10A NCAC 09 .0902 · Violation

Name of Operation: Stepping Stones Academy Facility ID: 72000062 Consultant: LAKISHA SKINNER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/6/2025 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 8/6/2025 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 345 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced * The purpose of today's visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the third temporary time period visit. You, C. Theriot, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. This facility was issued a temporary license on March 4, 2025. During this visit, we walked through the facility, but a full assessment was not completed for each space. A morning snack of mini pancakes, bananas and water was served after the children returned from morning outdoor play. The facility was assessed for supervision, staff/child ratio, and health and safety requirements. Children were observed engaged in indoor and outdoor free play activities. New staff records, a selection of children’s records and program records, including fire drills and monthly outdoor area inspections were complete and current. Lunch included chicken, rice, corn, watermelon and milk. Compliance History - The compliance history for this facility prior to today’s visit is 96%. 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. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A lesson plan dated for June 2025 was posted in Space 3. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 532 All children were not held or placed in feeding chairs or other appropriate apparatus to be fed. An infant was drinking from a bottle while lying on his or her back awake in a crib in Space 5. A child, one-year of age, was given a sippy cup of water and was not placed in a feeding chair or approved seating apparatus. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Alcohol Prep Pads with a “Keep Out of Reach” warning and an additional warning “To Keep Away from Fire or Flames” was stored on a shelf above five feet in Space 1. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Plastic trash bags were stored in a tissue box on the changing table. .0604(q) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. Documentation of arrival time was not completed for one child present today and the attendance record form was not completed for all children present on August 5th and 6th. GS 110-91(9) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. One authorization form indicated Desitin/Diaper Cream to be applied. The name of the medication in the child’s belongings was Gentle Steps Diaper Cream. Two of the medication authorization forms had "until no longer needed" listed for the twelve month standing authorization timeframe. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Hand sanitizer was stored below five feet in the Space 3 and at the entrance of the facility. This is a violation of Sanitation requirement .2820 Storage (c) Non-aerosol sanitizing solutions, approved disinfectants, detergent solutions, hand antiseptics, and hand lotions shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. * Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 11, 2025, you must provide written documentation indicating how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Lakisha Skinner, Child Care Consultant PO BOX 431 Grimesland, NC 27837 Lakisha.Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance with documented violations: Infant Feeding: To ensure a safe feeding environment for infants they must be held for bottle feeding until able to hold his or her own bottle. An infant was drinking from a bottle while lying on his or her back awake in a crib in Space 5. A child, one-year of age, was given a sippy cup of water and was not placed in a feeding chair or approved seating apparatus. Each child must be held or placed in feeding chairs or other age-appropriate seating apparatus to be fed. The teacher indicated she was unaware that a child could not have a bottle while in lying in a crib. The only time infants should be in cribs is when they are asleep. Leaving an infant unattended while feeding or feeding a baby who is lying flat is dangerous and could potentially cause the child to choke or aspirate the formula/breast milk into his or her lungs. A choking child may not make any noise, so adults must be within arm’s reach. You asked the age range of when children must be seated when eating and drinking. This applies to all preschool aged children (birth-five years old). Storage of Hazardous Products – Intentional planning of the environment ensures a safe environment has been created which prevents and reduces injuries to young children. Hand sanitizer was stored on the countertop of the sink in Space 3. Additionally, a bottle of hand sanitizer kept in the entryway at sign in is accessible to the children. You indicated it is there for parent use. Hand sanitizer must be stored out of reach of the children, which is defined as five feet or higher from the finished floor. Alcohol Prep Pads with a “Keep Out of Reach” warning and an additional warning “To Keep Away from Fire or Flames” was stored on a shelf above five feet in Space 1. You asked if the shelf was acceptable because it is above five feet. Because there are more than two warnings on the item it must be kept in locked storage you corrected this during today’s visit. All areas accessible to children must be checked daily prior to use to ensure the space is safe. Locked storage rooms and cabinets include those which are unlocked with a combination, electronic or magnetic device, key, or equivalent locking device. These unlocking devices must be kept out of the reach of a child and must not be stored in the lock. Plastic Bags –Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has received average annual reports of twenty-five deaths per year to children due to suffocation from plastic bags. In child care facilities, plastic bags must be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. In Space 1 (designated for the care of infants and one-year olds) Plastic trash bags were stored in a tissue box on the changing table. The teacher indicated the bags were used for soiled diapers and she was unaware that they could not be stored in that location. The plastic bags were stored properly during the visit. If the teachers are going to use the plastic bags, then these bags must be stored out of reach of the children, which is defined as five feet or higher from the finished floor. Medication Administration – Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. Children in Space 3 with permission to apply diaper creams and sunscreen did not include all required information. One form indicated Desitin/Diaper Cream to be applied. The name of the medication in the child’s