Viewmont Elementary Pre-K

10A NCAC 09.0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: VIEWMONT ELEMENTARY PRE-K Facility ID: 18000360 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/29/2026 Number Present: 15 Completed Date: 4/29/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 235 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Rated License Assessment Announced/Unannounced: Announced The purpose of today's announced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during a Rated License Assessment (RLA) visit. Kristin Buchanan, Lead Teacher, assisted me during today’s visit and Timothy Sims, Off-Site Administrator, prepared and sent by email the required documents needed to initiate the rated license reassessment process. This facility currently operates with a five-star license, issued on January 24, 2020 earning seven points in staff education, seven points in program standards, and one quality point for 75% of lead teachers having an AAS or higher in early childhood education or child development. The facility’s license, NC Summary of Child Care Law brochure dated November 2025, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, daily schedule, activity plan, emergency phone numbers, and first aid information poster were posted in prominent areas of the classrooms. The last monthly fire drill dated April 28, 2026 was documented on the Fire Drill Log. The last emergency drill dated April 2, 2026 was a lockdown drill documented on the Emergency Drill Log. The last monthly playground inspection dated April 13, 2026 was documented on the Playground Inspection Checklist. The current and posted menu 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 school cafeteria and served in the preschool classroom. The breakfast and lunch items served today met meal pattern requirements. I completed a walkthrough of the indoor environment. Activity areas included a literacy area including a reading nook, puppet theatre, and writing station, science area including a light table, sand table, water table, manipulative area including manipulative station, math area, puzzle area, and a Lego table, dramatic play, block building, music, and art including a four-sided easel. Upon arrival the teacher, teacher assistants, and children were not in the classroom. School staff stated that they were in the media center having school pictures taken. Later in the morning, the group entered the classroom, washed hands, and went to the tables for breakfast or joined the teacher for a whole group lesson. After breakfast, the children joined the whole group lesson with the teacher where they reviewed the question of the day, calendar, and weather. Children then transitioned to free play in activity areas with the teacher and one teacher assistant moved about the classroom actively interacting with each child and took a routine potty break as one teacher assistant called them to the restroom area of the classroom. Later in the morning routine, children cleaned up the activity areas and transitioned to unstructured outdoor play. As children re-entered the classroom from outdoors, they washed hands and sat down at child-sized tables where lunch was served. The children ate lunch, attended to personal care routines including handwashing, prepared for rest time, and quietly rested and/or napped on cots. Positive interactions between the staff and children took place throughout the visit today. Supervision, adequate approved space use, enhanced space capacity, enhanced group size, enhanced reduced staff/child ratios, and permit restrictions were maintained during today’s visit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I reviewed staff records for four returning staff members to verify current and valid Criminal Background Check qualification letters, valid CPR and First Aid training, completion of Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training, and completion of Playground Safety Training by at least one onsite staff member. I reviewed staff records for three substitute staff members. A current Public School Off-Site Verification Staff form was on file with the four staff members and three substitute staff members listed on the attached roster. A staff and training (S&T) worksheet was available for review today and was included in this visit summary packet. Please keep an S&T worksheet current and available for review by DCDEE staff during monitoring visits. I monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored your written operational and parent participation policies documented in the Hickory City Schools Student-Parent Handbook dated 2025 – 2026 and the Developmental Preschool Program Handbook dated 2023. I monitored NC Pre-K requirements during today’s visit. The off-site administrator, Dr. Timothy Sims, also the Director of Elementary Education, Federal Programs, and CTE for Hickory Public Schools, did not serve as the Lead Teacher or Assistant Teacher in the classroom. You use GOLD Teaching Strategies as the formative assessment tool, Ages and Stages as the developmental screening tool, and Creative Curriculum for Preschool, 5th Edition, as your approved curriculum. Your family engagement component includes formal and informal parent-teacher conferences, classroom visits and options for parents and families to participate in classroom activities, opportunities for involvement in 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 after three days of any child’s absence you contact the contracting agency so they can contact the parent and inquire about the reason for the absence. Children enrolled in NC Pre-K attend from 7:45am to 2:45pm. NC Pre-K staff work from 7:30am to 3:30pm. This NC Pre-K program follows the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2025 – 2026 school year. RATED LICENSE DISCUSSION – I received the “Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” by email from Dr. Sims on March 16, 2026 prior to today’s announced visit which indicated that this program has chosen the “Classroom and Instructional Quality Assessment (Pathway 2)” option to complete the rated license reassessment process. RECEIVED, REVIEWED, VERIFIED COMPONENTS for Classroom and Instructional Quality Assessment (Pathway 2): 1. Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers The application was sent by Dr. Sims by email and received on March 26, 2026, reviewed on April 27, 2026, and verified during today’s visit. 2. Staff/Child Ratio and Space Capacity On the application, Dr. Sims indicated that this program would meet enhanced reduced staff/child ratio and enhanced space. Today, I verified that this program is maintaining enhanced reduced staff/child ratio and enhanced space. 3. Staff Education Standards: Today, I received a print copy of the Staff Information and Education Worksheet with the Lead Teacher and Other Educator tabs completed. Prior to today’s visit, I verified the education qualifications for each staff member had been verified by WORKS. 4. Family and Community Engagement Standards Child Care Centers I received the Family and Community Engagement Standards Child Care Centers/Centers Located in a Residence document during today’s visit. In addition to the five foundational practices required to meet the family and community engagement standards (CC RULE .3209) at the two-star level, this program has chosen to meet one communication option, two engagement and leadership options and one educational opportunity option. After reviewing a file of ongoing documentation for each foundational practice and additional practice chosen, I verified that the five foundational practices, one communication practice, two engagement and leadership practices, and one educational opportunity practice are in place and implemented with plans to maintain these nine family and community engagement standards as an ongoing component of this program’s commitment to quality. 5. Facility Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plan The Facility CQI Plan was created and shared with me by email on March 26, 2026. I received and reviewed the Facility CQI on March 26, 2026 and verified that the plan was printed and onsite at the facility during today’s visit. After reviewing the plan, I was able to verify today that the Facility CQI Plan was in place and efforts were underway and on target to achieve this goal as evidenced by the ongoing training that had already been completed by the facility staff. 6. Individual Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) and Professional Development (PD) Plans The administrator, teacher and both teacher assistants had created Individual CQI Plans which I was able to monitor these documents in staff files today. Please continue to keep current and updated copies of the Individual CQI/PD Plans in each staff member’s file so they are readily available for review during ongoing monitoring visits. 7. Approved Curriculum On the application, Dr. Sims indicated that the approved curriculum used in the classrooms at this facility was “Creative Curriculum”. I verified that “Creative Curriculum for Preschool, 5th edition” was accessible to the teacher through online access, was being implemented as evidenced through the activities provided during today’s visit and documented on the current activity plan and was continuing to be used as the approved curriculum. 8. Approved Formative Assessment On the application, Dr. Sims indicated that the approved formative assessment used at this facility was “GOLD Teaching Strategies”. I verified that “GOLD Teaching Strategies” was accessible to the teacher through online access, was being implemented as evidenced by the teacher showing me the online documentation maintained for each child and was continuing to be used as the approved formative assessment. 9. Plan to share assessments with families Ms. Buchanan stated that this facility shares assessments with the families twice annually, in the fall and in the spring. After reviewing the facility’s verification documentation, I verified that the plan to share assessments with families had been implemented during the 2025-2026 school and would continue to be implemented twice annually. 10. Training related to the approved curriculum of choice Today, I verified that the administrator and the lead teacher had completed the training related to the approved curriculum, “Creative Curriculum, 5th edition”, on March 13, 2026 and a training certificate was printed and being kept in each her staff file for review during ongoing monitoring visits. 11. Training related to the approved formative assessment of choice Today, I verified that the administrator and the lead teacher had completed the training related to the approved formative assessment, “GOLD Teaching Strategies”, on March 16, 2026 and a training certificate was printed and being kept in her staff file for review during ongoing monitoring visits. 12. Coaching/training options for the administrator and lead teachers On March 26, 2026, I received an email from Dr. Sims indicating that he had chosen for the administrator and the lead teacher at this facility to complete annually five on-going training hours, in additional to applicable requirements in child care rule .1103 and child care rules .3211, .3212, .3213, .3214, .3215, .3216 and .3218. STAR RATED LICENSE DETERMINATION The star rating of this facility will be determined after I determine the number of stars the facility earns based on education and experience verified in DCDEE WORKS. Star Rated License Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent at all times [NC GS 110-90(4)(d)]. Prior to today's visit, this facility's compliance history was 98%. UPDATING THE ERS SCORE to meet the NC PREK REQUIREMENTS in child care rule section .3000 In addition to the star rated license reassessment, we discussed the need to have a current Early Childhood Environmental Rating Scale (ECERS)-3 assessment completed in order to satisfy the child care requirements for NC PreK classrooms. I explained that the ERS for this facility will need to be completed in the first semester of the 2026-2027 school year. When you are ready for me to request the ERS on behalf of this facility, please submit the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessments Request” form found by accessing the link embedded in the electronic document, “Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers”. 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 December 17, 2025 which would make the next emergency drill due to be completed in March 2026. No emergency drill was completed and/or documented in March 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 December 17, 2025 which would make the next emergency drill due to be completed in March 2026. No emergency drill was completed and/or documented in March 2026 resulting in a violation being cited. A lock-down drill was completed on April 2, 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 for the ECERS-3 ASSESSMENT: 1. Remember that the ECERS-3 assessment will be completed in three hours with no interview process. If the assessors do not observe an indicator in action or posted as required, there will be no opportunity to explain the omission. 2. If your current classroom schedule and routine allows for outside play after 11am, you may want to revise your classroom schedule to include outside play in the first three hours of the school day. If you choose to make a schedule change, I suggest you make those changes as soon as possible and to begin to train the children and staff in the new routine. 3. Allow bleach water to sit on surfaces at least two minutes before wiping off or using the surface. 4. Ensure that children wash hands upon arrival, before and after water play, after messy art/play dough play, after coming in from outside, before eating, after toileting/diapering and after coughing/sneezing, etc. 5. Ensure that learning centers are accessible a substantial portion of the day and that your daily schedule reflects it. Areas that must be made available for a minimum of 2hrs and 10 minutes to meet the “Substantial Portion of the Day” requirement are: Fine Motor, Art, Blocks, Dramatic Play, Nature/Science/Exploration, Math/Numbers, and Books. 6. Ensure that children go outside every day weather permitting. 7. Ensure that your block centers are protected from foot traffic, large enough for three children to build a sizeable structure and enough blocks for three children to build. 8. Ensure that books and materials are in good repair and no books depict violent images (guns, swords, teeth bearing). 9. Ensure that the majority of direction/redirection is positive instead of negative. 10. Ensure that staff member's pocket books are stored in locked storage since they almost always contain medications or lotions that must be inaccessible to children. 11. Ensure that staff are interacting with children, engaging in meaningful conversations, and helping children work through altercations and conflicts as they occur. RATED LICENSE CONSULTATION: 1. Please keep the current permit/license posted until you receive the new star rated license in the mail from the Raleigh office. 2. Since we have no other document on which to record your option choice and commitment, please add this annual training requirement to the “Individual CQI/PD Plan” document for the administrator and the lead teacher. At the next monitoring visit, I will verify that it is documented on the “Individual CQI/PD Plan” documents. Also, please be reminded of the following: 1) Staff may begin acquiring these “five additional hours of on-going training” after the new license effective date has been determined. 2) Staff should maintain a record of these additional training hours and certificates SEPARATE from the annual on-going training hours. 3) Training topics should fall within one of the nine categories defined in law. I located the “On-Going Training Topic Areas” informational flyer on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms” and attached it for your convenience. 3. Visit the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project’s website: ncrlap.org. There are training and resources available for the Environmental Rating Scale-3 (ERS-3) assessments. 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. ADDITIONAL CONSULTATION: 1. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. 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. 3. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 4. 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 5. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 6. 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 violation item number 1811 was corrected during today’s visit and the actions taken to correct this violation are 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. 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

