Oakwood Elementary Pre-K

10A NCAC 09.0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: OAKWOOD ELEMENTARY PRE-K Facility ID: 18000359 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/7/2026 Number Present: 12 Completed Date: 5/7/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 180 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. Tina Knoblauch, Lead Teacher, was unavailable during today’s visit. The teacher assistants, Akiros Rose and Priscilla Fearn, assisted me with today’s visit and signed the visit summary as the persons in charge. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on November 12, 2025. I reviewed the permit restrictions, enhanced space capacity, and age range on your permit and observed these being maintained. This program's compliance history was 98% as of May 6, 2026. This program currently operates with a five-star license, issued on December 4, 2024, earning seven points in staff education, seven points in program standards, and one quality point for all lead teachers having an AAS or higher in early childhood education or child development. This program was monitored for compliance with Developmental Day and NC Pre-K requirements. The last sanitation inspection was dated April 2, 2026 with a Superior classification and zero demerits. The last lead water test results were dated July 9, 2025. Results indicated that lead water mitigation was pending for this program due to a water fountain in the classroom, but I observed no water fountains in the classroom today. The lead-based paint testing results for this facility are pending review. This facility is exempt from asbestos testing. The last fire inspection was dated December 11, 2025 and was received in my office on December 11, 2025. I completed a walk-through of the facility today. I monitored the indoor and outdoor licensed spaces. Children throughout the facility planted a flower with the help of the teacher assistant, played in activity areas, participated in a whole group activity as the teacher assistant read a book aloud, transitioned from the classroom to the outdoor play area, played outdoors. Staff facilitated play and peer interactions, talked through behavior management needs with the children, fostered self-regulation and positive choices, and assisted the children with personal care routines as needed. A current menu was posted in each classroom, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline. I monitored program records including emergency medical care plan, safe arrival and departure procedures, incident log, outdoor safety inspections, fire drills, emergency drills, and the use of the School Risk Management (SRM) Plan. I reviewed staff records for three returning staff members and one returning substitute staff member. I verified current and valid Criminal Background Check qualification letters, current and valid CPR and First Aid training, completion of the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training, and completion of playground safety training for at least one staff member. A Staff and Training (S&T) worksheet was available today and was included in this visit summary packet. I monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored Developmental Day (DD) requirements during today’s visit. Staff members met the education requirements for DD staff. The children identified with developmental delays have care plans documented on an IFSP, IEP or PCP. Typically developing children participated in daily activities that were outlined in a plan of care documented on an activity plan meeting all child care requirements. Activities allowed the children to participate as a whole group, small group, part of the group or independently. Children identified with developmental delays were enrolled, interacting, and participating in all classroom activities alongside typically developing children. This DD program offered family involvement including providing quarterly parent education sessions, holding parent-teacher conferences at least twice a year, communicating on an individual basis with parents, having parents as members of an advisory board, providing opportunities for parent volunteers to assist with special classroom activities, field trips, etc. and providing parents with referral information about other community programs and resources serving young children. This DD program followed the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2025 – 2026 school year. I monitored NC PreK requirements during today’s visit. The Administrator, Dr. Timothy Sims is the Director of Elementary Education, Federal Programs, and CTE for Hickory Public Schools, and does not serve as the Lead Teacher or Assistant Teacher in the classroom. An extended substitute was approved for this site for the teacher who was on extended leave for the 2025 – 2026 school year. This program uses Ages and Stages as the Developmental Screening tool, Teaching Strategies Gold as the Formative Assessment tool, and Creative Curriculum as the approved curriculum. The family engagement component included formal and informal parent-teacher conferences, classroom visits and options for parents and families to participate in classroom activities, parent education, opportunities for involvement in decision-making about the early childhood program, and opportunities to engage families outside the regular school day. You call or text the parent on the day of absence and at least by the third day of any child’s absence to inquire the reason for the absence and report absences to the Catawba County Partnership for Children. This NC PreK program followed the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2025 – 2026 school year. Your written administrative and personnel policies had not changed. Your operational policies and parent participation plan were documented in the Hickory Public Schools Student Handbook for 2024 – 2025 school year and the Catawba County Preschool Handbook for 2024 - 2025 school year. I monitored supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. The following violation was observed, cited, and corrected during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill was completed on October 29, 2025 which would make the next emergency drill due to be completed in January 2026. No emergency drill was completed and/or documented in January 2026. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1 Per child care rules 10A NCAC 09.0604(u) and .0302(d)(8), shelter-in-place or lockdown drills should be practiced every three months and recorded on the drill log. During today’s visit, I observed a drill completed on October 29, 2025 which would make the next emergency drill due to be completed in January 2026. No emergency drill was completed and/or documented in January 2026 resulting in a violation being cited. A lock-down drill was completed on March 20, 2026. Since this emergency drill was conducted prior to today’s visit, this violation was considered corrected during today’s visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you set a reminder on your phones to remind you to conduct a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill every three months. CONSULTATION: 1 Per NC General Statute 110-102, the current version of Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law should be posted in a prominent place in the facility and included in the enrollment packet to be given to parents prior to the child’s first day of attendance. The most current Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was published in November 2025. Today, I observed the date of the posted Summary of North Carolina Child Care Law was February 2025. Please print the updated version, post it in your classroom, and add it to your new enrollment packets. I also suggest you regularly check the DCDEE website for updated versions and especially when you receive notification of child care or sanitation rule updates. 2 We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website at this link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization to learn more now. 4 Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 5 Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Child-Care-Rules-Law-and-Public-Information Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development QRIS Modernization Plan resources: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New 6 Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 7 If you would like an electronic link to any of the links shared above, please send me an email requesting the links that you wish to receive, and I will be glad to send the hyperlinks to you by email. COMPLIANCE PLAN: Since the violation observed and cited during today’s visit was corrected prior to today’s visit and the actions taken to correct the violation were documented in this visit summary, no compliance letter documentation is due after today’s visit. Child care programs are required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. Due to a connectivity issue, a handwritten visit summary was completed, printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. A computer generated visit summary was prepared and a copy was mailed to you. We appreciate all you do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. 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: OAKWOOD ELEMENTARY PRE-K Facility ID: 18000359 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/12/2025 Number Present: 4 Completed Date: 11/12/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 295 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Akia Rose and Priscilla Fearn, Teacher Assistants, assisted me with today’s visit. Dr. Timothy Sims, Off-Site Administrator, joined the visit to sign documents, discuss the new rated license assessment process, and review the visit summary. Tina Knoblauch, Lead Teacher, has been and continues to be on leave. I conducted the last annual compliance visit on December 4, 2024. I reviewed the permit. I reviewed the restrictions on your license, capacity, and age range on your permit and observed these being maintained. The compliance history was 99% as of November 10, 2025 and was reviewed with you today. This program currently operates with a five-star license, issued on August 26, 2021, earning seven points in staff education, seven points in program standards, and one quality point for all lead teachers having an AAS or higher in early childhood education or child development. This program was monitored for compliance with Developmental Day and NC Pre-K requirements. The last sanitation inspection was dated September 8, 2025 with a Superior classification and zero demerits. The last lead water test results were dated July 9, 2025. I verified that lead water mitigation was pending for this program and school. Please complete the mitigation process and submit the corrective actions as required. I verified that you enrolled for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing and are waiting for the results of the survey you completed. The last fire inspection was dated December 2, 2024 and was received in my office on December 3, 2024. I visited each licensed indoor and outdoor space with you today. Children were playing in activity areas, transitioning from indoors to outdoors play, playing outdoors, taking care of personal care needs, transitioning from outdoors to indoors, preparing for lunch including handwashing, eating lunch, and napping. Age-appropriate and child-sized tables, chairs, shelving, and storage were provided. Developmentally appropriate materials were provided in sufficient quantities and were accessible to the children. All materials, furniture, and equipment were in good repair. Activity areas included books, blocks, manipulatives, dramatic play, creative art, science, music, sensory, water play, sand play, light table, writing and cozy area. Screen time offered to the children was limited to no more than thirty minutes daily and linked to a developmental domain and goal. The outdoor space was supplied with adequate shade and age-appropriate materials and equipment that were in good repair. The covered sandbox contained a sufficient amount of sand. The fence was sufficient height and in good repair. Breakfast, lunch, and snack were documented on current menus posted in the classroom. Meals were prepared in the school cafeteria and served in the classroom. Cold food and milk brought from home and/or served to children or staff was stored in a full-size refrigerator in the kitchenette adjacent to the classroom. Lunch served today met the meal pattern requirements. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records, child record files, staff record files. I monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored Developmental Day (DD) requirements during today’s visit. Staff members met the education requirements for DD staff. The children identified with developmental delays have care plans documented on an IFSP, IEP or PCP. Typically developing children participated in daily activities that were outlined in a plan of care documented on an activity plan meeting all child care requirements. Activities allowed the children to participate as a whole group, small group, part of the group or independently. Children identified with developmental delays were enrolled, interacting, and participating in all classroom activities alongside typically developing children. This DD program offered family involvement including providing quarterly parent education sessions, holding parent-teacher conferences at least twice a year, communicating on an individual basis with parents, having parents as members of an advisory board, providing opportunities for parent volunteers to assist with special classroom activities, field trips, etc. and providing parents with referral information about other community programs and resources serving young children. This DD program followed the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2025 – 2026 school year. I monitored NC PreK requirements during today’s visit. The Administrator, Dr. Timothy Sims is the Director of Elementary Education, Federal Programs, and CTE for Hickory Public Schools, and does not serve as the Lead Teacher or Assistant Teacher in the classroom. This program uses Ages and Stages as the Developmental Screening tool, Teaching Strategies Gold as the Formative Assessment tool, and Creative Curriculum as the approved curriculum. The family engagement component included formal and informal parent-teacher conferences, classroom visits and options for parents and families to participate in classroom activities, parent education, opportunities for involvement in decision-making about the early childhood program, and opportunities to engage families outside the regular school day. You call or text the parent on the day of absence and at least by the third day of any child’s absence to inquire the reason for the absence and report absences to the Catawba County Partnership for Children. This NC PreK program followed the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2025 – 2026 school year. Your written administrative and personnel policies had not changed. Your operational policies and parent participation plan were documented in the Hickory Public Schools Student Handbook for 2024 – 2025 school year and the Catawba County Preschool Handbook for 2024 - 2025 school year. I monitored supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. I completed the “Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers” during today’s visit. The following violations were observed and cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One new substitute staff member with a date of employment of 10/24/2025 did not have an Emergency Information form on file. .0701(a) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. Two new substitute staff members with dates of employment of 03/10/2025 and 10/24/2025 were not listed on the Public-School Off-Site Records Verification Staff document dated 08/2023 and a copy of the application, TB test results, new staff orientation training, and job description receipt statement were not on file. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One new substitute staff member with a date of employment of 03/10/2025 did not have a copy of the completion certificate on file as verification of having completed the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training. .1102(g) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Licensed child care programs operating in a Department of Instruction (DPI) building are allowed to keep certain staff records off-site as long as the staff member is listed on the roster attached to the Public-School Off-Site Records Verification Staff form. The best practice is to update the Public-School Off-Site Records Verification Staff document anytime a new staff member is hired. During today’s visit, two new substitute staff members who had worked at the facility less than ten days were not listed on the Public-School Off-Site Records Verification Staff document dated 08/2023 and a copy of the application, TB test results, new staff orientation training, and job description receipt statement were not on file. Today, Dr. Sims added these two new substitute staff members to the Public-School Off-Site Records Verification Staff document which corrected this violation during today’s visit To correct this violation, substitute staff members should either be added to an updated Public-School Off-Site Records Verification Staff document or these two substitute staff members should have a copy of the application, TB test results, new staff orientation training, and job description receipt statement on file at the facility. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest the off-site administrator update the Public-School Off-Site Records Verification Staff document anytime a new staff member or substitute staff member is hired the site location. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a), all child care providers should have an emergency information form on file on or before the first day of work. The emergency information form should include the name, address, and telephone number of the person to be contacted in case of an emergency, and the responsible party's choice of health care professional. The emergency information form should be updated as changes occur and at least annually. During today’s visit, one new substitute staff member who had worked at the facility less than ten days did not have an Emergency Information form on file. To correct this violation, the new substitute staff member should complete an Emergency Information form and/or provide a copy to the facility to place on file. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you have each employee update their emergency information form at a designated staff meeting annually. This practice will allow you to get as many employees as possible on the same annual update schedule and make tracking easier for you to maintain. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 . 1102(g), each child care administrator and all staff including substitute staff members should complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training through the NC Prevent Child Abuse website and/or present the administrator with the completion certificate within the first ninety days of employment. A copy of the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training completion certificate should be kept in the staff record file for verification each year. If the staff member loses their completion certificate, the training should be taken again. During today’s visit, one new substitute staff member did not have a copy of the completion certificate on file as verification of having completed the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training. To correct this violation, the new substitute staff member should complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training and/or submit a copy of the completion certificate to the facility to place on file. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you use your tracking tool for training due dates for each of your employees to assist you. I also suggest you review your staff files at least twice a year prior to your annual compliance date and your routine unannounced date to ensure all the required documentation and training certificates are on file. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, in November 2024, your facility requested and completed a voluntary rated license reassessment using the old QRIS assessment system and was issued an updated five-star rated license on December 4, 2024. Today, I monitored your facility for on-going compliance with five-star rated license requirements. Your next rated license assessment will be completed no later than December 4, 2027 using the new QRIS Modernization Plan: Pathway to the Stars. During the walk-through and while reviewing the staff record files, I noticed one staff member from another NC Pre-K site location had been assigned to your facility for the 2025-2026 school year. Based on my informal assessment of staff education standards, program standards, and continued verification of the quality point, this facility continues to maintain their five-star rated license standards. 2. On December 15, 2025, I have a virtual meeting scheduled with Dr. Sims to discuss the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. We will cover enhanced ratios and space expectations, staff education including ensuring all staff have WORKS accounts, understanding the 50% requirement for lead teachers and for other educators, and how work experience may count, the Family and Community Engagement Foundational Practices, Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plan for the Facility and Individuals, Self-Study and Coaching/Mentoring & Training. During today's visit, Dr. Sims and I discussed the three pathway options briefly, the application, and 50% requirement for Lead Teachers and other educators. We also discussed the NC PreK requirement for completion of an environmental rating scale (ERS). This facility’s rated license reassessment is due to be completed by December 4, 2027. We will start the facility’s rated license reassessment process using the Pathway to the Stars option of your choice beginning in March 2027. I advise you to use this school year as a year of preparation and training for your staff to prepare them for the new child care requirements for the rated license assessment process, Pathways to the Stars. The following steps are how you can begin preparing for the Rated License process: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than March 2027. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than March 2027. • Confirm all staff have active WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Begin planning for your three-month self-study using the applicable ITERS-3, ECERS-3, SACERS-U, OR FCCERS-3 books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. o Access resources, trainings, and outreach via ncrlap.org. o Work with CCR&R or Smart Start for support in preparation. • Identify CQI goals and begin planning for implementation. • Develop strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • If four-year-old children are enrolled, select and implement an approved curriculum. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than March 2027. • Confirm all staff have active WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify CQI goals and begin planning for implementation. • Develop strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum and formative assessment tool for all ages.) • Arranging coaching or training options for administrators and lead teachers. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than mid-October 2027. • Ensure all staff have active WORKS accounts. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. 3. When and if you update your fire evacuation route, shelter-in-place, and/or lock-down drill plan, you need to have the fire department approve the your plan first BEFORE you put it in your EPR plan as an update. 4. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website at this link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization to learn more now. 5. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 6. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Child-Care-Rules-Law-and-Public-Information Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings Healthy Social Behaviors: https://www.childcarerrnc.org/special-projects/healthy-social-behaviors/. Healthy Social Behaviors Helpline: Call at 1-704-376-6697 or toll free at 1-888-600-1685 Option 1 or email at sbrawley@childcareresourcesinc.org or jbyrd@childcareresources.org. Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-Child-Care/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New 7. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 8. If you would like an electronic link to any of the links shared above, please send me an email requesting the links that you wish to receive, and I will be glad to send the hyperlinks to you by email. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance letter documentation is due for violation item number 106 which was corrected during today’s visit. I documented the actions taken to correct that violation in this visit summary. All violations cited and not corrected today must be corrected immediately. Please submit a written, signed, and dated statement to me at the email/address below detailing the steps taken to correct each violation. 1) Your compliance letter must include the following: 1. The name of your center 2. The center’s ID number 3. The date you write the letter 4. Address each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. 5. Your signature 2) Supporting documentation including the following: 1. Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. 2. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than November 26, 2025. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. 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 or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education 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 required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. Thank you for your time today. 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: OAKWOOD ELEMENTARY PRE-K Facility ID: 18000359 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/12/2025 Number Present: 4 Completed Date: 11/12/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 295 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Akia Rose and Priscilla Fearn, Teacher Assistants, assisted me with today’s visit. Dr. Timothy Sims, Off-Site Administrator, joined the visit to sign documents, discuss the new rated license assessment process, and review the visit summary. Tina Knoblauch, Lead Teacher, has been and continues to be on leave. I conducted the last annual compliance visit on December 4, 2024. I reviewed the permit. I reviewed the restrictions on your license, capacity, and age range on your permit and observed these being maintained. The compliance history was 99% as of November 10, 2025 and was reviewed with you today. This program currently operates with a five-star license, issued on August 26, 2021, earning seven points in staff education, seven points in program standards, and one quality point for all lead teachers having an AAS or higher in early childhood education or child development. This program was monitored for compliance with Developmental Day and NC Pre-K requirements. The last sanitation inspection was dated September 8, 2025 with a Superior classification and zero demerits. The last lead water test results were dated July 9, 2025. I verified that lead water mitigation was pending for this program and school. Please complete the mitigation process and submit the corrective actions as required. I verified that you enrolled for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing and are waiting for the results of the survey you completed. The last fire inspection was dated December 2, 2024 and was received in my office on December 3, 2024. I visited each licensed indoor and outdoor space with you today. Children were playing in activity areas, transitioning from indoors to outdoors play, playing outdoors, taking care of personal care needs, transitioning from outdoors to indoors, preparing for lunch including handwashing, eating lunch, and napping. Age-appropriate and child-sized tables, chairs, shelving, and storage were provided. Developmentally appropriate materials were provided in sufficient quantities and were accessible to the children. All materials, furniture, and equipment were in good repair. Activity areas included books, blocks, manipulatives, dramatic play, creative art, science, music, sensory, water play, sand play, light table, writing and cozy area. Screen time offered to the children was limited to no more than thirty minutes daily and linked to a developmental domain and goal. The outdoor space was supplied with adequate shade and age-appropriate materials and equipment that were in good repair. The covered sandbox contained a sufficient amount of sand. The fence was sufficient height and in good repair. Breakfast, lunch, and snack were documented on current menus posted in the classroom. Meals were prepared in the school cafeteria and served in the classroom. Cold food and milk brought from home and/or served to children or staff was stored in a full-size refrigerator in the kitchenette adjacent to the classroom. Lunch served today met the meal pattern requirements. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records, child record files, staff record files. I monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored Developmental Day (DD) requirements during today’s visit. Staff members met the education requirements for DD staff. The children identified with developmental delays have care plans documented on an IFSP, IEP or PCP. Typically developing children participated in daily activities that were outlined in a plan of care documented on an activity plan meeting all child care requirements. Activities allowed the children to participate as a whole group, small group, part of the group or independently. Children identified with developmental delays were enrolled, interacting, and participating in all classroom activities alongside typically developing children. This DD program offered family involvement including providing quarterly parent education sessions, holding parent-teacher conferences at least twice a year, communicating on an individual basis with parents, having parents as members of an advisory board, providing opportunities for parent volunteers to assist with special classroom activities, field trips, etc. and providing parents with referral information about other community programs and resources serving young children. This DD program followed the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2025 – 2026 school year. I monitored NC PreK requirements during today’s visit. The Administrator, Dr. Timothy Sims is the Director of Elementary Education, Federal Programs, and CTE for Hickory Public Schools, and does not serve as the Lead Teacher or Assistant Teacher in the classroom. This program uses Ages and Stages as the Developmental Screening tool, Teaching Strategies Gold as the Formative Assessment tool, and Creative Curriculum as the approved curriculum. The family engagement component included formal and informal parent-teacher conferences, classroom visits and options for parents and families to participate in classroom activities, parent education, opportunities for involvement in decision-making about the early childhood program, and opportunities to engage families outside the regular school day. You call or text the parent on the day of absence and at least by the third day of any child’s absence to inquire the reason for the absence and report absences to the Catawba County Partnership for Children. This NC PreK program followed the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2025 – 2026 school year. Your written administrative and personnel policies had not changed. Your operational policies and parent participation plan were documented in the Hickory Public Schools Student Handbook for 2024 – 2025 school year and the Catawba County Preschool Handbook for 2024 - 2025 school year. I monitored supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. I completed the “Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers” during today’s visit. The following violations were observed and cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One new substitute staff member with a date of employment of 10/24/2025 did not have an Emergency Information form on file. .0701(a) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. Two new substitute staff members with dates of employment of 03/10/2025 and 10/24/2025 were not listed on the Public-School Off-Site Records Verification Staff document dated 08/2023 and a copy of the application, TB test results, new staff orientation training, and job description receipt statement were not on file. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One new substitute staff member with a date of employment of 03/10/2025 did not have a copy of the completion certificate on file as verification of having completed the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training. .1102(g) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Licensed child care programs operating in a Department of Instruction (DPI) building are allowed to keep certain staff records off-site as long as the staff member is listed on the roster attached to the Public-School Off-Site Records Verification Staff form. The best practice is to update the Public-School Off-Site Records Verification Staff document anytime a new staff member is hired. During today’s visit, two new substitute staff members who had worked at the facility less than ten days were not listed on the Public-School Off-Site Records Verification Staff document dated 08/2023 and a copy of the application, TB test results, new staff orientation training, and job description receipt statement were not on file. Today, Dr. Sims added these two new substitute staff members to the Public-School Off-Site Records Verification Staff document which corrected this violation during today’s visit To correct this violation, substitute staff members should either be added to an updated Public-School Off-Site Records Verification Staff document or these two substitute staff members should have a copy of the application, TB test results, new staff orientation training, and job description receipt statement on file at the facility. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest the off-site administrator update the Public-School Off-Site Records Verification Staff document anytime a new staff member or substitute staff member is hired the site location. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a), all child care providers should have an emergency information form on file on or before the first day of work. The emergency information form should include the name, address, and telephone number of the person to be contacted in case of an emergency, and the responsible party's choice of health care professional. The emergency information form should be updated as changes occur and at least annually. During today’s visit, one new substitute staff member who had worked at the facility less than ten days did not have an Emergency Information form on file. To correct this violation, the new substitute staff member should complete an Emergency Information form and/or provide a copy to the facility to place on file. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you have each employee update their emergency information form at a designated staff meeting annually. This practice will allow you to get as many employees as possible on the same annual update schedule and make tracking easier for you to maintain. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 . 1102(g), each child care administrator and all staff including substitute staff members should complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training through the NC Prevent Child Abuse website and/or present the administrator with the completion certificate within the first ninety days of employment. A copy of the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training completion certificate should be kept in the staff record file for verification each year. If the staff member loses their completion certificate, the training should be taken again. During today’s visit, one new substitute staff member did not have a copy of the completion certificate on file as verification of having completed the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training. To correct this violation, the new substitute staff member should complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training and/or submit a copy of the completion certificate to the facility to place on file. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you use your tracking tool for training due dates for each of your employees to assist you. I also suggest you review your staff files at least twice a year prior to your annual compliance date and your routine unannounced date to ensure all the required documentation and training certificates are on file. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, in November 2024, your facility requested and completed a voluntary rated license reassessment using the old QRIS assessment system and was issued an updated five-star rated license on December 4, 2024. Today, I monitored your facility for on-going compliance with five-star rated license requirements. Your next rated license assessment will be completed no later than December 4, 2027 using the new QRIS Modernization Plan: Pathway to the Stars. During the walk-through and while reviewing the staff record files, I noticed one staff member from another NC Pre-K site location had been assigned to your facility for the 2025-2026 school year. Based on my informal assessment of staff education standards, program standards, and continued verification of the quality point, this facility continues to maintain their five-star rated license standards. 2. On December 15, 2025, I have a virtual meeting scheduled with Dr. Sims to discuss the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. We will cover enhanced ratios and space expectations, staff education including ensuring all staff have WORKS accounts, understanding the 50% requirement for lead teachers and for other educators, and how work experience may count, the Family and Community Engagement Foundational Practices, Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plan for the Facility and Individuals, Self-Study and Coaching/Mentoring & Training. During today's visit, Dr. Sims and I discussed the three pathway options briefly, the application, and 50% requirement for Lead Teachers and other educators. We also discussed the NC PreK requirement for completion of an environmental rating scale (ERS). This facility’s rated license reassessment is due to be completed by December 4, 2027. We will start the facility’s rated license reassessment process using the Pathway to the Stars option of your choice beginning in March 2027. I advise you to use this school year as a year of preparation and training for your staff to prepare them for the new child care requirements for the rated license assessment process, Pathways to the Stars. The following steps are how you can begin preparing for the Rated License process: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than March 2027. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than March 2027. • Confirm all staff have active WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Begin planning for your three-month self-study using the applicable ITERS-3, ECERS-3, SACERS-U, OR FCCERS-3 books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. o Access resources, trainings, and outreach via ncrlap.org. o Work with CCR&R or Smart Start for support in preparation. • Identify CQI goals and begin planning for implementation. • Develop strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • If four-year-old children are enrolled, select and implement an approved curriculum. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than March 2027. • Confirm all staff have active WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify CQI goals and begin planning for implementation. • Develop strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum and formative assessment tool for all ages.) • Arranging coaching or training options for administrators and lead teachers. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than mid-October 2027. • Ensure all staff have active WORKS accounts. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. 3. When and if you update your fire evacuation route, shelter-in-place, and/or lock-down drill plan, you need to have the fire department approve the your plan first BEFORE you put it in your EPR plan as an update. 4. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website at this link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization to learn more now. 5. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 6. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Child-Care-Rules-Law-and-Public-Information Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings Healthy Social Behaviors: https://www.childcarerrnc.org/special-projects/healthy-social-behaviors/. Healthy Social Behaviors Helpline: Call at 1-704-376-6697 or toll free at 1-888-600-1685 Option 1 or email at sbrawley@childcareresourcesinc.org or jbyrd@childcareresources.org. Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-Child-Care/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New 7. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 8. If you would like an electronic link to any of the links shared above, please send me an email requesting the links that you wish to receive, and I will be glad to send the hyperlinks to you by email. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance letter documentation is due for violation item number 106 which was corrected during today’s visit. I documented the actions taken to correct that violation in this visit summary. All violations cited and not corrected today must be corrected immediately. Please submit a written, signed, and dated statement to me at the email/address below detailing the steps taken to correct each violation. 1) Your compliance letter must include the following: 1. The name of your center 2. The center’s ID number 3. The date you write the letter 4. Address each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. 5. Your signature 2) Supporting documentation including the following: 1. Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. 2. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than November 26, 2025. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. 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 or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education 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 required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. Thank you for your time today. 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: OAKWOOD ELEMENTARY PRE-K Facility ID: 18000359 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/12/2025 Number Present: 4 Completed Date: 11/12/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 295 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Akia Rose and Priscilla Fearn, Teacher Assistants, assisted me with today’s visit. Dr. Timothy Sims, Off-Site Administrator, joined the visit to sign documents, discuss the new rated license assessment process, and review the visit summary. Tina Knoblauch, Lead Teacher, has been and continues to be on leave. I conducted the last annual compliance visit on December 4, 2024. I reviewed the permit. I reviewed the restrictions on your license, capacity, and age range on your permit and observed these being maintained. The compliance history was 99% as of November 10, 2025 and was reviewed with you today. This program currently operates with a five-star license, issued on August 26, 2021, earning seven points in staff education, seven points in program standards, and one quality point for all lead teachers having an AAS or higher in early childhood education or child development. This program was monitored for compliance with Developmental Day and NC Pre-K requirements. The last sanitation inspection was dated September 8, 2025 with a Superior classification and zero demerits. The last lead water test results were dated July 9, 2025. I verified that lead water mitigation was pending for this program and school. Please complete the mitigation process and submit the corrective actions as required. I verified that you enrolled for the lead-based paint and asbestos testing and are waiting for the results of the survey you completed. The last fire inspection was dated December 2, 2024 and was received in my office on December 3, 2024. I visited each licensed indoor and outdoor space with you today. Children were playing in activity areas, transitioning from indoors to outdoors play, playing outdoors, taking care of personal care needs, transitioning from outdoors to indoors, preparing for lunch including handwashing, eating lunch, and napping. Age-appropriate and child-sized tables, chairs, shelving, and storage were provided. Developmentally appropriate materials were provided in sufficient quantities and were accessible to the children. All materials, furniture, and equipment were in good repair. Activity areas included books, blocks, manipulatives, dramatic play, creative art, science, music, sensory, water play, sand play, light table, writing and cozy area. Screen time offered to the children was limited to no more than thirty minutes daily and linked to a developmental domain and goal. The outdoor space was supplied with adequate shade and age-appropriate materials and equipment that were in good repair. The covered sandbox contained a sufficient amount of sand. The fence was sufficient height and in good repair. Breakfast, lunch, and snack were documented on current menus posted in the classroom. Meals were prepared in the school cafeteria and served in the classroom. Cold food and milk brought from home and/or served to children or staff was stored in a full-size refrigerator in the kitchenette adjacent to the classroom. Lunch served today met the meal pattern requirements. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I monitored program records, child record files, staff record files. I monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored Developmental Day (DD) requirements during today’s visit. Staff members met the education requirements for DD staff. The children identified with developmental delays have care plans documented on an IFSP, IEP or PCP. Typically developing children participated in daily activities that were outlined in a plan of care documented on an activity plan meeting all child care requirements. Activities allowed the children to participate as a whole group, small group, part of the group or independently. Children identified with developmental delays were enrolled, interacting, and participating in all classroom activities alongside typically developing children. This DD program offered family involvement including providing quarterly parent education sessions, holding parent-teacher conferences at least twice a year, communicating on an individual basis with parents, having parents as members of an advisory board, providing opportunities for parent volunteers to assist with special classroom activities, field trips, etc. and providing parents with referral information about other community programs and resources serving young children. This DD program followed the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2025 – 2026 school year. I monitored NC PreK requirements during today’s visit. The Administrator, Dr. Timothy Sims is the Director of Elementary Education, Federal Programs, and CTE for Hickory Public Schools, and does not serve as the Lead Teacher or Assistant Teacher in the classroom. This program uses Ages and Stages as the Developmental Screening tool, Teaching Strategies Gold as the Formative Assessment tool, and Creative Curriculum as the approved curriculum. The family engagement component included formal and informal parent-teacher conferences, classroom visits and options for parents and families to participate in classroom activities, parent education, opportunities for involvement in decision-making about the early childhood program, and opportunities to engage families outside the regular school day. You call or text the parent on the day of absence and at least by the third day of any child’s absence to inquire the reason for the absence and report absences to the Catawba County Partnership for Children. This NC PreK program followed the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2025 – 2026 school year. Your written administrative and personnel policies had not changed. Your operational policies and parent participation plan were documented in the Hickory Public Schools Student Handbook for 2024 – 2025 school year and the Catawba County Preschool Handbook for 2024 - 2025 school year. I monitored supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. I completed the “Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers” during today’s visit. The following violations were observed and cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One new substitute staff member with a date of employment of 10/24/2025 did not have an Emergency Information form on file. .0701(a) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. Two new substitute staff members with dates of employment of 03/10/2025 and 10/24/2025 were not listed on the Public-School Off-Site Records Verification Staff document dated 08/2023 and a copy of the application, TB test results, new staff orientation training, and job description receipt statement were not on file. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One new substitute staff member with a date of employment of 03/10/2025 did not have a copy of the completion certificate on file as verification of having completed the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training. .1102(g) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Licensed child care programs operating in a Department of Instruction (DPI) building are allowed to keep certain staff records off-site as long as the staff member is listed on the roster attached to the Public-School Off-Site Records Verification Staff form. The best practice is to update the Public-School Off-Site Records Verification Staff document anytime a new staff member is hired. During today’s visit, two new substitute staff members who had worked at the facility less than ten days were not listed on the Public-School Off-Site Records Verification Staff document dated 08/2023 and a copy of the application, TB test results, new staff orientation training, and job description receipt statement were not on file. Today, Dr. Sims added these two new substitute staff members to the Public-School Off-Site Records Verification Staff document which corrected this violation during today’s visit To correct this violation, substitute staff members should either be added to an updated Public-School Off-Site Records Verification Staff document or these two substitute staff members should have a copy of the application, TB test results, new staff orientation training, and job description receipt statement on file at the facility. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest the off-site administrator update the Public-School Off-Site Records Verification Staff document anytime a new staff member or substitute staff member is hired the site location. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a), all child care providers should have an emergency information form on file on or before the first day of work. The emergency information form should include the name, address, and telephone number of the person to be contacted in case of an emergency, and the responsible party's choice of health care professional. The emergency information form should be updated as changes occur and at least annually. During today’s visit, one new substitute staff member who had worked at the facility less than ten days did not have an Emergency Information form on file. To correct this violation, the new substitute staff member should complete an Emergency Information form and/or provide a copy to the facility to place on file. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you have each employee update their emergency information form at a designated staff meeting annually. This practice will allow you to get as many employees as possible on the same annual update schedule and make tracking easier for you to maintain. 3. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 . 1102(g), each child care administrator and all staff including substitute staff members should complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training through the NC Prevent Child Abuse website and/or present the administrator with the completion certificate within the first ninety days of employment. A copy of the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training completion certificate should be kept in the staff record file for verification each year. If the staff member loses their completion certificate, the training should be taken again. During today’s visit, one new substitute staff member did not have a copy of the completion certificate on file as verification of having completed the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training. To correct this violation, the new substitute staff member should complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training and/or submit a copy of the completion certificate to the facility to place on file. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you use your tracking tool for training due dates for each of your employees to assist you. I also suggest you review your staff files at least twice a year prior to your annual compliance date and your routine unannounced date to ensure all the required documentation and training certificates are on file. CONSULTATION: 1. As discussed today, in November 2024, your facility requested and completed a voluntary rated license reassessment using the old QRIS assessment system and was issued an updated five-star rated license on December 4, 2024. Today, I monitored your facility for on-going compliance with five-star rated license requirements. Your next rated license assessment will be completed no later than December 4, 2027 using the new QRIS Modernization Plan: Pathway to the Stars. During the walk-through and while reviewing the staff record files, I noticed one staff member from another NC Pre-K site location had been assigned to your facility for the 2025-2026 school year. Based on my informal assessment of staff education standards, program standards, and continued verification of the quality point, this facility continues to maintain their five-star rated license standards. 2. On December 15, 2025, I have a virtual meeting scheduled with Dr. Sims to discuss the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. We will cover enhanced ratios and space expectations, staff education including ensuring all staff have WORKS accounts, understanding the 50% requirement for lead teachers and for other educators, and how work experience may count, the Family and Community Engagement Foundational Practices, Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plan for the Facility and Individuals, Self-Study and Coaching/Mentoring & Training. During today's visit, Dr. Sims and I discussed the three pathway options briefly, the application, and 50% requirement for Lead Teachers and other educators. We also discussed the NC PreK requirement for completion of an environmental rating scale (ERS). This facility’s rated license reassessment is due to be completed by December 4, 2027. We will start the facility’s rated license reassessment process using the Pathway to the Stars option of your choice beginning in March 2027. I advise you to use this school year as a year of preparation and training for your staff to prepare them for the new child care requirements for the rated license assessment process, Pathways to the Stars. The following steps are how you can begin preparing for the Rated License process: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than March 2027. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than March 2027. • Confirm all staff have active WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Begin planning for your three-month self-study using the applicable ITERS-3, ECERS-3, SACERS-U, OR FCCERS-3 books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. o Access resources, trainings, and outreach via ncrlap.org. o Work with CCR&R or Smart Start for support in preparation. • Identify CQI goals and begin planning for implementation. • Develop strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • If four-year-old children are enrolled, select and implement an approved curriculum. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than March 2027. • Confirm all staff have active WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify CQI goals and begin planning for implementation. • Develop strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum and formative assessment tool for all ages.) • Arranging coaching or training options for administrators and lead teachers. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than mid-October 2027. • Ensure all staff have active WORKS accounts. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. 3. When and if you update your fire evacuation route, shelter-in-place, and/or lock-down drill plan, you need to have the fire department approve the your plan first BEFORE you put it in your EPR plan as an update. 4. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website at this link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization to learn more now. 5. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 6. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Child-Care-Rules-Law-and-Public-Information Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings Healthy Social Behaviors: https://www.childcarerrnc.org/special-projects/healthy-social-behaviors/. Healthy Social Behaviors Helpline: Call at 1-704-376-6697 or toll free at 1-888-600-1685 Option 1 or email at sbrawley@childcareresourcesinc.org or jbyrd@childcareresources.org. Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-Child-Care/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New 7. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 8. If you would like an electronic link to any of the links shared above, please send me an email requesting the links that you wish to receive, and I will be glad to send the hyperlinks to you by email. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance letter documentation is due for violation item number 106 which was corrected during today’s visit. I documented the actions taken to correct that violation in this visit summary. All violations cited and not corrected today must be corrected immediately. Please submit a written, signed, and dated statement to me at the email/address below detailing the steps taken to correct each violation. 1) Your compliance letter must include the following: 1. The name of your center 2. The center’s ID number 3. The date you write the letter 4. Address each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. 5. Your signature 2) Supporting documentation including the following: 1. Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. 2. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than November 26, 2025. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. 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 or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education 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 required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. Thank you for your time today. 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 .2703 · Violation

Name of Operation: OAKWOOD ELEMENTARY PRE-K Facility ID: 18000359 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/1/2025 Number Present: 15 Completed Date: 5/1/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Tina Knoblauch, Lead Teacher, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on December 4, 2024. I reviewed with you today the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to the facility phone number, fax number, email address, or mailing address. You asked that I add the facility’s web address to our public database. I made that addition for you today. I reviewed the permit restrictions, capacity, and age range on your permit and observed these being maintained. Your center's compliance history was 96% as of April 30, 2025, and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued on December 4, 2024, earning seven points in staff education, seven points in program standards, and one quality point for 75% of lead teachers having a BA/BS or higher in early childhood education or child development. Your most recent fire inspection was dated December 2, 2024, and received in my office on December 3, 2024. Your most recent sanitation inspection was dated March 7, 2025, with a Superior classification and zero demerits. I verified that you have not completed the lead water testing required to be completed every three years. Today, I verified that the test results dated February 2, 2021, indicated that your facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint testing and the asbestos testing. I completed a walk-through of the facility today. I monitored the indoor and outdoor licensed spaces. Children were playing in activity areas, participating in teacher-directed table activities including a cut-and-paste sequencing activity centered around the book The Tiny Seed by Eric Carle, and engaged in personal care routines. Staff facilitated play and peer interactions, talked through behavior management needs with the children, fostered self-regulation and positive choices, lead teacher-directed activities, and assisted the children with personal care routines as needed. A current menu was posted in each classroom, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline. I monitored program records including emergency medical care plan, safe arrival and departure procedures, incident log, outdoor safety inspections, fire drills, emergency drills, and your School Risk Management (SRM) Plan. On December 4, 2024, I reviewed staff records for seven staff members including four returning staff members and three returning substitute staff members. Today, I verified that the four returning staff members had current and valid Criminal Background Check qualification letters, current and valid CPR and First Aid training, completion of the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training, and completion of playground safety training for at least one staff member. I verified that the three returning substitute staff members had valid Criminal Background Check qualification letters and had completed the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training. However, the CPR and First Aid training certification for the three substitute staff members expired on February 1, 2025, and will need to be updated prior to these substitute staff members working alone in a classroom with preschool age children. No new staff members or new substitute staff members had been hired since the last annual compliance visit on December 4, 2024. A staff and training worksheet documenting the four returning staff members was provided. The three returning substitute staff members were not documented on a staff and training worksheet today. I monitored health and safety requirements. On April 10, 2025 at a routine unannounced visit at Southwest Primary Preschool, I reviewed the written operational, administrative, and personnel policies and the parent participation plan for the 2024 – 2025 school year which are used by the NC PreK program sites housed in Hickory Public Schools buildings. You stated your written policies and procedures had not changed. I monitored developmental day (DD) requirements during today’s visit. Staff members met the education requirements for DD staff. The children identified with developmental delays have care plans documented on an IFSP, IEP or