belongings was Gentle Steps Diaper Cream. All medication forms must be filled out completely including the name of the medicine, name of the child, dosage to be given, times to be given, and the date to be given. A few of the medication authorization forms had "until no longer needed" listed for time. This is not an acceptable time. The parents must be specific as to how long the medicine is to be applied. A blanket permission form may be signed by the parent giving permission for up to twelve months to apply diaper creams and/or topical ointments. Attendance Records – Promoting the health and safety of individual children requires keeping records regarding the supervision of each child in care. You must know which children are receiving care at any given time and for how long they were in your care each day. To do that accurate attendance daily records must be maintained. Your facility uses Brightwheel Software to capture attendance. You also maintain a paper copy for parents to document arrival and departure times. Additionally, you maintain an attendance record form for each classroom. Documentation of arrival time was not completed for one child present today and the attendance record form was not completed for all children for August 5th and 6th. You indicated you complete the attendance record form after the 9:00am drop-off time. I asked you to print the attendance record from Brightwheel with the arrival and departure times and you were unable to do that. Your daily attendance records must be available, always accurately reflect the number of children in care, and include arrival and departure times for the children. Activity Plans - Current activity plans must be posted in the classroom and must address four of the five domains as listed in the NC Foundations for Early Learning. A lesson plan dated for June 2025 was posted in Space 3. You indicated that it was your fault and began wiping the dry erase date on the lesson plan to make it current. You further explained that because you use a Montessori lesson plan it essentially does not change from week to week and that only the focus changes. Posting current activity plans allow parents to see what the children are learning and extend the topic at home. Rated License Summary: The Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License was completed on April 10, 2025; therefore, your facility will be evaluated using the Two Component Rated License requirements. Program Standards- 2 points Staff Education- 1 points Total – 2 + 1 = 3 = 1 Star License. A new license will be mailed directly to you and must be posted upon receipt. Reminders: Chowan Perquimans Smart Start Partnership is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 6482-3035 or check out their website at www.cp-smartstart.org. . You must complete your annual fire inspection before September 25, 2025. Submit the original completed and approved fire inspection form to your child care consultant within one week after it is completed. You can obtain the annual fire inspection form under the provider tab, then provider documents and forms tab at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Call your licensing consultant with any questions you may have. All staff must have completed the required applicable Health and Safety Training and On-Going Training requirements and have documentation on file for review prior to March 4, 2026. Sanitation inspections must be completed at least annually. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. ABCMS Training – 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 within five business days. Once you receive your star rated license, please complete the process. 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) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. NC Child Care Commission’s QRIS Modernization Plan (QRIS Reform): Under the “What’s New” and “QRIS Modernization” tabs from DCDEE’s website, you can learn more about the three pathways to demonstrate quality and earn a 2-5 Star Rated License. Your file will be transferred to Anne Buck, child care consultant after the temporary license time period has ended. You can contact Anne at 252-333-2084 or at: Anne.Buck@dhhs.nc.gov. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at (252) 820-5976, Lakisha.Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Stepping Stones Academy Facility ID: 72000062 Consultant: LAKISHA SKINNER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/6/2025 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 8/6/2025 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 345 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced * The purpose of today's visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the third temporary time period visit. You, C. Theriot, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. This facility was issued a temporary license on March 4, 2025. During this visit, we walked through the facility, but a full assessment was not completed for each space. A morning snack of mini pancakes, bananas and water was served after the children returned from morning outdoor play. The facility was assessed for supervision, staff/child ratio, and health and safety requirements. Children were observed engaged in indoor and outdoor free play activities. New staff records, a selection of children’s records and program records, including fire drills and monthly outdoor area inspections were complete and current. Lunch included chicken, rice, corn, watermelon and milk. Compliance History - The compliance history for this facility prior to today’s visit is 96%. 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. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A lesson plan dated for June 2025 was posted in Space 3. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 532 All children were not held or placed in feeding chairs or other appropriate apparatus to be fed. An infant was drinking from a bottle while lying on his or her back awake in a crib in Space 5. A child, one-year of age, was given a sippy cup of water and was not placed in a feeding chair or approved seating apparatus. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Alcohol Prep Pads with a “Keep Out of Reach” warning and an additional warning “To Keep Away from Fire or Flames” was stored on a shelf above five feet in Space 1. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Plastic trash bags were stored in a tissue box on the changing table. .0604(q) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. Documentation of arrival time was not completed for one child present today and the attendance record form was not completed for all children present on August 5th and 6th. GS 110-91(9) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. One authorization form indicated Desitin/Diaper Cream to be applied. The name of the medication in the child’s belongings was Gentle Steps Diaper Cream. Two of the medication authorization forms had "until no longer needed" listed for the twelve month standing authorization timeframe. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Hand sanitizer was stored below five feet in the Space 3 and at the entrance of the facility. This is a violation of Sanitation requirement .2820 Storage (c) Non-aerosol sanitizing solutions, approved disinfectants, detergent solutions, hand antiseptics, and hand lotions shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. * Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 11, 2025, you must provide written documentation indicating how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Lakisha Skinner, Child Care Consultant PO BOX 431 Grimesland, NC 27837 Lakisha.Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance with documented violations: Infant Feeding: To ensure a safe feeding environment for infants they must be held for bottle feeding until able to hold his or her own bottle. An infant was drinking from a bottle while lying on his or her back awake in a crib in Space 5. A child, one-year of age, was given a sippy cup of water and was not placed in a feeding chair or approved seating apparatus. Each child must be held or placed in feeding chairs or other age-appropriate seating apparatus to be fed. The teacher indicated she was unaware that a child could not have a bottle while in lying in a crib. The only time infants should be in cribs is when they are asleep. Leaving an infant unattended while feeding or feeding a baby who is lying flat is dangerous and could potentially cause the child to choke or aspirate the formula/breast milk into his or her lungs. A choking child may not make any noise, so adults must be within arm’s reach. You asked the age range of when children must be seated when eating and drinking. This applies to all preschool aged children (birth-five years old). Storage of Hazardous Products – Intentional planning of the environment ensures a safe environment has been created which prevents and reduces injuries to young children. Hand sanitizer was stored on the countertop of the sink in Space 3. Additionally, a bottle of hand sanitizer kept in the entryway at sign in is accessible to the children. You indicated it is there for parent use. Hand sanitizer must be stored out of reach of the children, which is defined as five feet or higher from the finished floor. Alcohol Prep Pads with a “Keep Out of Reach” warning and an additional warning “To Keep Away from Fire or Flames” was stored on a shelf above five feet in Space 1. You asked if the shelf was acceptable because it is above five feet. Because there are more than two warnings on the item it must be kept in locked storage you corrected this during today’s visit. All areas accessible to children must be checked daily prior to use to ensure the space is safe. Locked storage rooms and cabinets include those which are unlocked with a combination, electronic or magnetic device, key, or equivalent locking device. These unlocking devices must be kept out of the reach of a child and must not be stored in the lock. Plastic Bags –Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has received average annual reports of twenty-five deaths per year to children due to suffocation from plastic bags. In child care facilities, plastic bags must be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. In Space 1 (designated for the care of infants and one-year olds) Plastic trash bags were stored in a tissue box on the changing table. The teacher indicated the bags were used for soiled diapers and she was unaware that they could not be stored in that location. The plastic bags were stored properly during the visit. If the teachers are going to use the plastic bags, then these bags must be stored out of reach of the children, which is defined as five feet or higher from the finished floor. Medication Administration – Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. Children in Space 3 with permission to apply diaper creams and sunscreen did not include all required information. One form indicated Desitin/Diaper Cream to be applied. The name of the medication in the child’s belongings was Gentle Steps Diaper Cream. All medication forms must be filled out completely including the name of the medicine, name of the child, dosage to be given, times to be given, and the date to be given. A few of the medication authorization forms had "until no longer needed" listed for time. This is not an acceptable time. The parents must be specific as to how long the medicine is to be applied. A blanket permission form may be signed by the parent giving permission for up to twelve months to apply diaper creams and/or topical ointments. Attendance Records – Promoting the health and safety of individual children requires keeping records regarding the supervision of each child in care. You must know which children are receiving care at any given time and for how long they were in your care each day. To do that accurate attendance daily records must be maintained. Your facility uses Brightwheel Software to capture attendance. You also maintain a paper copy for parents to document arrival and departure times. Additionally, you maintain an attendance record form for each classroom. Documentation of arrival time was not completed for one child present today and the attendance record form was not completed for all children for August 5th and 6th. You indicated you complete the attendance record form after the 9:00am drop-off time. I asked you to print the attendance record from Brightwheel with the arrival and departure times and you were unable to do that. Your daily attendance records must be available, always accurately reflect the number of children in care, and include arrival and departure times for the children. Activity Plans - Current activity plans must be posted in the classroom and must address four of the five domains as listed in the NC Foundations for Early Learning. A lesson plan dated for June 2025 was posted in Space 3. You indicated that it was your fault and began wiping the dry erase date on the lesson plan to make it current. You further explained that because you use a Montessori lesson plan it essentially does not change from week to week and that only the focus changes. Posting current activity plans allow parents to see what the children are learning and extend the topic at home. Rated License Summary: The Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License was completed on April 10, 2025; therefore, your facility will be evaluated using the Two Component Rated License requirements. Program Standards- 2 points Staff Education- 1 points Total – 2 + 1 = 3 = 1 Star License. A new license will be mailed directly to you and must be posted upon receipt. Reminders: Chowan Perquimans Smart Start Partnership is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 6482-3035 or check out their website at www.cp-smartstart.org. . You must complete your annual fire inspection before September 25, 2025. Submit the original completed and approved fire inspection form to your child care consultant within one week after it is completed. You can obtain the annual fire inspection form under the provider tab, then provider documents and forms tab at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Call your licensing consultant with any questions you may have. All staff must have completed the required applicable Health and Safety Training and On-Going Training requirements and have documentation on file for review prior to March 4, 2026. Sanitation inspections must be completed at least annually. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. ABCMS Training – 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 within five business days. Once you receive your star rated license, please complete the process. 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) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. NC Child Care Commission’s QRIS Modernization Plan (QRIS Reform): Under the “What’s New” and “QRIS Modernization” tabs from DCDEE’s website, you can learn more about the three pathways to demonstrate quality and earn a 2-5 Star Rated License. Your file will be transferred to Anne Buck, child care consultant after the temporary license time period has ended. You can contact Anne at 252-333-2084 or at: Anne.Buck@dhhs.nc.gov. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at (252) 820-5976, Lakisha.Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: Stepping Stones Academy Facility ID: 72000062 Consultant: LAKISHA SKINNER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/6/2025 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 8/6/2025 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 345 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced * The purpose of today's visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the third temporary time period visit. You, C. Theriot, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. This facility was issued a temporary license on March 4, 2025. During this visit, we walked through the facility, but a full assessment was not completed for each space. A morning snack of mini pancakes, bananas and water was served after the children returned from morning outdoor play. The facility was assessed for supervision, staff/child ratio, and health and safety requirements. Children were observed engaged in indoor and outdoor free play activities. New staff records, a selection of children’s records and program records, including fire drills and monthly outdoor area inspections were complete and current. Lunch included chicken, rice, corn, watermelon and milk. Compliance History - The compliance history for this facility prior to today’s visit is 96%. 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. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A lesson plan dated for June 2025 was posted in Space 3. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 532 All children were not held or placed in feeding chairs or other appropriate apparatus to be fed. An infant was drinking from a bottle while lying on his or her back awake in a crib in Space 5. A child, one-year of age, was given a sippy cup of water and was not placed in a feeding chair or approved seating apparatus. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Alcohol Prep Pads with a “Keep Out of Reach” warning and an additional warning “To Keep Away from Fire or Flames” was stored on a shelf above five feet in Space 1. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Plastic trash bags were stored in a tissue box on the changing table. .0604(q) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. Documentation of arrival time was not completed for one child present today and the attendance record form was not completed for all children present on August 5th and 6th. GS 110-91(9) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. One authorization form indicated Desitin/Diaper Cream to be applied. The name of the medication in the child’s belongings was Gentle Steps Diaper Cream. Two of the medication authorization forms had "until no longer needed" listed for the twelve month standing authorization timeframe. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Hand sanitizer was stored below five feet in the Space 3 and at the entrance of the facility. This is a violation of Sanitation requirement .2820 Storage (c) Non-aerosol sanitizing solutions, approved disinfectants, detergent solutions, hand antiseptics, and hand lotions shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. * Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 11, 2025, you must provide written documentation indicating how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Lakisha Skinner, Child Care Consultant PO BOX 431 Grimesland, NC 27837 Lakisha.Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance with documented violations: Infant Feeding: To ensure a safe feeding environment for infants they must be held for bottle feeding until able to hold his or her own bottle. An infant was drinking from a bottle while lying on his or her back awake in a crib in Space 5. A child, one-year of age, was given a sippy cup of water and was not placed in a feeding chair or approved seating apparatus. Each child must be held or placed in feeding chairs or other age-appropriate seating apparatus to be fed. The teacher indicated she was unaware that a child could not have a bottle while in lying in a crib. The only time infants should be in cribs is when they are asleep. Leaving an infant unattended while feeding or feeding a baby who is lying flat is dangerous and could potentially cause the child to choke or aspirate the formula/breast milk into his or her lungs. A choking child may not make any noise, so adults must be within arm’s reach. You asked the age range of when children must be seated when eating and drinking. This applies to all preschool aged children (birth-five years old). Storage of Hazardous Products – Intentional planning of the environment ensures a safe environment has been created which prevents and reduces injuries to young children. Hand sanitizer was stored on the countertop of the sink in Space 3. Additionally, a bottle of hand sanitizer kept in the entryway at sign in is accessible to the children. You indicated it is there for parent use. Hand sanitizer must be stored out of reach of the children, which is defined as five feet or higher from the finished floor. Alcohol Prep Pads with a “Keep Out of Reach” warning and an additional warning “To Keep Away from Fire or Flames” was stored on a shelf above five feet in Space 1. You asked if the shelf was acceptable because it is above five feet. Because there are more than two warnings on the item it must be kept in locked storage you corrected this during today’s visit. All areas accessible to children must be checked daily prior to use to ensure the space is safe. Locked storage rooms and cabinets include those which are unlocked with a combination, electronic or magnetic device, key, or equivalent locking device. These unlocking devices must be kept out of the reach of a child and must not be stored in the lock. Plastic Bags –Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has received average annual reports of twenty-five deaths per year to children due to suffocation from plastic bags. In child care facilities, plastic bags must be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. In Space 1 (designated for the care of infants and one-year olds) Plastic trash bags were stored in a tissue box on the changing table. The teacher indicated the bags were used for soiled diapers and she was unaware that they could not be stored in that location. The plastic bags were stored properly during the visit. If the teachers are going to use the plastic bags, then these bags must be stored out of reach of the children, which is defined as five feet or higher from the finished floor. Medication Administration – Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. Children in Space 3 with permission to apply diaper creams and sunscreen did not include all required information. One form indicated Desitin/Diaper Cream to be applied. The name of the medication in the child’s belongings was Gentle Steps Diaper Cream. All medication forms must be filled out completely including the name of the medicine, name of the child, dosage to be given, times to be given, and the date to be given. A few of the medication authorization forms had "until no longer needed" listed for time. This is not an acceptable time. The parents must be specific as to how long the medicine is to be applied. A blanket permission form may be signed by the parent giving permission for up to twelve months to apply diaper creams and/or topical ointments. Attendance Records – Promoting the health and safety of individual children requires keeping records regarding the supervision of each child in care. You must know which children are receiving care at any given time and for how long they were in your care each day. To do that accurate attendance daily records must be maintained. Your facility uses Brightwheel Software to capture attendance. You also maintain a paper copy for parents to document arrival and departure times. Additionally, you maintain an attendance record form for each classroom. Documentation of arrival time was not completed for one child present today and the attendance record form was not completed for all children for August 5th and 6th. You indicated you complete the attendance record form after the 9:00am drop-off time. I asked you to print the attendance record from Brightwheel with the arrival and departure times and you were unable to do that. Your daily attendance records must be available, always accurately reflect the number of children in care, and include arrival and departure times for the children. Activity Plans - Current activity plans must be posted in the classroom and must address four of the five domains as listed in the NC Foundations for Early Learning. A lesson plan dated for June 2025 was posted in Space 3. You indicated that it was your fault and began wiping the dry erase date on the lesson plan to make it current. You further explained that because you use a Montessori lesson plan it essentially does not change from week to week and that only the focus changes. Posting current activity plans allow parents to see what the children are learning and extend the topic at home. Rated License Summary: The Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License was completed on April 10, 2025; therefore, your facility will be evaluated using the Two Component Rated License requirements. Program Standards- 2 points Staff Education- 1 points Total – 2 + 1 = 3 = 1 Star License. A new license will be mailed directly to you and must be posted upon receipt. Reminders: Chowan Perquimans Smart Start Partnership is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 6482-3035 or check out their website at www.cp-smartstart.org. . You must complete your annual fire inspection before September 25, 2025. Submit the original completed and approved fire inspection form to your child care consultant within one week after it is completed. You can obtain the annual fire inspection form under the provider tab, then provider documents and forms tab at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Call your licensing consultant with any questions you may have. All staff must have completed the required applicable Health and Safety Training and On-Going Training requirements and have documentation on file for review prior to March 4, 2026. Sanitation inspections must be completed at least annually. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. ABCMS Training – 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 within five business days. Once you receive your star rated license, please complete the process. 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) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. NC Child Care Commission’s QRIS Modernization Plan (QRIS Reform): Under the “What’s New” and “QRIS Modernization” tabs from DCDEE’s website, you can learn more about the three pathways to demonstrate quality and earn a 2-5 Star Rated License. Your file will be transferred to Anne Buck, child care consultant after the temporary license time period has ended. You can contact Anne at 252-333-2084 or at: Anne.Buck@dhhs.nc.gov. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at (252) 820-5976, Lakisha.Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Stepping Stones Academy Facility ID: 72000062 Consultant: LAKISHA SKINNER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/6/2025 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 8/6/2025 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 345 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced * The purpose of today's visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the third temporary time period visit. You, C. Theriot, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. This facility was issued a temporary license on March 4, 2025. During this visit, we walked through the facility, but a full assessment was not completed for each space. A morning snack of mini pancakes, bananas and water was served after the children returned from morning outdoor play. The facility was assessed for supervision, staff/child ratio, and health and safety requirements. Children were observed engaged in indoor and outdoor free play activities. New staff records, a selection of children’s records and program records, including fire drills and monthly outdoor area inspections were complete and current. Lunch included chicken, rice, corn, watermelon and milk. Compliance History - The compliance history for this facility prior to today’s visit is 96%. 