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: VIEWMONT ELEMENTARY PRE-K Facility ID: 18000360 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/29/2026 Number Present: 15 Completed Date: 4/29/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 235 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Rated License Assessment Announced/Unannounced: Announced The purpose of today's announced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during a Rated License Assessment (RLA) visit. Kristin Buchanan, Lead Teacher, assisted me during today’s visit and Timothy Sims, Off-Site Administrator, prepared and sent by email the required documents needed to initiate the rated license reassessment process. This facility currently operates with a five-star license, issued on January 24, 2020 earning seven points in staff education, seven points in program standards, and one quality point for 75% of lead teachers having an AAS or higher in early childhood education or child development. The facility’s license, NC Summary of Child Care Law brochure dated November 2025, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, daily schedule, activity plan, emergency phone numbers, and first aid information poster were posted in prominent areas of the classrooms. The last monthly fire drill dated April 28, 2026 was documented on the Fire Drill Log. The last emergency drill dated April 2, 2026 was a lockdown drill documented on the Emergency Drill Log. The last monthly playground inspection dated April 13, 2026 was documented on the Playground Inspection Checklist. The current and posted menu 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 school cafeteria and served in the preschool classroom. The breakfast and lunch items served today met meal pattern requirements. I completed a walkthrough of the indoor environment. Activity areas included a literacy area including a reading nook, puppet theatre, and writing station, science area including a light table, sand table, water table, manipulative area including manipulative station, math area, puzzle area, and a Lego table, dramatic play, block building, music, and art including a four-sided easel. Upon arrival the teacher, teacher assistants, and children were not in the classroom. School staff stated that they were in the media center having school pictures taken. Later in the morning, the group entered the classroom, washed hands, and went to the tables for breakfast or joined the teacher for a whole group lesson. After breakfast, the children joined the whole group lesson with the teacher where they reviewed the question of the day, calendar, and weather. Children then transitioned to free play in activity areas with the teacher and one teacher assistant moved about the classroom actively interacting with each child and took a routine potty break as one teacher assistant called them to the restroom area of the classroom. Later in the morning routine, children cleaned up the activity areas and transitioned to unstructured outdoor play. As children re-entered the classroom from outdoors, they washed hands and sat down at child-sized tables where lunch was served. The children ate lunch, attended to personal care routines including handwashing, prepared for rest time, and quietly rested and/or napped on cots. Positive interactions between the staff and children took place throughout the visit today. Supervision, adequate approved space use, enhanced space capacity, enhanced group size, enhanced reduced staff/child ratios, and permit restrictions were maintained during today’s visit. I monitored hazardous product storage, medication storage, medication administration, general safety, and discipline practices. I reviewed staff records for four returning staff members to verify current and valid Criminal Background Check qualification letters, valid CPR and First Aid training, completion of Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training, and completion of Playground Safety Training by at least one onsite staff member. I reviewed staff records for three substitute staff members. A current Public School Off-Site Verification Staff form was on file with the four staff members and three substitute staff members listed on the attached roster. A staff and training (S&T) worksheet was available for review today and was included in this visit summary packet. Please keep an S&T worksheet current and available for review by DCDEE staff during monitoring visits. I monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored your written operational and parent participation policies documented in the Hickory City Schools Student-Parent Handbook dated 2025 – 2026 and the Developmental Preschool Program Handbook dated 2023. I monitored NC Pre-K requirements during today’s visit. The off-site administrator, Dr. Timothy Sims, also the Director of Elementary Education, Federal Programs, and CTE for Hickory Public Schools, did not serve as the Lead Teacher or Assistant Teacher in the classroom. You use GOLD Teaching Strategies as the formative assessment tool, Ages and Stages as the developmental screening tool, and Creative Curriculum for Preschool, 5th Edition, as your approved curriculum. Your family engagement component includes formal and informal parent-teacher conferences, classroom visits and options for parents and families to participate in classroom activities, opportunities for involvement in 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 after three days of any child’s absence you contact the contracting agency so they can contact the parent and inquire about the reason for the absence. Children enrolled in NC Pre-K attend from 7:45am to 2:45pm. NC Pre-K staff work from 7:30am to 3:30pm. This NC Pre-K program follows the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2025 – 2026 school year. RATED LICENSE DISCUSSION – I received the “Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” by email from Dr. Sims on March 16, 2026 prior to today’s announced visit which indicated that this program has chosen the “Classroom and Instructional Quality Assessment (Pathway 2)” option to complete the rated license reassessment process. RECEIVED, REVIEWED, VERIFIED COMPONENTS for Classroom and Instructional Quality Assessment (Pathway 2): 1. Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers The application was sent by Dr. Sims by email and received on March 26, 2026, reviewed on April 27, 2026, and verified during today’s visit. 2. Staff/Child Ratio and Space Capacity On the application, Dr. Sims indicated that this program would meet enhanced reduced staff/child ratio and enhanced space. Today, I verified that this program is maintaining enhanced reduced staff/child ratio and enhanced space. 3. Staff Education Standards: Today, I received a print copy of the Staff Information and Education Worksheet with the Lead Teacher and Other Educator tabs completed. Prior to today’s visit, I verified the education qualifications for each staff member had been verified by WORKS. 4. Family and Community Engagement Standards Child Care Centers I received the Family and Community Engagement Standards Child Care Centers/Centers Located in a Residence document during today’s visit. In addition to the five foundational practices required to meet the family and community engagement standards (CC RULE .3209) at the two-star level, this program has chosen to meet one communication option, two engagement and leadership options and one educational opportunity option. After reviewing a file of ongoing documentation for each foundational practice and additional practice chosen, I verified that the five foundational practices, one communication practice, two engagement and leadership practices, and one educational opportunity practice are in place and implemented with plans to maintain these nine family and community engagement standards as an ongoing component of this program’s commitment to quality. 5. Facility Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plan The Facility CQI Plan was created and shared with me by email on March 26, 2026. I received and reviewed the Facility CQI on March 26, 2026 and verified that the plan was printed and onsite at the facility during today’s visit. After reviewing the plan, I was able to verify today that the Facility CQI Plan was in place and efforts were underway and on target to achieve this goal as evidenced by the ongoing training that had already been completed by the facility staff. 6. Individual Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) and Professional Development (PD) Plans The administrator, teacher and both teacher assistants had created Individual CQI Plans which I was able to monitor these documents in staff files today. Please continue to keep current and updated copies of the Individual CQI/PD Plans in each staff member’s file so they are readily available for review during ongoing monitoring visits. 7. Approved Curriculum On the application, Dr. Sims indicated that the approved curriculum used in the classrooms at this facility was “Creative Curriculum”. I verified that “Creative Curriculum for Preschool, 5th edition” was accessible to the teacher through online access, was being implemented as evidenced through the activities provided during today’s visit and documented on the current activity plan and was continuing to be used as the approved curriculum. 8. Approved Formative Assessment On the application, Dr. Sims indicated that the approved formative assessment used at this facility was “GOLD Teaching Strategies”. I verified that “GOLD Teaching Strategies” was accessible to the teacher through online access, was being implemented as evidenced by the teacher showing me the online documentation maintained for each child and was continuing to be used as the approved formative assessment. 9. Plan to share assessments with families Ms. Buchanan stated that this facility shares assessments with the families twice annually, in the fall and in the spring. After reviewing the facility’s verification documentation, I verified that the plan to share assessments with families had been implemented during the 2025-2026 school and would continue to be implemented twice annually. 10. Training related to the approved curriculum of choice Today, I verified that the administrator and the lead teacher had completed the training related to the approved curriculum, “Creative Curriculum, 5th edition”, on March 13, 2026 and a training certificate was printed and being kept in each her staff file for review during ongoing monitoring visits. 11. Training related to the approved formative assessment of choice Today, I verified that the administrator and the lead teacher had completed the training related to the approved formative assessment, “GOLD Teaching Strategies”, on March 16, 2026 and a training certificate was printed and being kept in her staff file for review during ongoing monitoring visits. 12. Coaching/training options for the administrator and lead teachers On March 26, 2026, I received an email from Dr. Sims indicating that he had chosen for the administrator and the lead teacher at this facility to complete annually five on-going training hours, in additional to applicable requirements in child care rule .1103 and child care rules .3211, .3212, .3213, .3214, .3215, .3216 and .3218. STAR RATED LICENSE DETERMINATION The star rating of this facility will be determined after I determine the number of stars the facility earns based on education and experience verified in DCDEE WORKS. Star Rated License Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent at all times [NC GS 110-90(4)(d)]. Prior to today's visit, this facility's compliance history was 98%. UPDATING THE ERS SCORE to meet the NC PREK REQUIREMENTS in child care rule section .3000 In addition to the star rated license reassessment, we discussed the need to have a current Early Childhood Environmental Rating Scale (ECERS)-3 assessment completed in order to satisfy the child care requirements for NC PreK classrooms. I explained that the ERS for this facility will need to be completed in the first semester of the 2026-2027 school year. When you are ready for me to request the ERS on behalf of this facility, please submit the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessments Request” form found by accessing the link embedded in the electronic document, “Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers”. 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 December 17, 2025 which would make the next emergency drill due to be completed in March 2026. No emergency drill was completed and/or documented in March 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 December 17, 2025 which would make the next emergency drill due to be completed in March 2026. No emergency drill was completed and/or documented in March 2026 resulting in a violation being cited. A lock-down drill was completed on April 2, 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 for the ECERS-3 ASSESSMENT: 1. Remember that the ECERS-3 assessment will be completed in three hours with no interview process. If the assessors do not observe an indicator in action or posted as required, there will be no opportunity to explain the omission. 2. If your current classroom schedule and routine allows for outside play after 11am, you may want to revise your classroom schedule to include outside play in the first three hours of the school day. If you choose to make a schedule change, I suggest you make those changes as soon as possible and to begin to train the children and staff in the new routine. 3. Allow bleach water to sit on surfaces at least two minutes before wiping off or using the surface. 4. Ensure that children wash hands upon arrival, before and after water play, after messy art/play dough play, after coming in from outside, before eating, after toileting/diapering and after coughing/sneezing, etc. 5. Ensure that learning centers are accessible a substantial portion of the day and that your daily schedule reflects it. Areas that must be made available for a minimum of 2hrs and 10 minutes to meet the “Substantial Portion of the Day” requirement are: Fine Motor, Art, Blocks, Dramatic Play, Nature/Science/Exploration, Math/Numbers, and Books. 6. Ensure that children go outside every day weather permitting. 7. Ensure that your block centers are protected from foot traffic, large enough for three children to build a sizeable structure and enough blocks for three children to build. 