Dramatic Play Learning Academy 2

10A NCAC 09 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: Dramatic Play Learning Academy 2 Facility ID: 26002642 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/13/2026 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 2/13/2026 Age: From 1 To 6 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 12:45 PM Time Out: 05:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a third temporary time period visit. The previous visit was completed on December 17, 2025, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 90% as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued September 1, 2025 to March 1, 2026. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Zelinda Artis and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections for the Change of Ownership are as follows: • Building Inspectors Inspection form for Change of Ownership/continued use completed by David Reeves, Town of Hope Mills, with four rooms approved for occupancy by children. Mr. Reeves documented on the inspection form that the building, to the extent observed, meets the NC existing Building code and the maximum number of people allowed per plumbing facilities is sixty. • Fire Classification of Approved for daytime care only completed December 4, 2025. At the time of the inspection, the fire safety conditions in the facility were satisfactory. A sanitation inspection is scheduled for February 16-20, 2026. As a reminder, a sanitation inspection, in the name of the new owner, must be submitted prior to the end of the Temporary License Time Period. Failure to provide the required inspection by March 1, 2026, may result in the issuance of a Provisional License to allow you time to achieve compliance with the sanitation inspection. Z. Artis, Administrator, was present. I explained the purpose of today’s visit and requested Z. Artis accompany me as I conduct a walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas. I washed my hands prior to conducting the walk-through of the indoor area. Z. Artis assisted me during the visit. In Space #1, two children, aged one and two years old, slept on their assigned cots, while music played softly in the background. There were no children or staff present in Space #2. There was no enrollment record for Space #3. In Space #4, children participated in rest/quiet time activities, while children slept on their assigned cots. After rest/quiet/time, children cleaned up, participated in personal care routines and washed their hands, and went to the tables for snack. PM snack served was strawberry yogurt and graham crackers. Staff and children’s files were monitored on December 17, 2025. One new employee has been hired since the last visit. During today’s visit, the employee’s personnel and medical files for reviewed. Additionally, required center program records were monitored. The most recent fire drill was completed on January 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. The most recent outdoor inspection was completed on February 8, 2026. Attendance records were maintained for each group of children. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with Z. Artis. The following violation was observed during the visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. A child care provider, identified on the staff and training worksheet, did not have a medical report on file prior to employment (DOE 1/5/26) that was signed by a health care professional. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 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 (75) percent. The violation observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violation observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00 p.m. on February 27, 2026, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violation was corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Rhonda Blackmon Licensing Supervisor P.O. Box 279 Linden, NC 28356 Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance Specific to Today’s Visit: Rated License Assessment: Discussions occurred with Z. Artis, Administrator, regarding the two-component star rated license on December 17, 2025. I reviewed the pathway options, identified facility needs, and answered questions to assist the operator with establishing a plan to achieve compliance with a voluntary 2-5 star rated license by month five (February) of the Temporary Time period. The facility chose the Classroom and Instructional Quality Pathway. The following documents were reviewed and monitored for compliance today: • Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers – The facility meets enhanced staff/child ratio. • Family and Community Engagement Standards (Child Care Centers) – Family and Community Engagement Foundational Practices and three additional options: 1. Communication Options: Two-way communication with families. “Two-way communication” means that the child care center shares information with families about their child(ren) and that the families may share information with the center about their child(ren) in a manner that is available and accessible to the family. 2. Engagement and Leadership Option – The child care center offers a family event that is culturally responsive to the heritage and practices of enrolled families at least once annually. 3. Educational Opportunity Options – The center administrator offers at least one educational opportunity annually for staff and families that includes the participation of a local community resource. • Facility Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plan – Goal/Plan was established; however, it was not documented and available for review today. • Individual Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Professional Development (PD) Plan (Child Care Center) – Individual PD plans were not available for review today. • Staff Information and Education (Lead Teacher and other Educators) – 50% of all lead teachers and 50% of other educators meet the 4 Star education standards. • Approved Curriculum and formulative assessments for all ages served – The Creative Curriculum, 4th edition, and Gold, Teaching Strategies. Coaching and training opportunities for the administrator/staff were provided by Sheila Jones, Region 5 Early Childhood Consultant. Please provide missing documentation for the items listed above and submit to me along with the compliance letter due on or before February 27, 2026. Visit our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for updated information regarding the child care law and rules, forms, and other pertinent information. If you have questions, please contact me at (910) 709-4168. 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: Dramatic Play Learning Academy 2 Facility ID: 26002642 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/13/2026 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 2/13/2026 Age: From 1 To 6 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 12:45 PM Time Out: 05:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a third temporary time period visit. The previous visit was completed on December 17, 2025, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 90% as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued September 1, 2025 to March 1, 2026. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Zelinda Artis and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections for the Change of Ownership are as follows: • Building Inspectors Inspection form for Change of Ownership/continued use completed by David Reeves, Town of Hope Mills, with four rooms approved for occupancy by children. Mr. Reeves documented on the inspection form that the building, to the extent observed, meets the NC existing Building code and the maximum number of people allowed per plumbing facilities is sixty. • Fire Classification of Approved for daytime care only completed December 4, 2025. At the time of the inspection, the fire safety conditions in the facility were satisfactory. A sanitation inspection is scheduled for February 16-20, 2026. As a reminder, a sanitation inspection, in the name of the new owner, must be submitted prior to the end of the Temporary License Time Period. Failure to provide the required inspection by March 1, 2026, may result in the issuance of a Provisional License to allow you time to achieve compliance with the sanitation inspection. Z. Artis, Administrator, was present. I explained the purpose of today’s visit and requested Z. Artis accompany me as I conduct a walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas. I washed my hands prior to conducting the walk-through of the indoor area. Z. Artis assisted me during the visit. In Space #1, two children, aged one and two years old, slept on their assigned cots, while music played softly in the background. There were no children or staff present in Space #2. There was no enrollment record for Space #3. In Space #4, children participated in rest/quiet time activities, while children slept on their assigned cots. After rest/quiet/time, children cleaned up, participated in personal care routines and washed their hands, and went to the tables for snack. PM snack served was strawberry yogurt and graham crackers. Staff and children’s files were monitored on December 17, 2025. One new employee has been hired since the last visit. During today’s visit, the employee’s personnel and medical files for reviewed. Additionally, required center program records were monitored. The most recent fire drill was completed on January 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. The most recent outdoor inspection was completed on February 8, 2026. Attendance records were maintained for each group of children. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with Z. Artis. The following violation was observed during the visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. A child care provider, identified on the staff and training worksheet, did not have a medical report on file prior to employment (DOE 1/5/26) that was signed by a health care professional. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 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 (75) percent. The violation observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violation observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00 p.m. on February 27, 2026, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violation was corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Rhonda Blackmon Licensing Supervisor P.O. Box 279 Linden, NC 28356 Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance Specific to Today’s Visit: Rated License Assessment: Discussions occurred with Z. Artis, Administrator, regarding the two-component star rated license on December 17, 2025. I reviewed the pathway options, identified facility needs, and answered questions to assist the operator with establishing a plan to achieve compliance with a voluntary 2-5 star rated license by month five (February) of the Temporary Time period. The facility chose the Classroom and Instructional Quality Pathway. The following documents were reviewed and monitored for compliance today: • Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers – The facility meets enhanced staff/child ratio. • Family and Community Engagement Standards (Child Care Centers) – Family and Community Engagement Foundational Practices and three additional options: 1. Communication Options: Two-way communication with families. “Two-way communication” means that the child care center shares information with families about their child(ren) and that the families may share information with the center about their child(ren) in a manner that is available and accessible to the family. 2. Engagement and Leadership Option – The child care center offers a family event that is culturally responsive to the heritage and practices of enrolled families at least once annually. 3. Educational Opportunity Options – The center administrator offers at least one educational opportunity annually for staff and families that includes the participation of a local community resource. • Facility Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plan – Goal/Plan was established; however, it was not documented and available for review today. • Individual Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Professional Development (PD) Plan (Child Care Center) – Individual PD plans were not available for review today. • Staff Information and Education (Lead Teacher and other Educators) – 50% of all lead teachers and 50% of other educators meet the 4 Star education standards. • Approved Curriculum and formulative assessments for all ages served – The Creative Curriculum, 4th edition, and Gold, Teaching Strategies. Coaching and training opportunities for the administrator/staff were provided by Sheila Jones, Region 5 Early Childhood Consultant. Please provide missing documentation for the items listed above and submit to me along with the compliance letter due on or before February 27, 2026. Visit our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for updated information regarding the child care law and rules, forms, and other pertinent information. If you have questions, please contact me at (910) 709-4168. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0514 · Violation

Name of Operation: Dramatic Play Learning Academy 2 Facility ID: 26002642 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/17/2025 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 12/17/2025 Age: From 1 To 6 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a second temporary time period visit. The previous visit was completed on October 17, 2025, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 88% as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued September 1, 2025 to March 1, 2026. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Zelinda Artis and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. There are no current inspections at this time. The owner is in the process of obtaining current inspections for the change of ownership that occurred on September 1, 2025. As a reminder, the facility has 6 months from the issuance of the Temporary License (March 1, 2026) to obtain an approved, Building, Fire, and Sanitation Inspection. Z. Artis, Administrator, was present. I explained the purpose of today’s visit and conducted a walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas. I washed my hands prior to conducting the walk-through of the indoor area. Z. Artis was in the kitchen assisting with meal service. In Space #1 children, aged one and two years old, participated in free play activities. Children stacked blocks, manipulated musical toys, and pushed vehicles across the floor. Z. Howard, Lead Teacher, invited the children to come to the table and finger paint with white paint. They created a “Melted Snowman.” Afterwards, children participated in personal care routines and transitioned to the tables for lunch. Z. Howard, sung the following songs with the children