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. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A lesson plan dated for June 2025 was posted in Space 3. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 532 All children were not held or placed in feeding chairs or other appropriate apparatus to be fed. An infant was drinking from a bottle while lying on his or her back awake in a crib in Space 5. A child, one-year of age, was given a sippy cup of water and was not placed in a feeding chair or approved seating apparatus. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Alcohol Prep Pads with a “Keep Out of Reach” warning and an additional warning “To Keep Away from Fire or Flames” was stored on a shelf above five feet in Space 1. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Plastic trash bags were stored in a tissue box on the changing table. .0604(q) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. Documentation of arrival time was not completed for one child present today and the attendance record form was not completed for all children present on August 5th and 6th. GS 110-91(9) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. One authorization form indicated Desitin/Diaper Cream to be applied. The name of the medication in the child’s belongings was Gentle Steps Diaper Cream. Two of the medication authorization forms had "until no longer needed" listed for the twelve month standing authorization timeframe. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Hand sanitizer was stored below five feet in the Space 3 and at the entrance of the facility. This is a violation of Sanitation requirement .2820 Storage (c) Non-aerosol sanitizing solutions, approved disinfectants, detergent solutions, hand antiseptics, and hand lotions shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. * Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 11, 2025, you must provide written documentation indicating how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Lakisha Skinner, Child Care Consultant PO BOX 431 Grimesland, NC 27837 Lakisha.Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance with documented violations: Infant Feeding: To ensure a safe feeding environment for infants they must be held for bottle feeding until able to hold his or her own bottle. An infant was drinking from a bottle while lying on his or her back awake in a crib in Space 5. A child, one-year of age, was given a sippy cup of water and was not placed in a feeding chair or approved seating apparatus. Each child must be held or placed in feeding chairs or other age-appropriate seating apparatus to be fed. The teacher indicated she was unaware that a child could not have a bottle while in lying in a crib. The only time infants should be in cribs is when they are asleep. Leaving an infant unattended while feeding or feeding a baby who is lying flat is dangerous and could potentially cause the child to choke or aspirate the formula/breast milk into his or her lungs. A choking child may not make any noise, so adults must be within arm’s reach. You asked the age range of when children must be seated when eating and drinking. This applies to all preschool aged children (birth-five years old). Storage of Hazardous Products – Intentional planning of the environment ensures a safe environment has been created which prevents and reduces injuries to young children. Hand sanitizer was stored on the countertop of the sink in Space 3. Additionally, a bottle of hand sanitizer kept in the entryway at sign in is accessible to the children. You indicated it is there for parent use. Hand sanitizer must be stored out of reach of the children, which is defined as five feet or higher from the finished floor. Alcohol Prep Pads with a “Keep Out of Reach” warning and an additional warning “To Keep Away from Fire or Flames” was stored on a shelf above five feet in Space 1. You asked if the shelf was acceptable because it is above five feet. Because there are more than two warnings on the item it must be kept in locked storage you corrected this during today’s visit. All areas accessible to children must be checked daily prior to use to ensure the space is safe. Locked storage rooms and cabinets include those which are unlocked with a combination, electronic or magnetic device, key, or equivalent locking device. These unlocking devices must be kept out of the reach of a child and must not be stored in the lock. Plastic Bags –Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has received average annual reports of twenty-five deaths per year to children due to suffocation from plastic bags. In child care facilities, plastic bags must be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. In Space 1 (designated for the care of infants and one-year olds) Plastic trash bags were stored in a tissue box on the changing table. The teacher indicated the bags were used for soiled diapers and she was unaware that they could not be stored in that location. The plastic bags were stored properly during the visit. If the teachers are going to use the plastic bags, then these bags must be stored out of reach of the children, which is defined as five feet or higher from the finished floor. Medication Administration – Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. Children in Space 3 with permission to apply diaper creams and sunscreen did not include all required information. One form indicated Desitin/Diaper Cream to be applied. The name of the medication in the child’s belongings was Gentle Steps Diaper Cream. All medication forms must be filled out completely including the name of the medicine, name of the child, dosage to be given, times to be given, and the date to be given. A few of the medication authorization forms had "until no longer needed" listed for time. This is not an acceptable time. The parents must be specific as to how long the medicine is to be applied. A blanket permission form may be signed by the parent giving permission for up to twelve months to apply diaper creams and/or topical ointments. Attendance Records – Promoting the health and safety of individual children requires keeping records regarding the supervision of each child in care. You must know which children are receiving care at any given time and for how long they were