8. Ensure that books and materials are in good repair and no books depict violent images (guns, swords, teeth bearing). 9. Ensure that the majority of direction/redirection is positive instead of negative. 10. Ensure that staff member's pocket books are stored in locked storage since they almost always contain medications or lotions that must be inaccessible to children. 11. Ensure that staff are interacting with children, engaging in meaningful conversations, and helping children work through altercations and conflicts as they occur. RATED LICENSE CONSULTATION: 1. Please keep the current permit/license posted until you receive the new star rated license in the mail from the Raleigh office. 2. Since we have no other document on which to record your option choice and commitment, please add this annual training requirement to the “Individual CQI/PD Plan” document for the administrator and the lead teacher. At the next monitoring visit, I will verify that it is documented on the “Individual CQI/PD Plan” documents. Also, please be reminded of the following: 1) Staff may begin acquiring these “five additional hours of on-going training” after the new license effective date has been determined. 2) Staff should maintain a record of these additional training hours and certificates SEPARATE from the annual on-going training hours. 3) Training topics should fall within one of the nine categories defined in law. I located the “On-Going Training Topic Areas” informational flyer on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents and Forms” and attached it for your convenience. 3. Visit the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project’s website: ncrlap.org. There are training and resources available for the Environmental Rating Scale-3 (ERS-3) assessments. 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. ADDITIONAL CONSULTATION: 1. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. 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. 3. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 4. 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 5. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 6. 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 violation item number 1811 was corrected during today’s visit and the actions taken to correct this violation are 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. 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 . 0801 · Violation

Name of Operation: VIEWMONT ELEMENTARY PRE-K Facility ID: 18000360 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/7/2026 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 1/7/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 345 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 03:00 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, Kristin Buchanan, Lead Teacher, assisted me with today’s visit. I reviewed with you today the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to your phone number, email address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. I reviewed the restrictions, capacity, and age range on your permit and observed these being maintained today. This facility’s compliance history was 100% as of January 5, 2026 and was reviewed with you today. This facility currently operates with a five-star license, issued on January 24, 2020 earning seven points in staff education, seven points in program standards, and one quality point for 75% of lead teachers having an AAS or higher in early childhood education or child development. The last sanitation inspection was dated September 15, 2025 with a Superior classification and zero demerits. I verified that the facility completed the process for new lead water testing required to be completed every three years. Today, I verified that the test results dated July 3, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that this facility has completed the lead-based paint and asbestos testing which indicated that this facility is exempt from lead-based paint testing and the asbestos testing based on lead-based paint and asbestos attestation statements submitted. The last fire inspection on file was dated October 14, 2025 and was received in my office on October 27, 2025. I completed a walk-through of the classroom and the outdoor play space today. Children were participating in whole group teacher lead activities, engaged in activity areas with teachers interacting and facilitating play, transitioning from the classroom to the playground, transitioning from the playground to the classroom, eating lunch, napping and attending to personal care needs including handwashing. A current menu was posted, 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 school cafeteria and served in the classroom. Cold food brought from home and leftovers from meals were stored in a residential refrigerator in the classroom at a temperature of thirty-two degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s lunch met 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 NC Pre-K requirements during today’s visit. The off-site administrator, Dr. Timothy Sims, also the Director of Elementary Education, Federal Programs, and CTE for Hickory Public Schools, did not serve as the Lead Teacher or Assistant Teacher in the classroom. You use Teaching Strategies Gold as the formative assessment tool, Ages and Stages as the developmental screening tool, and Creative Curriculum as your approved curriculum. Your family engagement component includes formal and informal parent-teacher conferences, classroom visits and options for parents and families to participate in classroom activities, opportunities for involvement in 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 after three days of any child’s absence you contact the contracting agency so they can contact the parent and inquire about the reason for the absence. Children enrolled in NC Pre-K attend from 7:45am to 2:45pm. NC Pre-K staff work from 7:30am to 3:30pm. This NC Pre-K program follows the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2025 – 2026 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. I observed and cited the following violations during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 509 Food required for any special diet was not provided by parent or center. One child with an allergy to cow's milk was not served a milk substitute at lunch and drank water instead of milk or a milk substitute at lunch. .0901(h) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. One child diagnosed with an allergy to cow’s milk had no medical action plan on file. .0801(b) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. One substitute staff member with a date of employment of 12/03/2024 did not have a signed acknowledgement statement on file documenting that the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy had been reviewed with them prior to their caring for children. .0608(d)(1-4) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 . 0801(b), medical action plans (MAP) should be attached to the child enrollment application of any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. The MAP should be updated at least annually by either the health care professional or the parent of the child. Today, one child diagnosed with an allergy to cow’s milk had no medical action plan on file. To correct this violation, I suggested you have the parent complete a medical action plan and attach it to the child’s enrollment application within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment application when received and have a discussion with the parents when you see an allergy or food sensitivity listed on the application. Best practice is to have a medical action plan on file for all allergies regardless of whether or not the child receives medication for the allergy or food sensitivity. You need the medical action plan on file to document the symptoms the child will experience when exposed to the allergen or food source. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901(h), food required for any special diet should be provided by the parent or the school. At breakfast and lunch, children need some type of milk. You can request parents provide a milk alternative if needed. If the school requires parents to bring a milk alternative, this policy should be written in your handbook. Otherwise, the school is required to meet food requirements while following doctor’s orders. The school can serve water for snacks as long as the child is served two other food components at snack time like crackers & cheese for example. Per sanitation rule for child care centers 15A NCAC 18A .2806, if parents bring a milk alternative from home, it has to be labeled with child's name and date when opened and sent home at the end of that week. If the school provides the milk alternative, it doesn't have to be labeled with the child’s name but should be served at any meal so that the other children would be served milk. Today, you stated that the school cafeteria had been providing a milk alternative for the child with an allergy to cow’s milk but had recently stopped serving the milk alternative to the child because the child was not drinking it. Since no milk alternative was being served to the child, the teacher’s had allowed the child to drink water from their water bottle brought from home which I observed today. To correct this violation, I suggested you talk with the parents of the child and asked if they would like to send to the classroom the same milk alternative that they use at home. To maintain this child care requirement, I suggested that when a child has a food allergy or any type, you ensure that either the school or the parents provide a substitute that the child will drink or eat. 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. Today, one substitute staff member with a date of employment of 12/03/2024 did not have a copy of the completion certificate to verify having completed the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training on file. To correct this violation, I suggested, that within the next two weeks, you secure a copy of the staff member’s completion certificate or request that the substitute staff member complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training and provide you with a copy of the completion certificate. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you require all staff to complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within the first six weeks of employment in addition to the new staff orientation training. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(d)(1-4), the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy should be reviewed with all new staff members prior to their caring for children and an acknowledgement statement should be signed and dated by the staff that includes the individual’s name, the date the center’s policy was given and explained to the individual, the individual’s signature, and the date the individual signed the acknowledgment. Today, one substitute staff member with a date of employment of 12/03/2024 did not have a signed acknowledgement statement on file documenting that the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy had been reviewed with them prior to their caring for children. To correct this violation, I suggested you use the staff acknowledgement page that accompanies the DCDEE sample for a Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy which contains all the required information as it is listed in child care rule and have the substitute staff member sign the acknowledgement statement within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you compile a new substitute packet that contains all the required first day policies and documentation and have it ready for new substitutes to review and sign on their first day substituting in your classroom. QRIS RATED LICENSE ASSESSMENT CONSULTATION: 1. On December 15, 2025, Dr. Sims and I met through a TEAMS meeting to discuss the QRIS options. We discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. We covered 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 or Training. We also discussed that NC PreK child care requirements require an Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessment be completed every three years. Therefore, regardless of the rated license assessment option, this facility chooses, an ERS assessment will be required during the rated license assessment process or no later than six months after the rated license assessment process is completed. We discussed that this facility should consider the QRIS options and make a decision as soon as possible as to the option the facility wishes to pursue for their rated license reassessment. While this facility may begin their rated license reassessment process at any time, this facility should be prepared to submit their Application for Assessment for a Rated License no later than between April 1, 2026 and September 30, 2026. To date I have not received the application for a rated license assessment for this facility. Today, I offered to review the QRIS options with you. You stated an overview was not necessary at this time and that you had had a meeting with Dr. Sims and the other NC PreK staff members on January 5, 2026. The following steps are how you can begin preparing for the Rated License process: If you choose “Program Assessment (Pathway 1): • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, April 1, 2026. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, August 1, 2026. • 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 “Classroom and Instructional Quality (Pathway 2): • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, April 1, 2026. • 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, September 1, 2026. • 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. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. 3. For additional support regarding preparations for the ERS, I suggested you contact name of partner representative, name of partnering organization. ADDITIONAL CONSULTATION: 1. Please be reminded that staff members are expected to model nutritious choices while in the presence of the children. Therefore, fast food, candy, etc. should not be consumed in the presence of the children. Sodas, coffee, tea, etc. may be consumed in the classroom in the presence of the children IF the beverage is in a container that prevents the beverage from being seen by the children. Any beverage container with a product, restaurant, or logo should not be used in the classroom. Water bottles may be used in the classroom. 2. Please be reminded that when listing the allergies in the classroom the name of the child who has that allergy should also be listed alongside the allergen. For privacy, you may turn the list over and label the back side with “Allergies” when posting. 3. Please be reminded that to avoid a violation in the future, the fire inspection report should be sent to your child care consultant within one week of completion. 4. Please be reminded that screen-time provided to the whole group may be logged on the activity plan if you choose. 5. 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. 6. 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. 7. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 8. 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 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 9. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 10. 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: 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 should receive your compliance letter no later than January 21, 2026. 