while waiting for lunch to be served: The Wheels on the Bus; Head Shoulders, Knees and Toes; and Clap, Clap, Stomp, Stomp. Lunch served was Swedish meatballs, sweet corn, fruit cocktail, dinner roll, and milk. There were no enrollment records for Spaces #2 and #3. Staff and children assigned to Space #4, transitioned outdoors for teacher directed and free play activities. Children pushed toys, hula hooped, chased each other around the fenced in play area, and hopped and skipped to the directives provided in the game, “Teacher May I.” D. McNeill, Lead Teacher, walked around the outdoor area, while participating in parallel play and encouraging conversation and problem solving by asking open-ended questions. Children were reminded of the safety rules when required and given an opportunity to choose whether they wanted to play independently from the group or as part of a group. After lunch, children cleaned up, participated in personal care routines and washed their hands, and transitioned to their assigned cots for rest time. One new staff member has been employed since the last visit. Her personnel and medical files were monitored today. In addition, children’s and required center program records were also monitored. The most recent fire drill was completed on November 25, 2025. The most recent outdoor inspection was completed on November 25, 2025. Attendance records were maintained for each group of children. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with Z. Artis. The following violations were observed during the visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. A child care provider, identified on the staff and training worksheet, did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work (DOE 11-25-25). .0701(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. A new employee (DOE 11-25-25), identified on the staff and training worksheet, did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. .1101(a)(b) 1233 Each employee's personnel file did not contain a signed and dated statement that they received a job description and that they have received personnel and operational policies. An employee's personnel file, identified on the staff and training worksheet, did not contain a signed and dated statement that they received a job description and that they have received personnel and operational policies. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(g) 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. The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff (DOE 11-25-25), identified on the staff and training worksheet, prior to providing care with children. .0608(d)(1-4) 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 (75) percent. The violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00 p.m. on December 31, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Rhonda Blackmon Lead Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 279 Linden, NC 28356 Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance Specific to Today’s Visit: Rated License Assessment: Discussions occurred with Z. Artis, regarding the two-component star rated license on October 17, 2025. I reviewed the pathway options, identified facility needs, and answered questions to assist the operator with establishing a plan to achieve compliance for a rated license by month five (February) of the Temporary Time period. As a reminder, the facility must transition to a 3-5 Star Rated License to continue to be eligible to receive subsidized care after six (6) months. Rather than a star level being determined by points earned, star level is now determined by meeting the requirements at each star level within the pathway chosen. During today’s visit, Z. Artis and I reviewed the requirements at each star level for Pathway 1: Program Assessment, and Pathway 2: Classroom and Instructional Quality. Based on today’s conversation the facility will pursue the following pathway: Classroom and Instructional Quality. The following documents were reviewed with Z. Artis and a copy left at the end of the visit: • Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers • Pathway 2 – Classroom & Instructional Quality Star Level Assessment for Child Care Centers • Facility Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plan • Individual Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Professional Development (PD) Plan (Child Care Center) • Family and Community Engagement Standards (Child Care Centers) • QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheets (Lead Teachers and other Educators) • Enhanced Education Standards for Child Care Center On-Site Administrator, Program Coordinator, Lead Teachers, Teachers, and Group Leaders. Education Standards: The staff information sheet for rated licenses was completed. I stated that education must be current in WORKS by the fifth month (February) of the temporary time period so I can verify the eligible star level for education standards. Indicator Month: Discussions occurred regarding the indictor month for annual compliance monitoring visits at a licensed child care facility. I informed Z. Artis that when a facility becomes licensed, it is assigned an “annual compliance” month. The annual compliance month is the month in which the facility’s Temporary License was issued (September). I stated the annual compliance month does not change if the facility is issued a 2 – 5 Star License, a Provisional License, or a Probationary License. Child care consultants use the annual compliance month to determine when to schedule each facility’s annual compliance visit. Additionally, representatives of the DCDEE may visit your program at any time and must complete at least one full monitoring visit at least annually. To best support you and the children in care, our goal is to visit programs more frequently. On-going Training: The staff and training worksheet was updated during today’s visit to capture new staff hired from the last visit. As a reminder: After the first year of employment, the child care administrator and any staff who work with children shall participate in on-going training activities annually. Refer to child care requirement 09.1103 for the number of required training hours based on hours worked, education, and experience. Visit our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for updated information regarding the child care law and rules, forms, and other pertinent information. If you have questions, please contact me at (910) 709-4168. 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: Dramatic Play Learning Academy 2 Facility ID: 26002642 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/17/2025 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 12/17/2025 Age: From 1 To 6 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a second temporary time period visit. The previous visit was completed on October 17, 2025, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 88% as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued September 1, 2025 to March 1, 2026. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Zelinda Artis and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. There are no current inspections at this time. The owner is in the process of obtaining current inspections for the change of ownership that occurred on September 1, 2025. As a reminder, the facility has 6 months from the issuance of the Temporary License (March 1, 2026) to obtain an approved, Building, Fire, and Sanitation Inspection. Z. Artis, Administrator, was present. I explained the purpose of today’s visit and conducted a walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas. I washed my hands prior to conducting the walk-through of the indoor area. Z. Artis was in the kitchen assisting with meal service. In Space #1 children, aged one and two years old, participated in free play activities. Children stacked blocks, manipulated musical toys, and pushed vehicles across the floor. Z. Howard, Lead Teacher, invited the children to come to the table and finger paint with white paint. They created a “Melted Snowman.” Afterwards, children participated in personal care routines and transitioned to the tables for lunch. Z. Howard, sung the following songs with the children while waiting for lunch to be served: The Wheels on the Bus; Head Shoulders, Knees and Toes; and Clap, Clap, Stomp, Stomp. Lunch served was Swedish meatballs, sweet corn, fruit cocktail, dinner roll, and milk. There were no enrollment records for Spaces #2 and #3. Staff and children assigned to Space #4, transitioned outdoors for teacher directed and free play activities. Children pushed toys, hula hooped, chased each other around the fenced in play area, and hopped and skipped to the directives provided in the game, “Teacher May I.” D. McNeill, Lead Teacher, walked around the outdoor area, while participating in parallel play and encouraging conversation and problem solving by asking open-ended questions. Children were reminded of the safety rules when required and given an opportunity to choose whether they wanted to play independently from the group or as part of a group. After lunch, children cleaned up, participated in personal care routines and washed their hands, and transitioned to their assigned cots for rest time. One new staff member has been employed since the last visit. Her personnel and medical files were monitored today. In addition, children’s and required center program records were also monitored. The most recent fire drill was completed on November 25, 2025. The most recent outdoor inspection was completed on November 25, 2025. Attendance records were maintained for each group of children. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with Z. Artis. The following violations were observed during the visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. A child care provider, identified on the staff and training worksheet, did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work (DOE 11-25-25). .0701(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. A new employee (DOE 11-25-25), identified on the staff and training worksheet, did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. .1101(a)(b) 1233 Each employee's personnel file did not contain a signed and dated statement that they received a job description and that they have received personnel and operational policies. An employee's personnel file, identified on the staff and training worksheet, did not contain a signed and dated statement that they received a job description and that they have received personnel and operational policies. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(g) 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. The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff (DOE 11-25-25), identified on the staff and training worksheet, prior to providing care with children. .0608(d)(1-4) 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 (75) percent. The violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00 p.m. on December 31, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Rhonda Blackmon Lead Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 279 Linden, NC 28356 Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance Specific to Today’s Visit: Rated License Assessment: Discussions occurred with Z. Artis, regarding the two-component star rated license on October 17, 2025. I reviewed the pathway options, identified facility needs, and answered questions to assist the operator with establishing a plan to achieve compliance for a rated license by month five (February) of the Temporary Time period. As a reminder, the facility must transition to a 3-5 Star Rated License to continue to be eligible to receive subsidized care after six (6) months. Rather than a star level being determined by points earned, star level is now determined by meeting the requirements at each star level within the pathway chosen. During today’s visit, Z. Artis and I reviewed the requirements at each star level for Pathway 1: Program Assessment, and Pathway 2: Classroom and Instructional Quality. Based on today’s conversation the facility will pursue the following pathway: Classroom and Instructional Quality. The following documents were reviewed with Z. Artis and a copy left at the end of the visit: • Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers • Pathway 2 – Classroom & Instructional Quality Star Level Assessment for Child Care Centers • Facility Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plan • Individual Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Professional Development (PD) Plan (Child Care Center) • Family and Community Engagement Standards (Child Care Centers) • QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheets (Lead Teachers and other Educators) • Enhanced Education Standards for Child Care Center On-Site Administrator, Program Coordinator, Lead Teachers, Teachers, and Group Leaders. Education Standards: The staff information sheet for rated licenses was completed. I stated that education must be current in WORKS by the fifth month (February) of the temporary time period so I can verify the eligible star level for education standards. Indicator Month: Discussions occurred regarding the indictor month for annual compliance monitoring visits at a licensed child care facility. I informed Z. Artis that when a facility becomes licensed, it is assigned an “annual compliance” month. The annual compliance month is the month in which the facility’s Temporary License was issued (September). I stated the annual compliance month does not change if the facility is issued a 2 – 5 Star License, a Provisional License, or a Probationary License. Child care consultants use the annual compliance month to determine when to schedule each facility’s annual compliance visit. Additionally, representatives of the DCDEE may visit your program at any time and must complete at least one full monitoring visit at least annually. To best support you and the children in care, our goal is to visit programs more frequently. On-going Training: The staff and training worksheet was updated during today’s visit to capture new staff hired from the last visit. As a reminder: After the first year of employment, the child care administrator and any staff who work with children shall participate in on-going training activities annually. Refer to child care requirement 09.1103 for the number of required training hours based on hours worked, education, and experience. Visit our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for updated information regarding the child care law and rules, forms, and other pertinent information. If you have questions, please contact me at (910) 709-4168. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: Dramatic Play Learning Academy 2 Facility ID: 26002642 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/17/2025 Number Present: 10 Completed Date: 10/17/2025 Age: From 1 To 7 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 04:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a first temporary time period visit. The previous visit was completed on September 18, 2025, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 100% as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued September 1, 2025 to March 1, 2026. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Zelinda Artis and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. There are no current inspections at this time. The owner is in the process of obtaining current inspections for the change of ownership that occurred on September 1, 2025. As a reminder, the facility has 6 months from the issuance of the Temporary License (March 1, 2026) to obtain an approved, Building, Fire, and Sanitation Inspection. Z. Artis, Administrator, was present and assisted me during the visit. I explained the purpose of the visit and requested to conduct an unaccompanied walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas since Z. Artis was in the kitchen assisting with meal service. I washed my hands and conducted an unaccompanied walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas. There were no enrollment records for Spaces #2 and #3. In Space #1, two children, aged one and two years old, participated in a teacher directed art activity. Z. Howard, Teacher, painted the children’s hands with washable black paint and they made spider handprints and scribbled on white paper with large crayons, while Z. Howard read a poem about spiders and Halloween. Afterwards, they washed their hands and prepared to go outdoors. Children and staff assigned to Space #4 participated in gross motor activities in the outdoor learning environment. Children manipulated hula hoops, dug in the sand, climbed on the stationary equipment, and ran inside the fenced-in space. Upon their return indoors, they participated in personal care routines, washed their hands, and transitioned to the tables for lunch. Lunch served was fish sticks, sliced whole wheat bread, French fries, applesauce, and milk. There was no activity plans posted in Spaces #1 and #4. Indoors, the following space calculations apply: Space #1: eight (8) children at 25 square feet per child; seven (7) children at 30 square feet per child. Space #2: eight (8) children at 25 square feet per child; seven (7) children at 30 square feet per child. Space #3: six (6) children at 25 square feet per child; five (5) children at 30 square feet per child. Space #4: eleven (11) children at 25 square feet per child; nine (9) children at 30 square feet per child. Outdoors, the following space calculations apply: Space #1(infants/toddlers): fourteen (14) children at 75 square feet per child; eleven (11) children at 100 square feet per child. Space #2 (PS/SA): twenty-three (23) children at 75 square feet per child; seventeen (17) children at 30 square feet per child. There were two stationary Step 2 Climbers in the outdoor learning environment located directly behind the program, approved for use by preschool and school-aged children, that had a critical height of twenty-four and thirty inches. Sand, used as the approved resilient surface, measured two inches and the required fall zones measured less than one feet to four feet from the containment borders around both pieces of equipment. Staff personnel and medical files, three children’s records, and required center program records were monitored today. A child, aged seven years old, arrived for out of school care at 2:50 p.m. Z. Artis left the facility at 3:05 p.m. to transport children from their assigned elementary school to the child care facility for out of school care. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with Z. Howard, Assistant Director/Lead Teacher. The following violations were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. There was no activity plan posted in Spaces #1 and #4. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 717 Surfacing did not extend six (6) feet beyond the external limits of the equipment or 3 feet for equipment used only by children less than 2 years of age. Surfacing did not extend six (6) feet beyond the external limits of the two pieces of stationary equipment. It extended less than one to four (4) feet beyond the external limits of the equipment. .0605(l)(1-2) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The depth of the loose surfacing measured two (2) inches instead of the required six (6) inches. .0605(k)(1-4) 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 (75) percent. The violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00 p.m. on October 31, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Rhonda Blackmon Lead Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 279 Linden, NC 28356 Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your facility. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a star rated license. Failure to maintain an acceptable compliance history may result in the issuance of administrative action up to and including denial of a full license at the end of the temporary time period. Technical Assistance Specific to Today’s Visit: Activity Plan: Complete weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly activity plans (dated) that include developmentally appropriate activities for enrolled children. The administrator and I discussed that activity plans for all children must meet the following minimum licensing requirements: *Include daily activities to stimulate the following 5 developmental domains, as listed in your NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development book: (social & emotional development, health & physical development, approaches to play and learning, language development/communication, and cognitive development). *Include a daily gross motor activity which may occur indoors or outdoors. *Reflect at least 4 activities daily (one of which is gross motor), one of which is offered outdoors, weather permitting. The remaining 3 activities should occur in the following areas (art/creative play, children’s books, blocks and block building, manipulatives and family living/dramatic play). *Include both free choice and adult-directed activities, that allow children to choose to participate with the whole group, in a small group or independently. *In addition, activity plans must include each of these 3 enrichment activities on at least a weekly basis: sand or water play; science and nature; and music and rhythm. A sample lesson plan form containing all required components was provided. *Materials and equipment must be available both inside and outside to support the activities on the activity plan and the daily schedule. During today’s visit, there were no planned activities documented on a schedule or activity plan for children enrolled in Spaces #1 and #4. The administrator stated that this is the first week that children attended the facility since the license was issued and that the focus was on getting the building ready, enrollment, and interviewing/hiring staff. Additionally, she understands the requirement and will come into compliance immediately. Outdoor Learning Environment: The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Since children are exploring and taking risks it is very important to provide a safe environment. All equipment must be installed per the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the product is safe for use by children. Prior to equipment being accessible to the children, make sure that the product is accurately and thoroughly assembled as required. Proper maintenance is a key factor