in your care each day. To do that accurate attendance daily records must be maintained. Your facility uses Brightwheel Software to capture attendance. You also maintain a paper copy for parents to document arrival and departure times. Additionally, you maintain an attendance record form for each classroom. Documentation of arrival time was not completed for one child present today and the attendance record form was not completed for all children for August 5th and 6th. You indicated you complete the attendance record form after the 9:00am drop-off time. I asked you to print the attendance record from Brightwheel with the arrival and departure times and you were unable to do that. Your daily attendance records must be available, always accurately reflect the number of children in care, and include arrival and departure times for the children. Activity Plans - Current activity plans must be posted in the classroom and must address four of the five domains as listed in the NC Foundations for Early Learning. A lesson plan dated for June 2025 was posted in Space 3. You indicated that it was your fault and began wiping the dry erase date on the lesson plan to make it current. You further explained that because you use a Montessori lesson plan it essentially does not change from week to week and that only the focus changes. Posting current activity plans allow parents to see what the children are learning and extend the topic at home. Rated License Summary: The Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License was completed on April 10, 2025; therefore, your facility will be evaluated using the Two Component Rated License requirements. Program Standards- 2 points Staff Education- 1 points Total – 2 + 1 = 3 = 1 Star License. A new license will be mailed directly to you and must be posted upon receipt. Reminders: Chowan Perquimans Smart Start Partnership is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 6482-3035 or check out their website at www.cp-smartstart.org. . You must complete your annual fire inspection before September 25, 2025. Submit the original completed and approved fire inspection form to your child care consultant within one week after it is completed. You can obtain the annual fire inspection form under the provider tab, then provider documents and forms tab at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Call your licensing consultant with any questions you may have. All staff must have completed the required applicable Health and Safety Training and On-Going Training requirements and have documentation on file for review prior to March 4, 2026. Sanitation inspections must be completed at least annually. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. ABCMS Training – 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 within five business days. Once you receive your star rated license, please complete the process. 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) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. NC Child Care Commission’s QRIS Modernization Plan (QRIS Reform): Under the “What’s New” and “QRIS Modernization” tabs from DCDEE’s website, you can learn more about the three pathways to demonstrate quality and earn a 2-5 Star Rated License. Your file will be transferred to Anne Buck, child care consultant after the temporary license time period has ended. You can contact Anne at 252-333-2084 or at: Anne.Buck@dhhs.nc.gov. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at (252) 820-5976, Lakisha.Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: Stepping Stones Academy Facility ID: 72000062 Consultant: LAKISHA SKINNER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/12/2025 Number Present: 17 Completed Date: 6/12/2025 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 190 Time In: 08:35 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a second temporary time period visit. This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued March 4, 2025. The temporary license is valid through September 4, 2025. This facility is owned by Stepping Stones Academy, LLC and operated by C. Theriot. Per information reflected in the NC Secretary of State, your LLC is current and active. Your contact information on the Division of Child Development & Early Education (DCDEE) website was reviewed and the facility telephone number was updated. It is important to frequently check your email to remain informed about any new changes that have or may occur. The children were engaged in morning group activities. The teachers sat on the floor with the children as they engaged in their works cycle. Teachers assisted the children with diaper changing, toileting and handwashing routines. The fenced outdoor spaces located at the rear of the facility includes portable play equipment as well as a shaded play space. Staff, children, and program were monitored. Lunch included sautéed pork chops, green beans, rice, watermelon, and milk. COMPLIANCE HISTORY - The compliance history for this facility prior to today’s visit is 100%. The violation(s) documented today may affect the facility’s compliance history score. If a facility’s compliance history falls below 75% over an eighteen-month time frame, some type of administrative action may be issued. The following violations were documented and corrected during the visit requiring nothing further. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in Space 2. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. An open electrical outlet was observed in the bathroom of Space 2. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Technical Assistance With The Documented Violation (s): Electrical Outlets- Approximately 2,400 children are injured annually by inserting objects into the slots of electrical outlets. One open outlet was observed in the bathroom of Space 2. You indicated the outlet cover was probably removed to charge an iPad used for music. You added an outlet cover during the visit. Tamper-resistant electrical outlets or securely attached safety covers prevent children from placing fingers or sticking objects into exposed electrical outlets and reduce the risk of electrical shock, electrical burns, and potential fires. Activity Plans - Activity plans outline how children will develop skills they need to be effective learners. They indicate that there is a plan for each day of the week a child attends. Each activity has been intentionally mapped out to provide continuity of learning throughout the day. Some examples are circle time, small group time, independent playtime, outdoor play, meals, routine care and so on. An activity plan was not posted in Space 2, designated for school-age care. You indicated you were unaware of the need for the plan because the space was operating as a summer camp. The children are enrolled, and an activity plan