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 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 . 1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: VIEWMONT ELEMENTARY PRE-K Facility ID: 18000360 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/7/2026 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 1/7/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 345 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 03:00 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, Kristin Buchanan, Lead Teacher, assisted me with today’s visit. I reviewed with you today the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to your phone number, email address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. I reviewed the restrictions, capacity, and age range on your permit and observed these being maintained today. This facility’s compliance history was 100% as of January 5, 2026 and was reviewed with you today. This facility currently operates with a five-star license, issued on January 24, 2020 earning seven points in staff education, seven points in program standards, and one quality point for 75% of lead teachers having an AAS or higher in early childhood education or child development. The last sanitation inspection was dated September 15, 2025 with a Superior classification and zero demerits. I verified that the facility completed the process for new lead water testing required to be completed every three years. Today, I verified that the test results dated July 3, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that this facility has completed the lead-based paint and asbestos testing which indicated that this facility is exempt from lead-based paint testing and the asbestos testing based on lead-based paint and asbestos attestation statements submitted. The last fire inspection on file was dated October 14, 2025 and was received in my office on October 27, 2025. I completed a walk-through of the classroom and the outdoor play space today. Children were participating in whole group teacher lead activities, engaged in activity areas with teachers interacting and facilitating play, transitioning from the classroom to the playground, transitioning from the playground to the classroom, eating lunch, napping and attending to personal care needs including handwashing. A current menu was posted, 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 school cafeteria and served in the classroom. Cold food brought from home and leftovers from meals were stored in a residential refrigerator in the classroom at a temperature of thirty-two degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s lunch met 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 NC Pre-K requirements during today’s visit. The off-site administrator, Dr. Timothy Sims, also the Director of Elementary Education, Federal Programs, and CTE for Hickory Public Schools, did not serve as the Lead Teacher or Assistant Teacher in the classroom. You use Teaching Strategies Gold as the formative assessment tool, Ages and Stages as the developmental screening tool, and Creative Curriculum as your approved curriculum. Your family engagement component includes formal and informal parent-teacher conferences, classroom visits and options for parents and families to participate in classroom activities, opportunities for involvement in 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 after three days of any child’s absence you contact the contracting agency so they can contact the parent and inquire about the reason for the absence. Children enrolled in NC Pre-K attend from 7:45am to 2:45pm. NC Pre-K staff work from 7:30am to 3:30pm. This NC Pre-K program follows the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2025 – 2026 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. I observed and cited the following violations during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 509 Food required for any special diet was not provided by parent or center. One child with an allergy to cow's milk was not served a milk substitute at lunch and drank water instead of milk or a milk substitute at lunch. .0901(h) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. One child diagnosed with an allergy to cow’s milk had no medical action plan on file. .0801(b) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. One substitute staff member with a date of employment of 12/03/2024 did not have a signed acknowledgement statement on file documenting that the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy had been reviewed with them prior to their caring for children. .0608(d)(1-4) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 . 0801(b), medical action plans (MAP) should be attached to the child enrollment application of any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. The MAP should be updated at least annually by either the health care professional or the parent of the child. Today, one child diagnosed with an allergy to cow’s milk had no medical action plan on file. To correct this violation, I suggested you have the parent complete a medical action plan and attach it to the child’s enrollment application within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment application when received and have a discussion with the parents when you see an allergy or food sensitivity listed on the application. Best practice is to have a medical action plan on file for all allergies regardless of whether or not the child receives medication for the allergy or food sensitivity. You need the medical action plan on file to document the symptoms the child will experience when exposed to the allergen or food source. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901(h), food required for any special diet should be provided by the parent or the school. At breakfast and lunch, children need some type of milk. You can request parents provide a milk alternative if needed. If the school requires parents to bring a milk alternative, this policy should be written in your handbook. Otherwise, the school is required to meet food requirements while following doctor’s orders. The school can serve water for snacks as long as the child is served two other food components at snack time like crackers & cheese for example. Per sanitation rule for child care centers 15A NCAC 18A .2806, if parents bring a milk alternative from home, it has to be labeled with child's name and date when opened and sent home at the end of that week. If the school provides the milk alternative, it doesn't have to be labeled with the child’s name but should be served at any meal so that the other children would be served milk. Today, you stated that the school cafeteria had been providing a milk alternative for the child with an allergy to cow’s milk but had recently stopped serving the milk alternative to the child because the child was not drinking it. Since no milk alternative was being served to the child, the teacher’s had allowed the child to drink water from their water bottle brought from home which I observed today. To correct this violation, I suggested you talk with the parents of the child and asked if they would like to send to the classroom the same milk alternative that they use at home. To maintain this child care requirement, I suggested that when a child has a food allergy or any type, you ensure that either the school or the parents provide a substitute that the child will drink or eat. 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. Today, one substitute staff member with a date of employment of 12/03/2024 did not have a copy of the completion certificate to verify having completed the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training on file. To correct this violation, I suggested, that within the next two weeks, you secure a copy of the staff member’s completion certificate or request that the substitute staff member complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training and provide you with a copy of the completion certificate. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you require all staff to complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within the first six weeks of employment in addition to the new staff orientation training. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(d)(1-4), the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy should be reviewed with all new staff members prior to their caring for children and an acknowledgement statement should be signed and dated by the staff that includes the individual’s name, the date the center’s policy was given and explained to the individual, the individual’s signature, and the date the individual signed the acknowledgment. Today, one substitute staff member with a date of employment of 12/03/2024 did not have a signed acknowledgement statement on file documenting that the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy had been reviewed with them prior to their caring for children. To correct this violation, I suggested you use the staff acknowledgement page that accompanies the DCDEE sample for a Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy which contains all the required information as it is listed in child care rule and have the substitute staff member sign the acknowledgement statement within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you compile a new substitute packet that contains all the required first day policies and documentation and have it ready for new substitutes to review and sign on their first day substituting in your classroom. QRIS RATED LICENSE ASSESSMENT CONSULTATION: 1. On December 15, 2025, Dr. Sims and I met through a TEAMS meeting to discuss the QRIS options. We discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. We covered 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 or Training. We also discussed that NC PreK child care requirements require an Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessment be completed every three years. Therefore, regardless of the rated license assessment option, this facility chooses, an ERS assessment will be required during the rated license assessment process or no later than six months after the rated license assessment process is completed. We discussed that this facility should consider the QRIS options and make a decision as soon as possible as to the option the facility wishes to pursue for their rated license reassessment. While this facility may begin their rated license reassessment process at any time, this facility should be prepared to submit their Application for Assessment for a Rated License no later than between April 1, 2026 and September 30, 2026. To date I have not received the application for a rated license assessment for this facility. Today, I offered to review the QRIS options with you. You stated an overview was not necessary at this time and that you had had a meeting with Dr. Sims and the other NC PreK staff members on January 5, 2026. The following steps are how you can begin preparing for the Rated License process: If you choose “Program Assessment (Pathway 1): • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, April 1, 2026. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, August 1, 2026. • 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 “Classroom and Instructional Quality (Pathway 2): • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, April 1, 2026. • 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, September 1, 2026. • 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. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. 3. For additional support regarding preparations for the ERS, I suggested you contact name of partner representative, name of partnering organization. ADDITIONAL CONSULTATION: 1. Please be reminded that staff members are expected to model nutritious choices while in the presence of the children. Therefore, fast food, candy, etc. should not be consumed in the presence of the children. Sodas, coffee, tea, etc. may be consumed in the classroom in the presence of the children IF the beverage is in a container that prevents the beverage from being seen by the children. Any beverage container with a product, restaurant, or logo should not be used in the classroom. Water bottles may be used in the classroom. 2. Please be reminded that when listing the allergies in the classroom the name of the child who has that allergy should also be listed alongside the allergen. For privacy, you may turn the list over and label the back side with “Allergies” when posting. 3. Please be reminded that to avoid a violation in the future, the fire inspection report should be sent to your child care consultant within one week of completion. 4. Please be reminded that screen-time provided to the whole group may be logged on the activity plan if you choose. 5. 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. 6. 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. 7. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 8. 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 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 9. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 10. 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: 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 should receive your compliance letter no later than January 21, 2026. 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 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 .0608 · Violation