when trying to ensure a safe play environment for children. All stationary outdoor equipment, more than 18 inches high, shall be installed over protective surfacing. Protective surfacing shall be either: loose surfacing material, including wood mulch, double shredded bark mulch, uniform wood chips, fine sand, coarse sand, and pea gravel, except that pea gravel shall not be used if the area will be used by children under three years of age. Loose surfacing material shall not be installed over concrete; or other materials that have been certified by the manufacturer to be shock-absorbing protective material in accordance with the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standard F 1292, may be used if installed, maintained, and replaced according to the manufacturer's instructions. As a reminder, the depth of the loose surfacing material shall be based on the critical height of the equipment, which is defined as the maximum height that a child may sit, or stand, as follows: equipment with a critical height of 5 feet or less shall have 6 inches of loose surface materials. Protective surfacing shall cover the area under and around equipment where a child may fall, referred to as the fall zone. The area for fall zones is as follows: for stationary outdoor equipment used by children two years of age or older, the protective surfacing shall extend beyond the external limits of the equipment for six feet. During today’s visit, I measured the critical height of each piece of stationary equipment, and it was measured at two and two and one-half feet high. Children, aged three to twelve years of age, use the stationary equipment. The sand measured two inches in depth, and the fall zones measured less than one to four feet from the containment borders. We discussed correcting the areas of noncompliance by repositioning the stationary equipment and containment borders so the sand can extend beyond the external limits of the equipment for six feet and adding additional sand to meet the required six inches of surface material. Additionally, you may remove the stationary equipment from the approved outdoor area and purchase additional gross motor materials for vigorous play such as riding and push toys, jump ropes, assortment of balls, balance beam, etc. Rated License Assessment: Discussions occurred with Z. Artis, Administrator, regarding the two-component star rated license on September 18, 2025. I reviewed the pathway options, identified facility needs, and answered questions to assist the operator with establishing a plan to achieve compliance for a rated license by month five (February) of the Temporary Time period. As a reminder, the facility must transition to a 3-5 Star Rated License to continue to be eligible to receive subsidized care after six (6) months. Rather than a star level being determined by points earned, star level is now determined by meeting the requirements at each star level within the pathway chosen. During today’s visit, Z. Artis and I reviewed the requirements at each star level for Pathway 1: Program Assessment, and Pathway 2: Classroom and Instructional Quality. Based on today’s conversation the facility will pursue the following pathway: Classroom and Instructional Quality. The following documents were reviewed with Z. Artis and a copy left at the end of the visit: • Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers • Pathway 2 – Classroom & Instructional Quality Star Level Assessment for Child Care Centers • Facility Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plan • Individual Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Professional Development (PD) Plan (Child Care Center) • Family and Community Engagement Standards (Child Care Centers) • QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheets (Lead Teachers and other Educators) • Enhanced Education Standards for Child Care Center On-Site Administrator, Program Coordinator, Lead Teachers, and Teachers. Education Standards: The staff information sheet for rated licenses was completed. I stated that education must be current in WORKS by the fifth month (February) of the temporary time period so I can verify the eligible star level for education standards. The star level for the rated license assessment will be determined at the end of the six (6) months Temporary Time Period. Childcare Health Consultant: The Cumberland County Department of Public Health’s current Child Care Health Consultant is Nicole Richardson. Her contact number is: 910-678-7706 and her email address: nrrichardson@cumberlandcountync.gov. Visit the website https://nccchcassociation.org/resources/, under resources there are several links that may be beneficial for your Child Care Center. For example, Caring for Our Children, My Plate, Safe Kids NC, and many others. The following website will also provide more information about the Child Care Health Consultants. The Child Care Health Consultant provides support in the following areas, but not limited to oral health, illness, infectious disease, emergency preparedness, health related areas, nutrition, environmental health, and physical activity. For addition information, visit the website, https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/child-care-health-consultants/about-cchc/. Indicator Month: Discussions occurred regarding the indictor month for annual compliance monitoring visits at a licensed child care facility. I informed Z. Artis that when a facility becomes licensed, it is assigned an “annual compliance” month. The annual compliance month is the month in which the facility’s Temporary License was issued (September). I stated the annual compliance month does not change if the facility is issued a 2 – 5 Star License, a Provisional License, or a Probationary License. Child care consultants use the annual compliance month to determine when to schedule each facility’s annual compliance visit. Additionally, representatives of the DCDEE may visit your program at any time and must complete at least one full monitoring visit at least annually. To best support you and the children in care, our goal is to visit programs more frequently. On-going Training: The staff and training worksheet was updated during today’s visit. As a reminder: After the first year of employment, the child care administrator and any staff who work with children shall participate in on-going training activities annually. Refer to child care requirement 09.1103 for the number of required training hours based on hours worked, education, and experience. The DCDEE has a new initiative – Natural Outdoor Learning Initiative. Through this initiative, we hope to increase knowledge and confidence for everyone in developing and implementing best practices to support the creation, programming, and safe use of naturalized outdoor spaces in child care facilities. You can learn more by visiting the NLI website, where you will also find many resources, including an updated Toolkit designed to help you enhance your outdoor learning environment. The downloadable NLI Toolkit is available at: https://naturalearning.org/preschool-outdoor-toolkit. Visit our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for updated information regarding the child care law and rules, forms, and other pertinent information. If you have questions, please contact me at (910) 709-4168. 