is required for each group of children in care. You added a plan during the visit and indicated one will be added to the space each week moving forward. Additional Information: Rated License Process - You were reminded that a compliance history score of seventy-five percent or above must be maintained to receive a rated license. You completed the Initial Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License on April 10, 2025 but did not request the Environment Rating Scales (ERS). Only the information reflected in WORKS will be used to determine the number of points earned in the education component. For continued eligibility in the subsidized child care program, you must achieve a three star or higher rated license at the end of the temporary licensed period. Instructions for the DCDEE WORKS system, including establishing a NCID, is located on our website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Remember to track the date information is submitted by staff. If you have questions regarding submitting information in the WORKS system, contact WORKS at 1-800-859-0829. NCID - Did you know that if you do not login on to any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you every 6 months to login and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Chowan Perquimans Smart Start Partnership is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 6482-3035 or check out their website at www.cp-smartstart.org. . UNANNOUNCED VISITS - I will conduct an additional temporary time period visit. Ensure you document new staff on the staff and training worksheets for future monitoring. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Lakisha Skinner, Child Care Consultant, 252-820-5976, Lakisha.Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: Stepping Stones Academy Facility ID: 72000062 Consultant: LAKISHA SKINNER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/12/2025 Number Present: 17 Completed Date: 6/12/2025 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 190 Time In: 08:35 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a second temporary time period visit. This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued March 4, 2025. The temporary license is valid through September 4, 2025. This facility is owned by Stepping Stones Academy, LLC and operated by C. Theriot. Per information reflected in the NC Secretary of State, your LLC is current and active. Your contact information on the Division of Child Development & Early Education (DCDEE) website was reviewed and the facility telephone number was updated. It is important to frequently check your email to remain informed about any new changes that have or may occur. The children were engaged in morning group activities. The teachers sat on the floor with the children as they engaged in their works cycle. Teachers assisted the children with diaper changing, toileting and handwashing routines. The fenced outdoor spaces located at the rear of the facility includes portable play equipment as well as a shaded play space. Staff, children, and program were monitored. Lunch included sautéed pork chops, green beans, rice, watermelon, and milk. COMPLIANCE HISTORY - The compliance history for this facility prior to today’s visit is 100%. The violation(s) documented today may affect the facility’s compliance history score. If a facility’s compliance history falls below 75% over an eighteen-month time frame, some type of administrative action may be issued. The following violations were documented and corrected during the visit requiring nothing further. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in Space 2. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. An open electrical outlet was observed in the bathroom of Space 2. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Technical Assistance With The Documented Violation (s): Electrical Outlets- Approximately 2,400 children are injured annually by inserting objects into the slots of electrical outlets. One open outlet was observed in the bathroom of Space 2. You indicated the outlet cover was probably removed to charge an iPad used for music. You added an outlet cover during the visit. Tamper-resistant electrical outlets or securely attached safety covers prevent children from placing fingers or sticking objects into exposed electrical outlets and reduce the risk of electrical shock, electrical burns, and potential fires. Activity Plans - Activity plans outline how children will develop skills they need to be effective learners. They indicate that there is a plan for each day of the week a child attends. Each activity has been intentionally mapped out to provide continuity of learning throughout the day. Some examples are circle time, small group time, independent playtime, outdoor play, meals, routine care and so on. An activity plan was not posted in Space 2, designated for school-age care. You indicated you were unaware of the need for the plan because the space was operating as a summer camp. The children are enrolled, and an activity plan is required for each group of children in care. You added a plan during the visit and indicated one will be added to the space each week moving forward. Additional Information: Rated License Process - You were reminded that a compliance history score of seventy-five percent or above must be maintained to receive a rated license. You completed the Initial Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License on April 10, 2025 but did not request the Environment Rating Scales (ERS). Only the information reflected in WORKS will be used to determine the number of points earned in the education component. For continued eligibility in the subsidized child care program, you must achieve a three star or higher rated license at the end of the temporary licensed period. Instructions for the DCDEE WORKS system, including establishing a NCID, is located on our website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Remember to track the date information is submitted by staff. If you have questions regarding submitting information in the WORKS system, contact WORKS at 1-800-859-0829. NCID - Did you know that if you do not login on to any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you every 6 months to login and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Chowan Perquimans Smart Start Partnership is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 6482-3035 or check out their website at www.cp-smartstart.org. . UNANNOUNCED VISITS - I will conduct an additional temporary time period visit. Ensure you document new staff on the staff and training worksheets for future monitoring. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Lakisha Skinner, Child Care Consultant, 252-820-5976, Lakisha.Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times