Name of Operation: VIEWMONT ELEMENTARY PRE-K Facility ID: 18000360 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/7/2026 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 1/7/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 345 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 03:00 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, Kristin Buchanan, Lead Teacher, assisted me with today’s visit. I reviewed with you today the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to your phone number, email address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. I reviewed the restrictions, capacity, and age range on your permit and observed these being maintained today. This facility’s compliance history was 100% as of January 5, 2026 and was reviewed with you today. This facility currently operates with a five-star license, issued on January 24, 2020 earning seven points in staff education, seven points in program standards, and one quality point for 75% of lead teachers having an AAS or higher in early childhood education or child development. The last sanitation inspection was dated September 15, 2025 with a Superior classification and zero demerits. I verified that the facility completed the process for new lead water testing required to be completed every three years. Today, I verified that the test results dated July 3, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that this facility has completed the lead-based paint and asbestos testing which indicated that this facility is exempt from lead-based paint testing and the asbestos testing based on lead-based paint and asbestos attestation statements submitted. The last fire inspection on file was dated October 14, 2025 and was received in my office on October 27, 2025. I completed a walk-through of the classroom and the outdoor play space today. Children were participating in whole group teacher lead activities, engaged in activity areas with teachers interacting and facilitating play, transitioning from the classroom to the playground, transitioning from the playground to the classroom, eating lunch, napping and attending to personal care needs including handwashing. A current menu was posted, 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 school cafeteria and served in the classroom. Cold food brought from home and leftovers from meals were stored in a residential refrigerator in the classroom at a temperature of thirty-two degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s lunch met 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 NC Pre-K requirements during today’s visit. The off-site administrator, Dr. Timothy Sims, also the Director of Elementary Education, Federal Programs, and CTE for Hickory Public Schools, did not serve as the Lead Teacher or Assistant Teacher in the classroom. You use Teaching Strategies Gold as the formative assessment tool, Ages and Stages as the developmental screening tool, and Creative Curriculum as your approved curriculum. Your family engagement component includes formal and informal parent-teacher conferences, classroom visits and options for parents and families to participate in classroom activities, opportunities for involvement in 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 after three days of any child’s absence you contact the contracting agency so they can contact the parent and inquire about the reason for the absence. Children enrolled in NC Pre-K attend from 7:45am to 2:45pm. NC Pre-K staff work from 7:30am to 3:30pm. This NC Pre-K program follows the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2025 – 2026 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. I observed and cited the following violations during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 509 Food required for any special diet was not provided by parent or center. One child with an allergy to cow's milk was not served a milk substitute at lunch and drank water instead of milk or a milk substitute at lunch. .0901(h) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. One child diagnosed with an allergy to cow’s milk had no medical action plan on file. .0801(b) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. One substitute staff member with a date of employment of 12/03/2024 did not have a signed acknowledgement statement on file documenting that the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy had been reviewed with them prior to their caring for children. .0608(d)(1-4) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 . 0801(b), medical action plans (MAP) should be attached to the child enrollment application of any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. The MAP should be updated at least annually by either the health care professional or the parent of the child. Today, one child diagnosed with an allergy to cow’s milk had no medical action plan on file. To correct this violation, I suggested you have the parent complete a medical action plan and attach it to the child’s enrollment application within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment application when received and have a discussion with the parents when you see an allergy or food sensitivity listed on the application. Best practice is to have a medical action plan on file for all allergies regardless of whether or not the child receives medication for the allergy or food sensitivity. You need the medical action plan on file to document the symptoms the child will experience when exposed to the allergen or food source. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901(h), food required for any special diet should be provided by the parent or the school. At breakfast and lunch, children need some type of milk. You can request parents provide a milk alternative if needed. If the school requires parents to bring a milk alternative, this policy should be written in your handbook. Otherwise, the school is required to meet food requirements while following doctor’s orders. The school can serve water for snacks as long as the child is served two other food components at snack time like crackers & cheese for example. Per sanitation rule for child care centers 15A NCAC 18A .2806, if parents bring a milk alternative from home, it has to be labeled with child's name and date when opened and sent home at the end of that week. If the school provides the milk alternative, it doesn't have to be labeled with the child’s name but should be served at any meal so that the other children would be served milk. Today, you stated that the school cafeteria had been providing a milk alternative for the child with an allergy to cow’s milk but had recently stopped serving the milk alternative to the child because the child was not drinking it. Since no milk alternative was being served to the child, the teacher’s had allowed the child to drink water from their water bottle brought from home which I observed today. To correct this violation, I suggested you talk with the parents of the child and asked if they would like to send to the classroom the same milk alternative that they use at home. To maintain this child care requirement, I suggested that when a child has a food allergy or any type, you ensure that either the school or the parents provide a substitute that the child will drink or eat. 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. Today, one substitute staff member with a date of employment of 12/03/2024 did not have a copy of the completion certificate to verify having completed the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training on file. To correct this violation, I suggested, that within the next two weeks, you secure a copy of the staff member’s completion certificate or request that the substitute staff member complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training and provide you with a copy of the completion certificate. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you require all staff to complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within the first six weeks of employment in addition to the new staff orientation training. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(d)(1-4), the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy should be reviewed with all new staff members prior to their caring for children and an acknowledgement statement should be signed and dated by the staff that includes the individual’s name, the date the center’s policy was given and explained to the individual, the individual’s signature, and the date the individual signed the acknowledgment. Today, one substitute staff member with a date of employment of 12/03/2024 did not have a signed acknowledgement statement on file documenting that the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy had been reviewed with them prior to their caring for children. To correct this violation, I suggested you use the staff acknowledgement page that accompanies the DCDEE sample for a Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy which contains all the required information as it is listed in child care rule and have the substitute staff member sign the acknowledgement statement within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you compile a new substitute packet that contains all the required first day policies and documentation and have it ready for new substitutes to review and sign on their first day substituting in your classroom. QRIS RATED LICENSE ASSESSMENT CONSULTATION: 1. On December 15, 2025, Dr. Sims and I met through a TEAMS meeting to discuss the QRIS options. We discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. We covered 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 or Training. We also discussed that NC PreK child care requirements require an Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessment be completed every three years. Therefore, regardless of the rated license assessment option, this facility chooses, an ERS assessment will be required during the rated license assessment process or no later than six months after the rated license assessment process is completed. We discussed that this facility should consider the QRIS options and make a decision as soon as possible as to the option the facility wishes to pursue for their rated license reassessment. While this facility may begin their rated license reassessment process at any time, this facility should be prepared to submit their Application for Assessment for a Rated License no later than between April 1, 2026 and September 30, 2026. To date I have not received the application for a rated license assessment for this facility. Today, I offered to review the QRIS options with you. You stated an overview was not necessary at this time and that you had had a meeting with Dr. Sims and the other NC PreK staff members on January 5, 2026. The following steps are how you can begin preparing for the Rated License process: If you choose “Program Assessment (Pathway 1): • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, April 1, 2026. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, August 1, 2026. • 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 “Classroom and Instructional Quality (Pathway 2): • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, April 1, 2026. • 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, September 1, 2026. • 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. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. 3. For additional support regarding preparations for the ERS, I suggested you contact name of partner representative, name of partnering organization. ADDITIONAL CONSULTATION: 1. Please be reminded that staff members are expected to model nutritious choices while in the presence of the children. Therefore, fast food, candy, etc. should not be consumed in the presence of the children. Sodas, coffee, tea, etc. may be consumed in the classroom in the presence of the children IF the beverage is in a container that prevents the beverage from being seen by the children. Any beverage container with a product, restaurant, or logo should not be used in the classroom. Water bottles may be used in the classroom. 2. Please be reminded that when listing the allergies in the classroom the name of the child who has that allergy should also be listed alongside the allergen. For privacy, you may turn the list over and label the back side with “Allergies” when posting. 3. Please be reminded that to avoid a violation in the future, the fire inspection report should be sent to your child care consultant within one week of completion. 4. Please be reminded that screen-time provided to the whole group may be logged on the activity plan if you choose. 5. 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. 6. 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. 7. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 8. 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 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 9. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 10. 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: 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 should receive your compliance letter no later than January 21, 2026. 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 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 .0901 · Violation

Name of Operation: VIEWMONT ELEMENTARY PRE-K Facility ID: 18000360 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/7/2026 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 1/7/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 345 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 03:00 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, Kristin Buchanan, Lead Teacher, assisted me with today’s visit. I reviewed with you today the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to your phone number, email address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. I reviewed the restrictions, capacity, and age range on your permit and observed these being maintained today. This facility’s compliance history was 100% as of January 5, 2026 and was reviewed with you today. This facility currently operates with a five-star license, issued on January 24, 2020 earning seven points in staff education, seven points in program standards, and one quality point for 75% of lead teachers having an AAS or higher in early childhood education or child development. The last sanitation inspection was dated September 15, 2025 with a Superior classification and zero demerits. I verified that the facility completed the process for new lead water testing required to be completed every three years. Today, I verified that the test results dated July 3, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that this facility has completed the lead-based paint and asbestos testing which indicated that this facility is exempt from lead-based paint testing and the asbestos testing based on lead-based paint and asbestos attestation statements submitted. The last fire inspection on file was dated October 14, 2025 and was received in my office on October 27, 2025. I completed a walk-through of the classroom and the outdoor play space today. Children were participating in whole group teacher lead activities, engaged in activity areas with teachers interacting and facilitating play, transitioning from the classroom to the playground, transitioning from the playground to the classroom, eating lunch, napping and attending to personal care needs including handwashing. A current menu was posted, 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 school cafeteria and served in the classroom. Cold food brought from home and leftovers from meals were stored in a residential refrigerator in the classroom at a temperature of thirty-two degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s lunch met 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 NC Pre-K requirements during today’s visit. The off-site administrator, Dr. Timothy Sims, also the Director of Elementary Education, Federal Programs, and CTE for Hickory Public Schools, did not serve as the Lead Teacher or Assistant Teacher in the classroom. You use Teaching Strategies Gold as the formative assessment tool, Ages and Stages as the developmental screening tool, and Creative Curriculum as your approved curriculum. Your family engagement component includes formal and informal parent-teacher conferences, classroom visits and options for parents and families to participate in classroom activities, opportunities for involvement in 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 after three days of any child’s absence you contact the contracting agency so they can contact the parent and inquire about the reason for the absence. Children enrolled in NC Pre-K attend from 7:45am to 2:45pm. NC Pre-K staff work from 7:30am to 3:30pm. This NC Pre-K program follows the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2025 – 2026 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. I observed and cited the following violations during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 509 Food required for any special diet was not provided by parent or center. One child with an allergy to cow's milk was not served a milk substitute at lunch and drank water instead of milk or a milk substitute at lunch. .0901(h) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. One child diagnosed with an allergy to cow’s milk had no medical action plan on file. .0801(b) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. One substitute staff member with a date of employment of 12/03/2024 did not have a signed acknowledgement statement on file documenting that the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy had been reviewed with them prior to their caring for children. .0608(d)(1-4) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 . 