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: Dramatic Play Learning Academy 2 Facility ID: 26002642 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/17/2025 Number Present: 10 Completed Date: 10/17/2025 Age: From 1 To 7 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 04:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a first temporary time period visit. The previous visit was completed on September 18, 2025, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 100% as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued September 1, 2025 to March 1, 2026. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Zelinda Artis and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. There are no current inspections at this time. The owner is in the process of obtaining current inspections for the change of ownership that occurred on September 1, 2025. As a reminder, the facility has 6 months from the issuance of the Temporary License (March 1, 2026) to obtain an approved, Building, Fire, and Sanitation Inspection. Z. Artis, Administrator, was present and assisted me during the visit. I explained the purpose of the visit and requested to conduct an unaccompanied walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas since Z. Artis was in the kitchen assisting with meal service. I washed my hands and conducted an unaccompanied walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas. There were no enrollment records for Spaces #2 and #3. In Space #1, two children, aged one and two years old, participated in a teacher directed art activity. Z. Howard, Teacher, painted the children’s hands with washable black paint and they made spider handprints and scribbled on white paper with large crayons, while Z. Howard read a poem about spiders and Halloween. Afterwards, they washed their hands and prepared to go outdoors. Children and staff assigned to Space #4 participated in gross motor activities in the outdoor learning environment. Children manipulated hula hoops, dug in the sand, climbed on the stationary equipment, and ran inside the fenced-in space. Upon their return indoors, they participated in personal care routines, washed their hands, and transitioned to the tables for lunch. Lunch served was fish sticks, sliced whole wheat bread, French fries, applesauce, and milk. There was no activity plans posted in Spaces #1 and #4. Indoors, the following space calculations apply: Space #1: eight (8) children at 25 square feet per child; seven (7) children at 30 square feet per child. Space #2: eight (8) children at 25 square feet per child; seven (7) children at 30 square feet per child. Space #3: six (6) children at 25 square feet per child; five (5) children at 30 square feet per child. Space #4: eleven (11) children at 25 square feet per child; nine (9) children at 30 square feet per child. Outdoors, the following space calculations apply: Space #1(infants/toddlers): fourteen (14) children at 75 square feet per child; eleven (11) children at 100 square feet per child. Space #2 (PS/SA): twenty-three (23) children at 75 square feet per child; seventeen (17) children at 30 square feet per child. There were two stationary Step 2 Climbers in the outdoor learning environment located directly behind the program, approved for use by preschool and school-aged children, that had a critical height of twenty-four and thirty inches. Sand, used as the approved resilient surface, measured two inches and the required fall zones measured less than one feet to four feet from the containment borders around both pieces of equipment. Staff personnel and medical files, three children’s records, and required center program records were monitored today. A child, aged seven years old, arrived for out of school care at 2:50 p.m. Z. Artis left the facility at 3:05 p.m. to transport children from their assigned elementary school to the child care facility for out of school care. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with Z. Howard, Assistant Director/Lead Teacher. The following violations were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. There was no activity plan posted in Spaces #1 and #4. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 717 Surfacing did not extend six (6) feet beyond the external limits of the equipment or 3 feet for equipment used only by children less than 2 years of age. Surfacing did not extend six (6) feet beyond the external limits of the two pieces of stationary equipment. It extended less than one to four (4) feet beyond the external limits of the equipment. .0605(l)(1-2) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The depth of the loose surfacing measured two (2) inches instead of the required six (6) inches. .0605(k)(1-4) 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 (75) percent. The violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00 p.m. on October 31, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Rhonda Blackmon Lead Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 279 Linden, NC 28356 Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your facility. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a star rated license. Failure to maintain an acceptable compliance history may result in the issuance of administrative action up to and including denial of a full license at the end of the temporary time period. Technical Assistance Specific to Today’s Visit: Activity Plan: Complete weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly activity plans (dated) that include developmentally appropriate activities for enrolled children. The administrator and I discussed that activity plans for all children must meet the following minimum licensing requirements: *Include daily activities to stimulate the following 5 developmental domains, as listed in your NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development book: (social & emotional development, health & physical development, approaches to play and learning, language development/communication, and cognitive development). *Include a daily gross motor activity which may occur indoors or outdoors. *Reflect at least 4 activities daily (one of which is gross motor), one of which is offered outdoors, weather permitting. The remaining 3 activities should occur in the following areas (art/creative play, children’s books, blocks and block building, manipulatives and family living/dramatic play). *Include both free choice and adult-directed activities, that allow children to choose to participate with the whole group, in a small group or independently. *In addition, activity plans must include each of these 3 enrichment activities on at least a weekly basis: sand or water play; science and nature; and music and rhythm. A sample lesson plan form containing all required components was provided. *Materials and equipment must be available both inside and outside to support the activities on the activity plan and the daily schedule. During today’s visit, there were no planned activities documented on a schedule or activity plan for children enrolled in Spaces #1 and #4. The administrator stated that this is the first week that children attended the facility since the license was issued and that the focus was on getting the building ready, enrollment, and interviewing/hiring staff. Additionally, she understands the requirement and will come into compliance immediately. Outdoor Learning Environment: The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Since children are exploring and taking risks it is very important to provide a safe environment. All equipment must be installed per the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the product is safe for use by children. Prior to equipment being