider portal and assigned to the facility. There was one (1) staff that needs to be terminated from the facility. This is a repeat violation from 4/20/26. *New Staff Orientation Documentation – Item #1067 To achieve compliance, an additional two (2) hours of training on the required topics. Having a complete new staff orientation on the topics required helps staff better understand what is required at the child care facility. The program must maintain a 75% or higher compliance history score to be eligible for a 2-5 star rated license. We discussed you chose the classroom and instructional quality pathway and referred to the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES. The following was verified to be in process or completed for the classroom and instructional quality pathway based on star level met. 10A NCAC 09 .3205 CLASSROOM AND INSTRUCTIONAL QUALITY PATHWAY FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *You stated you would like to choose enhanced staff/child ratios and enhanced space options at the four star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3209 REDUCED, ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes for a rated license for child care centers. (b) Enhanced staff/child ratio means that the center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 1 Year 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 10A NCAC 09 .3210 ENHANCED SPACE REQUIRMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS In order for a child care center to meet enhanced space requirements: (1) There shall be at least 30 square feet inside space per child per the total licensed capacity and 100 square feet outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time; and (2) There shall be an area that can be arranged for administrative and private conference activities. *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices through the planning phase were verified based on the potential star level earned. Reminder that the practices must be implemented and maintained. *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement (CQI) plans for the facility and individual staff. The CQI plan for the facility has been started and is in process; the form was collected during the visit. The facility CQI plan must be completed within one year. The individual CQI plans for staff have been started and are in process. The staff CQI plans must be completed by each staff member’s one year. Reminder that the CQI plans are continuous and once one is completed, another must be started to meet this annual requirement. *Evidence of the administrator completing training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children. Training certificate for the Creative Curriculum was not available for review for the administrator. The training certificate for Teaching Strategies Gold assessment was available for review for the administrator. You stated you will take the Infant/Toddler/2 and Preschool trainings for Creative Curriculum and email me the certificates for review. *Evidence of the administrator participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f,10). You stated you plan to complete five (5) additional annual training hours. Reminder that this is annual requirement and must be completed within the first year upon issuance of the rated license, and every year thereafter. This is also in addition to annual on-going training requirements. * Evidence of all lead teachers participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f, 11). You stated the lead teachers plan to complete five (5) hours of coaching/mentoring. Reminder that this is annual requirement and must be completed within the first year upon issuance of the rated license, and every year thereafter. This is also in addition to annual on-going training requirements. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. All staff were due to have education evaluated by WORKS on or before 5/15/26. If staff have DCDEE WORKS accounts without education evaluated for their position or do not have a DCDEE WORKS account, then it may result in a one star level for education. *C. Fiene, Administrator – DCDEE WORKS account shows meets Level III Administrator equivalency *S. Clay, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows meets LT requirements plus nine (9) additional semester hours in early childhood development *C. Martinez, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows meets LT requirements plus eleven (11) additional semester hours in early childhood development *E. Terry, Lead Teacher - DCDEE WORKS account shows no education to evaluate *J. Hubbard, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows pending evaluation for lead teacher position *V. Fowler, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows a two year degree in early childhood education *R. Vasquez-Gomez, Teacher - DCDEE WORKS account shows registration in process *Evidence of implementing a curriculum that has been approved by the Commission. The curriculum implemented Creative Curriculum. An invoice is needed to verify the Creative Curriculum is accessible. The SmartTeach app is being used to create the activity plans. *Evidence of conducting on-going formative assessments that have been approved by the Commission and sharing results with parents at least twice annually. The approved assessment used is teaching strategies gold and an invoice is needed to verify the assessment is accessible. It was verified that on-going formative assessments will be shared with parents during the months of July and January, and at least once per year is required at the four star level. This is an on-going requirement at the four star level. Lead teachers plan to make anecdotal notes, take photos, work samples, etc. Based on staff with education in their DCDEE WORKS accounts and options to complete CEUs, a four-star license can be achieved. The recognition of quality initiatives has not emailed to me. This will need to be received by the week of 6/29/26 if you choose. Consultation: The compliance history of the facility prior to today’s visit was eighty-six percent (86%). An email was received from Kim Rath to request an age range change from 0-12 years to 0-5 years. Based on space #4, there is not a direct exit to the outdoors. A restriction will be added to the license to state that children under 2.5 years must be in rooms with direct exits. The file for the facility will be transferred to Dawn McCrary, Child Care Consultant, once the rated license has been issued. You can contact Ms. McCrary at dawn.mccrary@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.556.3088. We discussed that the cardboard blocks in space #3 are starting to show wear and may need repair or replacement. We discussed the sanitation requirement below. A plan is needed determine where the cots from space #4 can be stored, since storage is not allowed in the bathroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2818 LAVATORIES (a) In child care centers, lavatories shall be kept clean and in good repair and shall not be used for storage. ... We discussed health and safety training rule below. E. Terry is due to complete Health and Safety training by one year of employment, 6/23/26. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment…. Below are a couple of resource websites for natural playgrounds: https://naturalearning.org/ https://natureexplore.org/ Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or my supervisor, Bonnie Mathis at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .3209 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/8/2026 Number Present: 29 Completed Date: 6/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:05 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 limited child care requirements and review the rated license during the third temporary time period visit. This facility is on a temporary license due to a change of ownership. Dawn McCrary, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on the visit. Carrie Jo Fienne, Administrator, was on-site and available to answer and ask questions. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and reviewed with you. The printed visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy left with you. A copy was also emailed to Kim Rath, Legal Operator. Currently this center operates with a Temporary License, issued 2/2/26 and is effective through 8/2/26. The restrictions include first shift only for fifty-nine (59) children, ages 0-12 years old, meets enhanced ratios and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and the organization, STH Ventures Inc., is listed as active-current. If any changes to the organization need to be made, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The approved fire inspection was completed on 3/17/26. The last fire drill was practiced on 5/19/26. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 4/29/26. The last playground inspection was completed on 5/19/26. The emergency medical care (EMC) plan was posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. A sanitation inspection was conducted on 3/6/26 with thirteen (13) demerits for a Superior rating. Lead water test results were completed on 1/27/25. Per the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, the building was built in 1984 and is not subject to lead based paint testing and after asbestos testing, no hazards were identified. An approved building inspection dated 4/22/26 with five (5) rooms approved for occupancy by children was received. The original was collected during the visit. The EPR plan was on 5/6/26. The children were observed during routine care, free play, and outdoor play. Teachers were engaged with children. Adequate supervision was provided during the walk through. Three (3) new staff files were reviewed. There was limited monitoring of existing staff files. All staff files had application reviews to determine the number of years of early childhood experience. To serve children on subsidy vouchers, the facility must transition to a three-star license or higher. If the facility cannot achieve a three-star license or higher, no children can be served that receive subsidy vouchers. A rated license application was received on 5/22/26 and you have chosen the classroom and instructional quality pathway instead of the program assessment pathway due to staff not completing the three-month self-study. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 431 The activity plan did not provide at least 4 different activities daily listed in GS 110-91(12): art/creative play; books; blocks; manipulatives; and family living and dramatic play, including one of which is outdoors if weather conditions permit. The activity plans throughout the facility did not provide at least 4 different activities daily. .0508(g)(2) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Outdoor space #1 has multiple pieces of equipment with rust; cycles, drums, train, and xylophone. .0601(c) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. One (1) staff hired on 4/28/26 only had four (4) hours of new staff orientation training within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. Five (5) staff have not been assigned to the child care facility in the ABCMS provider portal. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement on or before 6/22/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243-2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Achieving Compliance – rule references are noted in the cited violations * Safe Outdoor Environment – Item #705 To achieve compliance, the equipment with rust will need to be made inaccessible to children and repaired by sanding/painting. Rust presents a direct threat to human health. While the rust itself is generally non-toxic if ingested, it acts as a carrier for dangerous bacteria. *Activity Plans – Item #431 To achieve compliance, blocks and block building, art and other creative play, manipulatives, and/or dramatic play would be added to activity plans. For minimum requirements, activity plans must include required activities for a variety of experiences in the activity areas. *DCDEE Criminal Background Check (CBC) report of new and terminated staff – Item #1805 To achieve compliance, the five (5) staff, R. Vasquez, E. Lopez, E. Terry, and J. Hubbard must be added to the Automatic Background Check Management System (ABCMS) provider portal and assigned to the facility. There was one (1) staff that needs to be terminated from the facility. This is a repeat violation from 4/20/26. *New Staff Orientation Documentation – Item #1067 To achieve compliance, an additional two (2) hours of training on the required topics. Having a complete new staff orientation on the topics required helps staff better understand what is required at the child care facility. The program must maintain a 75% or higher compliance history score to be eligible for a 2-5 star rated license. We discussed you chose the classroom and instructional quality pathway and referred to the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES. The following was verified to be in process or completed for the classroom and instructional quality pathway based on star level met. 10A NCAC 09 .3205 CLASSROOM AND INSTRUCTIONAL QUALITY PATHWAY FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *You stated you would like to choose enhanced staff/child ratios and enhanced space options at the four star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3209 REDUCED, ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes for a rated license for child care centers. (b) Enhanced staff/child ratio means that the center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 1 Year 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 10A NCAC 09 .3210 ENHANCED SPACE REQUIRMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS In order for a child care center to meet enhanced space requirements: (1) There shall be at least 30 square feet inside space per child per the total licensed capacity and 100 square feet outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time; and (2) There shall be an area that can be arranged for administrative and private conference activities. *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices through the planning phase were verified based on the potential star level earned. Reminder that the practices must be implemented and maintained. *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement (CQI) plans for the facility and individual staff. The CQI plan for the facility has been started and is in process; the form was collected during the visit. The facility CQI plan must be completed within one year. The individual CQI plans for staff have been started and are in process. The staff CQI plans must be completed by each staff member’s one year. Reminder that the CQI plans are continuous and once one is completed, another must be started to meet this annual requirement. *Evidence of the administrator completing training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children. Training certificate for the Creative Curriculum was not available for review for the administrator. The training certificate for Teaching Strategies Gold assessment was available for review for the administrator. You stated you will take the Infant/Toddler/2 and Preschool trainings for Creative Curriculum and email me the certificates for review. *Evidence of the administrator participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f,10). You stated you plan to complete five (5) additional annual training hours. Reminder that this is annual requirement and must be completed within the first year upon issuance of the rated license, and every year thereafter. This is also in addition to annual on-going training requirements. * Evidence of all lead teachers participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f, 11). You stated the lead teachers plan to complete five (5) hours of coaching/mentoring. Reminder that this is annual requirement and must be completed within the first year upon issuance of the rated license, and every year thereafter. This is also in addition to annual on-going training requirements. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. All staff were due to have education evaluated by WORKS on or before 5/15/26. If staff have DCDEE WORKS accounts without education evaluated for their position or do not have a DCDEE WORKS account, then it may result in a one star level for education. *C. Fiene, Administrator – DCDEE WORKS account shows meets Level III Administrator equivalency *S. Clay, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows meets LT requirements plus nine (9) additional semester hours in early childhood development *C. Martinez, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows meets LT requirements plus eleven (11) additional semester hours in early childhood development *E. Terry, Lead Teacher - DCDEE WORKS account shows no education to evaluate *J. Hubbard, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows pending evaluation for lead teacher position *V. Fowler, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows a two year degree in early childhood education *R. Vasquez-Gomez, Teacher - DCDEE WORKS account shows registration in process *Evidence of implementing a curriculum that has been approved by the Commission. The curriculum implemented Creative Curriculum. An invoice is needed to verify the Creative Curriculum is accessible. The SmartTeach app is being used to create the activity plans. *Evidence of conducting on-going formative assessments that have been approved by the Commission and sharing results with parents at least twice annually. The approved assessment used is teaching strategies gold and an invoice is needed to verify the assessment is accessible. It was verified that on-going formative assessments will be shared with parents during the months of July and January, and at least once per year is required at the four star level. This is an on-going requirement at the four star level. Lead teachers plan to make anecdotal notes, take photos, work samples, etc. Based on staff with education in their DCDEE WORKS accounts and options to complete CEUs, a four-star license can be achieved. The recognition of quality initiatives has not emailed to me. This will need to be received by the week of 6/29/26 if you choose. Consultation: The compliance history of the facility prior to today’s visit was eighty-six percent (86%). An email was received from Kim Rath to request an age range change from 0-12 years to 0-5 years. Based on space #4, there is not a direct exit to the outdoors. A restriction will be added to the license to state that children under 2.5 years must be in rooms with direct exits. The file for the facility will be transferred to Dawn McCrary, Child Care Consultant, once the rated license has been issued. You can contact Ms. McCrary at dawn.mccrary@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.556.3088. We discussed that the cardboard blocks in space #3 are starting to show wear and may need repair or replacement. We discussed the sanitation requirement below. A plan is needed determine where the cots from space #4 can be stored, since storage is not allowed in the bathroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2818 LAVATORIES (a) In child care centers, lavatories shall be kept clean and in good repair and shall not be used for storage. ... We discussed health and safety training rule below. E. Terry is due to complete Health and Safety training by one year of employment, 6/23/26. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment…. Below are a couple of resource websites for natural playgrounds: https://naturalearning.org/ https://natureexplore.org/ Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or my supervisor, Bonnie Mathis at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .3210 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/8/2026 Number Present: 29 Completed Date: 6/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:05 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 limited child care requirements and review the rated license during the third temporary time period visit. This facility is on a temporary license due to a change of ownership. Dawn McCrary, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on the visit. Carrie Jo Fienne, Administrator, was on-site and available to answer and ask questions. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and reviewed with you. The printed visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy left with you. A copy was also emailed to Kim Rath, Legal Operator. Currently this center operates with a Temporary License, issued 2/2/26 and is effective through 8/2/26. The restrictions include first shift only for fifty-nine (59) children, ages 0-12 years old, meets enhanced ratios and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and the organization, STH Ventures Inc., is listed as active-current. If any changes to the organization need to be made, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The approved fire inspection was completed on 3/17/26. The last fire drill was practiced on 5/19/26. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 4/29/26. The last playground inspection was completed on 5/19/26. The emergency medical care (EMC) plan was posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. A sanitation inspection was conducted on 3/6/26 with thirteen (13) demerits for a Superior rating. Lead water test results were completed on 1/27/25. Per the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, the building was built in 1984 and is not subject to lead based paint testing and after asbestos testing, no hazards were identified. An approved building inspection dated 4/22/26 with five (5) rooms approved for occupancy by children was received. The original was collected during the visit. The EPR plan was on 5/6/26. The children were observed during routine care, free play, and outdoor play. Teachers were engaged with children. Adequate supervision was provided during the walk through. Three (3) new staff files were reviewed. There was limited monitoring of existing staff files. All staff files had application reviews to determine the number of years of early childhood experience. To serve children on subsidy vouchers, the facility must transition to a three-star license or higher. If the facility cannot achieve a three-star license or higher, no children can be served that receive subsidy vouchers. A rated license application was received on 5/22/26 and you have chosen the classroom and instructional quality pathway instead of the program assessment pathway due to staff not completing the three-month self-study. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 431 The activity plan did not provide at least 4 different activities daily listed in GS 110-91(12): art/creative play; books; blocks; manipulatives; and family living and dramatic play, including one of which is outdoors if weather conditions permit. The activity plans throughout the facility did not provide at least 4 different activities daily. .0508(g)(2) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Outdoor space #1 has multiple pieces of equipment with rust; cycles, drums, train, and xylophone. .0601(c) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. One (1) staff hired on 4/28/26 only had four (4) hours of new staff orientation training within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. Five (5) staff have not been assigned to the child care facility in the ABCMS provider portal. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement on or before 6/22/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243-2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Achieving Compliance – rule references are noted in the cited violations * Safe Outdoor Environment – Item #705 To achieve compliance, the equipment with rust will need to be made inaccessible to children and repaired by sanding/painting. Rust presents a direct threat to human health. While the rust itself is generally non-toxic if ingested, it acts as a carrier for dangerous bacteria. *Activity Plans – Item #431 To achieve compliance, blocks and block building, art and other creative play, manipulatives, and/or dramatic play would be added to activity plans. For minimum requirements, activity plans must include required activities for a variety of experiences in the activity areas. *DCDEE Criminal Background Check (CBC) report of new and terminated staff – Item #1805 To achieve compliance, the five (5) staff, R. Vasquez, E. Lopez, E. Terry, and J. Hubbard must be added to the Automatic Background Check Management System (ABCMS) provider portal and assigned to the facility. There was one (1) staff that needs to be terminated from the facility. This is a repeat violation from 4/20/26. *New Staff Orientation Documentation – Item #1067 To achieve compliance, an additional two (2) hours of training on the required topics. Having a complete new staff orientation on the topics required helps staff better understand what is required at the child care facility. The program must maintain a 75% or higher compliance history score to be eligible for a 2-5 star rated license. We discussed you chose the classroom and instructional quality pathway and referred to the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES. The following was verified to be in process or completed for the classroom and instructional quality pathway based on star level met. 10A NCAC 09 .3205 CLASSROOM AND INSTRUCTIONAL QUALITY PATHWAY FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *You stated you would like to choose enhanced staff/child ratios and enhanced space options at the four star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3209 REDUCED, ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes for a rated license for child care centers. (b) Enhanced staff/child ratio means that the center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 1 Year 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 10A NCAC 09 .3210 ENHANCED SPACE REQUIRMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS In order for a child care center to meet enhanced space requirements: (1) There shall be at least 30 square feet inside space per child per the total licensed capacity and 100 square feet outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time; and (2) There shall be an area that can be arranged for administrative and private conference activities. *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices through the planning phase were verified based on the potential star level earned. Reminder that the practices must be implemented and maintained. *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement (CQI) plans for the facility and individual staff. The CQI plan for the facility has been started and is in process; the form was collected during the visit. The facility CQI plan must be completed within one year. The individual CQI plans for staff have been started and are in process. The staff CQI plans must be completed by each staff member’s one year. Reminder that the CQI plans are continuous and once one is completed, another must be started to meet this annual requirement. *Evidence of the administrator completing training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children. Training certificate for the Creative Curriculum was not available for review for the administrator. The training certificate for Teaching Strategies Gold assessment was available for review for the administrator. You stated you will take the Infant/Toddler/2 and Preschool trainings for Creative Curriculum and email me the certificates for review. *Evidence of the administrator participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f,10). You stated you plan to complete five (5) additional annual training hours. Reminder that this is annual requirement and must be completed within the first year upon issuance of the rated license, and every year thereafter. This is also in addition to annual on-going training requirements. * Evidence of all lead teachers participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f, 11). You stated the lead teachers plan to complete five (5) hours of coaching/mentoring. Reminder that this is annual requirement and must be completed within the first year upon issuance of the rated license, and every year thereafter. This is also in addition to annual on-going training requirements. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. All staff were due to have education evaluated by WORKS on or before 5/15/26. If staff have DCDEE WORKS accounts without education evaluated for their position or do not have a DCDEE WORKS account, then it may result in a one star level for education. *C. Fiene, Administrator – DCDEE WORKS account shows meets Level III Administrator equivalency *S. Clay, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows meets LT requirements plus nine (9) additional semester hours in early childhood development *C. Martinez, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows meets LT requirements plus eleven (11) additional semester hours in early childhood development *E. Terry, Lead Teacher - DCDEE WORKS account shows no education to evaluate *J. Hubbard, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows pending evaluation for lead teacher position *V. Fowler, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows a two year degree in early childhood education *R. Vasquez-Gomez, Teacher - DCDEE WORKS account shows registration in process *Evidence of implementing a curriculum that has been approved by the Commission. The curriculum implemented Creative Curriculum. An invoice is needed to verify the Creative Curriculum is accessible. The SmartTeach app is being used to create the activity plans. *Evidence of conducting on-going formative assessments that have been approved by the Commission and sharing results with parents at least twice annually. The approved assessment used is teaching strategies gold and an invoice is needed to verify the assessment is accessible. It was verified that on-going formative assessments will be shared with parents during the months of July and January, and at least once per year is required at the four star level. This is an on-going requirement at the four star level. Lead teachers plan to make anecdotal notes, take photos, work samples, etc. Based on staff with education in their DCDEE WORKS accounts and options to complete CEUs, a four-star license can be achieved. The recognition of quality initiatives has not emailed to me. This will need to be received by the week of 6/29/26 if you choose. Consultation: The compliance history of the facility prior to today’s visit was eighty-six percent (86%). An email was received from Kim Rath to request an age range change from 0-12 years to 0-5 years. Based on space #4, there is not a direct exit to the outdoors. A restriction will be added to the license to state that children under 2.5 years must be in rooms with direct exits. The file for the facility will be transferred to Dawn McCrary, Child Care Consultant, once the rated license has been issued. You can contact Ms. McCrary at dawn.mccrary@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.556.3088. We discussed that the cardboard blocks in space #3 are starting to show wear and may need repair or replacement. We discussed the sanitation requirement below. A plan is needed determine where the cots from space #4 can be stored, since storage is not allowed in the bathroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2818 LAVATORIES (a) In child care centers, lavatories shall be kept clean and in good repair and shall not be used for storage. ... We discussed health and safety training rule below. E. Terry is due to complete Health and Safety training by one year of employment, 6/23/26. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment…. Below are a couple of resource websites for natural playgrounds: https://naturalearning.org/ https://natureexplore.org/ Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or my supervisor, Bonnie Mathis at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/8/2026 Number Present: 29 Completed Date: 6/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:05 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 limited child care requirements and review the rated license during the third temporary time period visit. This facility is on a temporary license due to a change of ownership. Dawn McCrary, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on the visit. Carrie Jo Fienne, Administrator, was on-site and available to answer and ask questions. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and reviewed with you. The printed visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy left with you. A copy was also emailed to Kim Rath, Legal Operator. Currently this center operates with a Temporary License, issued 2/2/26 and is effective through 8/2/26. The restrictions include first shift only for fifty-nine (59) children, ages 0-12 years old, meets enhanced ratios and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and the organization, STH Ventures Inc., is listed as active-current. If any changes to the organization need to be made, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The approved fire inspection was completed on 3/17/26. The last fire drill was practiced on 5/19/26. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 4/29/26. The last playground inspection was completed on 5/19/26. The emergency medical care (EMC) plan was posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. A sanitation inspection was conducted on 3/6/26 with thirteen (13) demerits for a Superior rating. Lead water test results were completed on 1/27/25. Per the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, the building was built in 1984 and is not subject to lead based paint testing and after asbestos testing, no hazards were identified. An approved building inspection dated 4/22/26 with five (5) rooms approved for occupancy by children was received. The original was collected during the visit. The EPR plan was on 5/6/26. The children were observed during routine care, free play, and outdoor play. Teachers were engaged with children. Adequate supervision was provided during the walk through. Three (3) new staff files were reviewed. There was limited monitoring of existing staff files. All staff files had application reviews to determine the number of years of early childhood experience. To serve children on subsidy vouchers, the facility must transition to a three-star license or higher. If the facility cannot achieve a three-star license or higher, no children can be served that receive subsidy vouchers. A rated license application was received on 5/22/26 and you have chosen the classroom and instructional quality pathway instead of the program assessment pathway due to staff not completing the three-month self-study. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 431 The activity plan did not provide at least 4 different activities daily listed in GS 110-91(12): art/creative play; books; blocks; manipulatives; and family living and dramatic play, including one of which is outdoors if weather conditions permit. The activity plans throughout the facility did not provide at least 4 different activities daily. .0508(g)(2) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Outdoor space #1 has multiple pieces of equipment with rust; cycles, drums, train, and xylophone. .0601(c) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. One (1) staff hired on 4/28/26 only had four (4) hours of new staff orientation training within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. Five (5) staff have not been assigned to the child care facility in the ABCMS provider portal. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement on or before 6/22/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243-2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Achieving Compliance – rule references are noted in the cited violations * Safe Outdoor Environment – Item #705 To achieve compliance, the equipment with rust will need to be made inaccessible to children and repaired by sanding/painting. Rust presents a direct threat to human health. While the rust itself is generally non-toxic if ingested, it acts as a carrier for dangerous bacteria. *Activity Plans – Item #431 To achieve compliance, blocks and block building, art and other creative play, manipulatives, and/or dramatic play would be added to activity plans. For minimum requirements, activity plans must include required activities for a variety of experiences in the activity areas. *DCDEE Criminal Background Check (CBC) report of new and terminated staff – Item #1805 To achieve compliance, the five (5) staff, R. Vasquez, E. Lopez, E. Terry, and J. Hubbard must be added to the Automatic Background Check Management System (ABCMS) provider portal and assigned to the facility. There was one (1) staff that needs to be terminated from the facility. This is a repeat violation from 4/20/26. *New Staff Orientation Documentation – Item #1067 To achieve compliance, an additional two (2) hours of training on the required topics. Having a complete new staff orientation on the topics required helps staff better understand what is required at the child care facility. The program must maintain a 75% or higher compliance history score to be eligible for a 2-5 star rated license. We discussed you chose the classroom and instructional quality pathway and referred to the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES. The following was verified to be in process or completed for the classroom and instructional quality pathway based on star level met. 10A NCAC 09 .3205 CLASSROOM AND INSTRUCTIONAL QUALITY PATHWAY FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *You stated you would like to choose enhanced staff/child ratios and enhanced space options at the four star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3209 REDUCED, ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes for a rated license for child care centers. (b) Enhanced staff/child ratio means that the center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 1 Year 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 10A NCAC 09 .3210 ENHANCED SPACE REQUIRMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS In order for a child care center to meet enhanced space requirements: (1) There shall be at least 30 square feet inside space per child per the total licensed capacity and 100 square feet outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time; and (2) There shall be an area that can be arranged for administrative and private conference activities. *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices through the planning phase were verified based on the potential star level earned. Reminder that the practices must be implemented and maintained. *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement (CQI) plans for the facility and individual staff. The CQI plan for the facility has been started and is in process; the form was collected during the visit. The facility CQI plan must be completed within one year. The individual CQI plans for staff have been started and are in process. The staff CQI plans must be completed by each staff member’s one year. Reminder that the CQI plans are continuous and once one is completed, another must be started to meet this annual requirement. *Evidence of the administrator completing training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children. Training certificate for the Creative Curriculum was not available for review for the administrator. The training certificate for Teaching Strategies Gold assessment was available for review for the administrator. You stated you will take the Infant/Toddler/2 and Preschool trainings for Creative Curriculum and email me the certificates for review. *Evidence of the administrator participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f,10). You stated you plan to complete five (5) additional annual training hours. Reminder that this is annual requirement and must be completed within the first year upon issuance of the rated license, and every year thereafter. This is also in addition to annual on-going training requirements. * Evidence of all lead teachers participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f, 11). You stated the lead teachers plan to complete five (5) hours of coaching/mentoring. Reminder that this is annual requirement and must be completed within the first year upon issuance of the rated license, and every year thereafter. This is also in addition to annual on-going training requirements. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. All staff were due to have education evaluated by WORKS on or before 5/15/26. If staff have DCDEE WORKS accounts without education evaluated for their position or do not have a DCDEE WORKS account, then it may result in a one star level for education. *C. Fiene, Administrator – DCDEE WORKS account shows meets Level III Administrator equivalency *S. Clay, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows meets LT requirements plus nine (9) additional semester hours in early childhood development *C. Martinez, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows meets LT requirements plus eleven (11) additional semester hours in early childhood development *E. Terry, Lead Teacher - DCDEE WORKS account shows no education to evaluate *J. Hubbard, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows pending evaluation for lead teacher position *V. Fowler, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows a two year degree in early childhood education *R. Vasquez-Gomez, Teacher - DCDEE WORKS account shows registration in process *Evidence of implementing a curriculum that has been approved by the Commission. The curriculum implemented Creative Curriculum. An invoice is needed to verify the Creative Curriculum is accessible. The SmartTeach app is being used to create the activity plans. *Evidence of conducting on-going formative assessments that have been approved by the Commission and sharing results with parents at least twice annually. The approved assessment used is teaching strategies gold and an invoice is needed to verify the assessment is accessible. It was verified that on-going formative assessments will be shared with parents during the months of July and January, and at least once per year is required at the four star level. This is an on-going requirement at the four star level. Lead teachers plan to make anecdotal notes, take photos, work samples, etc. Based on staff with education in their DCDEE WORKS accounts and options to complete CEUs, a four-star license can be achieved. The recognition of quality initiatives has not emailed to me. This will need to be received by the week of 6/29/26 if you choose. Consultation: The compliance history of the facility prior to today’s visit was eighty-six percent (86%). An email was received from Kim Rath to request an age range change from 0-12 years to 0-5 years. Based on space #4, there is not a direct exit to the outdoors. A restriction will be added to the license to state that children under 2.5 years must be in rooms with direct exits. The file for the facility will be transferred to Dawn McCrary, Child Care Consultant, once the rated license has been issued. You can contact Ms. McCrary at dawn.mccrary@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.556.3088. We discussed that the cardboard blocks in space #3 are starting to show wear and may need repair or replacement. We discussed the sanitation requirement below. A plan is needed determine where the cots from space #4 can be stored, since storage is not allowed in the bathroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2818 LAVATORIES (a) In child care centers, lavatories shall be kept clean and in good repair and shall not be used for storage. ... We discussed health and safety training rule below. E. Terry is due to complete Health and Safety training by one year of employment, 6/23/26. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment…. Below are a couple of resource websites for natural playgrounds: https://naturalearning.org/ https://natureexplore.org/ Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or my supervisor, Bonnie Mathis at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/8/2026 Number Present: 29 Completed Date: 6/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:05 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 limited child care requirements and review the rated license during the third temporary time period visit. This facility is on a temporary license due to a change of ownership. Dawn McCrary, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on the visit. Carrie Jo Fienne, Administrator, was on-site and available to answer and ask questions. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and reviewed with you. The printed visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy left with you. A copy was also emailed to Kim Rath, Legal Operator. Currently this center operates with a Temporary License, issued 2/2/26 and is effective through 8/2/26. The restrictions include first shift only for fifty-nine (59) children, ages 0-12 years old, meets enhanced ratios and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and the organization, STH Ventures Inc., is listed as active-current. If any changes to the organization need to be made, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The approved fire inspection was completed on 3/17/26. The last fire drill was practiced on 5/19/26. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 4/29/26. The last playground inspection was completed on 5/19/26. The emergency medical care (EMC) plan was posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. A sanitation inspection was conducted on 3/6/26 with thirteen (13) demerits for a Superior rating. Lead water test results were completed on 1/27/25. Per the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, the building was built in 1984 and is not subject to lead based paint testing and after asbestos testing, no hazards were identified. An approved building inspection dated 4/22/26 with five (5) rooms approved for occupancy by children was received. The original was collected during the visit. The EPR plan was on 5/6/26. The children were observed during routine care, free play, and outdoor play. Teachers were engaged with children. Adequate supervision was provided during the walk through. Three (3) new staff files were reviewed. There was limited monitoring of existing staff files. All staff files had application reviews to determine the number of years of early childhood experience. To serve children on subsidy vouchers, the facility must transition to a three-star license or higher. If the facility cannot achieve a three-star license or higher, no children can be served that receive subsidy vouchers. A rated license application was received on 5/22/26 and you have chosen the classroom and instructional quality pathway instead of the program assessment pathway due to staff not completing the three-month self-study. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 431 The activity plan did not provide at least 4 different activities daily listed in GS 110-91(12): art/creative play; books; blocks; manipulatives; and family living and dramatic play, including one of which is outdoors if weather conditions permit. The activity plans throughout the facility did not provide at least 4 different activities daily. .0508(g)(2) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Outdoor space #1 has multiple pieces of equipment with rust; cycles, drums, train, and xylophone. .0601(c) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. One (1) staff hired on 4/28/26 only had four (4) hours of new staff orientation training within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. Five (5) staff have not been assigned to the child care facility in the ABCMS provider portal. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement on or before 6/22/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243-2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Achieving Compliance – rule references are noted in the cited violations * Safe Outdoor Environment – Item #705 To achieve compliance, the equipment with rust will need to be made inaccessible to children and repaired by sanding/painting. Rust presents a direct threat to human health. While the rust itself is generally non-toxic if ingested, it acts as a carrier for dangerous bacteria. *Activity Plans – Item #431 To achieve compliance, blocks and block building, art and other creative play, manipulatives, and/or dramatic play would be added to activity plans. For minimum requirements, activity plans must include required activities for a variety of experiences in the activity areas. *DCDEE Criminal Background Check (CBC) report of new and terminated staff – Item #1805 To achieve compliance, the five (5) staff, R. Vasquez, E. Lopez, E. Terry, and J. Hubbard must be added to the Automatic Background Check Management System (ABCMS) provider portal and assigned to the facility. There was one (1) staff that needs to be terminated from the facility. This is a repeat violation from 4/20/26. *New Staff Orientation Documentation – Item #1067 To achieve compliance, an additional two (2) hours of training on the required topics. Having a complete new staff orientation on the topics required helps staff better understand what is required at the child care facility. The program must maintain a 75% or higher compliance history score to be eligible for a 2-5 star rated license. We discussed you chose the classroom and instructional quality pathway and referred to the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES. The following was verified to be in process or completed for the classroom and instructional quality pathway based on star level met. 10A NCAC 09 .3205 CLASSROOM AND INSTRUCTIONAL QUALITY PATHWAY FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *You stated you would like to choose enhanced staff/child ratios and enhanced space options at the four star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3209 REDUCED, ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes for a rated license for child care centers. (b) Enhanced staff/child ratio means that the center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 1 Year 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 10A NCAC 09 .3210 ENHANCED SPACE REQUIRMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS In order for a child care center to meet enhanced space requirements: (1) There shall be at least 30 square feet inside space per child per the total licensed capacity and 100 square feet outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time; and (2) There shall be an area that can be arranged for administrative and private conference activities. *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices through the planning phase were verified based on the potential star level earned. Reminder that the practices must be implemented and maintained. *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement (CQI) plans for the facility and individual staff. The CQI plan for the facility has been started and is in process; the form was collected during the visit. The facility CQI plan must be completed within one year. The individual CQI plans for staff have been started and are in process. The staff CQI plans must be completed by each staff member’s one year. Reminder that the CQI plans are continuous and once one is completed, another must be started to meet this annual requirement. *Evidence of the administrator completing training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children. Training certificate for the Creative Curriculum was not available for review for the administrator. The training certificate for Teaching Strategies Gold assessment was available for review for the administrator. You stated you will take the Infant/Toddler/2 and Preschool trainings for Creative Curriculum and email me the certificates for review. *Evidence of the administrator participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f,10). You stated you plan to complete five (5) additional annual training hours. Reminder that this is annual requirement and must be completed within the first year upon issuance of the rated license, and every year thereafter. This is also in addition to annual on-going training requirements. * Evidence of all lead teachers participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f, 11). You stated the lead teachers plan to complete five (5) hours of coaching/mentoring. Reminder that this is annual requirement and must be completed within the first year upon issuance of the rated license, and every year thereafter. This is also in addition to annual on-going training requirements. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. All staff were due to have education evaluated by WORKS on or before 5/15/26. If staff have DCDEE WORKS accounts without education evaluated for their position or do not have a DCDEE WORKS account, then it may result in a one star level for education. *C. Fiene, Administrator – DCDEE WORKS account shows meets Level III Administrator equivalency *S. Clay, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows meets LT requirements plus nine (9) additional semester hours in early childhood development *C. Martinez, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows meets LT requirements plus eleven (11) additional semester hours in early childhood development *E. Terry, Lead Teacher - DCDEE WORKS account shows no education to evaluate *J. Hubbard, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows pending evaluation for lead teacher position *V. Fowler, Lead Teacher – DCDEE WORKS account shows a two year degree in early childhood education *R. Vasquez-Gomez, Teacher - DCDEE WORKS account shows registration in process *Evidence of implementing a curriculum that has been approved by the Commission. The curriculum implemented Creative Curriculum. An invoice is needed to verify the Creative Curriculum is accessible. The SmartTeach app is being used to create the activity plans. *Evidence of conducting on-going formative assessments that have been approved by the Commission and sharing results with parents at least twice annually. The approved assessment used is teaching strategies gold and an invoice is needed to verify the assessment is accessible. It was verified that on-going formative assessments will be shared with parents during the months of July and January, and at least once per year is required at the four star level. This is an on-going requirement at the four star level. Lead teachers plan to make anecdotal notes, take photos, work samples, etc. Based on staff with education in their DCDEE WORKS accounts and options to complete CEUs, a four-star license can be achieved. The recognition of quality initiatives has not emailed to me. This will need to be received by the week of 6/29/26 if you choose. Consultation: The compliance history of the facility prior to today’s visit was eighty-six percent (86%). An email was received from Kim Rath to request an age range change from 0-12 years to 0-5 years. Based on space #4, there is not a direct exit to the outdoors. A restriction will be added to the license to state that children under 2.5 years must be in rooms with direct exits. The file for the facility will be transferred to Dawn McCrary, Child Care Consultant, once the rated license has been issued. You can contact Ms. McCrary at dawn.mccrary@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.556.3088. We discussed that the cardboard blocks in space #3 are starting to show wear and may need repair or replacement. We discussed the sanitation requirement below. A plan is needed determine where the cots from space #4 can be stored, since storage is not allowed in the bathroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2818 LAVATORIES (a) In child care centers, lavatories shall be kept clean and in good repair and shall not be used for storage. ... We discussed health and safety training rule below. E. Terry is due to complete Health and Safety training by one year of employment, 6/23/26. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment…. Below are a couple of resource websites for natural playgrounds: https://naturalearning.org/ https://natureexplore.org/ Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or my supervisor, Bonnie Mathis at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0514 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/20/2026 Number Present: 32 Completed Date: 4/20/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 275 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 02:00 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 during the second temporary time period visit. This facility is on a temporary license due to a change of ownership. Rosaline Gordon, Teacher (floater), was on-site and available to answer and ask questions. Carrie Jo Fiene, Administrator, was not on-site during the visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and reviewed with you. The printed visit summary was signed and a copy left with you. A copy was also emailed to Kim Rath, Legal Operator. Currently this center operates with a Temporary License, issued 2/2/26 and is effective through 8/2/26. The restrictions include first shift only for fifty-nine (59) children, ages 0-12 years old, meets enhanced ratios and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and the organization, STH Ventures Inc., is listed as active-current. If any changes to the organization need to be made, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The approved fire inspection was completed on 3/17/26. The last fire drill was practiced on 3/27/26. The last shelter in place drill or lockdown drill document could not be located. The last playground inspection was completed on 3/27/26. The emergency medical care (EMC) plan was posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. A sanitation inspection was conducted on 2/20/26 with fourteen (14) demerits for a Superior rating. Lead water test results were completed on 1/27/25. Per the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, the building was built in 1984 and is not subject to lead based paint testing and after asbestos testing, no hazards were identified. The following inspections/paperwork are still needed during the temporary time period: Approved building inspection with approved spaces identified on floor plan (must be completed on or before 6/2/26) The EPR plan will need to be transferred to the new ownership (must be completed on or before 6/2/26 Administrative, operational, and personnel policies must be reviewed to meet required topics (must be completed on or before 6/2/26). Please note that failure to comply with Child Care rules during the Temporary Time Period may result in denial of a license. Continue to review 10A NCAC Chapter 9 Child Care Rules and reach out with any questions or concerns you may have. 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; The children were observed during routine care, free play, small group activities, outdoor play, lunch, and rest time. The lunch today was a beef ravioli, corn, peaches, and milk. Three (3) children files were monitored. Four (4) staff files were monitored. The staff and training worksheet was provided during the visit and all staff were not included on the worksheet. To serve children on subsidy vouchers, the facility must transition to a three-star license or higher. If the facility cannot achieve a three-star license or higher, no children can be served that receive subsidy vouchers. The Initial Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License can be found on the Division’s website if you would like to apply for a rated license. The Rated License Request for Review Form is embedded in the rated license application if you would like to request the Environment Rating Scale (ERS) assessment. Plan to visit the ncrlap.org website to learn more about the assessment process. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. The last visual check on infants was documented on 4/14/26. No documentation was completed on 4/15/26, 4/16/26, 4/17/26, or today during the walk-through while one child was sleeping. .0606(g) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. One (1) child file did not have a signed copy of the safe sleep policy on file. Refer to the children's record worksheet. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One (1) staff hired on 6/23/25 did not have a staff medical report on file. Refer to the staff and training worksheets. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. Three (3) children's files did not have a signed acknowledgement on file that the operational policies were discussed on or before the child's first day. Refer to the children's record worksheet. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1207 Parent participation plan was not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day of attendance and/or a copy was not given to them or posted in the center. Three (3) children's files did not have a signed acknowledgement on file that the operational policies, which includes the parent participation plan, were discussed on or before the child's first day. 10A NCAC 09 .0515(a) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No staff have been assigned to the child care facility in the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) portal. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Documentation of the last shelter-in-place or lockdown drill could not be located. A shelter-in-place or lockdown drill has not been practiced in 2026. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. One (1) staff hired on 11/10/14 had last completed all health and safety training topics on 5/10/18. .1103(b) 1909 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome Policy was changed and the center did not give in writing a notice of the change to the children's parents 14 days prior to implementing the new policy and/or a statement from the parent acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the change in policy was not in the child's file. One (1) child file did not have the policy acknowledgement on file. Refer to the children's record worksheet. .0608(c) All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement on or before 5/4/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243-2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. The compliance history for the child care facility prior to today’s visit was eighty-five percent (85%). Achieving Compliance – rule references are noted in the cited violations *Safe Sleep Documentation – Item #887 To achieve compliance, you stated staff in space #5 have been provided with the safe sleep charts to begin documenting sleep for infants today. A written plan to state how the required documentation for sleeping infants will be maintained must be submitted. *DCDEE Criminal Background Check (CBC) report of new and terminated staff – Item #1805 To achieve compliance, one (1) staff must take the DCDEE Moodle training with the business NCID and password, be issued a provider code, then assign all active staff including the legal operator. New and terminated staff notification requirement: As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in 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. 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) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. *Staff Medical Report – Item #1032 To achieve compliance, you stated the one (1) staff would complete or find their health medical report to place on file. *Shelter-in-place or lockdown drill – Item #1811 To achieve compliance, you stated a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill will be practiced. Regular practice with emergency drills allows children to have a better understanding of how to safely follow the procedures for the drill. *Health and Safety Training - Item #1899 To achieve compliance, you stated you would complete the required health and safety topics in the DCDEE Moodle platform. This is free training that can be taken on-demand. You completed the Medication in Childcare Training 3/19/26. *Children’s Records – Items #893, #1203, #1207, and #1909 To achieve compliance for item #893, you stated the parent would sign the safe sleep policy and you would place the signed policy in the child's file. To achieve compliance for item #1203, you stated the parents would sign the operational policy (parent handbook) acknowledgement form, and you would place the acknowledgement form in the file. To achieve compliance for item #1207, you stated the parents would sign the operational policy (parent handbook) acknowledgement form, which contains the parent participation plan, and you would place the acknowledgement form in the file. To achieve compliance for item #1909, you stated the parents would sign and date the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma acknowledgement form and include the date of enrollment for the child, then place in the child's file. Rated License Consultation/Assessment: The program must maintain a 75% or higher compliance history score to be eligible for a 2-5 star rated license. We discussed you would be choosing the program assessment pathway and referred to the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES. The following would be completed for the program assessment pathway based on star level met. *Enhanced staff/child ratios and/or enhanced space options. *Staff education evaluation of fifty percent (50%) of lead teachers and fifty percent (50%) of other educators. *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices. *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement plans for the facility and individual staff. *A structured self-study completed by the administrator and lead teacher(s) over three (3) consecutive months using the appropriate program assessment tool and additional resources located at https://ncrlap.org/Resources/, a written reflection of the self-assessment, including identification of goals for continuous quality improvement, and documentation of the structured self-study. *Environment Rating Scale (ERS) assessment using Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale, Third Edition (ECERS-3). *Evidence of implementing an approved curriculum with four-year old children. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. All staff must have education evaluated by WORKS on or before 5/15/26. If staff have DCDEE WORKS accounts without education evaluated for their position or do not have a DCDEE WORKS account, then it may result in a one star level for education. *R. Gordon – Teacher (floater) – has a DCDEE WORKS account and meets Level I Administrator with fifteen (15) additional semester hours *C. Fiene – Administrator – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets Level III Administrator equivalency *S. Clay – Lead Teacher – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets LT requirements plus nine (9) additional semester hours in early childhood development *C. Martinez – Lead Teacher – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets LT requirements plus eleven (11) additional semester hours in early childhood development *E. Terry – Lead Teacher - does not have a DCDEE WORKS account *R. Vasquez-Gomez – Teacher - DCDEE WORKS account shows registration in process *J. Maybin – Teacher (floater) – does not have a DCDEE WORKS account Curriculum: You stated the curriculum implemented is Creative Curriculum. Consultation: R. Gordon’s ITS-SIDS training expired on 9/17/23. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (f)…. At all times, one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training shall be present in the infant room while children are in care…. E. Terry is due to complete Health and Safety training by one year of employment, 6/23/26. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment.... We discussed prescription medications cannot be on a topical medication authorization form. We discussed the mulch on outdoor space #1, will need to be tilled/fluffed to allow for additional resiliency. Although it currently meets depth requirements, it is packed down and firm. Plan to email the updated staff and training worksheet to me once completed. We discussed the sanitation requirement below. 15A NCAC 18A .2818 LAVATORIES (a) In child care centers, lavatories shall be kept clean and in good repair and shall not be used for storage. ... Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or my supervisor, Bonnie Mathis at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0515 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/20/2026 Number Present: 32 Completed Date: 4/20/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 275 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 02:00 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 during the second temporary time period visit. This facility is on a temporary license due to a change of ownership. Rosaline Gordon, Teacher (floater), was on-site and available to answer and ask questions. Carrie Jo Fiene, Administrator, was not on-site during the visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and reviewed with you. The printed visit summary was signed and a copy left with you. A copy was also emailed to Kim Rath, Legal Operator. Currently this center operates with a Temporary License, issued 2/2/26 and is effective through 8/2/26. The restrictions include first shift only for fifty-nine (59) children, ages 0-12 years old, meets enhanced ratios and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and the organization, STH Ventures Inc., is listed as active-current. If any changes to the organization need to be made, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The approved fire inspection was completed on 3/17/26. The last fire drill was practiced on 3/27/26. The last shelter in place drill or lockdown drill document could not be located. The last playground inspection was completed on 3/27/26. The emergency medical care (EMC) plan was posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. A sanitation inspection was conducted on 2/20/26 with fourteen (14) demerits for a Superior rating. Lead water test results were completed on 1/27/25. Per the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, the building was built in 1984 and is not subject to lead based paint testing and after asbestos testing, no hazards were identified. The following inspections/paperwork are still needed during the temporary time period: Approved building inspection with approved spaces identified on floor plan (must be completed on or before 6/2/26) The EPR plan will need to be transferred to the new ownership (must be completed on or before 6/2/26 Administrative, operational, and personnel policies must be reviewed to meet required topics (must be completed on or before 6/2/26). Please note that failure to comply with Child Care rules during the Temporary Time Period may result in denial of a license. Continue to review 10A NCAC Chapter 9 Child Care Rules and reach out with any questions or concerns you may have. 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; The children were observed during routine care, free play, small group activities, outdoor play, lunch, and rest time. The lunch today was a beef ravioli, corn, peaches, and milk. Three (3) children files were monitored. Four (4) staff files were monitored. The staff and training worksheet was provided during the visit and all staff were not included on the worksheet. To serve children on subsidy vouchers, the facility must transition to a three-star license or higher. If the facility cannot achieve a three-star license or higher, no children can be served that receive subsidy vouchers. The Initial Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License can be found on the Division’s website if you would like to apply for a rated license. The Rated License Request for Review Form is embedded in the rated license application if you would like to request the Environment Rating Scale (ERS) assessment. Plan to visit the ncrlap.org website to learn more about the assessment process. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. The last visual check on infants was documented on 4/14/26. No documentation was completed on 4/15/26, 4/16/26, 4/17/26, or today during the walk-through while one child was sleeping. .0606(g) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. One (1) child file did not have a signed copy of the safe sleep policy on file. Refer to the children's record worksheet. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One (1) staff hired on 6/23/25 did not have a staff medical report on file. Refer to the staff and training worksheets. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. Three (3) children's files did not have a signed acknowledgement on file that the operational policies were discussed on or before the child's first day. Refer to the children's record worksheet. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1207 Parent participation plan was not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day of attendance and/or a copy was not given to them or posted in the center. Three (3) children's files did not have a signed acknowledgement on file that the operational policies, which includes the parent participation plan, were discussed on or before the child's first day. 10A NCAC 09 .0515(a) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No staff have been assigned to the child care facility in the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) portal. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Documentation of the last shelter-in-place or lockdown drill could not be located. A shelter-in-place or lockdown drill has not been practiced in 2026. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. One (1) staff hired on 11/10/14 had last completed all health and safety training topics on 5/10/18. .1103(b) 1909 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome Policy was changed and the center did not give in writing a notice of the change to the children's parents 14 days prior to implementing the new policy and/or a statement from the parent acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the change in policy was not in the child's file. One (1) child file did not have the policy acknowledgement on file. Refer to the children's record worksheet. .0608(c) All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement on or before 5/4/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243-2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. The compliance history for the child care facility prior to today’s visit was eighty-five percent (85%). Achieving Compliance – rule references are noted in the cited violations *Safe Sleep Documentation – Item #887 To achieve compliance, you stated staff in space #5 have been provided with the safe sleep charts to begin documenting sleep for infants today. A written plan to state how the required documentation for sleeping infants will be maintained must be submitted. *DCDEE Criminal Background Check (CBC) report of new and terminated staff – Item #1805 To achieve compliance, one (1) staff must take the DCDEE Moodle training with the business NCID and password, be issued a provider code, then assign all active staff including the legal operator. New and terminated staff notification requirement: As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in 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. 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) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. *Staff Medical Report – Item #1032 To achieve compliance, you stated the one (1) staff would complete or find their health medical report to place on file. *Shelter-in-place or lockdown drill – Item #1811 To achieve compliance, you stated a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill will be practiced. Regular practice with emergency drills allows children to have a better understanding of how to safely follow the procedures for the drill. *Health and Safety Training - Item #1899 To achieve compliance, you stated you would complete the required health and safety topics in the DCDEE Moodle platform. This is free training that can be taken on-demand. You completed the Medication in Childcare Training 3/19/26. *Children’s Records – Items #893, #1203, #1207, and #1909 To achieve compliance for item #893, you stated the parent would sign the safe sleep policy and you would place the signed policy in the child's file. To achieve compliance for item #1203, you stated the parents would sign the operational policy (parent handbook) acknowledgement form, and you would place the acknowledgement form in the file. To achieve compliance for item #1207, you stated the parents would sign the operational policy (parent handbook) acknowledgement form, which contains the parent participation plan, and you would place the acknowledgement form in the file. To achieve compliance for item #1909, you stated the parents would sign and date the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma acknowledgement form and include the date of enrollment for the child, then place in the child's file. Rated License Consultation/Assessment: The program must maintain a 75% or higher compliance history score to be eligible for a 2-5 star rated license. We discussed you would be choosing the program assessment pathway and referred to the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES. The following would be completed for the program assessment pathway based on star level met. *Enhanced staff/child ratios and/or enhanced space options. *Staff education evaluation of fifty percent (50%) of lead teachers and fifty percent (50%) of other educators. *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices. *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement plans for the facility and individual staff. *A structured self-study completed by the administrator and lead teacher(s) over three (3) consecutive months using the appropriate program assessment tool and additional resources located at https://ncrlap.org/Resources/, a written reflection of the self-assessment, including identification of goals for continuous quality improvement, and documentation of the structured self-study. *Environment Rating Scale (ERS) assessment using Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale, Third Edition (ECERS-3). *Evidence of implementing an approved curriculum with four-year old children. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. All staff must have education evaluated by WORKS on or before 5/15/26. If staff have DCDEE WORKS accounts without education evaluated for their position or do not have a DCDEE WORKS account, then it may result in a one star level for education. *R. Gordon – Teacher (floater) – has a DCDEE WORKS account and meets Level I Administrator with fifteen (15) additional semester hours *C. Fiene – Administrator – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets Level III Administrator equivalency *S. Clay – Lead Teacher – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets LT requirements plus nine (9) additional semester hours in early childhood development *C. Martinez – Lead Teacher – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets LT requirements plus eleven (11) additional semester hours in early childhood development *E. Terry – Lead Teacher - does not have a DCDEE WORKS account *R. Vasquez-Gomez – Teacher - DCDEE WORKS account shows registration in process *J. Maybin – Teacher (floater) – does not have a DCDEE WORKS account Curriculum: You stated the curriculum implemented is Creative Curriculum. Consultation: R. Gordon’s ITS-SIDS training expired on 9/17/23. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (f)…. At all times, one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training shall be present in the infant room while children are in care…. E. Terry is due to complete Health and Safety training by one year of employment, 6/23/26. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment.... We discussed prescription medications cannot be on a topical medication authorization form. We discussed the mulch on outdoor space #1, will need to be tilled/fluffed to allow for additional resiliency. Although it currently meets depth requirements, it is packed down and firm. Plan to email the updated staff and training worksheet to me once completed. We discussed the sanitation requirement below. 15A NCAC 18A .2818 LAVATORIES (a) In child care centers, lavatories shall be kept clean and in good repair and shall not be used for storage. ... Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or my supervisor, Bonnie Mathis at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0606 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/20/2026 Number Present: 32 Completed Date: 4/20/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 275 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 02:00 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 during the second temporary time period visit. This facility is on a temporary license due to a change of ownership. Rosaline Gordon, Teacher (floater), was on-site and available to answer and ask questions. Carrie Jo Fiene, Administrator, was not on-site during the visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and reviewed with you. The printed visit summary was signed and a copy left with you. A copy was also emailed to Kim Rath, Legal Operator. Currently this center operates with a Temporary License, issued 2/2/26 and is effective through 8/2/26. The restrictions include first shift only for fifty-nine (59) children, ages 0-12 years old, meets enhanced ratios and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and the organization, STH Ventures Inc., is listed as active-current. If any changes to the organization need to be made, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The approved fire inspection was completed on 3/17/26. The last fire drill was practiced on 3/27/26. The last shelter in place drill or lockdown drill document could not be located. The last playground inspection was completed on 3/27/26. The emergency medical care (EMC) plan was posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. A sanitation inspection was conducted on 2/20/26 with fourteen (14) demerits for a Superior rating. Lead water test results were completed on 1/27/25. Per the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, the building was built in 1984 and is not subject to lead based paint testing and after asbestos testing, no hazards were identified. The following inspections/paperwork are still needed during the temporary time period: Approved building inspection with approved spaces identified on floor plan (must be completed on or before 6/2/26) The EPR plan will need to be transferred to the new ownership (must be completed on or before 6/2/26 Administrative, operational, and personnel policies must be reviewed to meet required topics (must be completed on or before 6/2/26). Please note that failure to comply with Child Care rules during the Temporary Time Period may result in denial of a license. Continue to review 10A NCAC Chapter 9 Child Care Rules and reach out with any questions or concerns you may have. 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; The children were observed during routine care, free play, small group activities, outdoor play, lunch, and rest time. The lunch today was a beef ravioli, corn, peaches, and milk. Three (3) children files were monitored. Four (4) staff files were monitored. The staff and training worksheet was provided during the visit and all staff were not included on the worksheet. To serve children on subsidy vouchers, the facility must transition to a three-star license or higher. If the facility cannot achieve a three-star license or higher, no children can be served that receive subsidy vouchers. The Initial Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License can be found on the Division’s website if you would like to apply for a rated license. The Rated License Request for Review Form is embedded in the rated license application if you would like to request the Environment Rating Scale (ERS) assessment. Plan to visit the ncrlap.org website to learn more about the assessment process. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. The last visual check on infants was documented on 4/14/26. No documentation was completed on 4/15/26, 4/16/26, 4/17/26, or today during the walk-through while one child was sleeping. .0606(g) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. One (1) child file did not have a signed copy of the safe sleep policy on file. Refer to the children's record worksheet. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One (1) staff hired on 6/23/25 did not have a staff medical report on file. Refer to the staff and training worksheets. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. Three (3) children's files did not have a signed acknowledgement on file that the operational policies were discussed on or before the child's first day. Refer to the children's record worksheet. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1207 Parent participation plan was not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day of attendance and/or a copy was not given to them or posted in the center. Three (3) children's files did not have a signed acknowledgement on file that the operational policies, which includes the parent participation plan, were discussed on or before the child's first day. 10A NCAC 09 .0515(a) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No staff have been assigned to the child care facility in the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) portal. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Documentation of the last shelter-in-place or lockdown drill could not be located. A shelter-in-place or lockdown drill has not been practiced in 2026. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. One (1) staff hired on 11/10/14 had last completed all health and safety training topics on 5/10/18. .1103(b) 1909 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome Policy was changed and the center did not give in writing a notice of the change to the children's parents 14 days prior to implementing the new policy and/or a statement from the parent acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the change in policy was not in the child's file. One (1) child file did not have the policy acknowledgement on file. Refer to the children's record worksheet. .0608(c) All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement on or before 5/4/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243-2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. The compliance history for the child care facility prior to today’s visit was eighty-five percent (85%). Achieving Compliance – rule references are noted in the cited violations *Safe Sleep Documentation – Item #887 To achieve compliance, you stated staff in space #5 have been provided with the safe sleep charts to begin documenting sleep for infants today. A written plan to state how the required documentation for sleeping infants will be maintained must be submitted. *DCDEE Criminal Background Check (CBC) report of new and terminated staff – Item #1805 To achieve compliance, one (1) staff must take the DCDEE Moodle training with the business NCID and password, be issued a provider code, then assign all active staff including the legal operator. New and terminated staff notification requirement: As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in 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. 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) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. *Staff Medical Report – Item #1032 To achieve compliance, you stated the one (1) staff would complete or find their health medical report to place on file. *Shelter-in-place or lockdown drill – Item #1811 To achieve compliance, you stated a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill will be practiced. Regular practice with emergency drills allows children to have a better understanding of how to safely follow the procedures for the drill. *Health and Safety Training - Item #1899 To achieve compliance, you stated you would complete the required health and safety topics in the DCDEE Moodle platform. This is free training that can be taken on-demand. You completed the Medication in Childcare Training 3/19/26. *Children’s Records – Items #893, #1203, #1207, and #1909 To achieve compliance for item #893, you stated the parent would sign the safe sleep policy and you would place the signed policy in the child's file. To achieve compliance for item #1203, you stated the parents would sign the operational policy (parent handbook) acknowledgement form, and you would place the acknowledgement form in the file. To achieve compliance for item #1207, you stated the parents would sign the operational policy (parent handbook) acknowledgement form, which contains the parent participation plan, and you would place the acknowledgement form in the file. To achieve compliance for item #1909, you stated the parents would sign and date the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma acknowledgement form and include the date of enrollment for the child, then place in the child's file. Rated License Consultation/Assessment: The program must maintain a 75% or higher compliance history score to be eligible for a 2-5 star rated license. We discussed you would be choosing the program assessment pathway and referred to the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES. The following would be completed for the program assessment pathway based on star level met. *Enhanced staff/child ratios and/or enhanced space options. *Staff education evaluation of fifty percent (50%) of lead teachers and fifty percent (50%) of other educators. *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices. *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement plans for the facility and individual staff. *A structured self-study completed by the administrator and lead teacher(s) over three (3) consecutive months using the appropriate program assessment tool and additional resources located at https://ncrlap.org/Resources/, a written reflection of the self-assessment, including identification of goals for continuous quality improvement, and documentation of the structured self-study. *Environment Rating Scale (ERS) assessment using Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale, Third Edition (ECERS-3). *Evidence of implementing an approved curriculum with four-year old children. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. All staff must have education evaluated by WORKS on or before 5/15/26. If staff have DCDEE WORKS accounts without education evaluated for their position or do not have a DCDEE WORKS account, then it may result in a one star level for education. *R. Gordon – Teacher (floater) – has a DCDEE WORKS account and meets Level I Administrator with fifteen (15) additional semester hours *C. Fiene – Administrator – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets Level III Administrator equivalency *S. Clay – Lead Teacher – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets LT requirements plus nine (9) additional semester hours in early childhood development *C. Martinez – Lead Teacher – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets LT requirements plus eleven (11) additional semester hours in early childhood development *E. Terry – Lead Teacher - does not have a DCDEE WORKS account *R. Vasquez-Gomez – Teacher - DCDEE WORKS account shows registration in process *J. Maybin – Teacher (floater) – does not have a DCDEE WORKS account Curriculum: You stated the curriculum implemented is Creative Curriculum. Consultation: R. Gordon’s ITS-SIDS training expired on 9/17/23. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (f)…. At all times, one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training shall be present in the infant room while children are in care…. E. Terry is due to complete Health and Safety training by one year of employment, 6/23/26. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment.... We discussed prescription medications cannot be on a topical medication authorization form. We discussed the mulch on outdoor space #1, will need to be tilled/fluffed to allow for additional resiliency. Although it currently meets depth requirements, it is packed down and firm. Plan to email the updated staff and training worksheet to me once completed. We discussed the sanitation requirement below. 15A NCAC 18A .2818 LAVATORIES (a) In child care centers, lavatories shall be kept clean and in good repair and shall not be used for storage. ... Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or my supervisor, Bonnie Mathis at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/20/2026 Number Present: 32 Completed Date: 4/20/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 275 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 02:00 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 during the second temporary time period visit. This facility is on a temporary license due to a change of ownership. Rosaline Gordon, Teacher (floater), was on-site and available to answer and ask questions. Carrie Jo Fiene, Administrator, was not on-site during the visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and reviewed with you. The printed visit summary was signed and a copy left with you. A copy was also emailed to Kim Rath, Legal Operator. Currently this center operates with a Temporary License, issued 2/2/26 and is effective through 8/2/26. The restrictions include first shift only for fifty-nine (59) children, ages 0-12 years old, meets enhanced ratios and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and the organization, STH Ventures Inc., is listed as active-current. If any changes to the organization need to be made, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The approved fire inspection was completed on 3/17/26. The last fire drill was practiced on 3/27/26. The last shelter in place drill or lockdown drill document could not be located. The last playground inspection was completed on 3/27/26. The emergency medical care (EMC) plan was posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. A sanitation inspection was conducted on 2/20/26 with fourteen (14) demerits for a Superior rating. Lead water test results were completed on 1/27/25. Per the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, the building was built in 1984 and is not subject to lead based paint testing and after asbestos testing, no hazards were identified. The following inspections/paperwork are still needed during the temporary time period: Approved building inspection with approved spaces identified on floor plan (must be completed on or before 6/2/26) The EPR plan will need to be transferred to the new ownership (must be completed on or before 6/2/26 Administrative, operational, and personnel policies must be reviewed to meet required topics (must be completed on or before 6/2/26). Please note that failure to comply with Child Care rules during the Temporary Time Period may result in denial of a license. Continue to review 10A NCAC Chapter 9 Child Care Rules and reach out with any questions or concerns you may have. 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; The children were observed during routine care, free play, small group activities, outdoor play, lunch, and rest time. The lunch today was a beef ravioli, corn, peaches, and milk. Three (3) children files were monitored. Four (4) staff files were monitored. The staff and training worksheet was provided during the visit and all staff were not included on the worksheet. To serve children on subsidy vouchers, the facility must transition to a three-star license or higher. If the facility cannot achieve a three-star license or higher, no children can be served that receive subsidy vouchers. The Initial Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License can be found on the Division’s website if you would like to apply for a rated license. The Rated License Request for Review Form is embedded in the rated license application if you would like to request the Environment Rating Scale (ERS) assessment. Plan to visit the ncrlap.org website to learn more about the assessment process. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. The last visual check on infants was documented on 4/14/26. No documentation was completed on 4/15/26, 4/16/26, 4/17/26, or today during the walk-through while one child was sleeping. .0606(g) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. One (1) child file did not have a signed copy of the safe sleep policy on file. Refer to the children's record worksheet. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One (1) staff hired on 6/23/25 did not have a staff medical report on file. Refer to the staff and training worksheets. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. Three (3) children's files did not have a signed acknowledgement on file that the operational policies were discussed on or before the child's first day. Refer to the children's record worksheet. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1207 Parent participation plan was not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day of attendance and/or a copy was not given to them or posted in the center. Three (3) children's files did not have a signed acknowledgement on file that the operational policies, which includes the parent participation plan, were discussed on or before the child's first day. 10A NCAC 09 .0515(a) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No staff have been assigned to the child care facility in the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) portal. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Documentation of the last shelter-in-place or lockdown drill could not be located. A shelter-in-place or lockdown drill has not been practiced in 2026. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. One (1) staff hired on 11/10/14 had last completed all health and safety training topics on 5/10/18. .1103(b) 1909 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome Policy was changed and the center did not give in writing a notice of the change to the children's parents 14 days prior to implementing the new policy and/or a statement from the parent acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the change in policy was not in the child's file. One (1) child file did not have the policy acknowledgement on file. Refer to the children's record worksheet. .0608(c) All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement on or before 5/4/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243-2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. The compliance history for the child care facility prior to today’s visit was eighty-five percent (85%). Achieving Compliance – rule references are noted in the cited violations *Safe Sleep Documentation – Item #887 To achieve compliance, you stated staff in space #5 have been provided with the safe sleep charts to begin documenting sleep for infants today. A written plan to state how the required documentation for sleeping infants will be maintained must be submitted. *DCDEE Criminal Background Check (CBC) report of new and terminated staff – Item #1805 To achieve compliance, one (1) staff must take the DCDEE Moodle training with the business NCID and password, be issued a provider code, then assign all active staff including the legal operator. New and terminated staff notification requirement: As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in 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. 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) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. *Staff Medical Report – Item #1032 To achieve compliance, you stated the one (1) staff would complete or find their health medical report to place on file. *Shelter-in-place or lockdown drill – Item #1811 To achieve compliance, you stated a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill will be practiced. Regular practice with emergency drills allows children to have a better understanding of how to safely follow the procedures for the drill. *Health and Safety Training - Item #1899 To achieve compliance, you stated you would complete the required health and safety topics in the DCDEE Moodle platform. This is free training that can be taken on-demand. You completed the Medication in Childcare Training 3/19/26. *Children’s Records – Items #893, #1203, #1207, and #1909 To achieve compliance for item #893, you stated the parent would sign the safe sleep policy and you would place the signed policy in the child's file. To achieve compliance for item #1203, you stated the parents would sign the operational policy (parent handbook) acknowledgement form, and you would place the acknowledgement form in the file. To achieve compliance for item #1207, you stated the parents would sign the operational policy (parent handbook) acknowledgement form, which contains the parent participation plan, and you would place the acknowledgement form in the file. To achieve compliance for item #1909, you stated the parents would sign and date the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma acknowledgement form and include the date of enrollment for the child, then place in the child's file. Rated License Consultation/Assessment: The program must maintain a 75% or higher compliance history score to be eligible for a 2-5 star rated license. We discussed you would be choosing the program assessment pathway and referred to the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES. The following would be completed for the program assessment pathway based on star level met. *Enhanced staff/child ratios and/or enhanced space options. *Staff education evaluation of fifty percent (50%) of lead teachers and fifty percent (50%) of other educators. *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices. *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement plans for the facility and individual staff. *A structured self-study completed by the administrator and lead teacher(s) over three (3) consecutive months using the appropriate program assessment tool and additional resources located at https://ncrlap.org/Resources/, a written reflection of the self-assessment, including identification of goals for continuous quality improvement, and documentation of the structured self-study. *Environment Rating Scale (ERS) assessment using Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale, Third Edition (ECERS-3). *Evidence of implementing an approved curriculum with four-year old children. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. All staff must have education evaluated by WORKS on or before 5/15/26. If staff have DCDEE WORKS accounts without education evaluated for their position or do not have a DCDEE WORKS account, then it may result in a one star level for education. *R. Gordon – Teacher (floater) – has a DCDEE WORKS account and meets Level I Administrator with fifteen (15) additional semester hours *C. Fiene – Administrator – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets Level III Administrator equivalency *S. Clay – Lead Teacher – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets LT requirements plus nine (9) additional semester hours in early childhood development *C. Martinez – Lead Teacher – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets LT requirements plus eleven (11) additional semester hours in early childhood development *E. Terry – Lead Teacher - does not have a DCDEE WORKS account *R. Vasquez-Gomez – Teacher - DCDEE WORKS account shows registration in process *J. Maybin – Teacher (floater) – does not have a DCDEE WORKS account Curriculum: You stated the curriculum implemented is Creative Curriculum. Consultation: R. Gordon’s ITS-SIDS training expired on 9/17/23. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (f)…. At all times, one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training shall be present in the infant room while children are in care…. E. Terry is due to complete Health and Safety training by one year of employment, 6/23/26. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment.... We discussed prescription medications cannot be on a topical medication authorization form. We discussed the mulch on outdoor space #1, will need to be tilled/fluffed to allow for additional resiliency. Although it currently meets depth requirements, it is packed down and firm. Plan to email the updated staff and training worksheet to me once completed. We discussed the sanitation requirement below. 15A NCAC 18A .2818 LAVATORIES (a) In child care centers, lavatories shall be kept clean and in good repair and shall not be used for storage. ... Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or my supervisor, Bonnie Mathis at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/20/2026 Number Present: 32 Completed Date: 4/20/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 275 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 02:00 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 during the second temporary time period visit. This facility is on a temporary license due to a change of ownership. Rosaline Gordon, Teacher (floater), was on-site and available to answer and ask questions. Carrie Jo Fiene, Administrator, was not on-site during the visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and reviewed with you. The printed visit summary was signed and a copy left with you. A copy was also emailed to Kim Rath, Legal Operator. Currently this center operates with a Temporary License, issued 2/2/26 and is effective through 8/2/26. The restrictions include first shift only for fifty-nine (59) children, ages 0-12 years old, meets enhanced ratios and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and the organization, STH Ventures Inc., is listed as active-current. If any changes to the organization need to be made, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The approved fire inspection was completed on 3/17/26. The last fire drill was practiced on 3/27/26. The last shelter in place drill or lockdown drill document could not be located. The last playground inspection was completed on 3/27/26. The emergency medical care (EMC) plan was posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. A sanitation inspection was conducted on 2/20/26 with fourteen (14) demerits for a Superior rating. Lead water test results were completed on 1/27/25. Per the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, the building was built in 1984 and is not subject to lead based paint testing and after asbestos testing, no hazards were identified. The following inspections/paperwork are still needed during the temporary time period: Approved building inspection with approved spaces identified on floor plan (must be completed on or before 6/2/26) The EPR plan will need to be transferred to the new ownership (must be completed on or before 6/2/26 Administrative, operational, and personnel policies must be reviewed to meet required topics (must be completed on or before 6/2/26). Please note that failure to comply with Child Care rules during the Temporary Time Period may result in denial of a license. Continue to review 10A NCAC Chapter 9 Child Care Rules and reach out with any questions or concerns you may have. 