0801(b), medical action plans (MAP) should be attached to the child enrollment application of any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. The MAP should be updated at least annually by either the health care professional or the parent of the child. Today, one child diagnosed with an allergy to cow’s milk had no medical action plan on file. To correct this violation, I suggested you have the parent complete a medical action plan and attach it to the child’s enrollment application within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment application when received and have a discussion with the parents when you see an allergy or food sensitivity listed on the application. Best practice is to have a medical action plan on file for all allergies regardless of whether or not the child receives medication for the allergy or food sensitivity. You need the medical action plan on file to document the symptoms the child will experience when exposed to the allergen or food source. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901(h), food required for any special diet should be provided by the parent or the school. At breakfast and lunch, children need some type of milk. You can request parents provide a milk alternative if needed. If the school requires parents to bring a milk alternative, this policy should be written in your handbook. Otherwise, the school is required to meet food requirements while following doctor’s orders. The school can serve water for snacks as long as the child is served two other food components at snack time like crackers & cheese for example. Per sanitation rule for child care centers 15A NCAC 18A .2806, if parents bring a milk alternative from home, it has to be labeled with child's name and date when opened and sent home at the end of that week. If the school provides the milk alternative, it doesn't have to be labeled with the child’s name but should be served at any meal so that the other children would be served milk. Today, you stated that the school cafeteria had been providing a milk alternative for the child with an allergy to cow’s milk but had recently stopped serving the milk alternative to the child because the child was not drinking it. Since no milk alternative was being served to the child, the teacher’s had allowed the child to drink water from their water bottle brought from home which I observed today. To correct this violation, I suggested you talk with the parents of the child and asked if they would like to send to the classroom the same milk alternative that they use at home. To maintain this child care requirement, I suggested that when a child has a food allergy or any type, you ensure that either the school or the parents provide a substitute that the child will drink or eat. 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. Today, one substitute staff member with a date of employment of 12/03/2024 did not have a copy of the completion certificate to verify having completed the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training on file. To correct this violation, I suggested, that within the next two weeks, you secure a copy of the staff member’s completion certificate or request that the substitute staff member complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training and provide you with a copy of the completion certificate. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you require all staff to complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within the first six weeks of employment in addition to the new staff orientation training. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(d)(1-4), the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy should be reviewed with all new staff members prior to their caring for children and an acknowledgement statement should be signed and dated by the staff that includes the individual’s name, the date the center’s policy was given and explained to the individual, the individual’s signature, and the date the individual signed the acknowledgment. Today, one substitute staff member with a date of employment of 12/03/2024 did not have a signed acknowledgement statement on file documenting that the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy had been reviewed with them prior to their caring for children. To correct this violation, I suggested you use the staff acknowledgement page that accompanies the DCDEE sample for a Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy which contains all the required information as it is listed in child care rule and have the substitute staff member sign the acknowledgement statement within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you compile a new substitute packet that contains all the required first day policies and documentation and have it ready for new substitutes to review and sign on their first day substituting in your classroom. QRIS RATED LICENSE ASSESSMENT CONSULTATION: 1. On December 15, 2025, Dr. Sims and I met through a TEAMS meeting to discuss the QRIS options. We discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. We covered 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 or Training. We also discussed that NC PreK child care requirements require an Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessment be completed every three years. Therefore, regardless of the rated license assessment option, this facility chooses, an ERS assessment will be required during the rated license assessment process or no later than six months after the rated license assessment process is completed. We discussed that this facility should consider the QRIS options and make a decision as soon as possible as to the option the facility wishes to pursue for their rated license reassessment. While this facility may begin their rated license reassessment process at any time, this facility should be prepared to submit their Application for Assessment for a Rated License no later than between April 1, 2026 and September 30, 2026. To date I have not received the application for a rated license assessment for this facility. Today, I offered to review the QRIS options with you. You stated an overview was not necessary at this time and that you had had a meeting with Dr. Sims and the other NC PreK staff members on January 5, 2026. The following steps are how you can begin preparing for the Rated License process: If you choose “Program Assessment (Pathway 1): • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, April 1, 2026. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, August 1, 2026. • 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 “Classroom and Instructional Quality (Pathway 2): • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, April 1, 2026. • 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, September 1, 2026. • 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. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. 3. For additional support regarding preparations for the ERS, I suggested you contact name of partner representative, name of partnering organization. ADDITIONAL CONSULTATION: 1. Please be reminded that staff members are expected to model nutritious choices while in the presence of the children. Therefore, fast food, candy, etc. should not be consumed in the presence of the children. Sodas, coffee, tea, etc. may be consumed in the classroom in the presence of the children IF the beverage is in a container that prevents the beverage from being seen by the children. Any beverage container with a product, restaurant, or logo should not be used in the classroom. Water bottles may be used in the classroom. 2. Please be reminded that when listing the allergies in the classroom the name of the child who has that allergy should also be listed alongside the allergen. For privacy, you may turn the list over and label the back side with “Allergies” when posting. 3. Please be reminded that to avoid a violation in the future, the fire inspection report should be sent to your child care consultant within one week of completion. 4. Please be reminded that screen-time provided to the whole group may be logged on the activity plan if you choose. 5. 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. 6. 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. 7. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 8. 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 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 9. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 10. 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: 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 should receive your compliance letter no later than January 21, 2026. 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 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 .3224 · Violation

Name of Operation: VIEWMONT ELEMENTARY PRE-K Facility ID: 18000360 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/7/2026 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 1/7/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 345 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 03:00 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, Kristin Buchanan, Lead Teacher, assisted me with today’s visit. I reviewed with you today the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to your phone number, email address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. I reviewed the restrictions, capacity, and age range on your permit and observed these being maintained today. This facility’s compliance history was 100% as of January 5, 2026 and was reviewed with you today. This facility currently operates with a five-star license, issued on January 24, 2020 earning seven points in staff education, seven points in program standards, and one quality point for 75% of lead teachers having an AAS or higher in early childhood education or child development. The last sanitation inspection was dated September 15, 2025 with a Superior classification and zero demerits. I verified that the facility completed the process for new lead water testing required to be completed every three years. Today, I verified that the test results dated July 3, 2025 indicated that this facility’s drinking water source was within the required limits. I verified that this facility has completed the lead-based paint and asbestos testing which indicated that this facility is exempt from lead-based paint testing and the asbestos testing based on lead-based paint and asbestos attestation statements submitted. The last fire inspection on file was dated October 14, 2025 and was received in my office on October 27, 2025. I completed a walk-through of the classroom and the outdoor play space today. Children were participating in whole group teacher lead activities, engaged in activity areas with teachers interacting and facilitating play, transitioning from the classroom to the playground, transitioning from the playground to the classroom, eating lunch, napping and attending to personal care needs including handwashing. A current menu was posted, 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 school cafeteria and served in the classroom. Cold food brought from home and leftovers from meals were stored in a residential refrigerator in the classroom at a temperature of thirty-two degrees Fahrenheit. Today’s lunch met 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 NC Pre-K requirements during today’s visit. The off-site administrator, Dr. Timothy Sims, also the Director of Elementary Education, Federal Programs, and CTE for Hickory Public Schools, did not serve as the Lead Teacher or Assistant Teacher in the classroom. You use Teaching Strategies Gold as the formative assessment tool, Ages and Stages as the developmental screening tool, and Creative Curriculum as your approved curriculum. Your family engagement component includes formal and informal parent-teacher conferences, classroom visits and options for parents and families to participate in classroom activities, opportunities for involvement in 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 after three days of any child’s absence you contact the contracting agency so they can contact the parent and inquire about the reason for the absence. Children enrolled in NC Pre-K attend from 7:45am to 2:45pm. NC Pre-K staff work from 7:30am to 3:30pm. This NC Pre-K program follows the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2025 – 2026 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. I observed and cited the following violations during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 509 Food required for any special diet was not provided by parent or center. One child with an allergy to cow's milk was not served a milk substitute at lunch and drank water instead of milk or a milk substitute at lunch. .0901(h) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. One child diagnosed with an allergy to cow’s milk had no medical action plan on file. .0801(b) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. One substitute staff member with a date of employment of 12/03/2024 did not have a signed acknowledgement statement on file documenting that the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy had been reviewed with them prior to their caring for children. .0608(d)(1-4) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE 1. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 . 0801(b), medical action plans (MAP) should be attached to the child enrollment application of any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. The MAP should be updated at least annually by either the health care professional or the parent of the child. Today, one child diagnosed with an allergy to cow’s milk had no medical action plan on file. To correct this violation, I suggested you have the parent complete a medical action plan and attach it to the child’s enrollment application within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review the child enrollment application when received and have a discussion with the parents when you see an allergy or food sensitivity listed on the application. Best practice is to have a medical action plan on file for all allergies regardless of whether or not the child receives medication for the allergy or food sensitivity. You need the medical action plan on file to document the symptoms the child will experience when exposed to the allergen or food source. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901(h), food required for any special diet should be provided by the parent or the school. At breakfast and lunch, children need some type of milk. You can request parents provide a milk alternative if needed. If the school requires parents to bring a milk alternative, this policy should be written in your handbook. Otherwise, the school is required to meet food requirements while following doctor’s orders. The school can serve water for snacks as long as the child is served two other food components at snack time like crackers & cheese for example. Per sanitation rule for child care centers 15A NCAC 18A .2806, if parents bring a milk alternative from home, it has to be labeled with child's name and date when opened and sent home at the end of that week. If the school provides the milk alternative, it doesn't have to be labeled with the child’s name but should be served at any meal so that the other children would be served milk. Today, you stated that the school cafeteria had been providing a milk alternative for the child with an allergy to cow’s milk but had recently stopped serving the milk alternative to the child because the child was not drinking it. Since no milk alternative was being served to the child, the teacher’s had allowed the child to drink water from their water bottle brought from home which I observed today. To correct this violation, I suggested you talk with the parents of the child and asked if they would like to send to the classroom the same milk alternative that they use at home. To maintain this child care requirement, I suggested that when a child has a food allergy or any type, you ensure that either the school or the parents provide a substitute that the child will drink or eat. 