accessible to the children, make sure that the product is accurately and thoroughly assembled as required. Proper maintenance is a key factor when trying to ensure a safe play environment for children. All stationary outdoor equipment, more than 18 inches high, shall be installed over protective surfacing. Protective surfacing shall be either: loose surfacing material, including wood mulch, double shredded bark mulch, uniform wood chips, fine sand, coarse sand, and pea gravel, except that pea gravel shall not be used if the area will be used by children under three years of age. Loose surfacing material shall not be installed over concrete; or other materials that have been certified by the manufacturer to be shock-absorbing protective material in accordance with the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standard F 1292, may be used if installed, maintained, and replaced according to the manufacturer's instructions. As a reminder, the depth of the loose surfacing material shall be based on the critical height of the equipment, which is defined as the maximum height that a child may sit, or stand, as follows: equipment with a critical height of 5 feet or less shall have 6 inches of loose surface materials. Protective surfacing shall cover the area under and around equipment where a child may fall, referred to as the fall zone. The area for fall zones is as follows: for stationary outdoor equipment used by children two years of age or older, the protective surfacing shall extend beyond the external limits of the equipment for six feet. During today’s visit, I measured the critical height of each piece of stationary equipment, and it was measured at two and two and one-half feet high. Children, aged three to twelve years of age, use the stationary equipment. The sand measured two inches in depth, and the fall zones measured less than one to four feet from the containment borders. We discussed correcting the areas of noncompliance by repositioning the stationary equipment and containment borders so the sand can extend beyond the external limits of the equipment for six feet and adding additional sand to meet the required six inches of surface material. Additionally, you may remove the stationary equipment from the approved outdoor area and purchase additional gross motor materials for vigorous play such as riding and push toys, jump ropes, assortment of balls, balance beam, etc. Rated License Assessment: Discussions occurred with Z. Artis, Administrator, regarding the two-component star rated license on September 18, 2025. I reviewed the pathway options, identified facility needs, and answered questions to assist the operator with establishing a plan to achieve compliance for a rated license by month five (February) of the Temporary Time period. As a reminder, the facility must transition to a 3-5 Star Rated License to continue to be eligible to receive subsidized care after six (6) months. Rather than a star level being determined by points earned, star level is now determined by meeting the requirements at each star level within the pathway chosen. During today’s visit, Z. Artis and I reviewed the requirements at each star level for Pathway 1: Program Assessment, and Pathway 2: Classroom and Instructional Quality. Based on today’s conversation the facility will pursue the following pathway: Classroom and Instructional Quality. The following documents were reviewed with Z. Artis and a copy left at the end of the visit: • Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers • Pathway 2 – Classroom & Instructional Quality Star Level Assessment for Child Care Centers • Facility Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plan • Individual Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Professional Development (PD) Plan (Child Care Center) • Family and Community Engagement Standards (Child Care Centers) • QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheets (Lead Teachers and other Educators) • Enhanced Education Standards for Child Care Center On-Site Administrator, Program Coordinator, Lead Teachers, and Teachers. Education Standards: The staff information sheet for rated licenses was completed. I stated that education must be current in WORKS by the fifth month (February) of the temporary time period so I can verify the eligible star level for education standards. The star level for the rated license assessment will be determined at the end of the six (6) months Temporary Time Period. Childcare Health Consultant: The Cumberland County Department of Public Health’s current Child Care Health Consultant is Nicole Richardson. Her contact number is: 910-678-7706 and her email address: nrrichardson@cumberlandcountync.gov. Visit the website https://nccchcassociation.org/resources/, under resources there are several links that may be beneficial for your Child Care Center. For example, Caring for Our Children, My Plate, Safe Kids NC, and many others. The following website will also provide more information about the Child Care Health Consultants. The Child Care Health Consultant provides support in the following areas, but not limited to oral health, illness, infectious disease, emergency preparedness, health related areas, nutrition, environmental health, and physical activity. For addition information, visit the website, https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/child-care-health-consultants/about-cchc/. Indicator Month: Discussions occurred regarding the indictor month for annual compliance monitoring visits at a licensed child care facility. I informed Z. Artis that when a facility becomes licensed, it is assigned an “annual compliance” month. The annual compliance month is the month in which the facility’s Temporary License was issued (September). I stated the annual compliance month does not change if the facility is issued a 2 – 5 Star License, a Provisional License, or a Probationary License. Child care consultants use the annual compliance month to determine when to schedule each facility’s annual compliance visit. Additionally, representatives of the DCDEE may visit your program at any time and must complete at least one full monitoring visit at least annually. To best support you and the children in care, our goal is to visit programs more frequently. On-going Training: The staff and training worksheet was updated during today’s visit. As a reminder: After the first year of employment, the child care administrator and any staff who work with children shall participate in on-going training activities annually. Refer to child care requirement 09.1103 for the number of required training hours based on hours worked, education, and experience. The DCDEE has a new initiative – Natural Outdoor Learning Initiative. Through this initiative, we hope to increase knowledge and confidence for everyone in developing and implementing best practices to support the creation, programming, and safe use of naturalized outdoor spaces in child care facilities. You can learn more by visiting the NLI website, where you will also find many resources, including an updated Toolkit designed to help you enhance your outdoor learning environment. The downloadable NLI Toolkit is available at: https://naturalearning.org/preschool-outdoor-toolkit. Visit our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for updated information regarding the child care law and rules, forms, and other pertinent information. If you have questions, please contact me at (910) 709-4168. 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