PCP. Typically developing children participated in daily activities that were outlined in a plan of care documented on an activity plan meeting all child care requirements. Activities allowed the children to participate as a whole group, small group, part of the group or independently. Children identified with developmental delays were enrolled, interacting, and participating in all classroom activities alongside typically developing children. The DD program offered family involvement including providing quarterly parent education sessions, holding parent-teacher conferences at least twice a year, communicating on an individual basis with parents, having parents as members of an advisory board, providing opportunities for parent volunteers to assist with special classroom activities, field trips, etc. and providing parents with referral information about other community programs and resources serving young children. The DD program followed the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2024 – 2025 school year. I monitored NC PreK requirements during today’s visit. The administrator, Dr. Timothy Sims is the Director of Elementary Education, Federal Programs, and CTE for Hickory Public Schools, and does not serve as the lead teacher or assistant teacher in the classroom. You used DIAL-3 as the Developmental Screening tool. You used Teaching Strategies Gold as the Formative Assessment tool and The Creative Curriculum for Preschool, Fourth Edition, as your approved curriculum. Your family engagement component included formal and informal parent-teacher conferences, classroom visits and options for parents and families to participate in classroom activities, parent education, opportunities for involvement in decision-making about the early childhood program, and opportunities to engage families outside the regular school day. You call or text the parent on the day of absence and at least by the third day of any child’s absence to inquire about the reason for the absence and report absences to the Catawba County Partnership for Children. The NC PreK program followed the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2024 – 2025 school year. I monitored supervision, staff-child ratios, group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. I observed and cited the following violation during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. As required prior to employment, a CBC qualification letter from DCDEE was not on file for one uncompensated provider contracted to deliver unsupervised services to a child outside of the preschool classroom. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One uncompensated provider contracted to deliver unsupervised services to a child outside the preschool classroom did not have a CBC qualification letter from DCDEE on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e), each child care provider should have a valid Criminal Background Check qualification letter issued from DCDEE on file in their staff records. This includes therapists or counselors who visit your facility and are contracted to work with a child enrolled in your facility. When the therapist or counselor provides therapy services within the classroom with the teacher present, the therapist or counselor does not have to have a CBC qualification letter from DCDEE because the teacher who has a CBC qualification letter is supervising the child and monitoring the therapy session. However, when the therapist or counselor takes the child out of the classroom to another part of the building and is left alone with the child, then the therapist or counselor has to have CBC qualification letter from DCDEE on file. Today, I observed one contracted therapist, Lisa Wallace, sign a child out of the classroom, remove the child from the classroom for thirty minutes, return with the child, and sign the child back in to the classroom. After reviewing staff records, I noticed a CBC qualification letter from DCDEE was not on file for Ms. Wallace. After calling Ms. Wallace, you stated Ms. Wallace had a criminal background letter completed through the contracted agency but not from DCDEE. I spoke with Dr. Timothy Sims, Administrator, to share that an uncompensated provider, Ms. Wallace, could not have unsupervised contact with preschool children outside of the preschool classroom until a qualification letter from DCDEE was received and a copy was provided to the classroom teacher to be on file at NC PreK site. I also shared with Dr. Sims that a copy of the CBC qualification letter for Ms. Wallace should be sent to me along with the compliance letter documentation within two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, Ms. Wallace should complete the CBC qualification application process through DCDEE to obtain a CBC qualification letter and provide a copy to the classroom teacher within two weeks and begin delivering services to preschool children within the preschool classroom until the CBC qualification letter is received. Once you receive the CBC qualification letter from Ms. Wallace, you should send me a copy with your compliance documentation. I advised you to assist Ms. Wallace with completing the CBC qualification application process which includes obtaining an NCID username and password, submitting an application for qualification through the ABCMS portal located on the DCDEE website, paying the application fees, obtaining electronic fingerprints at a law enforcement agency, and having the law enforcement agency submit the electronic fingerprints. I also advised you to remember to request a copy of the CBC qualification letter from DCDEE when any therapist or counselor wishes to remove a child from the preschool setting to deliver unsupervised services and request that the therapist or counselor deliver services within the classroom until a CBC qualification letter can be obtained. CONSULTATION: 1. Since this facility’s star-rated license was voluntarily reassessed in 2024, this facility is not held harmless under the hold harmless provision and should therefore maintain the star-rated license requirements as a five-star facility. Since the staff working in the classroom have not changed since the voluntary reassessment in December 2024, the staff education points earned by this facility have not changed. No concerns were observed regarding this facility’s program standards. The facility continues to qualify for the quality point. This facility continues to earn seven points in staff education, seven points in program standards, and one quality point for 75% of lead teachers having an BA/BS or higher in early childhood education or child development and therefore maintains a 5-Star rated license. 2. The NC Summary of Child Care Law brochure and poster were both updated in February 2025 and are available on the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Provider-Documents-and-Forms. Today, I observed the February 2025 version of the NC Summary of Child Care Law poster posted on the parent information bulletin board in the classroom. Please include and use the February 2025 version of the NC Summary of Child Care Law brochure in your enrollment packet. 3. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No action is needed on your part if you have already completed the ABCMS Provider Portal training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or FCCH residents. Be sure this information is updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and terminated and as FCCH residents move in or reach sixteen years of age. If you are not already using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or FCCH residents, you will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS 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 to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff or current FCCH residents 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 and as FCCH residents change or reach sixteen years of age. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. 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. 4. The new QRIS Modernization Plan known as “Pathways to Success” is being added to law which included moving to the use of the updated Environmental Rating Scale (ERS-3 versions) for FCCERS, effective February 1, 2025. The NC Child Care Commission approved the proposed rules on April 22, 2025. DCDEE and the NC Child Care Commission will continue the rulemaking process to add the rule language to child care requirements. A pathway for child care programs currently accredited through the approved accrediting bodies may now move to a 3- or 5-star license if they are not already at this star level. Providers need to submit a request to their licensing consultant and provide a copy of their accreditation award/certificate for processing: Accreditation Licensure Request Form. Please be reminded that any ERS assessment completed on February 1, 2025 and after will be assessed using the ERS-3 versions. 5. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 6. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Getting-a-License Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-Child-Care/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New COMPLIANCE PLAN: All violations cited and not corrected today must be corrected immediately. Please submit a written, signed, and dated statement to me at the email/address below detailing the steps taken to correct each violation. 1) Your compliance letter must include the following: 1. The name of your center 2. The center’s ID number 3. The date you write the letter 4. Address each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. 5. Your signature 2) Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. I should receive your compliance letter no later than May 15, 2025. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. 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 or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education 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 required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. 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: OAKWOOD ELEMENTARY PRE-K Facility ID: 18000359 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/1/2025 Number Present: 15 Completed Date: 5/1/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Tina Knoblauch, Lead Teacher, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on December 4, 2024. I reviewed with you today the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to the facility phone number, fax number, email address, or mailing address. You asked that I add the facility’s web address to our public database. I made that addition for you today. I reviewed the permit restrictions, capacity, and age range on your permit and observed these being maintained. Your center's compliance history was 96% as of April 30, 2025, and was reviewed with you today. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued on December 4, 2024, earning seven points in staff education, seven points in program standards, and one quality point for 75% of lead teachers having a BA/BS or higher in early childhood education or child development. Your most recent fire inspection was dated December 2, 2024, and received in my office on December 3, 2024. Your most recent sanitation inspection was dated March 7, 2025, with a Superior classification and zero demerits. I verified that you have not completed the lead water testing required to be completed every three years. Today, I verified that the test results dated February 2, 2021, indicated that your facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that you have enrolled for the lead-based paint testing and the asbestos testing. I completed a walk-through of the facility today. I monitored the indoor and outdoor licensed spaces. Children were playing in activity areas, participating in teacher-directed table activities including a cut-and-paste sequencing activity centered around the book The Tiny Seed by Eric Carle, and engaged in personal care routines. Staff facilitated play and peer interactions, talked through behavior management needs with the children, fostered self-regulation and positive choices, lead teacher-directed activities, and assisted the children with personal care routines as needed. A current menu was posted in each classroom, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Meals were prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline. I monitored program records including emergency medical care plan, safe arrival and departure procedures, incident log, outdoor safety inspections, fire drills, emergency drills, and your School Risk Management (SRM) Plan. On December 4, 2024, I reviewed staff records for seven staff members including four returning staff members and three returning substitute staff members. Today, I verified that the four returning staff members had current and valid Criminal Background Check qualification letters, current and valid CPR and First Aid training, completion of the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training, and completion of playground safety training for at least one staff member. I verified that the three returning substitute staff members had valid Criminal Background Check qualification letters and had completed the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training. However, the CPR and First Aid training certification for the three substitute staff members expired on February 1, 2025, and will need to be updated prior to these substitute staff members working alone in a classroom with preschool age children. No new staff members or new substitute staff members had been hired since the last annual compliance visit on December 4, 2024. A staff and training worksheet documenting the four returning staff members was provided. The three returning substitute staff members were not documented on a staff and training worksheet today. I monitored health and safety requirements. On April 10, 2025 at a routine unannounced visit at Southwest Primary Preschool, I reviewed the written operational, administrative, and personnel policies and the parent participation plan for the 2024 – 2025 school year which are used by the NC PreK program sites housed in Hickory Public Schools buildings. You stated your written policies and procedures had not changed. I monitored developmental day (DD) requirements during today’s visit. Staff members met the education requirements for DD staff. The children identified with developmental delays have care plans documented on an IFSP, IEP or PCP. Typically developing children participated in daily activities that were outlined in a plan of care documented on an activity plan meeting all child care requirements. Activities allowed the children to participate as a whole group, small group, part of the group or independently. Children identified with developmental delays were enrolled, interacting, and participating in all classroom activities alongside typically developing children. The DD program offered family involvement including providing quarterly parent education sessions, holding parent-teacher conferences at least twice a year, communicating on an individual basis with parents, having parents as members of an advisory board, providing opportunities for parent volunteers to assist with special classroom activities, field trips, etc. and providing parents with referral information about other community programs and resources serving young children. The DD program followed the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2024 – 2025 school year. I monitored NC PreK requirements during today’s visit. The administrator, Dr. Timothy Sims is the Director of Elementary Education, Federal Programs, and CTE for Hickory Public Schools, and does not serve as the lead teacher or assistant teacher in the classroom. You used DIAL-3 as the Developmental Screening tool. You used Teaching Strategies Gold as the Formative Assessment tool and The Creative Curriculum for Preschool, Fourth Edition, as your approved curriculum. Your family engagement component included formal and informal parent-teacher conferences, classroom visits and options for parents and families to participate in classroom activities, parent education, opportunities for involvement in decision-making about the early childhood program, and opportunities to engage families outside the regular school day. You call or text the parent on the day of absence and at least by the third day of any child’s absence to inquire about the reason for the absence and report absences to the Catawba County Partnership for Children. The NC PreK program followed the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2024 – 2025 school year. I monitored supervision, staff-child ratios, group sizes, approved space use, space capacities, and permit restrictions. I observed and cited the following violation during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. As required prior to employment, a CBC qualification letter from DCDEE was not on file for one uncompensated provider contracted to deliver unsupervised services to a child outside of the preschool classroom. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One uncompensated provider contracted to deliver unsupervised services to a child outside the preschool classroom did not have a CBC qualification letter from DCDEE on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e), each child care provider should have a valid Criminal Background Check qualification letter issued from DCDEE on file in their staff records. This includes therapists or counselors who visit your facility and are contracted to work with a child enrolled in your facility. When the therapist or counselor provides therapy services within the classroom with the teacher present, the therapist or counselor does not have to have a CBC qualification letter from DCDEE because the teacher who has a CBC qualification letter is supervising the child and monitoring the therapy session. However, when the therapist or counselor takes the child out of the classroom to another part of the building and is left alone with the child, then the therapist or counselor has to have CBC qualification letter from DCDEE on file. Today, I observed one contracted therapist, Lisa Wallace, sign a child out of the classroom, remove the child from the classroom for thirty minutes, return with the child, and sign the child back in to the classroom. After reviewing staff records, I noticed a CBC qualification letter from DCDEE was not on file for Ms. Wallace. After calling Ms. Wallace, you stated Ms. Wallace had a criminal background letter completed through the contracted agency but not from DCDEE. I spoke with Dr. Timothy Sims, Administrator, to share that an uncompensated provider, Ms. Wallace, could not have unsupervised contact with preschool children outside of the preschool classroom until a qualification letter from DCDEE was received and a copy was provided to the classroom teacher to be on file at NC PreK site. I also shared with Dr. Sims that a copy of the CBC qualification letter for Ms. Wallace should be sent to me along with the compliance letter documentation within two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, Ms. Wallace should complete the CBC qualification application process through DCDEE to obtain a CBC qualification letter and provide a copy to the classroom teacher within two weeks and begin delivering services to preschool children within the preschool classroom until the CBC qualification letter is received. Once you receive the CBC qualification letter from Ms. Wallace, you should send me a copy with your compliance documentation. I advised you to assist Ms. Wallace with completing the CBC qualification application process which includes obtaining an NCID username and password, submitting an application for qualification through the ABCMS portal located on the DCDEE website, paying the application fees, obtaining electronic fingerprints at a law enforcement agency, and having the law enforcement agency submit the electronic fingerprints. I also advised you to remember to request a copy of the CBC qualification letter from DCDEE when any therapist or counselor wishes to remove a child from the preschool setting to deliver unsupervised services and request that the therapist or counselor deliver services within the classroom until a CBC qualification letter can be obtained. CONSULTATION: 1. Since this facility’s star-rated license was voluntarily reassessed in 2024, this facility is not held harmless under the hold harmless provision and should therefore maintain the star-rated license requirements as a five-star facility. Since the staff working in the classroom have not changed since the voluntary reassessment in December 2024, the staff education points earned by this facility have not changed. No concerns were observed regarding this facility’s program standards. The facility continues to qualify for the quality point. This facility continues to earn seven points in staff education, seven points in program standards, and one quality point for 75% of lead teachers having an BA/BS or higher in early childhood education or child development and therefore maintains a 5-Star rated license. 2. The NC Summary of Child Care Law brochure and poster were both updated in February 2025 and are available on the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Provider-Documents-and-Forms. Today, I observed the February 2025 version of the NC Summary of Child Care Law poster posted on the parent information bulletin board in the classroom. Please include and use the February 2025 version of the NC Summary of Child Care Law brochure in your enrollment packet. 3. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators have five business days to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. No action is needed on your part if you have already completed the ABCMS Provider Portal training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or FCCH residents. Be sure this information is updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and terminated and as FCCH residents move in or reach sixteen years of age. If you are not already using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or FCCH residents, you will need both an Individual NCID and a Business NCID. You will need an email address for your Individual NCID and a different email address for your Business NCID account. Once you have created your Business NCID, complete the ABCMS 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 to you, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff or current FCCH residents 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 and as FCCH residents change or reach sixteen years of age. These actions satisfy the requirement to notify the Division within five business days of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility. 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. 4. The new QRIS Modernization Plan known as “Pathways to Success” is being added to law which included moving to the use of the updated Environmental Rating Scale (ERS-3 versions) for FCCERS, effective February 1, 2025. The NC Child Care Commission approved the proposed rules on April 22, 2025. DCDEE and the NC Child Care Commission will continue the rulemaking process to add the rule language to child care requirements. A pathway for child care programs currently accredited through the approved accrediting bodies may now move to a 3- or 5-star license if they are not already at this star level. Providers need to submit a request to their licensing consultant and provide a copy of their accreditation award/certificate for processing: Accreditation Licensure Request Form. Please be reminded that any ERS assessment completed on February 1, 2025 and after will be assessed using the ERS-3 versions. 5. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 6. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Getting-a-License Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-Child-Care/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New COMPLIANCE PLAN: All violations cited and not corrected today must be corrected immediately. Please submit a written, signed, and dated statement to me at the email/address below detailing the steps taken to correct each violation. 1) Your compliance letter must include the following: 1. The name of your center 2. The center’s ID number 3. The date you write the letter 4. Address each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. 5. Your signature 2) Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. I should receive your compliance letter no later than May 15, 2025. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. 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 or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education 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 required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Kimberly Crane Post Office Box 6217 Hickory, NC 28603 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: kimberly.crane@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 in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. 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: OAKWOOD ELEMENTARY PRE-K Facility ID: 18000359 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/25/2024 Number Present: 14 Completed Date: 1/25/2024 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 245 Time In: 08:55 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. You, Tina Knoblauch, Lead Teacher, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on February 23, 2022. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued on August 26, 2021, earning 7 points in staff education, 7 points in program standards, and one (1) quality point for all lead teachers having an AAS or higher in early childhood education or child development. Your program was monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. Your program was monitored for compliance with Developmental Day and NC PreK requirements. Your program’s compliance history was 95% as of January 18, 2024 and was reviewed with you today. Your last sanitation inspection was dated September 19, 2023 with a Superior classification and 4 demerits. Your last fire inspection was dated November 9, 2023 and was received in my office on January 4, 2024. I observed and cited one violation. I visited each licensed indoor space and each outdoor space with you today. I observed students participating in teacher-directed whole group activities, transitioning from whole group to activity areas, playing in activity areas, transitioning from indoors to outdoors, playing outside, transitioning from outdoors to indoors, preparing for lunch, eating lunch, and napping. I observed a current menu documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. I observed the current menu posted on a parent information board. I observed lunch prepared in the school cafeteria and served in the classrooms. I observed the children eating grilled cheese sandwich, tomato soup, peaches, and unflavored milk. I observed and cited no violation. I observed food brought from home stored in a full-size refrigerator in the locked workroom/kitchenette and water bottles brough from home stored in individual cubbies. I observed food and beverages brought from home labeled with the name of the child and today’s date. I observed and cited no violations. I monitored hazardous product storage. I observed and cited no violations. I monitored medication storage and medication administration. I observed and cited one violation. I monitored general safety. I observed and cited no violations. I monitored discipline practices. I observed and cited no violation. I monitored program records including the emergency medical care plan, Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) Plan, incident log, playground safety inspections, fire drills, emergency drills, arrival and departure records, and safe arrival and departure procedures. I observed and cited one violation. I reviewed children’s records today. I observed and cited no violations. I reviewed five staff record files for substitute staff members. I reviewed four staff record files for returning staff members. I reviewed Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letters for three therapists that serve preschool age children outside of the preschool classroom. I observed and cited one violation. I monitored Developmental Day (DD) requirements during today’s visit. I observed staff members met the education requirements for DD staff. The children identified with developmental delays have care plans documented on an IFSP, IEP or PCP. I observed typically developing children participating in daily activities that were outlined in a plan of care documented on an activity plan meeting all child care requirements. I observed activities allowing the children to participate as a whole group, small group, part of the group or independently. I observed children identified with developmental delays enrolled, interacting, and participating in activities alongside typically developing children. I observed DD staff-child ratio requirements of 1 staff to 6 children in compliance during today’s visit with a total of 3 staff members and 15 children in the classroom during today’s visit. You stated your DD program offers family involvement including quarterly parent education sessions, holding parent-teacher conferences at least twice a year, communicating on an individual basis with parents, having parents as members of a center advisory board, providing opportunities for parent volunteers to assist with special classroom activities, and providing parents with referral information about other community programs and resources serving young children. You stated children enrolled in Developmental Day attended your program from 7:45am to 3:45pm. You stated your DD program follows the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2023 – 2024 school year. I observed and cited no violations related to Developmental Day requirements. I observed and cited no violations. I monitored NC PreK requirements during today’s visit. I observed the Administrator, who is the Director of Elementary Education, Federal Programs, and CTE for Hickory Public Schools, does not serve as the Lead Teacher or Assistant Teacher in the classroom. You use Ages and Stages as the Formative Assessment tool and the developmental screening tool. You use Creative Curriculum as your approved curriculum. Your family engagement component includes formal and informal parent-teacher conferences, visits to the classroom, parent education, opportunities to be involved in the decision making about the early childhood program, and opportunities to participate in activities outside the regular school day. You call or text the parent on the day of absence and at least by the third day of any child’s absence to inquire the reason for the absence. You stated children enrolled in NC PreK attended your program from 7:45am to 2:30pm. You stated your NC PreK program follows the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2023 – 2024 school year. I observed and cited no violations related to NC PreK requirements. I observed and cited no violations. I observed children adequately supervised, adequate approved enhanced space used, highest voluntary enhanced staff-child ratios and permit restrictions including “Daytime care only”, “Certified Developmental Day program”, “Reduced staff/child ratios by one child per group”, “Meets enhanced ratios”, and “Meets enhanced space” maintained during today’s visit. The following violations were observed, cited, and corrected during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The annual fire inspection was not received within one week of completion. The annual fire inspection was completed on 11/09/2023 and received in my office on 01/04/2024. Since the fire inspection was received prior to today's visit, this violation was corrected during today's visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children enrolled at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. The arrival time for one child was not recorded when the child arrived in the classroom. The teacher recorded the arrival time during the visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. One liquid Benedryl medication for a chronic illness was stored in unlocked and above five feet in the Ready to Go bag. The teacher moved the liquid Benedryl to a locked cabinet in the classroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 1889 Individuals that did not meet the staff qualifications as required by G.S. 110-91(8) did not submit to the Division documentation of completed coursework or credential to be considered for equivalency within six months of assuming duties. Eight health questionnaires for staff members and one TB screening form were stored with the other staff records. The teacher moved the eight health questionnaires and the one TB screening form to individual pockets in a notebook marked confidential. .0703(d) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4), daily records of arrival and departure times for children enrolled at the center should be maintained as children arrive and depart. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you move the sign in and out clipboard to the front entrance of the classroom when you know children are to arrive late and expect them to enter the classroom through the front entrance of the classroom. Having the clipboard by the front entrance will be a visual reminder for you to record the arrival time as the child enters the classroom. I also suggest you ask the teacher assistants to check behind the parents several times during the arrival period to make sure all the parents signed in their child. If a parent forgets to sign in, the teachers may record the child’s arrival time. 2. The annual fire inspection report should be sent to me by email within one week of completion. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you or the school principal forward the email containing the fire inspection report to me when you receive it from the fire inspector. 3. Non-prescription medications for a chronic illness that are not used for as a fast-acting medication should be stored in a locked cabinet. To maintain compliance with this sanitation for child care requirement, I recommend you have the school nurse assist you in reviewing the medical action plan and determining if the medication is fast acting which will determine whether it needs to be locked or not. Fast-acting medications are considered emergency medications and should be stored above five feet. 4. Both current and past staff medical records including the health questionnaire and TB test results should be stored individually and confidentially away from the other staff records. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you move all the staff medical records to your confidential notebook and create an individual pocket for each staff member. CONSULTATION: 1. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. 2. The Change of Information form for CBC is listed in law. When a new staff member starts working at a facility and gives the administrator a CBC qualification letter that was previously completed while working at another facility, but is still current, the administrator must send a Change of Information form for that new staff member to the CBC unit. The Change of Information form can be found on DCDEE’s website under Provider Documents and Forms. 3. Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings including, but not limited to, ITS-SIDS training and Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training. 4. The hold harmless legislation was extended and signed into law on June 12th, 2023. This legislation allows facilities to remain at their current star level without a reassessment until June 30, 2024 and when reassessed it reduces the education evaluation requirements for lead teachers from 75% to 50% until June of 2026. To prepare for the reassessment process, DCDEE has developed a cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each include a preparation year and a reassessment year. While the first reassessment year will not begin until July 1, 2024, the preparation year for cohort one begins July 1, 2023. Your facility is in Cohort 1. Throughout the next few months, I recommend you consider completing the following tasks and activities that will help prepare you for your reassessment year, which will be sometime between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025. • Have all staff update WORKS accounts to reflect all currently completed coursework (DCDEE-WORKS) • Determine whether you wish to have Environment Rating Scale (ERS) Assessments [ITERS-R, ECERS-R, and/or SACERS-U] conducted • Request technical assistance with your child care consultant and local partners • Participate in local CCR&R and NCPC quality related training/workshops (CCRR Information) • Reach out to your local Community College to discuss educational opportunities • Review NCRLAP website ERS resources (www.NCRLAP.org). To help review ERS requirements and think carefully about the current characteristics and practices in your program and classrooms, check out the Thinking More worksheets. A worksheet is available for each subscale of each rating scale. • Consider requesting an ERS assessment (free of charge) during the preparation year. Remember the scores can be used in a variety of ways o ERS assessments can be requested during the preparation year and scores can be used as guidance to enhance program quality o If desired, assessment scores can be used during the preparation year if the operator wants to move forward with a rated license reassessment o Assessment scores can be saved to use during the reassessment year o Facilities can request another ERS assessment (free of charge) in your reassessment year for any ERS assessment scoring less than a 5.0 If you have questions, please contact me. I look forward to helping you through this rated license reassessment process COMPLIANCE PLAN: Since the violations observed and cited during today’s visit were observed corrected today, no compliance documentation will be due after today’s visit. Child care programs are required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: OAKWOOD ELEMENTARY PRE-K Facility ID: 18000359 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/25/2024 Number Present: 14 Completed Date: 1/25/2024 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 245 Time In: 08:55 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. You, Tina Knoblauch, Lead Teacher, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on February 23, 2022. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued on August 26, 2021, earning 7 points in staff education, 7 points in program standards, and one (1) quality point for all lead teachers having an AAS or higher in early childhood education or child development. Your program was monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. Your program was monitored for compliance with Developmental Day and NC PreK requirements. Your program’s compliance history was 95% as of January 18, 2024 and was reviewed with you today. Your last sanitation inspection was dated September 19, 2023 with a Superior classification and 4 demerits. Your last fire inspection was dated November 9, 2023 and was received in my office on January 4, 2024. I observed and cited one violation. I visited each licensed indoor space and each outdoor space with you today. I observed students participating in teacher-directed whole group activities, transitioning from whole group to activity areas, playing in activity areas, transitioning from indoors to outdoors, playing outside, transitioning from outdoors to indoors, preparing for lunch, eating lunch, and napping. I observed a current menu documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. I observed the current menu posted on a parent information board. I observed lunch prepared in the school cafeteria and served in the classrooms. I observed the children eating grilled cheese sandwich, tomato soup, peaches, and unflavored milk. I observed and cited no violation. I observed food brought from home stored in a full-size refrigerator in the locked workroom/kitchenette and water bottles brough from home stored in individual cubbies. I observed food and beverages brought from home labeled with the name of the child and today’s date. I observed and cited no violations. I monitored hazardous product storage. I observed and cited no violations. I monitored medication storage and medication administration. I observed and cited one violation. I monitored general safety. I observed and cited no violations. I monitored discipline practices. I observed and cited no violation. I monitored program records including the emergency medical care plan, Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) Plan, incident log, playground safety inspections, fire drills, emergency drills, arrival and departure records, and safe arrival and departure procedures. I observed and cited one violation. I reviewed children’s records today. I observed and cited no violations. I reviewed five staff record files for substitute staff members. I reviewed four staff record files for returning staff members. I reviewed Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letters for three therapists that serve preschool age children outside of the preschool classroom. I observed and cited one violation. I monitored Developmental Day (DD) requirements during today’s visit. I observed staff members met the education requirements for DD staff. The children identified with developmental delays have care plans documented on an IFSP, IEP or PCP. I observed typically developing children participating in daily activities that were outlined in a plan of care documented on an activity plan meeting all child care requirements. I observed activities allowing the children to participate as a whole group, small group, part of the group or independently. I observed children identified with developmental delays enrolled, interacting, and participating in activities alongside typically developing children. I observed DD staff-child ratio requirements of 1 staff to 6 children in compliance during today’s visit with a total of 3 staff members and 15 children in the classroom during today’s visit. You stated your DD program offers family involvement including quarterly parent education sessions, holding parent-teacher conferences at least twice a year, communicating on an individual basis with parents, having parents as members of a center advisory board, providing opportunities for parent volunteers to assist with special classroom activities, and providing parents with referral information about other community programs and resources serving young children. You stated children enrolled in Developmental Day attended your program from 7:45am to 3:45pm. You stated your DD program follows the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2023 – 2024 school year. I observed and cited no violations related to Developmental Day requirements. I observed and cited no violations. I monitored NC PreK requirements during today’s visit. I observed the Administrator, who is the Director of Elementary Education, Federal Programs, and CTE for Hickory Public Schools, does not serve as the Lead Teacher or Assistant Teacher in the classroom. You use Ages and Stages as the Formative Assessment tool and the developmental screening tool. You use Creative Curriculum as your approved curriculum. Your family engagement component includes formal and informal parent-teacher conferences, visits to the classroom, parent education, opportunities to be involved in the decision making about the early childhood program, and opportunities to participate in activities outside the regular school day. You call or text the parent on the day of absence and at least by the third day of any child’s absence to inquire the reason for the absence. You stated children enrolled in NC PreK attended your program from 7:45am to 2:30pm. You stated your NC PreK program follows the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2023 – 2024 school year. I observed and cited no violations related to NC PreK requirements. I observed and cited no violations. I observed children adequately supervised, adequate approved enhanced space used, highest voluntary enhanced staff-child ratios and permit restrictions including “Daytime care only”, “Certified Developmental Day program”, “Reduced staff/child ratios by one child per group”, “Meets enhanced ratios”, and “Meets enhanced space” maintained during today’s visit. The following violations were observed, cited, and corrected during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The annual fire inspection was not received within one week of completion. The annual fire inspection was completed on 11/09/2023 and received in my office on 01/04/2024. Since the fire inspection was received prior to today's visit, this violation was corrected during today's visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children enrolled at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. The arrival time for one child was not recorded when the child arrived in the classroom. The teacher recorded the arrival time during the visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. One liquid Benedryl medication for a chronic illness was stored in unlocked and above five feet in the Ready to Go bag. The teacher moved the liquid Benedryl to a locked cabinet in the classroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 1889 Individuals that did not meet the staff qualifications as required by G.S. 110-91(8) did not submit to the Division documentation of completed coursework or credential to be considered for equivalency within six months of assuming duties. Eight health questionnaires for staff members and one TB screening form were stored with the other staff records. The teacher moved the eight health questionnaires and the one TB screening form to individual pockets in a notebook marked confidential. .0703(d) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4), daily records of arrival and departure times for children enrolled at the center should be maintained as children arrive and depart. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you move the sign in and out clipboard to the front entrance of the classroom when you know children are to arrive late and expect them to enter the classroom through the front entrance of the classroom. Having the clipboard by the front entrance will be a visual reminder for you to record the arrival time as the child enters the classroom. I also suggest you ask the teacher assistants to check behind the parents several times during the arrival period to make sure all the parents signed in their child. If a parent forgets to sign in, the teachers may record the child’s arrival time. 2. The annual fire inspection report should be sent to me by email within one week of completion. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you or the school principal forward the email containing the fire inspection report to me when you receive it from the fire inspector. 3. Non-prescription medications for a chronic illness that are not used for as a fast-acting medication should be stored in a locked cabinet. To maintain compliance with this sanitation for child care requirement, I recommend you have the school nurse assist you in reviewing the medical action plan and determining if the medication is fast acting which will determine whether it needs to be locked or not. Fast-acting medications are considered emergency medications and should be stored above five feet. 4. Both current and past staff medical records including the health questionnaire and TB test results should be stored individually and confidentially away from the other staff records. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you move all the staff medical records to your confidential notebook and create an individual pocket for each staff member. CONSULTATION: 1. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. 2. The Change of Information form for CBC is listed in law. When a new staff member starts working at a facility and gives the administrator a CBC qualification letter that was previously completed while working at another facility, but is still current, the administrator must send a Change of Information form for that new staff member to the CBC unit. The Change of Information form can be found on DCDEE’s website under Provider Documents and Forms. 3. Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings including, but not limited to, ITS-SIDS training and Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training. 4. The hold harmless legislation was extended and signed into law on June 12th, 2023. This legislation allows facilities to remain at their current star level without a reassessment until June 30, 2024 and when reassessed it reduces the education evaluation requirements for lead teachers from 75% to 50% until June of 2026. To prepare for the reassessment process, DCDEE has developed a cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each include a preparation year and a reassessment year. While the first reassessment year will not begin until July 1, 2024, the preparation year for cohort one begins July 1, 2023. Your facility is in Cohort 1. Throughout the next few months, I recommend you consider completing the following tasks and activities that will help prepare you for your reassessment year, which will be sometime between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025. • Have all staff update WORKS accounts to reflect all currently completed coursework (DCDEE-WORKS) • Determine whether you wish to have Environment Rating Scale (ERS) Assessments [ITERS-R, ECERS-R, and/or SACERS-U] conducted • Request technical assistance with your child care consultant and local partners • Participate in local CCR&R and NCPC quality related training/workshops (CCRR Information) • Reach out to your local Community College to discuss educational opportunities • Review NCRLAP website ERS resources (www.NCRLAP.org). To help review ERS requirements and think carefully about the current characteristics and practices in your program and classrooms, check out the Thinking More worksheets. A worksheet is available for each subscale of each rating scale. • Consider requesting an ERS assessment (free of charge) during the preparation year. Remember the scores can be used in a variety of ways o ERS assessments can be requested during the preparation year and scores can be used as guidance to enhance program quality o If desired, assessment scores can be used during the preparation year if the operator wants to move forward with a rated license reassessment o Assessment scores can be saved to use during the reassessment year o Facilities can request another ERS assessment (free of charge) in your reassessment year for any ERS assessment scoring less than a 5.0 If you have questions, please contact me. I look forward to helping you through this rated license reassessment process COMPLIANCE PLAN: Since the violations observed and cited during today’s visit were observed corrected today, no compliance documentation will be due after today’s visit. Child care programs are required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. 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: OAKWOOD ELEMENTARY PRE-K Facility ID: 18000359 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/25/2024 Number Present: 14 Completed Date: 1/25/2024 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 245 Time In: 08:55 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. You, Tina Knoblauch, Lead Teacher, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on February 23, 2022. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued on August 26, 2021, earning 7 points in staff education, 7 points in program standards, and one (1) quality point for all lead teachers having an AAS or higher in early childhood education or child development. Your program was monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. Your program was monitored for compliance with Developmental Day and NC PreK requirements. Your program’s compliance history was 95% as of January 18, 2024 and was reviewed with you today. Your last sanitation inspection was dated September 19, 2023 with a Superior classification and 4 demerits. Your last fire inspection was dated November 9, 2023 and was received in my office on January 4, 2024. I observed and cited one violation. I visited each licensed indoor space and each outdoor space with you today. I observed students participating in teacher-directed whole group activities, transitioning from whole group to activity areas, playing in activity areas, transitioning from indoors to outdoors, playing outside, transitioning from outdoors to indoors, preparing for lunch, eating lunch, and napping. I observed a current menu documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. I observed the current menu posted on a parent information board. I observed lunch prepared in the school cafeteria and served in the classrooms. I observed the children eating grilled cheese sandwich, tomato soup, peaches, and unflavored milk. I observed and cited no violation. I observed food brought from home stored in a full-size refrigerator in the locked workroom/kitchenette and water bottles brough from home stored in individual cubbies. I observed food and beverages brought from home labeled with the name of the child and today’s date. I observed and cited no violations. I monitored hazardous product storage. I observed and cited no violations. I monitored medication storage and medication administration. I observed and cited one violation. I monitored general safety. I observed and cited no violations. I monitored discipline practices. I observed and cited no violation. I monitored program records including the emergency medical care plan, Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) Plan, incident log, playground safety inspections, fire drills, emergency drills, arrival and departure records, and safe arrival and departure procedures. I observed and cited one violation. I reviewed children’s records today. I observed and cited no violations. I reviewed five staff record files for substitute staff members. I reviewed four staff record files for returning staff members. I reviewed Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letters for three therapists that serve preschool age children outside of the preschool classroom. I observed and cited one violation. I monitored Developmental Day (DD) requirements during today’s visit. I observed staff members met the education requirements for DD staff. The children identified with developmental delays have care plans documented on an IFSP, IEP or PCP. I observed typically developing children participating in daily activities that were outlined in a plan of care documented on an activity plan meeting all child care requirements. I observed activities allowing the children to participate as a whole group, small group, part of the group or independently. I observed children identified with developmental delays enrolled, interacting, and participating in activities alongside typically developing children. I observed DD staff-child ratio requirements of 1 staff to 6 children in compliance during today’s visit with a total of 3 staff members and 15 children in the classroom during today’s visit. You stated your DD program offers family involvement including quarterly parent education sessions, holding parent-teacher conferences at least twice a year, communicating on an individual basis with parents, having parents as members of a center advisory board, providing opportunities for parent volunteers to assist with special classroom activities, and providing parents with referral information about other community programs and resources serving young children. You stated children enrolled in Developmental Day attended your program from 7:45am to 3:45pm. You stated your DD program follows the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2023 – 2024 school year. I observed and cited no violations related to Developmental Day requirements. I observed and cited no violations. I monitored NC PreK requirements during today’s visit. I observed the Administrator, who is the Director of Elementary Education, Federal Programs, and CTE for Hickory Public Schools, does not serve as the Lead Teacher or Assistant Teacher in the classroom. You use Ages and Stages as the Formative Assessment tool and the developmental screening tool. You use Creative Curriculum as your approved curriculum. Your family engagement component includes formal and informal parent-teacher conferences, visits to the classroom, parent education, opportunities to be involved in the decision making about the early childhood program, and opportunities to participate in activities outside the regular school day. You call or text the parent on the day of absence and at least by the third day of any child’s absence to inquire the reason for the absence. You stated children enrolled in NC PreK attended your program from 7:45am to 2:30pm. You stated your NC PreK program follows the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2023 – 2024 school year. I observed and cited no violations related to NC PreK requirements. I observed and cited no violations. I observed children adequately supervised, adequate approved enhanced space used, highest voluntary enhanced staff-child ratios and permit restrictions including “Daytime care only”, “Certified Developmental Day program”, “Reduced staff/child ratios by one child per group”, “Meets enhanced ratios”, and “Meets enhanced space” maintained during today’s visit. The following violations were observed, cited, and corrected during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The annual fire inspection was not received within one week of completion. The annual fire inspection was completed on 11/09/2023 and received in my office on 01/04/2024. Since the fire inspection was received prior to today's visit, this violation was corrected during today's visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children enrolled at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. The arrival time for one child was not recorded when the child arrived in the classroom. The teacher recorded the arrival time during the visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. One liquid Benedryl medication for a chronic illness was stored in unlocked and above five feet in the Ready to Go bag. The teacher moved the liquid Benedryl to a locked cabinet in the classroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 1889 Individuals that did not meet the staff qualifications as required by G.S. 110-91(8) did not submit to the Division documentation of completed coursework or credential to be considered for equivalency within six months of assuming duties. Eight health questionnaires for staff members and one TB screening form were stored with the other staff records. The teacher moved the eight health questionnaires and the one TB screening form to individual pockets in a notebook marked confidential. .0703(d) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4), daily records of arrival and departure times for children enrolled at the center should be maintained as children arrive and depart. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you move the sign in and out clipboard to the front entrance of the classroom when you know children are to arrive late and expect them to enter the classroom through the front entrance of the classroom. Having the clipboard by the front entrance will be a visual reminder for you to record the arrival time as the child enters the classroom. I also suggest you ask the teacher assistants to check behind the parents several times during the arrival period to make sure all the parents signed in their child. If a parent forgets to sign in, the teachers may record the child’s arrival time. 2. The annual fire inspection report should be sent to me by email within one week of completion. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you or the school principal forward the email containing the fire inspection report to me when you receive it from the fire inspector. 3. Non-prescription medications for a chronic illness that are not used for as a fast-acting medication should be stored in a locked cabinet. To maintain compliance with this sanitation for child care requirement, I recommend you have the school nurse assist you in reviewing the medical action plan and determining if the medication is fast acting which will determine whether it needs to be locked or not. Fast-acting medications are considered emergency medications and should be stored above five feet. 4. Both current and past staff medical records including the health questionnaire and TB test results should be stored individually and confidentially away from the other staff records. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you move all the staff medical records to your confidential notebook and create an individual pocket for each staff member. CONSULTATION: 1. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. 2. The Change of Information form for CBC is listed in law. When a new staff member starts working at a facility and gives the administrator a CBC qualification letter that was previously completed while working at another facility, but is still current, the administrator must send a Change of Information form for that new staff member to the CBC unit. The Change of Information form can be found on DCDEE’s website under Provider Documents and Forms. 3. Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings including, but not limited to, ITS-SIDS training and Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training. 4. The hold harmless legislation was extended and signed into law on June 12th, 2023. This legislation allows facilities to remain at their current star level without a reassessment until June 30, 2024 and when reassessed it reduces the education evaluation requirements for lead teachers from 75% to 50% until June of 2026. To prepare for the reassessment process, DCDEE has developed a cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each include a preparation year and a reassessment year. While the first reassessment year will not begin until July 1, 2024, the preparation year for cohort one begins July 1, 2023. Your facility is in Cohort 1. Throughout the next few months, I recommend you consider completing the following tasks and activities that will help prepare you for your reassessment year, which will be sometime between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025. • Have all staff update WORKS accounts to reflect all currently completed coursework (DCDEE-WORKS) • Determine whether you wish to have Environment Rating Scale (ERS) Assessments [ITERS-R, ECERS-R, and/or SACERS-U] conducted • Request technical assistance with your child care consultant and local partners • Participate in local CCR&R and NCPC quality related training/workshops (CCRR Information) • Reach out to your local Community College to discuss educational opportunities • Review NCRLAP website ERS resources (www.NCRLAP.org). To help review ERS requirements and think carefully about the current characteristics and practices in your program and classrooms, check out the Thinking More worksheets. A worksheet is available for each subscale of each rating scale. • Consider requesting an ERS assessment (free of charge) during the preparation year. Remember the scores can be used in a variety of ways o ERS assessments can be requested during the preparation year and scores can be used as guidance to enhance program quality o If desired, assessment scores can be used during the preparation year if the operator wants to move forward with a rated license reassessment o Assessment scores can be saved to use during the reassessment year o Facilities can request another ERS assessment (free of charge) in your reassessment year for any ERS assessment scoring less than a 5.0 If you have questions, please contact me. I look forward to helping you through this rated license reassessment process COMPLIANCE PLAN: Since the violations observed and cited during today’s visit were observed corrected today, no compliance documentation will be due after today’s visit. Child care programs are required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (828) 493-6390 or by email at kimberly.crane@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. 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