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. Today, one substitute staff member with a date of employment of 12/03/2024 did not have a copy of the completion certificate to verify having completed the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training on file. To correct this violation, I suggested, that within the next two weeks, you secure a copy of the staff member’s completion certificate or request that the substitute staff member complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training and provide you with a copy of the completion certificate. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you require all staff to complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within the first six weeks of employment in addition to the new staff orientation training. 4. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(d)(1-4), the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy should be reviewed with all new staff members prior to their caring for children and an acknowledgement statement should be signed and dated by the staff that includes the individual’s name, the date the center’s policy was given and explained to the individual, the individual’s signature, and the date the individual signed the acknowledgment. Today, one substitute staff member with a date of employment of 12/03/2024 did not have a signed acknowledgement statement on file documenting that the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy had been reviewed with them prior to their caring for children. To correct this violation, I suggested you use the staff acknowledgement page that accompanies the DCDEE sample for a Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy which contains all the required information as it is listed in child care rule and have the substitute staff member sign the acknowledgement statement within the next two weeks. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggested you compile a new substitute packet that contains all the required first day policies and documentation and have it ready for new substitutes to review and sign on their first day substituting in your classroom. QRIS RATED LICENSE ASSESSMENT CONSULTATION: 1. On December 15, 2025, Dr. Sims and I met through a TEAMS meeting to discuss the QRIS options. We discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. We covered 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 or Training. We also discussed that NC PreK child care requirements require an Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessment be completed every three years. Therefore, regardless of the rated license assessment option, this facility chooses, an ERS assessment will be required during the rated license assessment process or no later than six months after the rated license assessment process is completed. We discussed that this facility should consider the QRIS options and make a decision as soon as possible as to the option the facility wishes to pursue for their rated license reassessment. While this facility may begin their rated license reassessment process at any time, this facility should be prepared to submit their Application for Assessment for a Rated License no later than between April 1, 2026 and September 30, 2026. To date I have not received the application for a rated license assessment for this facility. Today, I offered to review the QRIS options with you. You stated an overview was not necessary at this time and that you had had a meeting with Dr. Sims and the other NC PreK staff members on January 5, 2026. The following steps are how you can begin preparing for the Rated License process: If you choose “Program Assessment (Pathway 1): • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, April 1, 2026. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, August 1, 2026. • 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 “Classroom and Instructional Quality (Pathway 2): • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant no later than, April 1, 2026. • 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, September 1, 2026. • 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. 2. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .3224 (a & b) Recognition Of Quality Initiatives, a child care operator may choose to request one or more areas of recognition to accompany the issuance of a two through five-star rated license earned through compliance with any licensure pathway requirement of this Section. Quality initiatives will not be used to earn a star rating. Verification of requirements for each recognition shall be reassessed at least every three years, at the time of reassessment for a two through five-star rated license. Upon verification of the requirements, the Division will issue recognition of the following quality initiatives: • Education • Professional Development • Longevity and Experience • Staff Supports and Benefits • Health and Wellness Opportunities • Language Concentration • Culinary Emphasis • Ratio, Group Size, Enrollment Practices • Supplemental Environment • NC Breastfeeding – Friendly Child Care Designation Program • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood – PLUS Recognition Visit child care rule section 10A NCAC 09 .3224 Recognition Of Quality Initiatives for more information and details to earn quality initiative recognition. 3. For additional support regarding preparations for the ERS, I suggested you contact name of partner representative, name of partnering organization. ADDITIONAL CONSULTATION: 1. Please be reminded that staff members are expected to model nutritious choices while in the presence of the children. Therefore, fast food, candy, etc. should not be consumed in the presence of the children. Sodas, coffee, tea, etc. may be consumed in the classroom in the presence of the children IF the beverage is in a container that prevents the beverage from being seen by the children. Any beverage container with a product, restaurant, or logo should not be used in the classroom. Water bottles may be used in the classroom. 2. Please be reminded that when listing the allergies in the classroom the name of the child who has that allergy should also be listed alongside the allergen. For privacy, you may turn the list over and label the back side with “Allergies” when posting. 3. Please be reminded that to avoid a violation in the future, the fire inspection report should be sent to your child care consultant within one week of completion. 4. Please be reminded that screen-time provided to the whole group may be logged on the activity plan if you choose. 5. 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. 6. 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. 7. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 8. 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 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 9. Here is the link to the training calendar from the Children’s Resource Center: https://childrensresourcecenter.org/training-calendar/. 10. 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: 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 should receive your compliance letter no later than January 21, 2026. 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 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 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: VIEWMONT ELEMENTARY PRE-K Facility ID: 18000360 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/28/2024 Number Present: 17 Completed Date: 2/28/2024 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 12:15 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, Tommie Graybeal, Lead Teacher, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on April 27, 2023. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued on April 11, 2022, earning seven points in staff education, seven points in program standards, and one quality point for 75% of teachers having an AAS or higher in early childhood education or child development. Your program was monitored for compliance with NC Pre-K requirements. Your program’s compliance history was 99% as of February 26, 2024 and was reviewed with you today. Your last sanitation inspection was dated September 12, 2023 with a Superior classification and four demerits. Your last fire inspection on file was dated November 6, 2023 and was received in my office on November 17, 2023. I visited each licensed indoor space with you today. I observed students playing in activity areas, participating in teacher directed whole group activities, eating lunch, and napping. I observed your facility using Creative Curriculum as the approved curriculum for a 5-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. 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 lunch prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Today’s lunch included turkey hot dog on a bun, potato wedges, blueberries and cream, and unflavored milk. I observed cold food and milk stored in a full-size residential refrigerator in the classroom at a temperature of 36 degrees Fahrenheit. 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 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 Teaching Strategies as the Formative Assessment tool. You use Ages and Stages as the developmental screening tool and Creative Curriculum as your approved curriculum. Your family engagement component includes formal and informal parent-teacher conferences, visits to the classroom, parent education, 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 2:45pm. You stated your NC PreK program follows the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2023 – 2024 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. I observed and cited the following violations 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. Fire Inspection Report was dated 11/06/2023 and received in my office on 11/17/2023. Since the fire inspection report was received prior to this visit, the violation was considered corrected during the visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. One staff member with a date of employment of 08/26/2013 completed two health and safety training topics on 05/27/2017 and two health and safety training topics on 06/22/2017 that should have been completed within five years by 05/27/2022 and 06/22/2022. One staff member with a date of employment of 03/12/2013 completed one health and safety training topics on 05/24/2017 and one health and safety training topics on 05/25/2017 that should have been completed within five years by 05/24/2022 and 05/25/2022. These training topics were completed prior to this visit. .1103(b) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE 1 As discussed with you on May 17, 2022 and again today, per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(a), new employee’s should complete the Health & Safety (H&S) Training requirement within the first year of employment. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1103(b), returning employees should revisit each H&S Training topic every five years. The due date of the H&S training five-year renewal is calculated five years from the date on each H&S training certificate. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review your training records over the teacher work days at the end of each school year to determine when trainings will be due for the upcoming monitoring year. 2 Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a), the original copy of the most recently approved fire inspection report should be sent to me by email within one week of completion. CONSULTATION 1 New Staff Orientation training is intended to provide new staff members with information specific to your facility. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreat training may not be used for New Staff Orientation Training to satisfy the requirement for the topic entitled, “Recognizing, responding to, and reporting child abuse, neglect, or maltreatment pursuant to G.S. 110-105.4 and G.S. 7B-301.” I suggest you review your facility’s policy for recognizing and reporting child abuse, maltreatment, and neglect with your new staff and record that time on the New Staff Orientation Training record. 2 When recording training dates on the New Staff Orientation Record, the trainer should initial beside each training topic. The staff member and the administrator should sign the record when the training is completed. 3 Staff medical records kept at the facility including staff health/medical reports, TB screening forms, TB test results, and Health Questionnaires should be stored in a separate and confidential file for each staff member and stored separately from all the other staff records. 4 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. 5 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. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for those violations corrected during today’s visit. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct those violations. 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. 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 our lead consultant and interim licensing 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: VIEWMONT ELEMENTARY PRE-K Facility ID: 18000360 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/28/2024 Number Present: 17 Completed Date: 2/28/2024 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 12:15 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, Tommie Graybeal, Lead Teacher, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on April 27, 2023. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued on April 11, 2022, earning seven points in staff education, seven points in program standards, and one quality point for 75% of teachers having an AAS or higher in early childhood education or child development. Your program was monitored for compliance with NC Pre-K requirements. Your program’s compliance history was 99% as of February 26, 2024 and was reviewed with you today. Your last sanitation inspection was dated September 12, 2023 with a Superior classification and four demerits. Your last fire inspection on file was dated November 6, 2023 and was received in my office on November 17, 2023. I visited each licensed indoor space with you today. I observed students playing in activity areas, participating in teacher directed whole group activities, eating lunch, and napping. I observed your facility using Creative Curriculum as the approved curriculum for a 5-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. 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 lunch prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Today’s lunch included turkey hot dog on a bun, potato wedges, blueberries and cream, and unflavored milk. I observed cold food and milk stored in a full-size residential refrigerator in the classroom at a temperature of 36 degrees Fahrenheit. 