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; The children were observed during routine care, free play, small group activities, outdoor play, lunch, and rest time. The lunch today was a beef ravioli, corn, peaches, and milk. Three (3) children files were monitored. Four (4) staff files were monitored. The staff and training worksheet was provided during the visit and all staff were not included on the worksheet. To serve children on subsidy vouchers, the facility must transition to a three-star license or higher. If the facility cannot achieve a three-star license or higher, no children can be served that receive subsidy vouchers. The Initial Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License can be found on the Division’s website if you would like to apply for a rated license. The Rated License Request for Review Form is embedded in the rated license application if you would like to request the Environment Rating Scale (ERS) assessment. Plan to visit the ncrlap.org website to learn more about the assessment process. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. The last visual check on infants was documented on 4/14/26. No documentation was completed on 4/15/26, 4/16/26, 4/17/26, or today during the walk-through while one child was sleeping. .0606(g) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. One (1) child file did not have a signed copy of the safe sleep policy on file. Refer to the children's record worksheet. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One (1) staff hired on 6/23/25 did not have a staff medical report on file. Refer to the staff and training worksheets. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. Three (3) children's files did not have a signed acknowledgement on file that the operational policies were discussed on or before the child's first day. Refer to the children's record worksheet. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1207 Parent participation plan was not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day of attendance and/or a copy was not given to them or posted in the center. Three (3) children's files did not have a signed acknowledgement on file that the operational policies, which includes the parent participation plan, were discussed on or before the child's first day. 10A NCAC 09 .0515(a) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No staff have been assigned to the child care facility in the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) portal. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Documentation of the last shelter-in-place or lockdown drill could not be located. A shelter-in-place or lockdown drill has not been practiced in 2026. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. One (1) staff hired on 11/10/14 had last completed all health and safety training topics on 5/10/18. .1103(b) 1909 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome Policy was changed and the center did not give in writing a notice of the change to the children's parents 14 days prior to implementing the new policy and/or a statement from the parent acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the change in policy was not in the child's file. One (1) child file did not have the policy acknowledgement on file. Refer to the children's record worksheet. .0608(c) All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement on or before 5/4/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243-2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. The compliance history for the child care facility prior to today’s visit was eighty-five percent (85%). Achieving Compliance – rule references are noted in the cited violations *Safe Sleep Documentation – Item #887 To achieve compliance, you stated staff in space #5 have been provided with the safe sleep charts to begin documenting sleep for infants today. A written plan to state how the required documentation for sleeping infants will be maintained must be submitted. *DCDEE Criminal Background Check (CBC) report of new and terminated staff – Item #1805 To achieve compliance, one (1) staff must take the DCDEE Moodle training with the business NCID and password, be issued a provider code, then assign all active staff including the legal operator. New and terminated staff notification requirement: As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in 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. 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) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. *Staff Medical Report – Item #1032 To achieve compliance, you stated the one (1) staff would complete or find their health medical report to place on file. *Shelter-in-place or lockdown drill – Item #1811 To achieve compliance, you stated a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill will be practiced. Regular practice with emergency drills allows children to have a better understanding of how to safely follow the procedures for the drill. *Health and Safety Training - Item #1899 To achieve compliance, you stated you would complete the required health and safety topics in the DCDEE Moodle platform. This is free training that can be taken on-demand. You completed the Medication in Childcare Training 3/19/26. *Children’s Records – Items #893, #1203, #1207, and #1909 To achieve compliance for item #893, you stated the parent would sign the safe sleep policy and you would place the signed policy in the child's file. To achieve compliance for item #1203, you stated the parents would sign the operational policy (parent handbook) acknowledgement form, and you would place the acknowledgement form in the file. To achieve compliance for item #1207, you stated the parents would sign the operational policy (parent handbook) acknowledgement form, which contains the parent participation plan, and you would place the acknowledgement form in the file. To achieve compliance for item #1909, you stated the parents would sign and date the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma acknowledgement form and include the date of enrollment for the child, then place in the child's file. Rated License Consultation/Assessment: The program must maintain a 75% or higher compliance history score to be eligible for a 2-5 star rated license. We discussed you would be choosing the program assessment pathway and referred to the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES. The following would be completed for the program assessment pathway based on star level met. *Enhanced staff/child ratios and/or enhanced space options. *Staff education evaluation of fifty percent (50%) of lead teachers and fifty percent (50%) of other educators. *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices. *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement plans for the facility and individual staff. *A structured self-study completed by the administrator and lead teacher(s) over three (3) consecutive months using the appropriate program assessment tool and additional resources located at https://ncrlap.org/Resources/, a written reflection of the self-assessment, including identification of goals for continuous quality improvement, and documentation of the structured self-study. *Environment Rating Scale (ERS) assessment using Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale, Third Edition (ECERS-3). *Evidence of implementing an approved curriculum with four-year old children. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. All staff must have education evaluated by WORKS on or before 5/15/26. If staff have DCDEE WORKS accounts without education evaluated for their position or do not have a DCDEE WORKS account, then it may result in a one star level for education. *R. Gordon – Teacher (floater) – has a DCDEE WORKS account and meets Level I Administrator with fifteen (15) additional semester hours *C. Fiene – Administrator – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets Level III Administrator equivalency *S. Clay – Lead Teacher – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets LT requirements plus nine (9) additional semester hours in early childhood development *C. Martinez – Lead Teacher – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets LT requirements plus eleven (11) additional semester hours in early childhood development *E. Terry – Lead Teacher - does not have a DCDEE WORKS account *R. Vasquez-Gomez – Teacher - DCDEE WORKS account shows registration in process *J. Maybin – Teacher (floater) – does not have a DCDEE WORKS account Curriculum: You stated the curriculum implemented is Creative Curriculum. Consultation: R. Gordon’s ITS-SIDS training expired on 9/17/23. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (f)…. At all times, one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training shall be present in the infant room while children are in care…. E. Terry is due to complete Health and Safety training by one year of employment, 6/23/26. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment.... We discussed prescription medications cannot be on a topical medication authorization form. We discussed the mulch on outdoor space #1, will need to be tilled/fluffed to allow for additional resiliency. Although it currently meets depth requirements, it is packed down and firm. Plan to email the updated staff and training worksheet to me once completed. We discussed the sanitation requirement below. 15A NCAC 18A .2818 LAVATORIES (a) In child care centers, lavatories shall be kept clean and in good repair and shall not be used for storage. ... Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or my supervisor, Bonnie Mathis at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .2215 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/20/2026 Number Present: 32 Completed Date: 4/20/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 275 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 02:00 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 during the second temporary time period visit. This facility is on a temporary license due to a change of ownership. Rosaline Gordon, Teacher (floater), was on-site and available to answer and ask questions. Carrie Jo Fiene, Administrator, was not on-site during the visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and reviewed with you. The printed visit summary was signed and a copy left with you. A copy was also emailed to Kim Rath, Legal Operator. Currently this center operates with a Temporary License, issued 2/2/26 and is effective through 8/2/26. The restrictions include first shift only for fifty-nine (59) children, ages 0-12 years old, meets enhanced ratios and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and the organization, STH Ventures Inc., is listed as active-current. If any changes to the organization need to be made, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The approved fire inspection was completed on 3/17/26. The last fire drill was practiced on 3/27/26. The last shelter in place drill or lockdown drill document could not be located. The last playground inspection was completed on 3/27/26. The emergency medical care (EMC) plan was posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. A sanitation inspection was conducted on 2/20/26 with fourteen (14) demerits for a Superior rating. Lead water test results were completed on 1/27/25. Per the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, the building was built in 1984 and is not subject to lead based paint testing and after asbestos testing, no hazards were identified. The following inspections/paperwork are still needed during the temporary time period: Approved building inspection with approved spaces identified on floor plan (must be completed on or before 6/2/26) The EPR plan will need to be transferred to the new ownership (must be completed on or before 6/2/26 Administrative, operational, and personnel policies must be reviewed to meet required topics (must be completed on or before 6/2/26). Please note that failure to comply with Child Care rules during the Temporary Time Period may result in denial of a license. Continue to review 10A NCAC Chapter 9 Child Care Rules and reach out with any questions or concerns you may have. 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; The children were observed during routine care, free play, small group activities, outdoor play, lunch, and rest time. The lunch today was a beef ravioli, corn, peaches, and milk. Three (3) children files were monitored. Four (4) staff files were monitored. The staff and training worksheet was provided during the visit and all staff were not included on the worksheet. To serve children on subsidy vouchers, the facility must transition to a three-star license or higher. If the facility cannot achieve a three-star license or higher, no children can be served that receive subsidy vouchers. The Initial Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License can be found on the Division’s website if you would like to apply for a rated license. The Rated License Request for Review Form is embedded in the rated license application if you would like to request the Environment Rating Scale (ERS) assessment. Plan to visit the ncrlap.org website to learn more about the assessment process. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. The last visual check on infants was documented on 4/14/26. No documentation was completed on 4/15/26, 4/16/26, 4/17/26, or today during the walk-through while one child was sleeping. .0606(g) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. One (1) child file did not have a signed copy of the safe sleep policy on file. Refer to the children's record worksheet. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One (1) staff hired on 6/23/25 did not have a staff medical report on file. Refer to the staff and training worksheets. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. Three (3) children's files did not have a signed acknowledgement on file that the operational policies were discussed on or before the child's first day. Refer to the children's record worksheet. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1207 Parent participation plan was not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day of attendance and/or a copy was not given to them or posted in the center. Three (3) children's files did not have a signed acknowledgement on file that the operational policies, which includes the parent participation plan, were discussed on or before the child's first day. 10A NCAC 09 .0515(a) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No staff have been assigned to the child care facility in the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) portal. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Documentation of the last shelter-in-place or lockdown drill could not be located. A shelter-in-place or lockdown drill has not been practiced in 2026. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. One (1) staff hired on 11/10/14 had last completed all health and safety training topics on 5/10/18. .1103(b) 1909 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome Policy was changed and the center did not give in writing a notice of the change to the children's parents 14 days prior to implementing the new policy and/or a statement from the parent acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the change in policy was not in the child's file. One (1) child file did not have the policy acknowledgement on file. Refer to the children's record worksheet. .0608(c) All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement on or before 5/4/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243-2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. The compliance history for the child care facility prior to today’s visit was eighty-five percent (85%). Achieving Compliance – rule references are noted in the cited violations *Safe Sleep Documentation – Item #887 To achieve compliance, you stated staff in space #5 have been provided with the safe sleep charts to begin documenting sleep for infants today. A written plan to state how the required documentation for sleeping infants will be maintained must be submitted. *DCDEE Criminal Background Check (CBC) report of new and terminated staff – Item #1805 To achieve compliance, one (1) staff must take the DCDEE Moodle training with the business NCID and password, be issued a provider code, then assign all active staff including the legal operator. New and terminated staff notification requirement: As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in 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. 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) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. *Staff Medical Report – Item #1032 To achieve compliance, you stated the one (1) staff would complete or find their health medical report to place on file. *Shelter-in-place or lockdown drill – Item #1811 To achieve compliance, you stated a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill will be practiced. Regular practice with emergency drills allows children to have a better understanding of how to safely follow the procedures for the drill. *Health and Safety Training - Item #1899 To achieve compliance, you stated you would complete the required health and safety topics in the DCDEE Moodle platform. This is free training that can be taken on-demand. You completed the Medication in Childcare Training 3/19/26. *Children’s Records – Items #893, #1203, #1207, and #1909 To achieve compliance for item #893, you stated the parent would sign the safe sleep policy and you would place the signed policy in the child's file. To achieve compliance for item #1203, you stated the parents would sign the operational policy (parent handbook) acknowledgement form, and you would place the acknowledgement form in the file. To achieve compliance for item #1207, you stated the parents would sign the operational policy (parent handbook) acknowledgement form, which contains the parent participation plan, and you would place the acknowledgement form in the file. To achieve compliance for item #1909, you stated the parents would sign and date the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma acknowledgement form and include the date of enrollment for the child, then place in the child's file. Rated License Consultation/Assessment: The program must maintain a 75% or higher compliance history score to be eligible for a 2-5 star rated license. We discussed you would be choosing the program assessment pathway and referred to the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES. The following would be completed for the program assessment pathway based on star level met. *Enhanced staff/child ratios and/or enhanced space options. *Staff education evaluation of fifty percent (50%) of lead teachers and fifty percent (50%) of other educators. *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices. *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement plans for the facility and individual staff. *A structured self-study completed by the administrator and lead teacher(s) over three (3) consecutive months using the appropriate program assessment tool and additional resources located at https://ncrlap.org/Resources/, a written reflection of the self-assessment, including identification of goals for continuous quality improvement, and documentation of the structured self-study. *Environment Rating Scale (ERS) assessment using Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale, Third Edition (ECERS-3). *Evidence of implementing an approved curriculum with four-year old children. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. All staff must have education evaluated by WORKS on or before 5/15/26. If staff have DCDEE WORKS accounts without education evaluated for their position or do not have a DCDEE WORKS account, then it may result in a one star level for education. *R. Gordon – Teacher (floater) – has a DCDEE WORKS account and meets Level I Administrator with fifteen (15) additional semester hours *C. Fiene – Administrator – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets Level III Administrator equivalency *S. Clay – Lead Teacher – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets LT requirements plus nine (9) additional semester hours in early childhood development *C. Martinez – Lead Teacher – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets LT requirements plus eleven (11) additional semester hours in early childhood development *E. Terry – Lead Teacher - does not have a DCDEE WORKS account *R. Vasquez-Gomez – Teacher - DCDEE WORKS account shows registration in process *J. Maybin – Teacher (floater) – does not have a DCDEE WORKS account Curriculum: You stated the curriculum implemented is Creative Curriculum. Consultation: R. Gordon’s ITS-SIDS training expired on 9/17/23. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (f)…. At all times, one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training shall be present in the infant room while children are in care…. E. Terry is due to complete Health and Safety training by one year of employment, 6/23/26. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment.... We discussed prescription medications cannot be on a topical medication authorization form. We discussed the mulch on outdoor space #1, will need to be tilled/fluffed to allow for additional resiliency. Although it currently meets depth requirements, it is packed down and firm. Plan to email the updated staff and training worksheet to me once completed. We discussed the sanitation requirement below. 15A NCAC 18A .2818 LAVATORIES (a) In child care centers, lavatories shall be kept clean and in good repair and shall not be used for storage. ... Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or my supervisor, Bonnie Mathis at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/20/2026 Number Present: 32 Completed Date: 4/20/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 275 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 02:00 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 during the second temporary time period visit. This facility is on a temporary license due to a change of ownership. Rosaline Gordon, Teacher (floater), was on-site and available to answer and ask questions. Carrie Jo Fiene, Administrator, was not on-site during the visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and reviewed with you. The printed visit summary was signed and a copy left with you. A copy was also emailed to Kim Rath, Legal Operator. Currently this center operates with a Temporary License, issued 2/2/26 and is effective through 8/2/26. The restrictions include first shift only for fifty-nine (59) children, ages 0-12 years old, meets enhanced ratios and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and the organization, STH Ventures Inc., is listed as active-current. If any changes to the organization need to be made, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The approved fire inspection was completed on 3/17/26. The last fire drill was practiced on 3/27/26. The last shelter in place drill or lockdown drill document could not be located. The last playground inspection was completed on 3/27/26. The emergency medical care (EMC) plan was posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. A sanitation inspection was conducted on 2/20/26 with fourteen (14) demerits for a Superior rating. Lead water test results were completed on 1/27/25. Per the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, the building was built in 1984 and is not subject to lead based paint testing and after asbestos testing, no hazards were identified. The following inspections/paperwork are still needed during the temporary time period: Approved building inspection with approved spaces identified on floor plan (must be completed on or before 6/2/26) The EPR plan will need to be transferred to the new ownership (must be completed on or before 6/2/26 Administrative, operational, and personnel policies must be reviewed to meet required topics (must be completed on or before 6/2/26). Please note that failure to comply with Child Care rules during the Temporary Time Period may result in denial of a license. Continue to review 10A NCAC Chapter 9 Child Care Rules and reach out with any questions or concerns you may have. 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; The children were observed during routine care, free play, small group activities, outdoor play, lunch, and rest time. The lunch today was a beef ravioli, corn, peaches, and milk. Three (3) children files were monitored. Four (4) staff files were monitored. The staff and training worksheet was provided during the visit and all staff were not included on the worksheet. To serve children on subsidy vouchers, the facility must transition to a three-star license or higher. If the facility cannot achieve a three-star license or higher, no children can be served that receive subsidy vouchers. The Initial Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License can be found on the Division’s website if you would like to apply for a rated license. The Rated License Request for Review Form is embedded in the rated license application if you would like to request the Environment Rating Scale (ERS) assessment. Plan to visit the ncrlap.org website to learn more about the assessment process. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. The last visual check on infants was documented on 4/14/26. No documentation was completed on 4/15/26, 4/16/26, 4/17/26, or today during the walk-through while one child was sleeping. .0606(g) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. One (1) child file did not have a signed copy of the safe sleep policy on file. Refer to the children's record worksheet. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One (1) staff hired on 6/23/25 did not have a staff medical report on file. Refer to the staff and training worksheets. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. Three (3) children's files did not have a signed acknowledgement on file that the operational policies were discussed on or before the child's first day. Refer to the children's record worksheet. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1207 Parent participation plan was not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day of attendance and/or a copy was not given to them or posted in the center. Three (3) children's files did not have a signed acknowledgement on file that the operational policies, which includes the parent participation plan, were discussed on or before the child's first day. 10A NCAC 09 .0515(a) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. No staff have been assigned to the child care facility in the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) portal. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Documentation of the last shelter-in-place or lockdown drill could not be located. A shelter-in-place or lockdown drill has not been practiced in 2026. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. One (1) staff hired on 11/10/14 had last completed all health and safety training topics on 5/10/18. .1103(b) 1909 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome Policy was changed and the center did not give in writing a notice of the change to the children's parents 14 days prior to implementing the new policy and/or a statement from the parent acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the change in policy was not in the child's file. One (1) child file did not have the policy acknowledgement on file. Refer to the children's record worksheet. .0608(c) All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement on or before 5/4/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243-2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. The compliance history for the child care facility prior to today’s visit was eighty-five percent (85%). Achieving Compliance – rule references are noted in the cited violations *Safe Sleep Documentation – Item #887 To achieve compliance, you stated staff in space #5 have been provided with the safe sleep charts to begin documenting sleep for infants today. A written plan to state how the required documentation for sleeping infants will be maintained must be submitted. *DCDEE Criminal Background Check (CBC) report of new and terminated staff – Item #1805 To achieve compliance, one (1) staff must take the DCDEE Moodle training with the business NCID and password, be issued a provider code, then assign all active staff including the legal operator. New and terminated staff notification requirement: As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in 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. 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) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. *Staff Medical Report – Item #1032 To achieve compliance, you stated the one (1) staff would complete or find their health medical report to place on file. *Shelter-in-place or lockdown drill – Item #1811 To achieve compliance, you stated a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill will be practiced. Regular practice with emergency drills allows children to have a better understanding of how to safely follow the procedures for the drill. *Health and Safety Training - Item #1899 To achieve compliance, you stated you would complete the required health and safety topics in the DCDEE Moodle platform. This is free training that can be taken on-demand. You completed the Medication in Childcare Training 3/19/26. *Children’s Records – Items #893, #1203, #1207, and #1909 To achieve compliance for item #893, you stated the parent would sign the safe sleep policy and you would place the signed policy in the child's file. To achieve compliance for item #1203, you stated the parents would sign the operational policy (parent handbook) acknowledgement form, and you would place the acknowledgement form in the file. To achieve compliance for item #1207, you stated the parents would sign the operational policy (parent handbook) acknowledgement form, which contains the parent participation plan, and you would place the acknowledgement form in the file. To achieve compliance for item #1909, you stated the parents would sign and date the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma acknowledgement form and include the date of enrollment for the child, then place in the child's file. Rated License Consultation/Assessment: The program must maintain a 75% or higher compliance history score to be eligible for a 2-5 star rated license. We discussed you would be choosing the program assessment pathway and referred to the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES. The following would be completed for the program assessment pathway based on star level met. *Enhanced staff/child ratios and/or enhanced space options. *Staff education evaluation of fifty percent (50%) of lead teachers and fifty percent (50%) of other educators. *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices. *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement plans for the facility and individual staff. *A structured self-study completed by the administrator and lead teacher(s) over three (3) consecutive months using the appropriate program assessment tool and additional resources located at https://ncrlap.org/Resources/, a written reflection of the self-assessment, including identification of goals for continuous quality improvement, and documentation of the structured self-study. *Environment Rating Scale (ERS) assessment using Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale, Third Edition (ECERS-3). *Evidence of implementing an approved curriculum with four-year old children. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. All staff must have education evaluated by WORKS on or before 5/15/26. If staff have DCDEE WORKS accounts without education evaluated for their position or do not have a DCDEE WORKS account, then it may result in a one star level for education. *R. Gordon – Teacher (floater) – has a DCDEE WORKS account and meets Level I Administrator with fifteen (15) additional semester hours *C. Fiene – Administrator – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets Level III Administrator equivalency *S. Clay – Lead Teacher – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets LT requirements plus nine (9) additional semester hours in early childhood development *C. Martinez – Lead Teacher – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets LT requirements plus eleven (11) additional semester hours in early childhood development *E. Terry – Lead Teacher - does not have a DCDEE WORKS account *R. Vasquez-Gomez – Teacher - DCDEE WORKS account shows registration in process *J. Maybin – Teacher (floater) – does not have a DCDEE WORKS account Curriculum: You stated the curriculum implemented is Creative Curriculum. Consultation: R. Gordon’s ITS-SIDS training expired on 9/17/23. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (f)…. At all times, one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training shall be present in the infant room while children are in care…. E. Terry is due to complete Health and Safety training by one year of employment, 6/23/26. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment.... We discussed prescription medications cannot be on a topical medication authorization form. We discussed the mulch on outdoor space #1, will need to be tilled/fluffed to allow for additional resiliency. Although it currently meets depth requirements, it is packed down and firm. Plan to email the updated staff and training worksheet to me once completed. We discussed the sanitation requirement below. 15A NCAC 18A .2818 LAVATORIES (a) In child care centers, lavatories shall be kept clean and in good repair and shall not be used for storage. ... Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or my supervisor, Bonnie Mathis at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0326-122L Visit Date: 3/24/2026 Number Present: 33 Completed Date: 3/24/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 100 Time In: 12:50 PM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is to follow-up on violations cited during a complaint visit on 3/16/26. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Monica Houck, Lead Child Care Consultant and also signed by Rosaline Gordon, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site for you. A copy of the visit summary report was emailed to Kim Rath, Legal Operator. Ms. Gordon was on-site and assisted me with the visit. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history is eighty-nine percent (89%) as of 3/23/26. The facility operates with a temporary license issued on 2/2/26. The Special Services/Restrictions include first shift only, ages 0-12 years, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced space. The following was monitored during the visit: Including, but not limited to, supervision, staff/child ratio, adequate approved space, permit restrictions, staff records, program records, ITS-SIDS training, and CPR/First Aid Training. During the visit, the three (3) violations cited on 3/16/26 were monitored for compliance: Item #317 – During the walkthrough, the staff/child ratios during rest time were as follows: Space #5 – two (2) staff and ten (10) infants through one year old children. Space #2 – one (1) staff and seven (7) two year old children. Space #3 – one (1) staff and sixteen (16) three through five year old children. The required staff was on the premises within calling distance. Space #4 – not in use during the walkthrough Space #1 – not in use during the walkthrough You stated you reviewed the rest time staff/child ratio rule during a staff meeting on 3/19/26 and that staff take a break in the on the premises and implement the cordless phone intercom to allow for easier communication on the premises. This item is verified as corrected and a letter of compliance is not required. Item #125 – The daily arrival and departure records for the month of March 2026 were on-site and available for review. This item is verified as corrected and a letter of compliance is not required. Item #1043 – The personnel file for E. Lopez was on-site and available for review. This item is verified as corrected and a letter of compliance is not required. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) staff hired on 4/7/15 had expired First Aid training as of 1/13/25. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) staff hired on 4/7/15 had expired CPR training as of 1/13/25. .1102(d) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. One (1) staff hired on 4/7/15 had expired ITS-SIDS training as of 7/25/25. .1102(f) Item #1065 ITS-SIDS training must be completed prior to the three year expiration date. To achieve compliance, you have registered E.L. for an ITS-SIDS training on 4/9/26 at the Children and Family Resource Center. Since this will be after the allotted two week timeframe to achieve compliance, plan to email an extension request to me that includes the reason for the extension request, the date you are requesting to be in compliance, and a plan that states how E.L. will not be left alone in the classroom with infants. Items #1048 and #1049 CPR and First Aid training must be completed prior to expiration. To achieve compliance, you will have E.L. complete CPR and First Aid training. If this will be after the allotted two week time frame to achieve compliance, plan to email an extension request to me that includes the reason for the extension request, the date you are requesting to be in compliance, and a plan that states how there will be at least one person on-stie at all times with valid CPR/First Aid training. Achieving Compliance: The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Name and position of individual submitting compliance statement • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 4/7/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) to: monica.houck@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243.2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if you mail the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Consultation is provided as follows: We discussed the importance of having the second caregiving staff on-site and available to return to the classroom quickly with the caregiving staff who is left with additional children ages two and older during naptime. An emergency situation can occur at any time, children may need assistance, and/or children may begin to wake up from rest time early. Adequate supervision and staff/child ratios must be maintained. You stated a new administrator may be hired soon. You are welcome to contact me for a technical assistance visit to discuss the rated license application process. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable to your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and can be a resource for you while you strive to provide a safe and healthy environment for the well-being of young children. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0302 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0326-122L Visit Date: 3/16/2026 Number Present: 21 Completed Date: 3/16/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 185 Time In: 12:40 PM Time Out: 03:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is to investigate allegations of child care requirements. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Monica Houck, Lead Child Care Consultant and also signed by Rosaline Gordon, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site for you. A copy of the visit summary will also be emailed to Kim Rath, Legal Operator. Ms. Gordon arrived at approximately 1:15pm today and assisted me with the visit. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history is ninety-five percent (95%) as of 3/13/26. The facility operates with a temporary license issued on 2/2/26. The Special Services/Restrictions include first shift only, ages 0-12 years, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced space. The complaint was received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education on 3/10/26 and sent to me on 3/10/26. In addition to addressing the allegations, staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, permit restrictions, license posted, staff records, and program records. Allegations within the report included the following: *Staff/child ratios and supervision related staff/child ratios are not maintained during staff breaks. A walkthrough of the entire facility was conducted. Children were observed during rest time and routine care. There were three (3) caregiving staff during the walkthrough; one (1) staff for each of the three (3) rooms in use by children. You stated there are cameras but you are not sure they record and do not have a way to access any past video. The teacher working in space #5, the classroom with infants and one year old children, did not have a personnel file on-site. E. Lopez was listed with a valid qualification letter in the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) portal. Attendance records were reviewed for the week of 3/2/26. Daily arrival and departure records were not on-site for review for the week of 3/2/26. One (1) staff record, E. Lopez, was not on-site for review. Allegation regarding staff/child ratio; there are concerns that staff/child ratios are not met when staff take breaks. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (b) The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/19 25 Based on the interviews and observations, the allegation regarding staff/child ratio was unsubstantiated. Allegation regarding supervision as it relates staff/child ratio; there are concerns that staff/child ratios are not met when staff take breaks. 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (b) For groups of children aged two years or older, the staff/child ratio during nap time shall comply with the requirements of this Chapter if at least one person remains in the room, all children are visible to that person, and the total number of required staff are on the premises and within calling distance of the rooms occupied by children. During the walkthrough, the staff/child ratios during rest time were as follows: Space # 5– one (1) staff and five (5) infants through one year old children. Space #2 – one (1) staff and four (4) two year old children. Space #3 – one (1) staff and twelve (12) three through five year old children. The required staff was not on the premises, and arrived back from break at approximately 1:10pm. Space #4 – not in use during the walkthrough Space #1 – not in use during the walkthrough Based on the interview and observation, the allegation regarding supervision related to staff/child ratio was substantiated. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. March 2, 2026 through March 13, 2026 daily records of arrival and departure times for children were not on-site and available for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 317 The staff/child ratios for children, two years and older, during naptime were not maintained by having 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 occupied by children. During the walkthrough in space #3, there were twelve (12) children ages three through five years old, with one (1) staff. The other staff were off-site. .1801(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. One (1) staff working in space #5, did not have a staff personnel record on-site. G.S. 110-91( 9) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #317 The correct number of caregiving staff must be on the premises when leaving another caregiving staff with resting children ages two or older. The staff member can call out with their voice physically when in need of assistance for a caregiving staff member to return to the room. You stated you have a training coming up and will review the rest time staff/child ratio rule so that staff understand the requirements. We discussed having staff take a break in the staff room or implement walkie talkies to allow for easier communication on the premises. You stated the cordless phone has intercom and could be used. Item #125 Arrival and departure records must remain on-site at the facility and available for review. You stated the arrival and departure will be brought back to the center and remain on-site. A future goal is to go paperless and have an app that will keep track of arrival and departure electronically. Item #1043 Staff records, except medical records, must remain on-site at the facility and available for review. You stated E. Lopez’s staff file will be brought back to the center and remain on-site. You also stated you have been taking files home to review all files and be sure compliance is maintained. You can email the staff file to me for review. Additional violation may be documented. Achieving Compliance: The facility received a violation regarding supervision today. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to determine if staff are maintaining supervision per Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1801(b). Based on today’s findings, this child care facility received a substantiated complaint regarding supervision as it relates to staff/child ratio. This may warrant a denial of a license as identified by Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2215. 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator's non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Name and position of individual submitting compliance statement • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 3/30/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) to: monica.houck@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243.2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if you mail the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Consultation is provided as follows: You may visit the North Carolina Department of Labor’s website for more information regarding breaks. https://www.labor.nc.gov/workplace-rights/employee-rights-regarding-time-worked-and-wages-earned/what-know-about-breaks Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable to your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and can be a resource for you while you strive to provide a safe and healthy environment for the well-being of young children. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1801 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0326-122L Visit Date: 3/16/2026 Number Present: 21 Completed Date: 3/16/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 185 Time In: 12:40 PM Time Out: 03:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is to investigate allegations of child care requirements. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Monica Houck, Lead Child Care Consultant and also signed by Rosaline Gordon, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site for you. A copy of the visit summary will also be emailed to Kim Rath, Legal Operator. Ms. Gordon arrived at approximately 1:15pm today and assisted me with the visit. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history is ninety-five percent (95%) as of 3/13/26. The facility operates with a temporary license issued on 2/2/26. The Special Services/Restrictions include first shift only, ages 0-12 years, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced space. The complaint was received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education on 3/10/26 and sent to me on 3/10/26. In addition to addressing the allegations, staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, permit restrictions, license posted, staff records, and program records. Allegations within the report included the following: *Staff/child ratios and supervision related staff/child ratios are not maintained during staff breaks. A walkthrough of the entire facility was conducted. Children were observed during rest time and routine care. There were three (3) caregiving staff during the walkthrough; one (1) staff for each of the three (3) rooms in use by children. You stated there are cameras but you are not sure they record and do not have a way to access any past video. The teacher working in space #5, the classroom with infants and one year old children, did not have a personnel file on-site. E. Lopez was listed with a valid qualification letter in the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) portal. Attendance records were reviewed for the week of 3/2/26. Daily arrival and departure records were not on-site for review for the week of 3/2/26. One (1) staff record, E. Lopez, was not on-site for review. Allegation regarding staff/child ratio; there are concerns that staff/child ratios are not met when staff take breaks. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (b) The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/19 25 Based on the interviews and observations, the allegation regarding staff/child ratio was unsubstantiated. Allegation regarding supervision as it relates staff/child ratio; there are concerns that staff/child ratios are not met when staff take breaks. 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (b) For groups of children aged two years or older, the staff/child ratio during nap time shall comply with the requirements of this Chapter if at least one person remains in the room, all children are visible to that person, and the total number of required staff are on the premises and within calling distance of the rooms occupied by children. During the walkthrough, the staff/child ratios during rest time were as follows: Space # 5– one (1) staff and five (5) infants through one year old children. Space #2 – one (1) staff and four (4) two year old children. Space #3 – one (1) staff and twelve (12) three through five year old children. The required staff was not on the premises, and arrived back from break at approximately 1:10pm. Space #4 – not in use during the walkthrough Space #1 – not in use during the walkthrough Based on the interview and observation, the allegation regarding supervision related to staff/child ratio was substantiated. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. March 2, 2026 through March 13, 2026 daily records of arrival and departure times for children were not on-site and available for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 317 The staff/child ratios for children, two years and older, during naptime were not maintained by having 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 occupied by children. During the walkthrough in space #3, there were twelve (12) children ages three through five years old, with one (1) staff. The other staff were off-site. .1801(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. One (1) staff working in space #5, did not have a staff personnel record on-site. G.S. 110-91( 9) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #317 The correct number of caregiving staff must be on the premises when leaving another caregiving staff with resting children ages two or older. The staff member can call out with their voice physically when in need of assistance for a caregiving staff member to return to the room. You stated you have a training coming up and will review the rest time staff/child ratio rule so that staff understand the requirements. We discussed having staff take a break in the staff room or implement walkie talkies to allow for easier communication on the premises. You stated the cordless phone has intercom and could be used. Item #125 Arrival and departure records must remain on-site at the facility and available for review. You stated the arrival and departure will be brought back to the center and remain on-site. A future goal is to go paperless and have an app that will keep track of arrival and departure electronically. Item #1043 Staff records, except medical records, must remain on-site at the facility and available for review. You stated E. Lopez’s staff file will be brought back to the center and remain on-site. You also stated you have been taking files home to review all files and be sure compliance is maintained. You can email the staff file to me for review. Additional violation may be documented. Achieving Compliance: The facility received a violation regarding supervision today. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to determine if staff are maintaining supervision per Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1801(b). Based on today’s findings, this child care facility received a substantiated complaint regarding supervision as it relates to staff/child ratio. This may warrant a denial of a license as identified by Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2215. 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator's non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Name and position of individual submitting compliance statement • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 3/30/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) to: monica.houck@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243.2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if you mail the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Consultation is provided as follows: You may visit the North Carolina Department of Labor’s website for more information regarding breaks. https://www.labor.nc.gov/workplace-rights/employee-rights-regarding-time-worked-and-wages-earned/what-know-about-breaks Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable to your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and can be a resource for you while you strive to provide a safe and healthy environment for the well-being of young children. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .2215 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0326-122L Visit Date: 3/16/2026 Number Present: 21 Completed Date: 3/16/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 185 Time In: 12:40 PM Time Out: 03:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is to investigate allegations of child care requirements. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Monica Houck, Lead Child Care Consultant and also signed by Rosaline Gordon, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site for you. A copy of the visit summary will also be emailed to Kim Rath, Legal Operator. Ms. Gordon arrived at approximately 1:15pm today and assisted me with the visit. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history is ninety-five percent (95%) as of 3/13/26. The facility operates with a temporary license issued on 2/2/26. The Special Services/Restrictions include first shift only, ages 0-12 years, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced space. The complaint was received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education on 3/10/26 and sent to me on 3/10/26. In addition to addressing the allegations, staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, permit restrictions, license posted, staff records, and program records. Allegations within the report included the following: *Staff/child ratios and supervision related staff/child ratios are not maintained during staff breaks. A walkthrough of the entire facility was conducted. Children were observed during rest time and routine care. There were three (3) caregiving staff during the walkthrough; one (1) staff for each of the three (3) rooms in use by children. You stated there are cameras but you are not sure they record and do not have a way to access any past video. The teacher working in space #5, the classroom with infants and one year old children, did not have a personnel file on-site. E. Lopez was listed with a valid qualification letter in the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) portal. Attendance records were reviewed for the week of 3/2/26. Daily arrival and departure records were not on-site for review for the week of 3/2/26. One (1) staff record, E. Lopez, was not on-site for review. Allegation regarding staff/child ratio; there are concerns that staff/child ratios are not met when staff take breaks. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (b) The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/19 25 Based on the interviews and observations, the allegation regarding staff/child ratio was unsubstantiated. Allegation regarding supervision as it relates staff/child ratio; there are concerns that staff/child ratios are not met when staff take breaks. 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (b) For groups of children aged two years or older, the staff/child ratio during nap time shall comply with the requirements of this Chapter if at least one person remains in the room, all children are visible to that person, and the total number of required staff are on the premises and within calling distance of the rooms occupied by children. During the walkthrough, the staff/child ratios during rest time were as follows: Space # 5– one (1) staff and five (5) infants through one year old children. Space #2 – one (1) staff and four (4) two year old children. Space #3 – one (1) staff and twelve (12) three through five year old children. The required staff was not on the premises, and arrived back from break at approximately 1:10pm. Space #4 – not in use during the walkthrough Space #1 – not in use during the walkthrough Based on the interview and observation, the allegation regarding supervision related to staff/child ratio was substantiated. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. March 2, 2026 through March 13, 2026 daily records of arrival and departure times for children were not on-site and available for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 317 The staff/child ratios for children, two years and older, during naptime were not maintained by having 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 occupied by children. During the walkthrough in space #3, there were twelve (12) children ages three through five years old, with one (1) staff. The other staff were off-site. .1801(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. One (1) staff working in space #5, did not have a staff personnel record on-site. G.S. 110-91( 9) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #317 The correct number of caregiving staff must be on the premises when leaving another caregiving staff with resting children ages two or older. The staff member can call out with their voice physically when in need of assistance for a caregiving staff member to return to the room. You stated you have a training coming up and will review the rest time staff/child ratio rule so that staff understand the requirements. We discussed having staff take a break in the staff room or implement walkie talkies to allow for easier communication on the premises. You stated the cordless phone has intercom and could be used. Item #125 Arrival and departure records must remain on-site at the facility and available for review. You stated the arrival and departure will be brought back to the center and remain on-site. A future goal is to go paperless and have an app that will keep track of arrival and departure electronically. Item #1043 Staff records, except medical records, must remain on-site at the facility and available for review. You stated E. Lopez’s staff file will be brought back to the center and remain on-site. You also stated you have been taking files home to review all files and be sure compliance is maintained. You can email the staff file to me for review. Additional violation may be documented. Achieving Compliance: The facility received a violation regarding supervision today. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to determine if staff are maintaining supervision per Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1801(b). Based on today’s findings, this child care facility received a substantiated complaint regarding supervision as it relates to staff/child ratio. This may warrant a denial of a license as identified by Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2215. 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator's non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Name and position of individual submitting compliance statement • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 3/30/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) to: monica.houck@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243.2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if you mail the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Consultation is provided as follows: You may visit the North Carolina Department of Labor’s website for more information regarding breaks. https://www.labor.nc.gov/workplace-rights/employee-rights-regarding-time-worked-and-wages-earned/what-know-about-breaks Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable to your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and can be a resource for you while you strive to provide a safe and healthy environment for the well-being of young children. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .2818 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0326-122L Visit Date: 3/16/2026 Number Present: 21 Completed Date: 3/16/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 185 Time In: 12:40 PM Time Out: 03:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is to investigate allegations of child care requirements. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Monica Houck, Lead Child Care Consultant and also signed by Rosaline Gordon, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site for you. A copy of the visit summary will also be emailed to Kim Rath, Legal Operator. Ms. Gordon arrived at approximately 1:15pm today and assisted me with the visit. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history is ninety-five percent (95%) as of 3/13/26. The facility operates with a temporary license issued on 2/2/26. The Special Services/Restrictions include first shift only, ages 0-12 years, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced space. The complaint was received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education on 3/10/26 and sent to me on 3/10/26. In addition to addressing the allegations, staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, permit restrictions, license posted, staff records, and program records. Allegations within the report included the following: *Staff/child ratios and supervision related staff/child ratios are not maintained during staff breaks. A walkthrough of the entire facility was conducted. Children were observed during rest time and routine care. There were three (3) caregiving staff during the walkthrough; one (1) staff for each of the three (3) rooms in use by children. You stated there are cameras but you are not sure they record and do not have a way to access any past video. The teacher working in space #5, the classroom with infants and one year old children, did not have a personnel file on-site. E. Lopez was listed with a valid qualification letter in the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) portal. Attendance records were reviewed for the week of 3/2/26. Daily arrival and departure records were not on-site for review for the week of 3/2/26. One (1) staff record, E. Lopez, was not on-site for review. Allegation regarding staff/child ratio; there are concerns that staff/child ratios are not met when staff take breaks. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (b) The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/19 25 Based on the interviews and observations, the allegation regarding staff/child ratio was unsubstantiated. Allegation regarding supervision as it relates staff/child ratio; there are concerns that staff/child ratios are not met when staff take breaks. 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (b) For groups of children aged two years or older, the staff/child ratio during nap time shall comply with the requirements of this Chapter if at least one person remains in the room, all children are visible to that person, and the total number of required staff are on the premises and within calling distance of the rooms occupied by children. During the walkthrough, the staff/child ratios during rest time were as follows: Space # 5– one (1) staff and five (5) infants through one year old children. Space #2 – one (1) staff and four (4) two year old children. Space #3 – one (1) staff and twelve (12) three through five year old children. The required staff was not on the premises, and arrived back from break at approximately 1:10pm. Space #4 – not in use during the walkthrough Space #1 – not in use during the walkthrough Based on the interview and observation, the allegation regarding supervision related to staff/child ratio was substantiated. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. March 2, 2026 through March 13, 2026 daily records of arrival and departure times for children were not on-site and available for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 317 The staff/child ratios for children, two years and older, during naptime were not maintained by having 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 occupied by children. During the walkthrough in space #3, there were twelve (12) children ages three through five years old, with one (1) staff. The other staff were off-site. .1801(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. One (1) staff working in space #5, did not have a staff personnel record on-site. G.S. 110-91( 9) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #317 The correct number of caregiving staff must be on the premises when leaving another caregiving staff with resting children ages two or older. The staff member can call out with their voice physically when in need of assistance for a caregiving staff member to return to the room. You stated you have a training coming up and will review the rest time staff/child ratio rule so that staff understand the requirements. We discussed having staff take a break in the staff room or implement walkie talkies to allow for easier communication on the premises. You stated the cordless phone has intercom and could be used. Item #125 Arrival and departure records must remain on-site at the facility and available for review. You stated the arrival and departure will be brought back to the center and remain on-site. A future goal is to go paperless and have an app that will keep track of arrival and departure electronically. Item #1043 Staff records, except medical records, must remain on-site at the facility and available for review. You stated E. Lopez’s staff file will be brought back to the center and remain on-site. You also stated you have been taking files home to review all files and be sure compliance is maintained. You can email the staff file to me for review. Additional violation may be documented. Achieving Compliance: The facility received a violation regarding supervision today. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to determine if staff are maintaining supervision per Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1801(b). Based on today’s findings, this child care facility received a substantiated complaint regarding supervision as it relates to staff/child ratio. This may warrant a denial of a license as identified by Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2215. 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator's non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Name and position of individual submitting compliance statement • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 3/30/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) to: monica.houck@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243.2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if you mail the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Consultation is provided as follows: You may visit the North Carolina Department of Labor’s website for more information regarding breaks. https://www.labor.nc.gov/workplace-rights/employee-rights-regarding-time-worked-and-wages-earned/what-know-about-breaks Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable to your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and can be a resource for you while you strive to provide a safe and healthy environment for the well-being of young children. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0326-122L Visit Date: 3/16/2026 Number Present: 21 Completed Date: 3/16/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 185 Time In: 12:40 PM Time Out: 03:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is to investigate allegations of child care requirements. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Monica Houck, Lead Child Care Consultant and also signed by Rosaline Gordon, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site for you. A copy of the visit summary will also be emailed to Kim Rath, Legal Operator. Ms. Gordon arrived at approximately 1:15pm today and assisted me with the visit. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history is ninety-five percent (95%) as of 3/13/26. The facility operates with a temporary license issued on 2/2/26. The Special Services/Restrictions include first shift only, ages 0-12 years, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced space. The complaint was received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education on 3/10/26 and sent to me on 3/10/26. In addition to addressing the allegations, staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, permit restrictions, license posted, staff records, and program records. Allegations within the report included the following: *Staff/child ratios and supervision related staff/child ratios are not maintained during staff breaks. A walkthrough of the entire facility was conducted. Children were observed during rest time and routine care. There were three (3) caregiving staff during the walkthrough; one (1) staff for each of the three (3) rooms in use by children. You stated there are cameras but you are not sure they record and do not have a way to access any past video. The teacher working in space #5, the classroom with infants and one year old children, did not have a personnel file on-site. E. Lopez was listed with a valid qualification letter in the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) portal. Attendance records were reviewed for the week of 3/2/26. Daily arrival and departure records were not on-site for review for the week of 3/2/26. One (1) staff record, E. Lopez, was not on-site for review. Allegation regarding staff/child ratio; there are concerns that staff/child ratios are not met when staff take breaks. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (b) The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/19 25 Based on the interviews and observations, the allegation regarding staff/child ratio was unsubstantiated. Allegation regarding supervision as it relates staff/child ratio; there are concerns that staff/child ratios are not met when staff take breaks. 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (b) For groups of children aged two years or older, the staff/child ratio during nap time shall comply with the requirements of this Chapter if at least one person remains in the room, all children are visible to that person, and the total number of required staff are on the premises and within calling distance of the rooms occupied by children. During the walkthrough, the staff/child ratios during rest time were as follows: Space # 5– one (1) staff and five (5) infants through one year old children. Space #2 – one (1) staff and four (4) two year old children. Space #3 – one (1) staff and twelve (12) three through five year old children. The required staff was not on the premises, and arrived back from break at approximately 1:10pm. Space #4 – not in use during the walkthrough Space #1 – not in use during the walkthrough Based on the interview and observation, the allegation regarding supervision related to staff/child ratio was substantiated. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. March 2, 2026 through March 13, 2026 daily records of arrival and departure times for children were not on-site and available for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 317 The staff/child ratios for children, two years and older, during naptime were not maintained by having 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 occupied by children. During the walkthrough in space #3, there were twelve (12) children ages three through five years old, with one (1) staff. The other staff were off-site. .1801(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. One (1) staff working in space #5, did not have a staff personnel record on-site. G.S. 110-91( 9) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #317 The correct number of caregiving staff must be on the premises when leaving another caregiving staff with resting children ages two or older. The staff member can call out with their voice physically when in need of assistance for a caregiving staff member to return to the room. You stated you have a training coming up and will review the rest time staff/child ratio rule so that staff understand the requirements. We discussed having staff take a break in the staff room or implement walkie talkies to allow for easier communication on the premises. You stated the cordless phone has intercom and could be used. Item #125 Arrival and departure records must remain on-site at the facility and available for review. You stated the arrival and departure will be brought back to the center and remain on-site. A future goal is to go paperless and have an app that will keep track of arrival and departure electronically. Item #1043 Staff records, except medical records, must remain on-site at the facility and available for review. You stated E. Lopez’s staff file will be brought back to the center and remain on-site. You also stated you have been taking files home to review all files and be sure compliance is maintained. You can email the staff file to me for review. Additional violation may be documented. Achieving Compliance: The facility received a violation regarding supervision today. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to determine if staff are maintaining supervision per Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1801(b). Based on today’s findings, this child care facility received a substantiated complaint regarding supervision as it relates to staff/child ratio. This may warrant a denial of a license as identified by Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2215. 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator's non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Name and position of individual submitting compliance statement • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 3/30/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) to: monica.houck@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243.2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if you mail the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Consultation is provided as follows: You may visit the North Carolina Department of Labor’s website for more information regarding breaks. https://www.labor.nc.gov/workplace-rights/employee-rights-regarding-time-worked-and-wages-earned/what-know-about-breaks Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable to your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and can be a resource for you while you strive to provide a safe and healthy environment for the well-being of young children. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0326-122L Visit Date: 3/16/2026 Number Present: 21 Completed Date: 3/16/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 185 Time In: 12:40 PM Time Out: 03:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is to investigate allegations of child care requirements. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Monica Houck, Lead Child Care Consultant and also signed by Rosaline Gordon, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site for you. A copy of the visit summary will also be emailed to Kim Rath, Legal Operator. Ms. Gordon arrived at approximately 1:15pm today and assisted me with the visit. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history is ninety-five percent (95%) as of 3/13/26. The facility operates with a temporary license issued on 2/2/26. The Special Services/Restrictions include first shift only, ages 0-12 years, enhanced staff/child ratios, enhanced space. The complaint was received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education on 3/10/26 and sent to me on 3/10/26. In addition to addressing the allegations, staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, permit restrictions, license posted, staff records, and program records. Allegations within the report included the following: *Staff/child ratios and supervision related staff/child ratios are not maintained during staff breaks. A walkthrough of the entire facility was conducted. Children were observed during rest time and routine care. There were three (3) caregiving staff during the walkthrough; one (1) staff for each of the three (3) rooms in use by children. You stated there are cameras but you are not sure they record and do not have a way to access any past video. The teacher working in space #5, the classroom with infants and one year old children, did not have a personnel file on-site. E. Lopez was listed with a valid qualification letter in the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) portal. Attendance records were reviewed for the week of 3/2/26. Daily arrival and departure records were not on-site for review for the week of 3/2/26. One (1) staff record, E. Lopez, was not on-site for review. Allegation regarding staff/child ratio; there are concerns that staff/child ratios are not met when staff take breaks. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (b) The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/19 25 Based on the interviews and observations, the allegation regarding staff/child ratio was unsubstantiated. Allegation regarding supervision as it relates staff/child ratio; there are concerns that staff/child ratios are not met when staff take breaks. 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (b) For groups of children aged two years or older, the staff/child ratio during nap time shall comply with the requirements of this Chapter if at least one person remains in the room, all children are visible to that person, and the total number of required staff are on the premises and within calling distance of the rooms occupied by children. During the walkthrough, the staff/child ratios during rest time were as follows: Space # 5– one (1) staff and five (5) infants through one year old children. Space #2 – one (1) staff and four (4) two year old children. Space #3 – one (1) staff and twelve (12) three through five year old children. The required staff was not on the premises, and arrived back from break at approximately 1:10pm. Space #4 – not in use during the walkthrough Space #1 – not in use during the walkthrough Based on the interview and observation, the allegation regarding supervision related to staff/child ratio was substantiated. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. March 2, 2026 through March 13, 2026 daily records of arrival and departure times for children were not on-site and available for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 317 The staff/child ratios for children, two years and older, during naptime were not maintained by having 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 occupied by children. During the walkthrough in space #3, there were twelve (12) children ages three through five years old, with one (1) staff. The other staff were off-site. .1801(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. One (1) staff working in space #5, did not have a staff personnel record on-site. G.S. 110-91( 9) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #317 The correct number of caregiving staff must be on the premises when leaving another caregiving staff with resting children ages two or older. The staff member can call out with their voice physically when in need of assistance for a caregiving staff member to return to the room. You stated you have a training coming up and will review the rest time staff/child ratio rule so that staff understand the requirements. We discussed having staff take a break in the staff room or implement walkie talkies to allow for easier communication on the premises. You stated the cordless phone has intercom and could be used. Item #125 Arrival and departure records must remain on-site at the facility and available for review. You stated the arrival and departure will be brought back to the center and remain on-site. A future goal is to go paperless and have an app that will keep track of arrival and departure electronically. Item #1043 Staff records, except medical records, must remain on-site at the facility and available for review. You stated E. Lopez’s staff file will be brought back to the center and remain on-site. You also stated you have been taking files home to review all files and be sure compliance is maintained. You can email the staff file to me for review. Additional violation may be documented. Achieving Compliance: The facility received a violation regarding supervision today. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to determine if staff are maintaining supervision per Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1801(b). Based on today’s findings, this child care facility received a substantiated complaint regarding supervision as it relates to staff/child ratio. This may warrant a denial of a license as identified by Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2215. 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator's non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Name and position of individual submitting compliance statement • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 3/30/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) to: monica.houck@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243.2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if you mail the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Consultation is provided as follows: You may visit the North Carolina Department of Labor’s website for more information regarding breaks. https://www.labor.nc.gov/workplace-rights/employee-rights-regarding-time-worked-and-wages-earned/what-know-about-breaks Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable to your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and can be a resource for you while you strive to provide a safe and healthy environment for the well-being of young children. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/4/2026 Number Present: 31 Completed Date: 3/4/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:00 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 during the first temporary time period visit. This facility is on a temporary license due to a change of ownership. Rosaline Gordon, Administrator, arrived on-site at approximately 9:50am and was available to answer and ask questions. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and reviewed with you. The printed visit summary was signed and a copy left with you. Currently this center operates with a Temporary License, issued 2/2/26 and is effective through 8/2/26. The restrictions include first shift only for fifty-nine (59) children, ages 0-12 years old, meets enhanced ratios and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and the organization, STH Ventures Inc., is listed as active-current. If any changes to the organization need to be made, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. During this first Temporary Time Period visit, classrooms were monitored as well as the playground, materials, equipment and required posted items for meeting minimum licensing requirements. A zoning letter that states 205 Thompson St, Hendersonville is zoned for child care use was provided and dated 1/9/26. A sanitation inspection was conducted on 2/20/26 with fourteen (14) demerits for a Superior rating. The following inspections/paperwork are still needed during the temporary time period: Approved building inspection with approved spaces identified on floor plan (must be completed on or before 6/2/26) Approved fire inspection (must be completed on or before 6/2/26) Lead water test results, (the current lead water test results can carry into the new ownership and must be completed on or before 6/2/26; plan to contact Clean Water for Carolina Kids to notify of the change of ownership and have account results transferred into new ownership account). Per the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, the building was built in 1984 and is not subject to lead based paint testing and may be subject to asbestos testing. The EPR plan will need to be transferred to the new ownership (must be completed on or before 6/2/26 Administrative, operational, and personnel policies must be reviewed to meet required topics (must be completed on or before 6/2/26). Please note that failure to comply with Child Care rules during the Temporary Time Period may result in denial of a license. Continue to review 10A NCAC Chapter 9 Child Care Rules and reach out with any questions or concerns you may have. 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; The children were observed during routine care, free play, small group activities, outdoor play, lunch, and rest time. The lunch today was a ham and cheese sandwich, celery sticks, peaches, and milk. Three (3) children files were monitored. Four (4) staff files were monitored. To serve children on subsidy vouchers, the facility must transition to a three-star license or higher. If the facility cannot achieve a three-star license or higher, no children can be served that receive subsidy vouchers. The Initial Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License can be found on the Division’s website if you would like to apply for a rated license. The Rated License Request for Review Form is embedded in the rated license application if you would like to request the Environment Rating Scale (ERS) assessment. Plan to visit the ncrlap.org website to learn more about the assessment process. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Two (2) staff did not have an updated annual health questionnaire on file. .0701(a) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One (1) staff with a valid qualification letter dated 12/17/25 through 12/17/30 did not have the letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One (1) staff hired on 1/6/25 and one (1) staff hired on 5/30/24, did not complete the administration of medication in child care training topic. .1102(a) All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement on or before 3/18/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243-2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Achieving Compliance – rule references are noted in the cited violations *Health and Safety Training - Item #1898 To achieve compliance, you stated you would have C.M. and R.V.G. complete the Medication in Childcare Training on the DCDEE Moodle platform. This is a free training that can be taken on-demand. It is recommended to audit all staff that have been employed for one year or more to verify that all health and safety training topics have been completed. *DCDEE Criminal Background Check – Item #1757 To achieve compliance, you had C. Martinez print out her qualifying letter that expires on 12/17/30 and placed in her personnel file. This was corrected during the visit. *Annual Health Questionnaire – Item #1034 To achieve compliance, you had the two staff complete the form during the visit. This was corrected during the visit. Rated License Consultation: Rated License Assessment: The program must maintain a 75% or higher compliance history score to be eligible for a 2-5 star rated license. We discussed you would be choosing the program assessment pathway and referred to the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES. The following would be completed for the program assessment pathway based on star level met. *Enhanced staff/child ratios and/or enhanced space options. *Staff education evaluation of fifty percent (50%) of lead teachers and fifty percent (50%) of other educators. *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices. *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement plans for the facility and individual staff. *A structured self-study completed by the administrator and lead teacher(s) over three (3) consecutive months using the appropriate program assessment tool and additional resources located at https://ncrlap.org/Resources/, a written reflection of the self-assessment, including identification of goals for continuous quality improvement, and documentation of the structured self-study. *Environment Rating Scale (ERS) assessment using Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale, Third Edition (ECERS-3). *Evidence of implementing an approved curriculum with four-year old children. Self-study resources and the self-study verification form from ncrlap.org were provided to you via email prior to today’s visit: *Understanding self-study; *Key steps, the self-study process for NC child care programs; *The self-study, guidance for administrators; and *Getting started with a self-study for teachers. The verification form will be reviewed and collected by the child care consultant. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. All staff must have education evaluated by WORKS on or before 5/15/26. If staff have DCDEE WORKS accounts without education evaluated for their position or do not have a DCDEE WORKS account, then it may result in a one star level for education. *R. Gordon – Administrator – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets Level I Administrator *S. Clay – Lead Teacher – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets LT requirements plus nine (9) additional semester hours in early childhood development *C. Martinez – Lead Teacher – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets LT requirements plus eleven (11) additional semester hours in early childhood development *E. Terry – Lead Teacher - does not have a DCDEE WORKS account *K. Crawford – Lead Teacher - does not have a DCDEE WORKS account *R. Vasquez-Gomez – Teacher - DCDEE WORKS account shows registration in process Curriculum: You stated the curriculum implemented is Creative Curriculum. Consultation: We discussed that the staff/child ratio chart posted in classrooms needs to accurately reflect the age, staff/child ratio, and maximum group sizes. New and terminated staff notification requirement: As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in 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) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. We discussed the following child care rule during the visit today. 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (q) Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or my supervisor, Bonnie Mathis at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .2215 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/4/2026 Number Present: 31 Completed Date: 3/4/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:00 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 during the first temporary time period visit. This facility is on a temporary license due to a change of ownership. Rosaline Gordon, Administrator, arrived on-site at approximately 9:50am and was available to answer and ask questions. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and reviewed with you. The printed visit summary was signed and a copy left with you. Currently this center operates with a Temporary License, issued 2/2/26 and is effective through 8/2/26. The restrictions include first shift only for fifty-nine (59) children, ages 0-12 years old, meets enhanced ratios and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and the organization, STH Ventures Inc., is listed as active-current. If any changes to the organization need to be made, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. During this first Temporary Time Period visit, classrooms were monitored as well as the playground, materials, equipment and required posted items for meeting minimum licensing requirements. A zoning letter that states 205 Thompson St, Hendersonville is zoned for child care use was provided and dated 1/9/26. A sanitation inspection was conducted on 2/20/26 with fourteen (14) demerits for a Superior rating. The following inspections/paperwork are still needed during the temporary time period: Approved building inspection with approved spaces identified on floor plan (must be completed on or before 6/2/26) Approved fire inspection (must be completed on or before 6/2/26) Lead water test results, (the current lead water test results can carry into the new ownership and must be completed on or before 6/2/26; plan to contact Clean Water for Carolina Kids to notify of the change of ownership and have account results transferred into new ownership account). Per the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, the building was built in 1984 and is not subject to lead based paint testing and may be subject to asbestos testing. The EPR plan will need to be transferred to the new ownership (must be completed on or before 6/2/26 Administrative, operational, and personnel policies must be reviewed to meet required topics (must be completed on or before 6/2/26). Please note that failure to comply with Child Care rules during the Temporary Time Period may result in denial of a license. Continue to review 10A NCAC Chapter 9 Child Care Rules and reach out with any questions or concerns you may have. 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; The children were observed during routine care, free play, small group activities, outdoor play, lunch, and rest time. The lunch today was a ham and cheese sandwich, celery sticks, peaches, and milk. Three (3) children files were monitored. Four (4) staff files were monitored. To serve children on subsidy vouchers, the facility must transition to a three-star license or higher. If the facility cannot achieve a three-star license or higher, no children can be served that receive subsidy vouchers. The Initial Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License can be found on the Division’s website if you would like to apply for a rated license. The Rated License Request for Review Form is embedded in the rated license application if you would like to request the Environment Rating Scale (ERS) assessment. Plan to visit the ncrlap.org website to learn more about the assessment process. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Two (2) staff did not have an updated annual health questionnaire on file. .0701(a) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One (1) staff with a valid qualification letter dated 12/17/25 through 12/17/30 did not have the letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One (1) staff hired on 1/6/25 and one (1) staff hired on 5/30/24, did not complete the administration of medication in child care training topic. .1102(a) All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement on or before 3/18/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243-2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Achieving Compliance – rule references are noted in the cited violations *Health and Safety Training - Item #1898 To achieve compliance, you stated you would have C.M. and R.V.G. complete the Medication in Childcare Training on the DCDEE Moodle platform. This is a free training that can be taken on-demand. It is recommended to audit all staff that have been employed for one year or more to verify that all health and safety training topics have been completed. *DCDEE Criminal Background Check – Item #1757 To achieve compliance, you had C. Martinez print out her qualifying letter that expires on 12/17/30 and placed in her personnel file. This was corrected during the visit. *Annual Health Questionnaire – Item #1034 To achieve compliance, you had the two staff complete the form during the visit. This was corrected during the visit. Rated License Consultation: Rated License Assessment: The program must maintain a 75% or higher compliance history score to be eligible for a 2-5 star rated license. We discussed you would be choosing the program assessment pathway and referred to the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES. The following would be completed for the program assessment pathway based on star level met. *Enhanced staff/child ratios and/or enhanced space options. *Staff education evaluation of fifty percent (50%) of lead teachers and fifty percent (50%) of other educators. *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices. *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement plans for the facility and individual staff. *A structured self-study completed by the administrator and lead teacher(s) over three (3) consecutive months using the appropriate program assessment tool and additional resources located at https://ncrlap.org/Resources/, a written reflection of the self-assessment, including identification of goals for continuous quality improvement, and documentation of the structured self-study. *Environment Rating Scale (ERS) assessment using Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale, Third Edition (ECERS-3). *Evidence of implementing an approved curriculum with four-year old children. Self-study resources and the self-study verification form from ncrlap.org were provided to you via email prior to today’s visit: *Understanding self-study; *Key steps, the self-study process for NC child care programs; *The self-study, guidance for administrators; and *Getting started with a self-study for teachers. The verification form will be reviewed and collected by the child care consultant. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. All staff must have education evaluated by WORKS on or before 5/15/26. If staff have DCDEE WORKS accounts without education evaluated for their position or do not have a DCDEE WORKS account, then it may result in a one star level for education. *R. Gordon – Administrator – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets Level I Administrator *S. Clay – Lead Teacher – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets LT requirements plus nine (9) additional semester hours in early childhood development *C. Martinez – Lead Teacher – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets LT requirements plus eleven (11) additional semester hours in early childhood development *E. Terry – Lead Teacher - does not have a DCDEE WORKS account *K. Crawford – Lead Teacher - does not have a DCDEE WORKS account *R. Vasquez-Gomez – Teacher - DCDEE WORKS account shows registration in process Curriculum: You stated the curriculum implemented is Creative Curriculum. Consultation: We discussed that the staff/child ratio chart posted in classrooms needs to accurately reflect the age, staff/child ratio, and maximum group sizes. New and terminated staff notification requirement: As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in 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) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. We discussed the following child care rule during the visit today. 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (q) Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or my supervisor, Bonnie Mathis at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Steps to Hope Academy Facility ID: 45000441 Consultant: MONICA HOUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/4/2026 Number Present: 31 Completed Date: 3/4/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:00 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 during the first temporary time period visit. This facility is on a temporary license due to a change of ownership. Rosaline Gordon, Administrator, arrived on-site at approximately 9:50am and was available to answer and ask questions. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and reviewed with you. The printed visit summary was signed and a copy left with you. Currently this center operates with a Temporary License, issued 2/2/26 and is effective through 8/2/26. The restrictions include first shift only for fifty-nine (59) children, ages 0-12 years old, meets enhanced ratios and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and the organization, STH Ventures Inc., is listed as active-current. If any changes to the organization need to be made, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. During this first Temporary Time Period visit, classrooms were monitored as well as the playground, materials, equipment and required posted items for meeting minimum licensing requirements. A zoning letter that states 205 Thompson St, Hendersonville is zoned for child care use was provided and dated 1/9/26. A sanitation inspection was conducted on 2/20/26 with fourteen (14) demerits for a Superior rating. The following inspections/paperwork are still needed during the temporary time period: Approved building inspection with approved spaces identified on floor plan (must be completed on or before 6/2/26) Approved fire inspection (must be completed on or before 6/2/26) Lead water test results, (the current lead water test results can carry into the new ownership and must be completed on or before 6/2/26; plan to contact Clean Water for Carolina Kids to notify of the change of ownership and have account results transferred into new ownership account). Per the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, the building was built in 1984 and is not subject to lead based paint testing and may be subject to asbestos testing. The EPR plan will need to be transferred to the new ownership (must be completed on or before 6/2/26 Administrative, operational, and personnel policies must be reviewed to meet required topics (must be completed on or before 6/2/26). Please note that failure to comply with Child Care rules during the Temporary Time Period may result in denial of a license. Continue to review 10A NCAC Chapter 9 Child Care Rules and reach out with any questions or concerns you may have. 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; The children were observed during routine care, free play, small group activities, outdoor play, lunch, and rest time. The lunch today was a ham and cheese sandwich, celery sticks, peaches, and milk. Three (3) children files were monitored. Four (4) staff files were monitored. To serve children on subsidy vouchers, the facility must transition to a three-star license or higher. If the facility cannot achieve a three-star license or higher, no children can be served that receive subsidy vouchers. The Initial Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License can be found on the Division’s website if you would like to apply for a rated license. The Rated License Request for Review Form is embedded in the rated license application if you would like to request the Environment Rating Scale (ERS) assessment. Plan to visit the ncrlap.org website to learn more about the assessment process. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Two (2) staff did not have an updated annual health questionnaire on file. .0701(a) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One (1) staff with a valid qualification letter dated 12/17/25 through 12/17/30 did not have the letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One (1) staff hired on 1/6/25 and one (1) staff hired on 5/30/24, did not complete the administration of medication in child care training topic. .1102(a) All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement on or before 3/18/26. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) Attn: Monica Houck 151 Creekview Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Please call me at 828-243-2154, or email monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Achieving Compliance – rule references are noted in the cited violations *Health and Safety Training - Item #1898 To achieve compliance, you stated you would have C.M. and R.V.G. complete the Medication in Childcare Training on the DCDEE Moodle platform. This is a free training that can be taken on-demand. It is recommended to audit all staff that have been employed for one year or more to verify that all health and safety training topics have been completed. *DCDEE Criminal Background Check – Item #1757 To achieve compliance, you had C. Martinez print out her qualifying letter that expires on 12/17/30 and placed in her personnel file. This was corrected during the visit. *Annual Health Questionnaire – Item #1034 To achieve compliance, you had the two staff complete the form during the visit. This was corrected during the visit. Rated License Consultation: Rated License Assessment: The program must maintain a 75% or higher compliance history score to be eligible for a 2-5 star rated license. We discussed you would be choosing the program assessment pathway and referred to the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES. The following would be completed for the program assessment pathway based on star level met. *Enhanced staff/child ratios and/or enhanced space options. *Staff education evaluation of fifty percent (50%) of lead teachers and fifty percent (50%) of other educators. *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices. *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement plans for the facility and individual staff. *A structured self-study completed by the administrator and lead teacher(s) over three (3) consecutive months using the appropriate program assessment tool and additional resources located at https://ncrlap.org/Resources/, a written reflection of the self-assessment, including identification of goals for continuous quality improvement, and documentation of the structured self-study. *Environment Rating Scale (ERS) assessment using Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale, Third Edition (ECERS-3). *Evidence of implementing an approved curriculum with four-year old children. Self-study resources and the self-study verification form from ncrlap.org were provided to you via email prior to today’s visit: *Understanding self-study; *Key steps, the self-study process for NC child care programs; *The self-study, guidance for administrators; and *Getting started with a self-study for teachers. The verification form will be reviewed and collected by the child care consultant. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. All staff must have education evaluated by WORKS on or before 5/15/26. If staff have DCDEE WORKS accounts without education evaluated for their position or do not have a DCDEE WORKS account, then it may result in a one star level for education. *R. Gordon – Administrator – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets Level I Administrator *S. Clay – Lead Teacher – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets LT requirements plus nine (9) additional semester hours in early childhood development *C. Martinez – Lead Teacher – has DCDEE WORKS account and meets LT requirements plus eleven (11) additional semester hours in early childhood development *E. Terry – Lead Teacher - does not have a DCDEE WORKS account *K. Crawford – Lead Teacher - does not have a DCDEE WORKS account *R. Vasquez-Gomez – Teacher - DCDEE WORKS account shows registration in process Curriculum: You stated the curriculum implemented is Creative Curriculum. Consultation: We discussed that the staff/child ratio chart posted in classrooms needs to accurately reflect the age, staff/child ratio, and maximum group sizes. New and terminated staff notification requirement: As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in 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) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. We discussed the following child care rule during the visit today. 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (q) Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at monica.houck@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.243.2154, or my supervisor, Bonnie Mathis at bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times