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 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 Teaching Strategies as the Formative Assessment tool. You use Ages and Stages as the developmental screening tool and Creative Curriculum as your approved curriculum. Your family engagement component includes formal and informal parent-teacher conferences, visits to the classroom, parent education, 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 2:45pm. You stated your NC PreK program follows the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2023 – 2024 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. I observed and cited the following violations 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. Fire Inspection Report was dated 11/06/2023 and received in my office on 11/17/2023. Since the fire inspection report was received prior to this visit, the violation was considered corrected during the visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. One staff member with a date of employment of 08/26/2013 completed two health and safety training topics on 05/27/2017 and two health and safety training topics on 06/22/2017 that should have been completed within five years by 05/27/2022 and 06/22/2022. One staff member with a date of employment of 03/12/2013 completed one health and safety training topics on 05/24/2017 and one health and safety training topics on 05/25/2017 that should have been completed within five years by 05/24/2022 and 05/25/2022. These training topics were completed prior to this visit. .1103(b) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE 1 As discussed with you on May 17, 2022 and again today, per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(a), new employee’s should complete the Health & Safety (H&S) Training requirement within the first year of employment. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1103(b), returning employees should revisit each H&S Training topic every five years. The due date of the H&S training five-year renewal is calculated five years from the date on each H&S training certificate. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review your training records over the teacher work days at the end of each school year to determine when trainings will be due for the upcoming monitoring year. 2 Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a), the original copy of the most recently approved fire inspection report should be sent to me by email within one week of completion. CONSULTATION 1 New Staff Orientation training is intended to provide new staff members with information specific to your facility. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreat training may not be used for New Staff Orientation Training to satisfy the requirement for the topic entitled, “Recognizing, responding to, and reporting child abuse, neglect, or maltreatment pursuant to G.S. 110-105.4 and G.S. 7B-301.” I suggest you review your facility’s policy for recognizing and reporting child abuse, maltreatment, and neglect with your new staff and record that time on the New Staff Orientation Training record. 2 When recording training dates on the New Staff Orientation Record, the trainer should initial beside each training topic. The staff member and the administrator should sign the record when the training is completed. 3 Staff medical records kept at the facility including staff health/medical reports, TB screening forms, TB test results, and Health Questionnaires should be stored in a separate and confidential file for each staff member and stored separately from all the other staff records. 4 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. 5 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. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for those violations corrected during today’s visit. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct those violations. 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. 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 our lead consultant and interim licensing 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 .1103 · Violation

Name of Operation: VIEWMONT ELEMENTARY PRE-K Facility ID: 18000360 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/28/2024 Number Present: 17 Completed Date: 2/28/2024 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 12:15 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, Tommie Graybeal, Lead Teacher, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on April 27, 2023. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued on April 11, 2022, earning seven points in staff education, seven points in program standards, and one quality point for 75% of teachers having an AAS or higher in early childhood education or child development. Your program was monitored for compliance with NC Pre-K requirements. Your program’s compliance history was 99% as of February 26, 2024 and was reviewed with you today. Your last sanitation inspection was dated September 12, 2023 with a Superior classification and four demerits. Your last fire inspection on file was dated November 6, 2023 and was received in my office on November 17, 2023. I visited each licensed indoor space with you today. I observed students playing in activity areas, participating in teacher directed whole group activities, eating lunch, and napping. I observed your facility using Creative Curriculum as the approved curriculum for a 5-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. 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 lunch prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Today’s lunch included turkey hot dog on a bun, potato wedges, blueberries and cream, and unflavored milk. I observed cold food and milk stored in a full-size residential refrigerator in the classroom at a temperature of 36 degrees Fahrenheit. 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 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 Teaching Strategies as the Formative Assessment tool. You use Ages and Stages as the developmental screening tool and Creative Curriculum as your approved curriculum. Your family engagement component includes formal and informal parent-teacher conferences, visits to the classroom, parent education, 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 2:45pm. You stated your NC PreK program follows the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2023 – 2024 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. I observed and cited the following violations 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. Fire Inspection Report was dated 11/06/2023 and received in my office on 11/17/2023. Since the fire inspection report was received prior to this visit, the violation was considered corrected during the visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. One staff member with a date of employment of 08/26/2013 completed two health and safety training topics on 05/27/2017 and two health and safety training topics on 06/22/2017 that should have been completed within five years by 05/27/2022 and 06/22/2022. One staff member with a date of employment of 03/12/2013 completed one health and safety training topics on 05/24/2017 and one health and safety training topics on 05/25/2017 that should have been completed within five years by 05/24/2022 and 05/25/2022. These training topics were completed prior to this visit. .1103(b) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE 1 As discussed with you on May 17, 2022 and again today, per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(a), new employee’s should complete the Health & Safety (H&S) Training requirement within the first year of employment. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1103(b), returning employees should revisit each H&S Training topic every five years. The due date of the H&S training five-year renewal is calculated five years from the date on each H&S training certificate. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review your training records over the teacher work days at the end of each school year to determine when trainings will be due for the upcoming monitoring year. 2 Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a), the original copy of the most recently approved fire inspection report should be sent to me by email within one week of completion. CONSULTATION 1 New Staff Orientation training is intended to provide new staff members with information specific to your facility. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreat training may not be used for New Staff Orientation Training to satisfy the requirement for the topic entitled, “Recognizing, responding to, and reporting child abuse, neglect, or maltreatment pursuant to G.S. 110-105.4 and G.S. 7B-301.” I suggest you review your facility’s policy for recognizing and reporting child abuse, maltreatment, and neglect with your new staff and record that time on the New Staff Orientation Training record. 2 When recording training dates on the New Staff Orientation Record, the trainer should initial beside each training topic. The staff member and the administrator should sign the record when the training is completed. 3 Staff medical records kept at the facility including staff health/medical reports, TB screening forms, TB test results, and Health Questionnaires should be stored in a separate and confidential file for each staff member and stored separately from all the other staff records. 4 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. 5 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. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for those violations corrected during today’s visit. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct those violations. 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. 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 our lead consultant and interim licensing 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. 110-105 · Violation

Name of Operation: VIEWMONT ELEMENTARY PRE-K Facility ID: 18000360 Consultant: KIMBERLY CRANE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/28/2024 Number Present: 17 Completed Date: 2/28/2024 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 12:15 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, Tommie Graybeal, Lead Teacher, assisted me with today’s visit. I conducted your last annual compliance visit on April 27, 2023. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued on April 11, 2022, earning seven points in staff education, seven points in program standards, and one quality point for 75% of teachers having an AAS or higher in early childhood education or child development. Your program was monitored for compliance with NC Pre-K requirements. Your program’s compliance history was 99% as of February 26, 2024 and was reviewed with you today. Your last sanitation inspection was dated September 12, 2023 with a Superior classification and four demerits. Your last fire inspection on file was dated November 6, 2023 and was received in my office on November 17, 2023. I visited each licensed indoor space with you today. I observed students playing in activity areas, participating in teacher directed whole group activities, eating lunch, and napping. I observed your facility using Creative Curriculum as the approved curriculum for a 5-Star facility serving children who are four and five years of age. 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 lunch prepared in the kitchen and served in the classrooms. Today’s lunch included turkey hot dog on a bun, potato wedges, blueberries and cream, and unflavored milk. I observed cold food and milk stored in a full-size residential refrigerator in the classroom at a temperature of 36 degrees Fahrenheit. 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 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 Teaching Strategies as the Formative Assessment tool. You use Ages and Stages as the developmental screening tool and Creative Curriculum as your approved curriculum. Your family engagement component includes formal and informal parent-teacher conferences, visits to the classroom, parent education, 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 2:45pm. You stated your NC PreK program follows the Hickory Public Schools calendar for the 2023 – 2024 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. I observed and cited the following violations 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. Fire Inspection Report was dated 11/06/2023 and received in my office on 11/17/2023. Since the fire inspection report was received prior to this visit, the violation was considered corrected during the visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. One staff member with a date of employment of 08/26/2013 completed two health and safety training topics on 05/27/2017 and two health and safety training topics on 06/22/2017 that should have been completed within five years by 05/27/2022 and 06/22/2022. One staff member with a date of employment of 03/12/2013 completed one health and safety training topics on 05/24/2017 and one health and safety training topics on 05/25/2017 that should have been completed within five years by 05/24/2022 and 05/25/2022. These training topics were completed prior to this visit. .1103(b) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE 1 As discussed with you on May 17, 2022 and again today, per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(a), new employee’s should complete the Health & Safety (H&S) Training requirement within the first year of employment. Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1103(b), returning employees should revisit each H&S Training topic every five years. The due date of the H&S training five-year renewal is calculated five years from the date on each H&S training certificate. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you review your training records over the teacher work days at the end of each school year to determine when trainings will be due for the upcoming monitoring year. 2 Per child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a), the original copy of the most recently approved fire inspection report should be sent to me by email within one week of completion. CONSULTATION 1 New Staff Orientation training is intended to provide new staff members with information specific to your facility. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreat training may not be used for New Staff Orientation Training to satisfy the requirement for the topic entitled, “Recognizing, responding to, and reporting child abuse, neglect, or maltreatment pursuant to G.S. 110-105.4 and G.S. 7B-301.” I suggest you review your facility’s policy for recognizing and reporting child abuse, maltreatment, and neglect with your new staff and record that time on the New Staff Orientation Training record. 2 When recording training dates on the New Staff Orientation Record, the trainer should initial beside each training topic. The staff member and the administrator should sign the record when the training is completed. 3 Staff medical records kept at the facility including staff health/medical reports, TB screening forms, TB test results, and Health Questionnaires should be stored in a separate and confidential file for each staff member and stored separately from all the other staff records. 4 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. 5 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. COMPLIANCE PLAN: No compliance documentation is needed for those violations corrected during today’s visit. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct those violations. 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. 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 our lead consultant and interim licensing 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