Excel Learning Centers #8

10A NCAC 09 .1003 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: HEATHER ELLIOTT Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/17/2026 Number Present: 99 Completed Date: 6/17/2026 Age: From 2 To 11 Total Minutes: 415 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 04:00 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. Your program currently operates with a 5-star license, issued February 20, 2022. Restrictions on your permit include a capacity of 233 children, ages 2-12 for daytime care only, meeting enhanced ratios, and enhanced space. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on July 9,2025. The sanitation inspection was completed on June 8, 2026, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on November 4, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. As of today, the program’s compliance history is 94%. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ELA Kidsnet Holdings, LLC, was listed as current-active. N. Farrar, director, was present and available for consultation during today’s visit. A. McPhaul, district manager, arrived and was available for consultation. Today 124 of children were enrolled and 99 children were present, ranging in age from 2- years of age. Today 7 of the approved spaces are being used for care. Spaces 1, 2, 3, 6, and 7 were closed. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions and personal care routines. In space 4 and 5, the school-aged children were on a field trip. Once children arrived back at the facility, they participated in lunch and free play activities. Activities included but not limited to coloring, playing games, and playing with different manipulative toys. In space 8, children were eating breakfast which consisted of cereal, bananas, and milk. In space 9, children were participating in free play. Activities included but not limited to building with blocks, making music, and dramatic play. In space 10, children were dancing to music on the carpet. In space 11, children were engaged in free play, which consisted of but not limited to playing with plastic insects, singing songs, painting and playing with manipulative blocks. In space 12, children were transitioning to free play. Children had the opportunity to choose an activity which included but not limited to building with the blocks, playing with Play-Doh, and playing in the dramatic play center. The caregivers were interacting with and meeting the developmental needs of each of the children. Staff/child ratios were in compliance, and all children were adequately supervised. Proper handwashing techniques and diaper changing procedures were observed. For lunch, ham and cheese wraps, diced carrots, applesauce, and milk were served. All new staff files and a selection of veteran staff files were reviewed today. 16 of the children files were reviewed today and found in compliance. The following violations were observed and documented during today’s visit. All violations must be corrected immediately. Violation Number Comment Rule 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. A fire drill was not recorded for the month of April 2026. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Miracle Gro potting mix was accessible to children on the school-age playground. Hand sanitizer was on the three buses accessible to children. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. Amoxicillin for a staff member's child was not in a locked container in the kitchen refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Two staff members were missing an annual health questionnaire on file. .0701(a) 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. Two staff members emergency information was not updated in the past year. .0701(a) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. Two children were missing a photograph in the transportation binder. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 1, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Heather Elliott, Child Care Consultant PO Box 161 Hampstead, NC 28443 heather.elliott@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE, this serves as your signature, and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Health Questionnaires and Emergency Contact Information were not updated on two of the staff members. One staff member was present today and filled out their health questionnaire and emergency contact information forms to ensure that the most updated information was on file. Today a staff member’s child’s prescription medication was found unlocked in the kitchen refrigerator. You stated that it will be removed immediately. Today I suggest reviewing the child care rules regarding medication with your staff members and your policy on medications at the facility. You stated that you do not administer medications, unless needed for chronic health condition. At this time, you do not have any children who are in need of such medication. For licensing, it is required to obtain written parental permission to give prescription and over-the-counter medication. Providers must obtain written permission and instructions for giving OTC and prescription medication from a health care and the child’s parent. Miracle Gro potting soil was found on the playground used by the school-aged children and hand sanitizer was found on the buses used to transport children that was accessible to children with a warning “Keep out of reach of children” was not 5 feet above the floor and were within reach of children. Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. A fire drill was not recorded for the month of April 2026. Fire drills shall be practiced monthly, and records shall be maintained as required. Records of monthly fire drills documenting the date and time of each drill, the length of time taken to evacuate the building, and the signature of the person who conducted the drill shall be available for review. Today I suggested marking a date on your calendar so that you can ensure that a fire drill is performed monthly. It may also help to plan these drills for different times of the day so children and staff can be prepared to evacuate no matter if activity or routine is taking place. Today two children who are being transported did not have a picture with their emergency information. You stated that the children just started last week and that the pictures will be updated by the teachers. When transporting children, there must be a picture of the child attached to the emergency information for that child. Today technical assistance was provided on how to ensure that each child that is transported has identifying information in the vehicle about each child being transported, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information, and a copy of the emergency medical care information form required by Rule .1721(a)(3). OR .1003(d). Today, we discussed your plans to turn two of the spaces in building two, space 12 and space 11, into classrooms that will be for infants and one-year-old children. There is a fenced space that you will be using as your outdoor area for these two spaces. You stated that the fence company is coming to fix the fence by making the fence taller and making the storage building inaccessible to children on July 3, 2026. After these repairs have been made to the outdoor space, materials for play are added and the rooms are set up for care for infants and one-year-old children, email to set up a visit to approve these spaces for care by the Division. You stated today that Environmental Health, Fire and Building Inspectors have made a visit to approve these spaces for care. You stated that Environmental Health will need additional information once the spaces have the appropriate materials for care. During our visit, I suggested reviewing the child care rules and requirements for infant care. Today we discussed ensuring that the feeding schedules you plan on using will work for your facility. We discussed ensuring parents or guardians can discuss any changes within the feeding schedule with caregivers before they occur. Once the parents advise a caregiver that there will be changes to the feeding schedule, the feeding schedule will be updated by the parent. Today you stated that the caregivers are instructed to follow the wishes of the parents and that conversations will occur between the caregiver and the parents before there are any changes made to an infant’s feeding. It is important that the plan is updated as soon as the parent or guardian makes any changes. It is also important that the caregivers are following what the feeding schedule states. We also discussed the required information that must be written on the feeding schedule and the frequency that it must be updated. Today all your feeding schedules were up to date and contained all required information. However, we discussed that there will be some times when the schedule might not coincide with the daily request of the parents or guardians. For example, if the feeding schedule states that a child will eat at 8 am, 10 am and 2 pm however the parent or guardian comes in and states that the child just ate at 7:30 am and will not need a bottle for another one and a half hours, the feeding schedule would no longer be accurate. Today we suggested that you use the feeding schedule provided by DCDEE and that is available on the website. This form will ask parents or guardians for the frequency of the feeding instead of the exact time a feeding will be needed. Infants that cannot yet move around the room freely should still have access to the different materials in the room. Today I suggested that non-mobile infants have a basket of materials from the room that they can engage with while they enjoy time in an activity area. I also suggested that play mats that have hanging items could be used for younger infants as well. Reminder that all adults who provide care for infants 12 months or younger are required to be trained in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) risk reduction practices. The Infant/Toddler Safe Sleep and SIDS Risk Reduction in Child Care (ITS-SIDS) is the approved training. It prepares child care providers to follow their facility’s safe sleep policy. Child care centers licensed to care for infants 12 months and younger shall require child care administrators and all staff scheduled to work with infants, including volunteers counted in staff/child ratios, meet the following training requirements: Complete the ITS-SIDS training within 2 months of assuming responsibilities in the infant room, or within 90 days of assuming responsibility as a child care administrator. Complete the ITS-SIDS training again no more than 3 years from their previous ITS-SIDS training. At the completion of the visit, this summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If you have any questions, please contact me, Heather Elliott, Child Care Consultant at 910-364-8728/ heather.elliott@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Kim Sherry at 910-824-0470/ kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: HEATHER ELLIOTT Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/17/2026 Number Present: 99 Completed Date: 6/17/2026 Age: From 2 To 11 Total Minutes: 415 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 04:00 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. Your program currently operates with a 5-star license, issued February 20, 2022. Restrictions on your permit include a capacity of 233 children, ages 2-12 for daytime care only, meeting enhanced ratios, and enhanced space. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on July 9,2025. The sanitation inspection was completed on June 8, 2026, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on November 4, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. As of today, the program’s compliance history is 94%. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ELA Kidsnet Holdings, LLC, was listed as current-active. N. Farrar, director, was present and available for consultation during today’s visit. A. McPhaul, district manager, arrived and was available for consultation. Today 124 of children were enrolled and 99 children were present, ranging in age from 2- years of age. Today 7 of the approved spaces are being used for care. Spaces 1, 2, 3, 6, and 7 were closed. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions and personal care routines. In space 4 and 5, the school-aged children were on a field trip. Once children arrived back at the facility, they participated in lunch and free play activities. Activities included but not limited to coloring, playing games, and playing with different manipulative toys. In space 8, children were eating breakfast which consisted of cereal, bananas, and milk. In space 9, children were participating in free play. Activities included but not limited to building with blocks, making music, and dramatic play. In space 10, children were dancing to music on the carpet. In space 11, children were engaged in free play, which consisted of but not limited to playing with plastic insects, singing songs, painting and playing with manipulative blocks. In space 12, children were transitioning to free play. Children had the opportunity to choose an activity which included but not limited to building with the blocks, playing with Play-Doh, and playing in the dramatic play center. The caregivers were interacting with and meeting the developmental needs of each of the children. Staff/child ratios were in compliance, and all children were adequately supervised. Proper handwashing techniques and diaper changing procedures were observed. For lunch, ham and cheese wraps, diced carrots, applesauce, and milk were served. All new staff files and a selection of veteran staff files were reviewed today. 16 of the children files were reviewed today and found in compliance. The following violations were observed and documented during today’s visit. All violations must be corrected immediately. Violation Number Comment Rule 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. A fire drill was not recorded for the month of April 2026. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Miracle Gro potting mix was accessible to children on the school-age playground. Hand sanitizer was on the three buses accessible to children. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. Amoxicillin for a staff member's child was not in a locked container in the kitchen refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Two staff members were missing an annual health questionnaire on file. .0701(a) 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. Two staff members emergency information was not updated in the past year. .0701(a) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. Two children were missing a photograph in the transportation binder. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 1, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Heather Elliott, Child Care Consultant PO Box 161 Hampstead, NC 28443 heather.elliott@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE, this serves as your signature, and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Health Questionnaires and Emergency Contact Information were not updated on two of the staff members. One staff member was present today and filled out their health questionnaire and emergency contact information forms to ensure that the most updated information was on file. Today a staff member’s child’s prescription medication was found unlocked in the kitchen refrigerator. You stated that it will be removed immediately. Today I suggest reviewing the child care rules regarding medication with your staff members and your policy on medications at the facility. You stated that you do not administer medications, unless needed for chronic health condition. At this time, you do not have any children who are in need of such medication. For licensing, it is required to obtain written parental permission to give prescription and over-the-counter medication. Providers must obtain written permission and instructions for giving OTC and prescription medication from a health care and the child’s parent. Miracle Gro potting soil was found on the playground used by the school-aged children and hand sanitizer was found on the buses used to transport children that was accessible to children with a warning “Keep out of reach of children” was not 5 feet above the floor and were within reach of children. Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. A fire drill was not recorded for the month of April 2026. Fire drills shall be practiced monthly, and records shall be maintained as required. Records of monthly fire drills documenting the date and time of each drill, the length of time taken to evacuate the building, and the signature of the person who conducted the drill shall be available for review. Today I suggested marking a date on your calendar so that you can ensure that a fire drill is performed monthly. It may also help to plan these drills for different times of the day so children and staff can be prepared to evacuate no matter if activity or routine is taking place. Today two children who are being transported did not have a picture with their emergency information. You stated that the children just started last week and that the pictures will be updated by the teachers. When transporting children, there must be a picture of the child attached to the emergency information for that child. Today technical assistance was provided on how to ensure that each child that is transported has identifying information in the vehicle about each child being transported, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information, and a copy of the emergency medical care information form required by Rule .1721(a)(3). OR .1003(d). Today, we discussed your plans to turn two of the spaces in building two, space 12 and space 11, into classrooms that will be for infants and one-year-old children. There is a fenced space that you will be using as your outdoor area for these two spaces. You stated that the fence company is coming to fix the fence by making the fence taller and making the storage building inaccessible to children on July 3, 2026. After these repairs have been made to the outdoor space, materials for play are added and the rooms are set up for care for infants and one-year-old children, email to set up a visit to approve these spaces for care by the Division. You stated today that Environmental Health, Fire and Building Inspectors have made a visit to approve these spaces for care. You stated that Environmental Health will need additional information once the spaces have the appropriate materials for care. During our visit, I suggested reviewing the child care rules and requirements for infant care. Today we discussed ensuring that the feeding schedules you plan on using will work for your facility. We discussed ensuring parents or guardians can discuss any changes within the feeding schedule with caregivers before they occur. Once the parents advise a caregiver that there will be changes to the feeding schedule, the feeding schedule will be updated by the parent. Today you stated that the caregivers are instructed to follow the wishes of the parents and that conversations will occur between the caregiver and the parents before there are any changes made to an infant’s feeding. It is important that the plan is updated as soon as the parent or guardian makes any changes. It is also important that the caregivers are following what the feeding schedule states. We also discussed the required information that must be written on the feeding schedule and the frequency that it must be updated. Today all your feeding schedules were up to date and contained all required information. However, we discussed that there will be some times when the schedule might not coincide with the daily request of the parents or guardians. For example, if the feeding schedule states that a child will eat at 8 am, 10 am and 2 pm however the parent or guardian comes in and states that the child just ate at 7:30 am and will not need a bottle for another one and a half hours, the feeding schedule would no longer be accurate. Today we suggested that you use the feeding schedule provided by DCDEE and that is available on the website. This form will ask parents or guardians for the frequency of the feeding instead of the exact time a feeding will be needed. Infants that cannot yet move around the room freely should still have access to the different materials in the room. Today I suggested that non-mobile infants have a basket of materials from the room that they can engage with while they enjoy time in an activity area. I also suggested that play mats that have hanging items could be used for younger infants as well. Reminder that all adults who provide care for infants 12 months or younger are required to be trained in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) risk reduction practices. The Infant/Toddler Safe Sleep and SIDS Risk Reduction in Child Care (ITS-SIDS) is the approved training. It prepares child care providers to follow their facility’s safe sleep policy. Child care centers licensed to care for infants 12 months and younger shall require child care administrators and all staff scheduled to work with infants, including volunteers counted in staff/child ratios, meet the following training requirements: Complete the ITS-SIDS training within 2 months of assuming responsibilities in the infant room, or within 90 days of assuming responsibility as a child care administrator. Complete the ITS-SIDS training again no more than 3 years from their previous ITS-SIDS training. At the completion of the visit, this summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If you have any questions, please contact me, Heather Elliott, Child Care Consultant at 910-364-8728/ heather.elliott@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Kim Sherry at 910-824-0470/ kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: HEATHER ELLIOTT Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/4/2026 Number Present: 70 Completed Date: 3/4/2026 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. Your program currently operates with a 5-star license, issued February 20, 2022. Restrictions on your permit include capacity of 233 for first shift, age ranging from 2 to 12 years old, meets enhanced ratios and enhanced space. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on July 9, 2025. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 95% as of March 3, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and ELA KidsNet,LLC, was listed as current/active. Your last fire inspection was on November 6, 2025, approved for daytime care. Your last sanitation inspection was on November 6, 2025, with a Superior rating with 14 demerits. Chiquita Farrar, administrator, was present and available for consultation. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. There were 107 children enrolled and 70 children present, ages ranging from 2-12 years of age. Today seven out of the twelve approved indoor spaces were open for care today. You stated that building one is only caring for school-aged children at this time. Today children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions, and personal care routines. Each of the classrooms were arranged in centers including but not limited to dramatic play, blocks, manipulatives, and art. Space 8, children were cleaning up their centers and preparing to transition to the outside playground. The staff were helping the children with the transition by helping them with their jackets and singing songs. In space 9, children were playing in centers including but not limited to playing with baby dolls and cooking in housekeeping, rolling and playing with cars, and reading books laying on the pillows in book center. In space 10, children were playing with musical instruments, magnetic tiles, building with blocks, and reading books. In space 11, children were transitioning to outside from group time. Transition was observed and the staff counted the children as they exited the classroom and entered the playground. In space 12, children were playing outside on the playground, participating in playing on the climbing structure, playing and making mud/pine straw pies, and running playing tag. The staff were interacting on the children’s level, asking questions, and meeting the developmental needs of each of the children. Lunch was observed today. Ham and cheese sandwiches, sweet potatoes, tropical fruit and milk were served. Toileting and handwashing procedures were observed and in compliance. You stated that you no longer have NC Pre-K at this facility at this time. Files for all new staff members have been reviewed and found in compliance. During today’s visit child care requirements were monitored for compliance including supervision, staff/child ratios, CPR and First Aid, Criminal Background Checks, storage of hazardous materials, storage of medications, approved space, and other applicable requirements. The following violations were observed and documented today. All violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is always required. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On both playgrounds surfacing beside sidewalks has eroded away. On front playground surfacing around climbing structure has three holes. On front playground surfacing underneath fence by back door has washed away exposing the bottom of the fence. On both playgrounds tree roots are exposed. On front playground, a broken table is assessable to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In space 9 and 12, outlets were left uncovered accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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 violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 18, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Heather Elliott, Child Care Consultant PO Box 161 Hampstead, NC 28443 910-364-8728 If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Outdoors- Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604 (p) SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS states that once a day, prior to initial use, the indoor and outdoor premises shall be checked for debris, vandalism, and broken equipment. Debris shall be removed and disposed of. Today on the front school-age children’s playground, the surfacing around the climbing structure has begun to develop three holes. There is a big hole by the backdoors that does not allow proper drainage. On both playgrounds, add surfacing to the area beside the sidewalk where it has washed away as this is a tripping hazard for children. Also add surfacing to the school-age front playground around the fence by the back doors as the bottom has begun to wash away and become exposed. On both playgrounds consider adding additional surfacing to the visible roots to cover them completely or spray painting them a bright color to make them more noticeable. Remove the broken table from the school-age playground. Before the children enter the outdoor area each day, you must take time to observe the outdoor area and ensure there are no safety hazards or debris in the area. If there are any hazards, they must be addressed before children can enter the area. Outlets- It's crucial to cover electrical outlets in North Carolina childcare settings to prevent severe electric shocks, burns, and potential fatalities from children sticking metal objects (keys, paper clips) or fingers into sockets, a common curiosity hazard that can cause serious injury or death, with Tamper-Resistant Receptacles (TRRs) being the best permanent solution, according to NC DHHS and ESFI. Today we discussed keeping extra electrical outlet covers in each classroom. QRIS- Today you stated that you are going to be choosing Pathway 1- Program Assessment in June 2026. We reviewed the components common to Pathways 1: Program Assessment. Any staff person who will be evaluated as part of the Lead Teachers or Other Educators needs to register for a Works account and submit original, official transcripts or update their current Works account and submit new education. We walked through the Individual and Facility Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) forms (individual and center). You will complete the complete the center form for your facility and an Individual CQI annually. (This will also count as your Professional Development Plan) Maintain these in your staff files. We reviewed the Family and Community Engagement Plan. We reviewed the Foundational Practices. Ensure that they are included in the parent handbook Consider creating a notebook to collect documentation of the practices including pictures, flyers, newsletters, emails, etc. Pathway 1 – Program Assessment: You will complete a 3-month ERS Self-Study. We discussed information available on the NC Rated License Assessment website, www.ncrlap.org,including training and forms for the three-month self-study and other resources (videos, documents, live and recorded training) and opportunities for an Outreach Assessment. To request Outreach Assessment - Email ncrlap@uncg.edu or call 1-866-362-7527. When the 3-month self-study is completed, you will complete and submit the Self-Study Verification Form. We discussed also consider reaching out to One Place for resources to help during this process. CLEAN WATER FOR CAROLINA KIDS- Your facility’s status, according to Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: Water Testing- Completed on April 24, 2024. Water testing must be completed every three years. Lead-Based Paint- Completed on June 20, 2024, completed with no identified hazards. Asbestos- Completed on June 3, 2024, with no identified hazards. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, the visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If you have any questions contact me at heather.elliott@dhhs.nc.gov / 910-364-8728 or my supervisor Kim Sherry, kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov / 910-824-0470. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: HEATHER ELLIOTT Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/4/2026 Number Present: 70 Completed Date: 3/4/2026 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. Your program currently operates with a 5-star license, issued February 20, 2022. Restrictions on your permit include capacity of 233 for first shift, age ranging from 2 to 12 years old, meets enhanced ratios and enhanced space. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on July 9, 2025. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 95% as of March 3, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and ELA KidsNet,LLC, was listed as current/active. Your last fire inspection was on November 6, 2025, approved for daytime care. Your last sanitation inspection was on November 6, 2025, with a Superior rating with 14 demerits. Chiquita Farrar, administrator, was present and available for consultation. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. There were 107 children enrolled and 70 children present, ages ranging from 2-12 years of age. Today seven out of the twelve approved indoor spaces were open for care today. You stated that building one is only caring for school-aged children at this time. Today children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions, and personal care routines. Each of the classrooms were arranged in centers including but not limited to dramatic play, blocks, manipulatives, and art. Space 8, children were cleaning up their centers and preparing to transition to the outside playground. The staff were helping the children with the transition by helping them with their jackets and singing songs. In space 9, children were playing in centers including but not limited to playing with baby dolls and cooking in housekeeping, rolling and playing with cars, and reading books laying on the pillows in book center. In space 10, children were playing with musical instruments, magnetic tiles, building with blocks, and reading books. In space 11, children were transitioning to outside from group time. Transition was observed and the staff counted the children as they exited the classroom and entered the playground. In space 12, children were playing outside on the playground, participating in playing on the climbing structure, playing and making mud/pine straw pies, and running playing tag. The staff were interacting on the children’s level, asking questions, and meeting the developmental needs of each of the children. Lunch was observed today. Ham and cheese sandwiches, sweet potatoes, tropical fruit and milk were served. Toileting and handwashing procedures were observed and in compliance. You stated that you no longer have NC Pre-K at this facility at this time. Files for all new staff members have been reviewed and found in compliance. During today’s visit child care requirements were monitored for compliance including supervision, staff/child ratios, CPR and First Aid, Criminal Background Checks, storage of hazardous materials, storage of medications, approved space, and other applicable requirements. The following violations were observed and documented today. All violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is always required. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On both playgrounds surfacing beside sidewalks has eroded away. On front playground surfacing around climbing structure has three holes. On front playground surfacing underneath fence by back door has washed away exposing the bottom of the fence. On both playgrounds tree roots are exposed. On front playground, a broken table is assessable to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In space 9 and 12, outlets were left uncovered accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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 violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 18, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Heather Elliott, Child Care Consultant PO Box 161 Hampstead, NC 28443 910-364-8728 If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Outdoors- Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604 (p) SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS states that once a day, prior to initial use, the indoor and outdoor premises shall be checked for debris, vandalism, and broken equipment. Debris shall be removed and disposed of. Today on the front school-age children’s playground, the surfacing around the climbing structure has begun to develop three holes. There is a big hole by the backdoors that does not allow proper drainage. On both playgrounds, add surfacing to the area beside the sidewalk where it has washed away as this is a tripping hazard for children. Also add surfacing to the school-age front playground around the fence by the back doors as the bottom has begun to wash away and become exposed. On both playgrounds consider adding additional surfacing to the visible roots to cover them completely or spray painting them a bright color to make them more noticeable. Remove the broken table from the school-age playground. Before the children enter the outdoor area each day, you must take time to observe the outdoor area and ensure there are no safety hazards or debris in the area. If there are any hazards, they must be addressed before children can enter the area. Outlets- It's crucial to cover electrical outlets in North Carolina childcare settings to prevent severe electric shocks, burns, and potential fatalities from children sticking metal objects (keys, paper clips) or fingers into sockets, a common curiosity hazard that can cause serious injury or death, with Tamper-Resistant Receptacles (TRRs) being the best permanent solution, according to NC DHHS and ESFI. Today we discussed keeping extra electrical outlet covers in each classroom. QRIS- Today you stated that you are going to be choosing Pathway 1- Program Assessment in June 2026. We reviewed the components common to Pathways 1: Program Assessment. Any staff person who will be evaluated as part of the Lead Teachers or Other Educators needs to register for a Works account and submit original, official transcripts or update their current Works account and submit new education. We walked through the Individual and Facility Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) forms (individual and center). You will complete the complete the center form for your facility and an Individual CQI annually. (This will also count as your Professional Development Plan) Maintain these in your staff files. We reviewed the Family and Community Engagement Plan. We reviewed the Foundational Practices. Ensure that they are included in the parent handbook Consider creating a notebook to collect documentation of the practices including pictures, flyers, newsletters, emails, etc. Pathway 1 – Program Assessment: You will complete a 3-month ERS Self-Study. We discussed information available on the NC Rated License Assessment website, www.ncrlap.org,including training and forms for the three-month self-study and other resources (videos, documents, live and recorded training) and opportunities for an Outreach Assessment. To request Outreach Assessment - Email ncrlap@uncg.edu or call 1-866-362-7527. When the 3-month self-study is completed, you will complete and submit the Self-Study Verification Form. We discussed also consider reaching out to One Place for resources to help during this process. CLEAN WATER FOR CAROLINA KIDS- Your facility’s status, according to Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: Water Testing- Completed on April 24, 2024. Water testing must be completed every three years. Lead-Based Paint- Completed on June 20, 2024, completed with no identified hazards. Asbestos- Completed on June 3, 2024, with no identified hazards. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, the visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If you have any questions contact me at heather.elliott@dhhs.nc.gov / 910-364-8728 or my supervisor Kim Sherry, kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov / 910-824-0470. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: HEATHER ELLIOTT Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/4/2026 Number Present: 70 Completed Date: 3/4/2026 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. Your program currently operates with a 5-star license, issued February 20, 2022. Restrictions on your permit include capacity of 233 for first shift, age ranging from 2 to 12 years old, meets enhanced ratios and enhanced space. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on July 9, 2025. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 95% as of March 3, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and ELA KidsNet,LLC, was listed as current/active. Your last fire inspection was on November 6, 2025, approved for daytime care. Your last sanitation inspection was on November 6, 2025, with a Superior rating with 14 demerits. Chiquita Farrar, administrator, was present and available for consultation. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. There were 107 children enrolled and 70 children present, ages ranging from 2-12 years of age. Today seven out of the twelve approved indoor spaces were open for care today. You stated that building one is only caring for school-aged children at this time. Today children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions, and personal care routines. Each of the classrooms were arranged in centers including but not limited to dramatic play, blocks, manipulatives, and art. Space 8, children were cleaning up their centers and preparing to transition to the outside playground. The staff were helping the children with the transition by helping them with their jackets and singing songs. In space 9, children were playing in centers including but not limited to playing with baby dolls and cooking in housekeeping, rolling and playing with cars, and reading books laying on the pillows in book center. In space 10, children were playing with musical instruments, magnetic tiles, building with blocks, and reading books. In space 11, children were transitioning to outside from group time. Transition was observed and the staff counted the children as they exited the classroom and entered the playground. In space 12, children were playing outside on the playground, participating in playing on the climbing structure, playing and making mud/pine straw pies, and running playing tag. The staff were interacting on the children’s level, asking questions, and meeting the developmental needs of each of the children. Lunch was observed today. Ham and cheese sandwiches, sweet potatoes, tropical fruit and milk were served. Toileting and handwashing procedures were observed and in compliance. You stated that you no longer have NC Pre-K at this facility at this time. Files for all new staff members have been reviewed and found in compliance. During today’s visit child care requirements were monitored for compliance including supervision, staff/child ratios, CPR and First Aid, Criminal Background Checks, storage of hazardous materials, storage of medications, approved space, and other applicable requirements. The following violations were observed and documented today. All violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is always required. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On both playgrounds surfacing beside sidewalks has eroded away. On front playground surfacing around climbing structure has three holes. On front playground surfacing underneath fence by back door has washed away exposing the bottom of the fence. On both playgrounds tree roots are exposed. On front playground, a broken table is assessable to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In space 9 and 12, outlets were left uncovered accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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 violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 18, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Heather Elliott, Child Care Consultant PO Box 161 Hampstead, NC 28443 910-364-8728 If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Outdoors- Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604 (p) SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS states that once a day, prior to initial use, the indoor and outdoor premises shall be checked for debris, vandalism, and broken equipment. Debris shall be removed and disposed of. Today on the front school-age children’s playground, the surfacing around the climbing structure has begun to develop three holes. There is a big hole by the backdoors that does not allow proper drainage. On both playgrounds, add surfacing to the area beside the sidewalk where it has washed away as this is a tripping hazard for children. Also add surfacing to the school-age front playground around the fence by the back doors as the bottom has begun to wash away and become exposed. On both playgrounds consider adding additional surfacing to the visible roots to cover them completely or spray painting them a bright color to make them more noticeable. Remove the broken table from the school-age playground. Before the children enter the outdoor area each day, you must take time to observe the outdoor area and ensure there are no safety hazards or debris in the area. If there are any hazards, they must be addressed before children can enter the area. Outlets- It's crucial to cover electrical outlets in North Carolina childcare settings to prevent severe electric shocks, burns, and potential fatalities from children sticking metal objects (keys, paper clips) or fingers into sockets, a common curiosity hazard that can cause serious injury or death, with Tamper-Resistant Receptacles (TRRs) being the best permanent solution, according to NC DHHS and ESFI. Today we discussed keeping extra electrical outlet covers in each classroom. QRIS- Today you stated that you are going to be choosing Pathway 1- Program Assessment in June 2026. We reviewed the components common to Pathways 1: Program Assessment. Any staff person who will be evaluated as part of the Lead Teachers or Other Educators needs to register for a Works account and submit original, official transcripts or update their current Works account and submit new education. We walked through the Individual and Facility Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) forms (individual and center). You will complete the complete the center form for your facility and an Individual CQI annually. (This will also count as your Professional Development Plan) Maintain these in your staff files. We reviewed the Family and Community Engagement Plan. We reviewed the Foundational Practices. Ensure that they are included in the parent handbook Consider creating a notebook to collect documentation of the practices including pictures, flyers, newsletters, emails, etc. Pathway 1 – Program Assessment: You will complete a 3-month ERS Self-Study. We discussed information available on the NC Rated License Assessment website, www.ncrlap.org,including training and forms for the three-month self-study and other resources (videos, documents, live and recorded training) and opportunities for an Outreach Assessment. To request Outreach Assessment - Email ncrlap@uncg.edu or call 1-866-362-7527. When the 3-month self-study is completed, you will complete and submit the Self-Study Verification Form. We discussed also consider reaching out to One Place for resources to help during this process. CLEAN WATER FOR CAROLINA KIDS- Your facility’s status, according to Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: Water Testing- Completed on April 24, 2024. Water testing must be completed every three years. Lead-Based Paint- Completed on June 20, 2024, completed with no identified hazards. Asbestos- Completed on June 3, 2024, with no identified hazards. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, the visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If you have any questions contact me at heather.elliott@dhhs.nc.gov / 910-364-8728 or my supervisor Kim Sherry, kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov / 910-824-0470. 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: HEATHER ELLIOTT Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/4/2026 Number Present: 70 Completed Date: 3/4/2026 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. Your program currently operates with a 5-star license, issued February 20, 2022. Restrictions on your permit include capacity of 233 for first shift, age ranging from 2 to 12 years old, meets enhanced ratios and enhanced space. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on July 9, 2025. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 95% as of March 3, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and ELA KidsNet,LLC, was listed as current/active. Your last fire inspection was on November 6, 2025, approved for daytime care. Your last sanitation inspection was on November 6, 2025, with a Superior rating with 14 demerits. Chiquita Farrar, administrator, was present and available for consultation. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. There were 107 children enrolled and 70 children present, ages ranging from 2-12 years of age. Today seven out of the twelve approved indoor spaces were open for care today. You stated that building one is only caring for school-aged children at this time. Today children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions, and personal care routines. Each of the classrooms were arranged in centers including but not limited to dramatic play, blocks, manipulatives, and art. Space 8, children were cleaning up their centers and preparing to transition to the outside playground. The staff were helping the children with the transition by helping them with their jackets and singing songs. In space 9, children were playing in centers including but not limited to playing with baby dolls and cooking in housekeeping, rolling and playing with cars, and reading books laying on the pillows in book center. In space 10, children were playing with musical instruments, magnetic tiles, building with blocks, and reading books. In space 11, children were transitioning to outside from group time. Transition was observed and the staff counted the children as they exited the classroom and entered the playground. In space 12, children were playing outside on the playground, participating in playing on the climbing structure, playing and making mud/pine straw pies, and running playing tag. The staff were interacting on the children’s level, asking questions, and meeting the developmental needs of each of the children. Lunch was observed today. Ham and cheese sandwiches, sweet potatoes, tropical fruit and milk were served. Toileting and handwashing procedures were observed and in compliance. You stated that you no longer have NC Pre-K at this facility at this time. Files for all new staff members have been reviewed and found in compliance. During today’s visit child care requirements were monitored for compliance including supervision, staff/child ratios, CPR and First Aid, Criminal Background Checks, storage of hazardous materials, storage of medications, approved space, and other applicable requirements. The following violations were observed and documented today. All violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is always required. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On both playgrounds surfacing beside sidewalks has eroded away. On front playground surfacing around climbing structure has three holes. On front playground surfacing underneath fence by back door has washed away exposing the bottom of the fence. On both playgrounds tree roots are exposed. On front playground, a broken table is assessable to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In space 9 and 12, outlets were left uncovered accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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 violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 18, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Heather Elliott, Child Care Consultant PO Box 161 Hampstead, NC 28443 910-364-8728 If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Outdoors- Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604 (p) SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS states that once a day, prior to initial use, the indoor and outdoor premises shall be checked for debris, vandalism, and broken equipment. Debris shall be removed and disposed of. Today on the front school-age children’s playground, the surfacing around the climbing structure has begun to develop three holes. There is a big hole by the backdoors that does not allow proper drainage. On both playgrounds, add surfacing to the area beside the sidewalk where it has washed away as this is a tripping hazard for children. Also add surfacing to the school-age front playground around the fence by the back doors as the bottom has begun to wash away and become exposed. On both playgrounds consider adding additional surfacing to the visible roots to cover them completely or spray painting them a bright color to make them more noticeable. Remove the broken table from the school-age playground. Before the children enter the outdoor area each day, you must take time to observe the outdoor area and ensure there are no safety hazards or debris in the area. If there are any hazards, they must be addressed before children can enter the area. Outlets- It's crucial to cover electrical outlets in North Carolina childcare settings to prevent severe electric shocks, burns, and potential fatalities from children sticking metal objects (keys, paper clips) or fingers into sockets, a common curiosity hazard that can cause serious injury or death, with Tamper-Resistant Receptacles (TRRs) being the best permanent solution, according to NC DHHS and ESFI. Today we discussed keeping extra electrical outlet covers in each classroom. QRIS- Today you stated that you are going to be choosing Pathway 1- Program Assessment in June 2026. We reviewed the components common to Pathways 1: Program Assessment. Any staff person who will be evaluated as part of the Lead Teachers or Other Educators needs to register for a Works account and submit original, official transcripts or update their current Works account and submit new education. We walked through the Individual and Facility Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) forms (individual and center). You will complete the complete the center form for your facility and an Individual CQI annually. (This will also count as your Professional Development Plan) Maintain these in your staff files. We reviewed the Family and Community Engagement Plan. We reviewed the Foundational Practices. Ensure that they are included in the parent handbook Consider creating a notebook to collect documentation of the practices including pictures, flyers, newsletters, emails, etc. Pathway 1 – Program Assessment: You will complete a 3-month ERS Self-Study. We discussed information available on the NC Rated License Assessment website, www.ncrlap.org,including training and forms for the three-month self-study and other resources (videos, documents, live and recorded training) and opportunities for an Outreach Assessment. To request Outreach Assessment - Email ncrlap@uncg.edu or call 1-866-362-7527. When the 3-month self-study is completed, you will complete and submit the Self-Study Verification Form. We discussed also consider reaching out to One Place for resources to help during this process. CLEAN WATER FOR CAROLINA KIDS- Your facility’s status, according to Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: Water Testing- Completed on April 24, 2024. Water testing must be completed every three years. Lead-Based Paint- Completed on June 20, 2024, completed with no identified hazards. Asbestos- Completed on June 3, 2024, with no identified hazards. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, the visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If you have any questions contact me at heather.elliott@dhhs.nc.gov / 910-364-8728 or my supervisor Kim Sherry, kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov / 910-824-0470. 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: ANDREA JOHNSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/9/2025 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 7/9/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 01:25 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 compliance with applicable childcare requirements pertinent to an annual compliance visit. Your program currently operates with a 5-Star license issued February 20, 2022. Due to travel time, I arrived at your facility at 9:15am. The last annual compliance was conducted on July 17, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed May 27, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on November 6, 2024. Your facility was approved for 1st shift care and the facility meets enhanced ratios and enhanced space. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-six (96) percent as of July 9, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on July 9, 2025, and ELA KidsNet, LLC was listed as current-active. Administrator, Chiquita Farrar, was present and available for consultation. Ninety-eight (98) children, between the ages of zero (0) and eleven (11) years old are enrolled and sixty-five (65) were present today. There are twelve (12) approved indoor spaces and three (3) approved outdoor spaces. At least five (5) activity areas including language, blocks, manipulatives, dramatic play, and art were available in the classroom. Age-appropriate materials and activities were provided for all children. All staff members were adequately supervising and engaging with the children. Preschool children in the indoor space were engaged in a variety of free play activities which included coloring with markers, magnetic shapes, cooking, wooden blocks, small and large legos, gluing paper pieces, and gears. Preschool children observed in the outdoor spaces were running, riding tricycles, bouncing balls, kicking balls, and climbing. School age children were gone on fieldtrips to Onslow Pines Park and the Splash Pad. Lunch today consisted of turkey wraps, green beans, sliced apples, and milk. Transportation logs, routine toileting, handwashing, and food service procedures were monitored, and requirements were met. Health and safety trainings were monitored. Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. There was chipped paint on the walls in indoor spaces #3, #5, #6, and #10. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 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 violations documented may impact the compliance history score. Any violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before Wednesday, July 23, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Andrea Johnson, Child Care Consultant andrea.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov PO Box 904 Beaufort, NC 28516 252-732-0183 If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Chipped Paint: For the safety of the children, ensure that wall areas that have chipped paint are sanded and repainted. Chipped paint could be harmful if ingested by a child. Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids: Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on April 24, 2024. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint-Exempt • Asbestos-Exempt/No Asbestos Hazards Identified Moodle Helpful Hints: 1. When on the Moodle homepage, scroll down past the three-square boxes to find directions to self-register for various training opportunities. 2. If you do not access a training opportunity for 150 days, the training will be suspended. To regain access, email a request to set status to “active” including the name of the training course to dcdee_moodle_support@dhhs.nc.gov. Send any questions about DCDEE Moodle trainings to dcdee_moodle_support@dhhs.nc.gov. Tips for MY NCID Users: Did you know that if you do not log in to any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you every 6 months to login and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. Reminders: Staff Qualifications: Staff member, E. Nix, needs to update her Criminal Background Check Qualifying Letter on or before August 21, 2025. For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed with you, emailed to you, copies printed and signed. As we discussed, this computer-generated visit summary serves as completion of the annual compliance visit. If you have any questions and/or concerns, you have my contact information. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: ANDREA JOHNSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/9/2025 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 7/9/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 01:25 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 compliance with applicable childcare requirements pertinent to an annual compliance visit. Your program currently operates with a 5-Star license issued February 20, 2022. Due to travel time, I arrived at your facility at 9:15am. The last annual compliance was conducted on July 17, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed May 27, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on November 6, 2024. Your facility was approved for 1st shift care and the facility meets enhanced ratios and enhanced space. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-six (96) percent as of July 9, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on July 9, 2025, and ELA KidsNet, LLC was listed as current-active. Administrator, Chiquita Farrar, was present and available for consultation. Ninety-eight (98) children, between the ages of zero (0) and eleven (11) years old are enrolled and sixty-five (65) were present today. There are twelve (12) approved indoor spaces and three (3) approved outdoor spaces. At least five (5) activity areas including language, blocks, manipulatives, dramatic play, and art were available in the classroom. Age-appropriate materials and activities were provided for all children. All staff members were adequately supervising and engaging with the children. Preschool children in the indoor space were engaged in a variety of free play activities which included coloring with markers, magnetic shapes, cooking, wooden blocks, small and large legos, gluing paper pieces, and gears. Preschool children observed in the outdoor spaces were running, riding tricycles, bouncing balls, kicking balls, and climbing. School age children were gone on fieldtrips to Onslow Pines Park and the Splash Pad. Lunch today consisted of turkey wraps, green beans, sliced apples, and milk. Transportation logs, routine toileting, handwashing, and food service procedures were monitored, and requirements were met. Health and safety trainings were monitored. Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. There was chipped paint on the walls in indoor spaces #3, #5, #6, and #10. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 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 violations documented may impact the compliance history score. Any violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before Wednesday, July 23, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Andrea Johnson, Child Care Consultant andrea.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov PO Box 904 Beaufort, NC 28516 252-732-0183 If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Chipped Paint: For the safety of the children, ensure that wall areas that have chipped paint are sanded and repainted. Chipped paint could be harmful if ingested by a child. Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids: Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on April 24, 2024. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint-Exempt • Asbestos-Exempt/No Asbestos Hazards Identified Moodle Helpful Hints: 1. When on the Moodle homepage, scroll down past the three-square boxes to find directions to self-register for various training opportunities. 2. If you do not access a training opportunity for 150 days, the training will be suspended. To regain access, email a request to set status to “active” including the name of the training course to dcdee_moodle_support@dhhs.nc.gov. Send any questions about DCDEE Moodle trainings to dcdee_moodle_support@dhhs.nc.gov. Tips for MY NCID Users: Did you know that if you do not log in to any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you every 6 months to login and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. Reminders: Staff Qualifications: Staff member, E. Nix, needs to update her Criminal Background Check Qualifying Letter on or before August 21, 2025. For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed with you, emailed to you, copies printed and signed. As we discussed, this computer-generated visit summary serves as completion of the annual compliance visit. If you have any questions and/or concerns, you have my contact information. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: KIM SHERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0525-236L Visit Date: 5/21/2025 Number Present: 76 Completed Date: 5/21/2025 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 190 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 01:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violation of child care requirements. The allegation is as follows: Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. This program currently operates with a 5 Star License, issued February 20, 2022. The restrictions listed are as follows: 1st shift only, meets enhanced ratios and space, age range approved is 2 through 12 years with a capacity of 233. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on April 2, 2024, and Ela KidsNet Holdings, LLC was listed as current- active. You, Nicole Farrar, Center Administrator, Ellen Nix, Assistant Administrator, and Aubrie McPhaul, District Manager, were present during today’s visit. Staff/child ratio, discipline, group size, supervision, use of licensed space capacity, and license restrictions were monitored. Children were observed engaged in a variety of activities indoors and outdoors. Outdoors, children were running around, playing in the dirt, and playing on the climbers. Indoors, children were dancing during a circle time activity, engaged in free play activities such as playing with people, pushing cars and trucks, building with wood and cardboard blocks, connecting color tiles, and other activities. One group was preparing for lunch. Investigation: I discussed the allegations with you and four other staff members, and you all were given the opportunity to state your perceptions. The facility does not currently have a video camera system, but a snippet of a video was available and reviewed of the incident. Findings: Allegation- Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. You stated on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at approximately 5:15pm, there was an incident that occurred between a staff member, (A Mitchell) and a parent of a three-year-old, on playground space #2. You explained there were three staff members on the playground with approximately 12 children, ranging in age from two- to five-year-olds. A parent arrived to pick up her child, who had been crying, and the child and the parent walked inside the building. Soon, they returned to the playground, and confronted Ms. Mitchell. The parent asked Ms. Mitchell, “What did you do to my child”. Ms. Mitchell stated, “I didn’t do anything to your child” and the verbal exchange began between the two adults. The parent stated her child told her Ms. Mitchell grabbed their hand. A second teacher placed herself between the two adults to attempt to de-escalate the exchange while the third teacher called for administration to come to the playground while moving the other children to another area on the playground. Two administrators came to the playground and de-escalated the verbal exchange as one administrator had the parent move to a classroom while the second administrator had the staff member move to another classroom. All staff members stated there was not a physical exchange between the two adults; although, the incident occurred in front of the children. The parent and child left the premises, and the administrative staff asked Ms. Mitchell to leave for the day. One of the administrators that observed the exchange stated there was not any physical exchange but feels there are personal issues between the two adults. One of the staff members on the playground explained the child was crying when the parent arrived to pick up. This staff member stated the child had been climbing and hanging on the side of the steps on the large climber. She had asked the child to get down, but the child refused. Another staff member, Ms. Mitchell, walked over and asked the child to get down as it was not safe, and the child ignored the request. Ms. Mitchell picked the child up around their torso and moved the child to the ground. Ms. Mitchell walked the child over the pillow area and asked the child to sit down for two minutes as the child was not listening, and the action was not safe. The child began to cry, that’s when the parent arrived and the verbal exchange occurred. Staff members interviewed stated they have never seen Ms. Mitchell, or any other staff member inappropriately handle or discipline a child. The statements from the other staff members interviewed concurred with the above information. Ms. McPhaul explained Ms. Mitchell resigned effective May 20, 2025. The child has been present this week but the child’s last day of care is May 23, 2025. The parent may not be on the premises, as she had to designate another individual to drop off and pick up the child. I conducted a walk through and observations in all classrooms and playgrounds. Children were visually supervised and appropriately disciplined. Staff were engaged with the children. Based on today’s investigation, staff member’s information, and the reporter’s information, this allegation is Confirmed. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. On May 15, 2025, a staff member responded to an upset parent by yelling in front of the parents three-year-old child along with other children present on the playground. G.S. 110-91(10) On or before May 31, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violation was corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Based on a Substantiated complaint, an administrative action may be issued. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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. Technical Assistance for Violation Cited: A violation was documented related to nurture, care and treatment in GS 110-91(10)- Children must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. On May 15, 2025, a staff member, Ms. Williams, responded to an upset parent by yelling in front of the parent’s child along with other children present on the playground. Each child should be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child’s developmental needs. This should occur at all times when children are in care. Discuss with staff members it is important for the teacher to remain calm and composed, avoiding getting upset or retaliating in kind; prioritize maintaining a professional demeanor and focus on resolving the issue constructively. Since the incident, you along with other Excel administrative staff have investigated and documented the information and specifics of the exchange. You stated on tomorrow, May 22, 2025, you plan to review the policies related to professionalism, harassment, and retaliation and have each staff member sign a statement acknowledging their understanding. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed and signed by you. You may contact me, Kim Sherry at 910-824-1143 or Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: KIM SHERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0525-236L Visit Date: 5/21/2025 Number Present: 76 Completed Date: 5/21/2025 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 190 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 01:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violation of child care requirements. The allegation is as follows: Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. This program currently operates with a 5 Star License, issued February 20, 2022. The restrictions listed are as follows: 1st shift only, meets enhanced ratios and space, age range approved is 2 through 12 years with a capacity of 233. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on April 2, 2024, and Ela KidsNet Holdings, LLC was listed as current- active. You, Nicole Farrar, Center Administrator, Ellen Nix, Assistant Administrator, and Aubrie McPhaul, District Manager, were present during today’s visit. Staff/child ratio, discipline, group size, supervision, use of licensed space capacity, and license restrictions were monitored. Children were observed engaged in a variety of activities indoors and outdoors. Outdoors, children were running around, playing in the dirt, and playing on the climbers. Indoors, children were dancing during a circle time activity, engaged in free play activities such as playing with people, pushing cars and trucks, building with wood and cardboard blocks, connecting color tiles, and other activities. One group was preparing for lunch. Investigation: I discussed the allegations with you and four other staff members, and you all were given the opportunity to state your perceptions. The facility does not currently have a video camera system, but a snippet of a video was available and reviewed of the incident. Findings: Allegation- Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. You stated on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at approximately 5:15pm, there was an incident that occurred between a staff member, (A Mitchell) and a parent of a three-year-old, on playground space #2. You explained there were three staff members on the playground with approximately 12 children, ranging in age from two- to five-year-olds. A parent arrived to pick up her child, who had been crying, and the child and the parent walked inside the building. Soon, they returned to the playground, and confronted Ms. Mitchell. The parent asked Ms. Mitchell, “What did you do to my child”. Ms. Mitchell stated, “I didn’t do anything to your child” and the verbal exchange began between the two adults. The parent stated her child told her Ms. Mitchell grabbed their hand. A second teacher placed herself between the two adults to attempt to de-escalate the exchange while the third teacher called for administration to come to the playground while moving the other children to another area on the playground. Two administrators came to the playground and de-escalated the verbal exchange as one administrator had the parent move to a classroom while the second administrator had the staff member move to another classroom. All staff members stated there was not a physical exchange between the two adults; although, the incident occurred in front of the children. The parent and child left the premises, and the administrative staff asked Ms. Mitchell to leave for the day. One of the administrators that observed the exchange stated there was not any physical exchange but feels there are personal issues between the two adults. One of the staff members on the playground explained the child was crying when the parent arrived to pick up. This staff member stated the child had been climbing and hanging on the side of the steps on the large climber. She had asked the child to get down, but the child refused. Another staff member, Ms. Mitchell, walked over and asked the child to get down as it was not safe, and the child ignored the request. Ms. Mitchell picked the child up around their torso and moved the child to the ground. Ms. Mitchell walked the child over the pillow area and asked the child to sit down for two minutes as the child was not listening, and the action was not safe. The child began to cry, that’s when the parent arrived and the verbal exchange occurred. Staff members interviewed stated they have never seen Ms. Mitchell, or any other staff member inappropriately handle or discipline a child. The statements from the other staff members interviewed concurred with the above information. Ms. McPhaul explained Ms. Mitchell resigned effective May 20, 2025. The child has been present this week but the child’s last day of care is May 23, 2025. The parent may not be on the premises, as she had to designate another individual to drop off and pick up the child. I conducted a walk through and observations in all classrooms and playgrounds. Children were visually supervised and appropriately disciplined. Staff were engaged with the children. Based on today’s investigation, staff member’s information, and the reporter’s information, this allegation is Confirmed. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. On May 15, 2025, a staff member responded to an upset parent by yelling in front of the parents three-year-old child along with other children present on the playground. G.S. 110-91(10) On or before May 31, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violation was corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Based on a Substantiated complaint, an administrative action may be issued. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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. Technical Assistance for Violation Cited: A violation was documented related to nurture, care and treatment in GS 110-91(10)- Children must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. On May 15, 2025, a staff member, Ms. Williams, responded to an upset parent by yelling in front of the parent’s child along with other children present on the playground. Each child should be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child’s developmental needs. This should occur at all times when children are in care. Discuss with staff members it is important for the teacher to remain calm and composed, avoiding getting upset or retaliating in kind; prioritize maintaining a professional demeanor and focus on resolving the issue constructively. Since the incident, you along with other Excel administrative staff have investigated and documented the information and specifics of the exchange. You stated on tomorrow, May 22, 2025, you plan to review the policies related to professionalism, harassment, and retaliation and have each staff member sign a statement acknowledging their understanding. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed and signed by you. You may contact me, Kim Sherry at 910-824-1143 or Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: KIM SHERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0525-236L Visit Date: 5/21/2025 Number Present: 76 Completed Date: 5/21/2025 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 190 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 01:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violation of child care requirements. The allegation is as follows: Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. This program currently operates with a 5 Star License, issued February 20, 2022. The restrictions listed are as follows: 1st shift only, meets enhanced ratios and space, age range approved is 2 through 12 years with a capacity of 233. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on April 2, 2024, and Ela KidsNet Holdings, LLC was listed as current- active. You, Nicole Farrar, Center Administrator, Ellen Nix, Assistant Administrator, and Aubrie McPhaul, District Manager, were present during today’s visit. Staff/child ratio, discipline, group size, supervision, use of licensed space capacity, and license restrictions were monitored. Children were observed engaged in a variety of activities indoors and outdoors. Outdoors, children were running around, playing in the dirt, and playing on the climbers. Indoors, children were dancing during a circle time activity, engaged in free play activities such as playing with people, pushing cars and trucks, building with wood and cardboard blocks, connecting color tiles, and other activities. One group was preparing for lunch. Investigation: I discussed the allegations with you and four other staff members, and you all were given the opportunity to state your perceptions. The facility does not currently have a video camera system, but a snippet of a video was available and reviewed of the incident. Findings: Allegation- Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. You stated on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at approximately 5:15pm, there was an incident that occurred between a staff member, (A Mitchell) and a parent of a three-year-old, on playground space #2. You explained there were three staff members on the playground with approximately 12 children, ranging in age from two- to five-year-olds. A parent arrived to pick up her child, who had been crying, and the child and the parent walked inside the building. Soon, they returned to the playground, and confronted Ms. Mitchell. The parent asked Ms. Mitchell, “What did you do to my child”. Ms. Mitchell stated, “I didn’t do anything to your child” and the verbal exchange began between the two adults. The parent stated her child told her Ms. Mitchell grabbed their hand. A second teacher placed herself between the two adults to attempt to de-escalate the exchange while the third teacher called for administration to come to the playground while moving the other children to another area on the playground. Two administrators came to the playground and de-escalated the verbal exchange as one administrator had the parent move to a classroom while the second administrator had the staff member move to another classroom. All staff members stated there was not a physical exchange between the two adults; although, the incident occurred in front of the children. The parent and child left the premises, and the administrative staff asked Ms. Mitchell to leave for the day. One of the administrators that observed the exchange stated there was not any physical exchange but feels there are personal issues between the two adults. One of the staff members on the playground explained the child was crying when the parent arrived to pick up. This staff member stated the child had been climbing and hanging on the side of the steps on the large climber. She had asked the child to get down, but the child refused. Another staff member, Ms. Mitchell, walked over and asked the child to get down as it was not safe, and the child ignored the request. Ms. Mitchell picked the child up around their torso and moved the child to the ground. Ms. Mitchell walked the child over the pillow area and asked the child to sit down for two minutes as the child was not listening, and the action was not safe. The child began to cry, that’s when the parent arrived and the verbal exchange occurred. Staff members interviewed stated they have never seen Ms. Mitchell, or any other staff member inappropriately handle or discipline a child. The statements from the other staff members interviewed concurred with the above information. Ms. McPhaul explained Ms. Mitchell resigned effective May 20, 2025. The child has been present this week but the child’s last day of care is May 23, 2025. The parent may not be on the premises, as she had to designate another individual to drop off and pick up the child. I conducted a walk through and observations in all classrooms and playgrounds. Children were visually supervised and appropriately disciplined. Staff were engaged with the children. Based on today’s investigation, staff member’s information, and the reporter’s information, this allegation is Confirmed. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. On May 15, 2025, a staff member responded to an upset parent by yelling in front of the parents three-year-old child along with other children present on the playground. G.S. 110-91(10) On or before May 31, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violation was corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Based on a Substantiated complaint, an administrative action may be issued. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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. Technical Assistance for Violation Cited: A violation was documented related to nurture, care and treatment in GS 110-91(10)- Children must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. On May 15, 2025, a staff member, Ms. Williams, responded to an upset parent by yelling in front of the parent’s child along with other children present on the playground. Each child should be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child’s developmental needs. This should occur at all times when children are in care. Discuss with staff members it is important for the teacher to remain calm and composed, avoiding getting upset or retaliating in kind; prioritize maintaining a professional demeanor and focus on resolving the issue constructively. Since the incident, you along with other Excel administrative staff have investigated and documented the information and specifics of the exchange. You stated on tomorrow, May 22, 2025, you plan to review the policies related to professionalism, harassment, and retaliation and have each staff member sign a statement acknowledging their understanding. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed and signed by you. You may contact me, Kim Sherry at 910-824-1143 or Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: KIM SHERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/27/2025 Number Present: 70 Completed Date: 2/27/2025 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 190 Time In: 10:20 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s routine unannounced visit was to monitor the compliance with applicable child care requirements. Limited monitoring occurred. The facility’s 5 Star License was issued February 20, 2022. Restrictions on the permit include a first shift capacity of 201 children ages 0 to 12 years old. The facility meets enhanced space and ratios. According to the North Carolina Secretary of State website, your corporation Ela KidsNet Holdings, LLC. is current and active. The 18-month compliance history for this facility is 95%. The latest fire inspection was completed November 6, 2024; the facility was approved for daytime care only. The facility earned a Superior sanitation inspection on October 29, 2024. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on July 17, 2024. Upon arrival, Chiquita Farrar, director and Eleen Nix, assistant director were present and greeted me upon arrival. Both accompanied me during the walk through and observations in the classrooms. There were seven (7) classrooms operating today. The one group of school-agers were not present and were at school today. Seventy children were present ranging in age from two to five-year-olds. Four groups at varying times were engaged in outdoor free play activities such as playing and digging in the sand and dirt, throwing and catching balls, riding trikes, climbing and sliding, running around, bouncing on balls, and many other activities. Indoors, children were engaged in free play activities such as drawing with crayons, tracing, connecting a variety of manipulatives, putting together puzzles, cutting, etc. Later, two groups were observed in a circle time activity, one group was singing, and the other group was listening to the teacher read a book. Lunch routines were observed, and the meal consisted of pizza, succotash, mandarin oranges, and milk. Technical Assistance/Room Arrangement- Noisy areas (blocks, music and dramatic play) should be separated from quiet ones, with the book area as far away as possible from the noisy areas. Refer to the annual compliance visit summary report for suggestions on room arrangement. Classroom Labeling/Shelf Organization- To enhance children's early literacy skills, and to help teachers and children know where to put toys away, add words to the picture labels in each classroom. Preschoolers can assist with making labels for new toys by finding pictures of manipulatives, tracing a pan, or cutting pieces of yarn to tape to the outside of the yarn bin. Interest Areas- Cozy areas should include lots of softness (several floor pillows or bean bags, a large futon, or several soft chairs and couches). Sand/water: Both sand and water play activities must be planned and occur weekly. Add road construction vehicles (roller, back hoe and steam shovel) to the outdoor sandbox or indoor sand table. Blocks: The block area must be set up as a space that is used SOLELY for block play during free choice times; materials cannot include other types of toys and equipment that might interfere with building structures by taking up needed space, or causing children to walk through the block area to access other materials. Block areas should also be enclosed on 3 sides, with only one access point available to enter the block area. Block areas should be large enough for 3-4 children to build SUBSTANTIAL structures and freely use accessories; best practice recommends a minimum floor space at least 8 ft. x 10', exclusive of shelving, with a 9'x12' area preferred. There should also be a 1 foot area of non-carpeted space in front of each block shelf to allow children to access the blocks without knocking other childrens structures down. The block area contained play garages and transformers. Each should be relocated to the manipulative, pretend play area or outdoor block area. Block areas must be set up solely with materials that encourage children to build structures, enclosures and roads, and the only accessories considered appropriate for block areas are those that encourage more detailed building. Materials like large vehicles, tool kits and interlocking blocks are considered to interfere with building and construction and should not be included in block areas. Accessories considered appropriate for block areas for preschoolers are: hard hats, small people figures and doll house furniture (encourages building of houses and other buildings), animals (encourages building of enclosures), smaller vehicles and traffic signs (encourages building of roads), and small props like miniature trees or photos of area buildings of unit block size that can be taped to a block (encourages construction of an entire town). For preschoolers, one or two maps and some graphing paper, as well as a tape measure, a level and T-square are also considered appropriate, as they encourage children to preplan their structures, and help them problem solve possible issues with their construction. Art materials must be accessible for use on a daily basis and children must be allowed to use them in their own way. Be sure to add some playdough and playdough tools to the art area. Ensure the preschool art area contains at least 3-5 different art materials from all 5 of the following art material categories: drawing materials (crayons, markers, colored pencils, chalk, pencils, pens, various types of paper to draw and scribble on), collage materials (yarn, glue, pom-poms, flat craft sticks, cotton balls, magazines, feathers and glue sticks), paint materials (at least 2 types of paint, easel paper, and variety of brushes), tools (scissors stencils, rulers, staplers [4's], hole punches, tapes dispenser with tape, tools to use with play dough), and three-dimensional materials (wood scraps, small boxes, toilet paper tubes, pipe cleaners, play dough, pipe cleaners, thread spools, aluminum foil, modeling clay). Other types of paint include water color paint (biggie paint cakes are excellent), finger-paint, non-toxic stencil paints, and colored water in eye dropper or spray bottles. Keep all paint materials (brushes, easel paper, paint aprons and paint at the art easels, and organize and label other art materials on a separate shelf by type (drawing items in one section of shelving, paper in another, items that stick things together in a third section, collage items in a fourth and three-dimensional items and accompanying tools. Violation Number Comment Rule 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Orientation was not documented as complete for one out of the five newly hired staff members. .1101(a) 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. Two of the five newly hired staff members had not signed a statement acknowledging receipt of the policy. .0608(d)(1-4) Two violations were documented but were corrected during the visit; therefore, a compliance letter is not required. Mail or email the information to: Kim Sherry, Child Care Consultant, Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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. Two violations were documented and were corrected during the visit. We discussed a file arrangement that may be easier to access and track. Encourage you to organize staff files according to the file checklist found on the DCDEE website. This updated checklist reflects revised child care rules and lists deadlines for completion of certain documents. If you use page protectors, we discussed dividing by requirements such as- Health and Safety requirements stored together with Maltreatment training on top and log on the back, on-going training log on top with certificates and CPR and First Aid certificate on the back side. I suggest you use this checklist to review the file for any new employees who are hired to ensure all requirements are met by these deadlines. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. You have completed the Moodle training and plan to have all information keyed in by March 10, 2025. A provider meeting and training is scheduled for Thursday, April 10th at the Jacksonville Public Safety Building. The meeting will be an overview of the new QRIS rules, will begin at 9:30am. From 10am until 12pm, we will offer the ITERS-3 training. We will take a lunch break, and from 1:30 until 3:30pm, we will offer the ECERS-3 training. Bring a pencil, highlighter, and the 3’s book when you attend the training. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed and signed. If you need further assistance, you may contact me, Kim Sherry, Child Care Consultant, at 910-824-1143 or Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: KIM SHERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/17/2024 Number Present: 79 Completed Date: 7/17/2024 Age: From 2 To 12 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor the compliance with applicable child care requirements during this Annual Compliance visit. This program currently operates with a 5 Star License, issued February 20, 2022. The restrictions listed are as follows: 1st shift only, meets enhanced ratios and space, age range approved is 2 through 12 years with a capacity of 233. The center completed the last Fire Inspection on November 28, 2023 and was approved for daytime care only. The last Sanitation inspection was completed on June 13, 2024, with a Superior Classification. As of July 17, 2023, the center's compliance history is 93%. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on July 17, 2024, and Ela KidsNet Holdings, LLC. was listed as current- active. You, Ellen Nix, assistant director, was present during today’s visit. Aubrey McPhaul, district manager, was present to update the training hours on the staff training worksheets. I conducted a walk through and observations in all classrooms and playgrounds. There were 119 children enrolled and 79 children present, ranging in age from 2 years to 12 years old. The NC Pre-K Program is closed for the summer but will begin August 26 , 2024. There will be three NC Pre-K funded classrooms for this next school year. Monitoring for this program will be monitored during the routine visit. The classrooms appear clean and organized. Carpets, floors, and bathroom facilities were clean, and materials were stored in an organized manner. Today, children were visually supervised and were appropriately disciplined. Staff engaged with the children or were rotating around the classroom and the outdoor spaces. One group of school-agers were indoors engaged in games. A second group of school-agers were on a field trip to the Lynwood Zoo in Jacksonville. The other six groups were engaged in outdoor play. As there is an expected heat advisory, staff adjusted classroom schedules, so children had an opportunity for outdoor play. Activities observed included digging in the dirt, riding trikes, climbing, running around, bouncing, kicking balls, and sliding. Water was available for all the children. Lunch served consisted of chicken tacos, kidney beans, mandarin oranges, tortilla, cheese/sour cream, and milk. Violation Number Comment Rule 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's Health and Safety training expired June 2024. .1103(b) Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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. Violation(s) documented will impact the compliance history score. A violation was documented and must be corrected immediately. On or before July 27, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violation was corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Kim Sherry, Child Care Consultant, Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Staff Files- There are thirty-four staff members, fourteen are new staff members and have been hired since the last annual compliance visit. Eleven of the fourteen staff members have not completed Health and Safety Trainings but are working on the trainings. Continue to track to ensure all trainings are completed in a timely manner and staff training worksheets are complete and up-to-date. Technical Assistance: A violation was documented related to Health and safety training requirements in 10A NCAC 09 .1102. One staff member did not renew their trainings. Safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. Be reminded Health and safety trainings including the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment are required as part of on-going professional development to refresh and increase your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. On-going training is available on the DCDEE website. Training and professional development, in the field of early child care, provides opportunities for learning. Training enhances knowledge, skills, and abilities, so you are fully equipped to best support the needs of the children and families served. You complete your training requirements after the last visit and the information was updated on the Verification Form for Operators. Rated License Information-The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. Once additional information is received, I will share. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at www.ncchildcare.net. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, printed, and reviewed with you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact me at 910-824-0470 or Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: KIM SHERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/17/2024 Number Present: 79 Completed Date: 7/17/2024 Age: From 2 To 12 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor the compliance with applicable child care requirements during this Annual Compliance visit. This program currently operates with a 5 Star License, issued February 20, 2022. The restrictions listed are as follows: 1st shift only, meets enhanced ratios and space, age range approved is 2 through 12 years with a capacity of 233. The center completed the last Fire Inspection on November 28, 2023 and was approved for daytime care only. The last Sanitation inspection was completed on June 13, 2024, with a Superior Classification. As of July 17, 2023, the center's compliance history is 93%. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on July 17, 2024, and Ela KidsNet Holdings, LLC. was listed as current- active. You, Ellen Nix, assistant director, was present during today’s visit. Aubrey McPhaul, district manager, was present to update the training hours on the staff training worksheets. I conducted a walk through and observations in all classrooms and playgrounds. There were 119 children enrolled and 79 children present, ranging in age from 2 years to 12 years old. The NC Pre-K Program is closed for the summer but will begin August 26 , 2024. There will be three NC Pre-K funded classrooms for this next school year. Monitoring for this program will be monitored during the routine visit. The classrooms appear clean and organized. Carpets, floors, and bathroom facilities were clean, and materials were stored in an organized manner. Today, children were visually supervised and were appropriately disciplined. Staff engaged with the children or were rotating around the classroom and the outdoor spaces. One group of school-agers were indoors engaged in games. A second group of school-agers were on a field trip to the Lynwood Zoo in Jacksonville. The other six groups were engaged in outdoor play. As there is an expected heat advisory, staff adjusted classroom schedules, so children had an opportunity for outdoor play. Activities observed included digging in the dirt, riding trikes, climbing, running around, bouncing, kicking balls, and sliding. Water was available for all the children. Lunch served consisted of chicken tacos, kidney beans, mandarin oranges, tortilla, cheese/sour cream, and milk. Violation Number Comment Rule 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's Health and Safety training expired June 2024. .1103(b) Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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. Violation(s) documented will impact the compliance history score. A violation was documented and must be corrected immediately. On or before July 27, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violation was corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Kim Sherry, Child Care Consultant, Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Staff Files- There are thirty-four staff members, fourteen are new staff members and have been hired since the last annual compliance visit. Eleven of the fourteen staff members have not completed Health and Safety Trainings but are working on the trainings. Continue to track to ensure all trainings are completed in a timely manner and staff training worksheets are complete and up-to-date. Technical Assistance: A violation was documented related to Health and safety training requirements in 10A NCAC 09 .1102. One staff member did not renew their trainings. Safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. Be reminded Health and safety trainings including the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment are required as part of on-going professional development to refresh and increase your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. On-going training is available on the DCDEE website. Training and professional development, in the field of early child care, provides opportunities for learning. Training enhances knowledge, skills, and abilities, so you are fully equipped to best support the needs of the children and families served. You complete your training requirements after the last visit and the information was updated on the Verification Form for Operators. Rated License Information-The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. Once additional information is received, I will share. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at www.ncchildcare.net. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, printed, and reviewed with you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact me at 910-824-0470 or Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: KIM SHERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0224-214L Visit Date: 2/22/2024 Number Present: 123 Completed Date: 2/22/2024 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 180 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: There are concerns that staff are not interacting with children in care in a nurturing manner, there are concerns regarding nutrition guidelines, there are concerns that diapers are not being changed when soiled and there are concern that inappropriate discipline was used. This program currently operates with a 5 Star License, issued February 20, 2022. The restrictions listed are as follows: 1st shift only, meets enhanced ratios and space, age range approved is 2 through 12 years with a capacity of 233. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on February 112, 2024, and Ela KidsNet Holdings, LLC was listed as current- active. Andrea Johnson, Child Care Consultant assisted with today’s visit and investigation. You, Nicole Miller, Center Director was present during today’s visit. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space capacity, and license restrictions were monitored. Additionally, I observed all the indoor and outdoor spaces used by the children. Children were observed engaged in a variety of activities indoors and outdoors. Staff members were observed participating with and supervising the children. Indoor activities included gluing healthy food items on paper, connecting large table puzzles, molding playdough, dramatic play, cars, people, and trains. Outdoor activities included hula hooping, running bowling, riding tricycles, climbing, walking on balance beams, kicking balls, and sliding. Investigation: I discussed the allegations with you, support staff and other staff members, and you all were given the opportunity to state your perceptions. The facility does not currently have a video camera system. Findings: Allegation 1- There are concerns that staff are not interacting with children in care in a nurturing manner. Today, the administrator, staff support, and seven other staff members were interviewed, and it was determined children were not cared for in a nurturing and caring manner. Specifically, it was reported by multiple staff members, on February 21, 2024, a staff member raised their voice and pointed their finger within inches of childrens faces. Staff reported children were upset and crying. It was confirmed, this is the same staff member that did not treat children in a nurturing and caring manner during the complaint visit on February 14, 2024. Based on observations, information received, and our investigation, this allegation is Substantiated. Allegation 2- There are concerns regarding nutrition guidelines. You along with other staff members stated nutritional guidelines are followed. The children are served nutritious foods and classrooms are provided with additional food if children ask for extra. We observed weekly menus posted at the entrance of the facility and in every classroom. Children were observed seated at tables eating lunch. Lunch was nutritious and consisted of ham and cheese wraps, green peas, pears, and milk. Food service requirements were monitored and found to be in compliance. Based on information received from interviewed staff and my observations, the finding regarding the allegation of concerns regarding nutrition guidelines was Unsubstantiated. Allegation 3- There are concerns that diapers are not being changed when soiled. You and staff members stated diapers or pull-ups are changed as needed. You explained you had a parent that was upset because their child was picked up with fecal matter stains on their underwear. You discussed the concern with the child’s parent and the staff member. You asked the staff members to place the child on the changing table after each bowel movement to ensure the child is clean. You explained there hasn’t been any other concerns. Staff reported they check and change diapers every two hours. Staff members had recorded all diaper changes on the diaper changing log which is posted inside the cabinet where the children’s diapers/pull ups are kept. Routine diaper changing and toileting procedures were observed today, and requirements were met. The diaper changing log was observed during the visit. Based on information received from interviewed staff and my observations, the finding regarding the allegation of concerns that diapers are not being changed when soiled was Unsubstantiated. Allegation 4-There are concerns that inappropriate discipline was used. Staff members reported there were no incidents or concerns of inappropriate discipline used. Staff use redirection and get down on a child’s eye level to address any inappropriate behaviors. Today, I observed two children upset and fighting over a toy, one staff member squatted down between the two children at eye level and discussed sharing. She redirected one of the children to another toy. During today’s observations, proper discipline of children was observed in all indoor and outdoor spaces. During a Provider’s Meeting, conducted by Childcare Consultants, on February 20, 2024, information regarding positive guidance was shared with providers. Today, Ms. Miller was observed providing copies of the Positive Guidance handouts to staff members to post in their classrooms. Based on information received from interviewed staff and my observations, the finding regarding the allegation of concerns that inappropriate discipline was used was Unsubstantiated. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. It was reported by multiple staff members, on February 21, 2024, a staff member raised their voice and pointed their finger within inches of childrens faces. Staff reported children were upset and crying. This is a repeat violation. G.S. 110-91(10) A violation was documented and must be corrected immediately. On or before March 5, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violation was corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Kim Sherry, Child Care Consultant, Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance for Violation Cited: A violation was documented related to nurture, care and treatment in GS 110-91(10)- Children must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Based on a Nurture, Care and Treatment violation, a follow-up visit will be conducted. In addition, an administrative action may be issued. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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. Reminders: Continue to remind staff and provide Professional Development training and information related to the use of positive methods of discipline, such as redirecting children by helping them focus on something else to do that is appropriate for the child to achieve his or her goal. This might include strategies like offering the child a duplicate toy, helping the child to use his/her words to ask the other child for a turn with the toy, suggesting a sign-up list so each child gets their turn, or showing children involved in a conflict way to use the toy together. Instead of "directing" and talking "at" children, teachers should be having conversations and talking "with" children. Help staff to focus on using these four responsive language techniques: using reason and logic instead of asserting power; encouraging autonomy and independence, instead of using directives; using nurturant control instead of "No's and authoritarian statements; and elaborating instead of lecturing. Refer to the previously provided handout “Responsive vs. Restrictive Language”. Second, adults must help children recognize and effectively cope with feelings. Emotions Bingo Games, mirroring activities, and using baby dolls and puppets to set up emotional scenarios are some ideas for planned activities help children recognize feelings. For example, placing a band-aid or sling on a baby doll in the dramatic play area provides children with opportunities to develop empathy. Make sure books about emotions are available in each classroom. Vary the "If You're Happy and You Know It" song by singing about other feelings; refer also to the provided handout on emotional vocabulary. Also teach children relaxation techniques, such as using the relaxation thermometer and taking deep breaths until they go from hot to cool. Asking children to be nice or use nice hands when conflicts occur is very non-specific and does not help children learn effective coping and problem-solving skills. Instead, teachers should demonstrate “gentle touches” then let the child try a gentle touch instead of hitting another child. With twos and older, teachers can also begin to ask children for their ideas. I highly recommend you install cameras in the classrooms and other areas, indoors and outdoors, for security purposes. In addition, if a child gets hurt or if an incident happens, surveillance video can help owners and parents identify what happened without much questioning. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, reviewed with you and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Email me at Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov or call me at (910) 824-0470 with questions or concerns. 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: KIM SHERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0224-214L Visit Date: 2/22/2024 Number Present: 123 Completed Date: 2/22/2024 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 180 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: There are concerns that staff are not interacting with children in care in a nurturing manner, there are concerns regarding nutrition guidelines, there are concerns that diapers are not being changed when soiled and there are concern that inappropriate discipline was used. This program currently operates with a 5 Star License, issued February 20, 2022. The restrictions listed are as follows: 1st shift only, meets enhanced ratios and space, age range approved is 2 through 12 years with a capacity of 233. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on February 112, 2024, and Ela KidsNet Holdings, LLC was listed as current- active. Andrea Johnson, Child Care Consultant assisted with today’s visit and investigation. You, Nicole Miller, Center Director was present during today’s visit. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space capacity, and license restrictions were monitored. Additionally, I observed all the indoor and outdoor spaces used by the children. Children were observed engaged in a variety of activities indoors and outdoors. Staff members were observed participating with and supervising the children. Indoor activities included gluing healthy food items on paper, connecting large table puzzles, molding playdough, dramatic play, cars, people, and trains. Outdoor activities included hula hooping, running bowling, riding tricycles, climbing, walking on balance beams, kicking balls, and sliding. Investigation: I discussed the allegations with you, support staff and other staff members, and you all were given the opportunity to state your perceptions. The facility does not currently have a video camera system. Findings: Allegation 1- There are concerns that staff are not interacting with children in care in a nurturing manner. Today, the administrator, staff support, and seven other staff members were interviewed, and it was determined children were not cared for in a nurturing and caring manner. Specifically, it was reported by multiple staff members, on February 21, 2024, a staff member raised their voice and pointed their finger within inches of childrens faces. Staff reported children were upset and crying. It was confirmed, this is the same staff member that did not treat children in a nurturing and caring manner during the complaint visit on February 14, 2024. Based on observations, information received, and our investigation, this allegation is Substantiated. Allegation 2- There are concerns regarding nutrition guidelines. You along with other staff members stated nutritional guidelines are followed. The children are served nutritious foods and classrooms are provided with additional food if children ask for extra. We observed weekly menus posted at the entrance of the facility and in every classroom. Children were observed seated at tables eating lunch. Lunch was nutritious and consisted of ham and cheese wraps, green peas, pears, and milk. Food service requirements were monitored and found to be in compliance. Based on information received from interviewed staff and my observations, the finding regarding the allegation of concerns regarding nutrition guidelines was Unsubstantiated. Allegation 3- There are concerns that diapers are not being changed when soiled. You and staff members stated diapers or pull-ups are changed as needed. You explained you had a parent that was upset because their child was picked up with fecal matter stains on their underwear. You discussed the concern with the child’s parent and the staff member. You asked the staff members to place the child on the changing table after each bowel movement to ensure the child is clean. You explained there hasn’t been any other concerns. Staff reported they check and change diapers every two hours. Staff members had recorded all diaper changes on the diaper changing log which is posted inside the cabinet where the children’s diapers/pull ups are kept. Routine diaper changing and toileting procedures were observed today, and requirements were met. The diaper changing log was observed during the visit. Based on information received from interviewed staff and my observations, the finding regarding the allegation of concerns that diapers are not being changed when soiled was Unsubstantiated. Allegation 4-There are concerns that inappropriate discipline was used. Staff members reported there were no incidents or concerns of inappropriate discipline used. Staff use redirection and get down on a child’s eye level to address any inappropriate behaviors. Today, I observed two children upset and fighting over a toy, one staff member squatted down between the two children at eye level and discussed sharing. She redirected one of the children to another toy. During today’s observations, proper discipline of children was observed in all indoor and outdoor spaces. During a Provider’s Meeting, conducted by Childcare Consultants, on February 20, 2024, information regarding positive guidance was shared with providers. Today, Ms. Miller was observed providing copies of the Positive Guidance handouts to staff members to post in their classrooms. Based on information received from interviewed staff and my observations, the finding regarding the allegation of concerns that inappropriate discipline was used was Unsubstantiated. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. It was reported by multiple staff members, on February 21, 2024, a staff member raised their voice and pointed their finger within inches of childrens faces. Staff reported children were upset and crying. This is a repeat violation. G.S. 110-91(10) A violation was documented and must be corrected immediately. On or before March 5, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violation was corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Kim Sherry, Child Care Consultant, Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance for Violation Cited: A violation was documented related to nurture, care and treatment in GS 110-91(10)- Children must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Based on a Nurture, Care and Treatment violation, a follow-up visit will be conducted. In addition, an administrative action may be issued. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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. Reminders: Continue to remind staff and provide Professional Development training and information related to the use of positive methods of discipline, such as redirecting children by helping them focus on something else to do that is appropriate for the child to achieve his or her goal. This might include strategies like offering the child a duplicate toy, helping the child to use his/her words to ask the other child for a turn with the toy, suggesting a sign-up list so each child gets their turn, or showing children involved in a conflict way to use the toy together. Instead of "directing" and talking "at" children, teachers should be having conversations and talking "with" children. Help staff to focus on using these four responsive language techniques: using reason and logic instead of asserting power; encouraging autonomy and independence, instead of using directives; using nurturant control instead of "No's and authoritarian statements; and elaborating instead of lecturing. Refer to the previously provided handout “Responsive vs. Restrictive Language”. Second, adults must help children recognize and effectively cope with feelings. Emotions Bingo Games, mirroring activities, and using baby dolls and puppets to set up emotional scenarios are some ideas for planned activities help children recognize feelings. For example, placing a band-aid or sling on a baby doll in the dramatic play area provides children with opportunities to develop empathy. Make sure books about emotions are available in each classroom. Vary the "If You're Happy and You Know It" song by singing about other feelings; refer also to the provided handout on emotional vocabulary. Also teach children relaxation techniques, such as using the relaxation thermometer and taking deep breaths until they go from hot to cool. Asking children to be nice or use nice hands when conflicts occur is very non-specific and does not help children learn effective coping and problem-solving skills. Instead, teachers should demonstrate “gentle touches” then let the child try a gentle touch instead of hitting another child. With twos and older, teachers can also begin to ask children for their ideas. I highly recommend you install cameras in the classrooms and other areas, indoors and outdoors, for security purposes. In addition, if a child gets hurt or if an incident happens, surveillance video can help owners and parents identify what happened without much questioning. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, reviewed with you and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Email me at Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov or call me at (910) 824-0470 with questions or concerns. 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: KIM SHERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0224-214L Visit Date: 2/22/2024 Number Present: 123 Completed Date: 2/22/2024 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 180 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: There are concerns that staff are not interacting with children in care in a nurturing manner, there are concerns regarding nutrition guidelines, there are concerns that diapers are not being changed when soiled and there are concern that inappropriate discipline was used. This program currently operates with a 5 Star License, issued February 20, 2022. The restrictions listed are as follows: 1st shift only, meets enhanced ratios and space, age range approved is 2 through 12 years with a capacity of 233. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on February 112, 2024, and Ela KidsNet Holdings, LLC was listed as current- active. Andrea Johnson, Child Care Consultant assisted with today’s visit and investigation. You, Nicole Miller, Center Director was present during today’s visit. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space capacity, and license restrictions were monitored. Additionally, I observed all the indoor and outdoor spaces used by the children. Children were observed engaged in a variety of activities indoors and outdoors. Staff members were observed participating with and supervising the children. Indoor activities included gluing healthy food items on paper, connecting large table puzzles, molding playdough, dramatic play, cars, people, and trains. Outdoor activities included hula hooping, running bowling, riding tricycles, climbing, walking on balance beams, kicking balls, and sliding. Investigation: I discussed the allegations with you, support staff and other staff members, and you all were given the opportunity to state your perceptions. The facility does not currently have a video camera system. Findings: Allegation 1- There are concerns that staff are not interacting with children in care in a nurturing manner. Today, the administrator, staff support, and seven other staff members were interviewed, and it was determined children were not cared for in a nurturing and caring manner. Specifically, it was reported by multiple staff members, on February 21, 2024, a staff member raised their voice and pointed their finger within inches of childrens faces. Staff reported children were upset and crying. It was confirmed, this is the same staff member that did not treat children in a nurturing and caring manner during the complaint visit on February 14, 2024. Based on observations, information received, and our investigation, this allegation is Substantiated. Allegation 2- There are concerns regarding nutrition guidelines. You along with other staff members stated nutritional guidelines are followed. The children are served nutritious foods and classrooms are provided with additional food if children ask for extra. We observed weekly menus posted at the entrance of the facility and in every classroom. Children were observed seated at tables eating lunch. Lunch was nutritious and consisted of ham and cheese wraps, green peas, pears, and milk. Food service requirements were monitored and found to be in compliance. Based on information received from interviewed staff and my observations, the finding regarding the allegation of concerns regarding nutrition guidelines was Unsubstantiated. Allegation 3- There are concerns that diapers are not being changed when soiled. You and staff members stated diapers or pull-ups are changed as needed. You explained you had a parent that was upset because their child was picked up with fecal matter stains on their underwear. You discussed the concern with the child’s parent and the staff member. You asked the staff members to place the child on the changing table after each bowel movement to ensure the child is clean. You explained there hasn’t been any other concerns. Staff reported they check and change diapers every two hours. Staff members had recorded all diaper changes on the diaper changing log which is posted inside the cabinet where the children’s diapers/pull ups are kept. Routine diaper changing and toileting procedures were observed today, and requirements were met. The diaper changing log was observed during the visit. Based on information received from interviewed staff and my observations, the finding regarding the allegation of concerns that diapers are not being changed when soiled was Unsubstantiated. Allegation 4-There are concerns that inappropriate discipline was used. Staff members reported there were no incidents or concerns of inappropriate discipline used. Staff use redirection and get down on a child’s eye level to address any inappropriate behaviors. Today, I observed two children upset and fighting over a toy, one staff member squatted down between the two children at eye level and discussed sharing. She redirected one of the children to another toy. During today’s observations, proper discipline of children was observed in all indoor and outdoor spaces. During a Provider’s Meeting, conducted by Childcare Consultants, on February 20, 2024, information regarding positive guidance was shared with providers. Today, Ms. Miller was observed providing copies of the Positive Guidance handouts to staff members to post in their classrooms. Based on information received from interviewed staff and my observations, the finding regarding the allegation of concerns that inappropriate discipline was used was Unsubstantiated. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. It was reported by multiple staff members, on February 21, 2024, a staff member raised their voice and pointed their finger within inches of childrens faces. Staff reported children were upset and crying. This is a repeat violation. G.S. 110-91(10) A violation was documented and must be corrected immediately. On or before March 5, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violation was corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Kim Sherry, Child Care Consultant, Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance for Violation Cited: A violation was documented related to nurture, care and treatment in GS 110-91(10)- Children must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Based on a Nurture, Care and Treatment violation, a follow-up visit will be conducted. In addition, an administrative action may be issued. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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. Reminders: Continue to remind staff and provide Professional Development training and information related to the use of positive methods of discipline, such as redirecting children by helping them focus on something else to do that is appropriate for the child to achieve his or her goal. This might include strategies like offering the child a duplicate toy, helping the child to use his/her words to ask the other child for a turn with the toy, suggesting a sign-up list so each child gets their turn, or showing children involved in a conflict way to use the toy together. Instead of "directing" and talking "at" children, teachers should be having conversations and talking "with" children. Help staff to focus on using these four responsive language techniques: using reason and logic instead of asserting power; encouraging autonomy and independence, instead of using directives; using nurturant control instead of "No's and authoritarian statements; and elaborating instead of lecturing. Refer to the previously provided handout “Responsive vs. Restrictive Language”. Second, adults must help children recognize and effectively cope with feelings. Emotions Bingo Games, mirroring activities, and using baby dolls and puppets to set up emotional scenarios are some ideas for planned activities help children recognize feelings. For example, placing a band-aid or sling on a baby doll in the dramatic play area provides children with opportunities to develop empathy. Make sure books about emotions are available in each classroom. Vary the "If You're Happy and You Know It" song by singing about other feelings; refer also to the provided handout on emotional vocabulary. Also teach children relaxation techniques, such as using the relaxation thermometer and taking deep breaths until they go from hot to cool. Asking children to be nice or use nice hands when conflicts occur is very non-specific and does not help children learn effective coping and problem-solving skills. Instead, teachers should demonstrate “gentle touches” then let the child try a gentle touch instead of hitting another child. With twos and older, teachers can also begin to ask children for their ideas. I highly recommend you install cameras in the classrooms and other areas, indoors and outdoors, for security purposes. In addition, if a child gets hurt or if an incident happens, surveillance video can help owners and parents identify what happened without much questioning. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, reviewed with you and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Email me at Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov or call me at (910) 824-0470 with questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: KIM SHERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0224-094L Visit Date: 2/14/2024 Number Present: 134 Completed Date: 2/14/2024 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 355 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 03:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegation is as follows: There is a concern that staff did not interact with a child in a nurturing and caring manner. This program currently operates with a 5 Star License, issued February 20, 2022. The restrictions listed are as follows: 1st shift only, meets enhanced ratios and space, age range approved is 2 through 12 years with a capacity of 233. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on February 112, 2024, and Ela KidsNet Holdings, LLC was listed as current- active. You, Aubrey McPhaul, district manager, was present during today’s visit and accompanied me on the observations and walk through of the two buildings. In addition, the director and the assistant director were present and assisted with the visit. All indoor and outdoor areas were observed and monitored. Children were observed engaged in various free choice and small group activities including art, working on puzzles, playing games, playing outside, and other activities. In addition, since today was Valentines Day, children were engaged in a variety of activities related to the holiday such as sharing candy, making hearts, Valentine cards, etc. Staff/child ratios and group sizes were monitored and in compliance. There were 134 children present ranging in age from 2 years to 5 years old. The facility does not currently have a video camera system. Investigation: I discussed the allegation with you, and you were given the opportunity to state your perception. In addition, two other administrative staff were interviewed along with six other classroom staff members. I was provided with Employee Counseling form for one staff member along with other documentation related to a concern with staff members in another classroom. Findings: Allegation: There is a concern that staff did not interact with a child in a nurturing and caring manner. It was reported there have been recent incidents where children were not cared for in a nurturing and caring manner. It was confirmed by multiple staff members that two staff members did not treat children in a nurturing and caring manner. The staff member that worked in the classroom for two- and three-year-old children, which is an Early Head Start funded classroom, was witnessed using inappropriate language and tone with children on multiple occasions. She was witnessed screaming in children’s faces, “Don’t talk to me”, “Sit down and be quiet”, and “Knock it off. The staff member was also observed holding her cell phone and threatening to call the children’s parents if they did not comply with her requests. On one occasion, the staff member stated in front of the children, “The child needs a good spanking”. In addition, it was reported the staff member would also use an aggressive tone with children. On one occasion, she bent down near the child’s ear and aggressively stated, “Wash your hands, I said wash your hands”. On February 6, 2024, a second incident occurred with a different staff member. This incident was also confirmed by multiple staff members during my investigation today. The administrator told the staff member she had worked her eight hours for the day and could leave. The staff member walked into a classroom and began complaining, using inappropriate language, volume, and tone in front of the children. The regional manager issued a Written Warning to this employee which was documented on an Employee Counseling and Corrective Action form. Based on the reporter, staff members’ information, and my investigation, this allegation is substantiated. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. It was confirmed on two separate incidents, two staff members used in appropriate language, tone, and volume with children. One staff member screamed in children’s faces, “Don’t talk to me”, “Sit down and be quiet”, and “Knock it off'. The staff member would hold her cell phone and threaten to call the children’s parents if they did not comply with her requests. The staff member stated in front of the children, “The child needs a good spanking”. The second staff member was upset with an administrator and used inappropriate language in front of the school age children. G.S. 110-91(10) A violation was documented during the complaint investigation. On or before February 26, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violation was corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Kim Sherry, Child Care Consultant, Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Based on a Substantiated complaint, a follow-up visit will be conducted. In addition, an administrative action may be issued. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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. Technical Assistance for Violation Cited: A violation was documented related to nurture, care and treatment in GS 110-91(10)- Children must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Discuss with all staff the importance of nurture, care and treatment of children. Each child should be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child’s developmental needs. Some examples of nurturing behavior are: being fully present in your interactions with children (verbally and non-verbally), validating their feelings, providing physical affection and comfort when sought, laughing and playing games, providing safe mental, physical and social challenges that promote healthy growth and development. Staff may not threaten children with contacting their parents. I highly recommend you install cameras in the classrooms and other areas, indoors and outdoors, for security purposes. In addition, if a child gets hurt or if an incident happens, surveillance video can help owners and parents identify what happened without much questioning. 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: KIM SHERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0224-094L Visit Date: 2/14/2024 Number Present: 134 Completed Date: 2/14/2024 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 355 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 03:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegation is as follows: There is a concern that staff did not interact with a child in a nurturing and caring manner. This program currently operates with a 5 Star License, issued February 20, 2022. The restrictions listed are as follows: 1st shift only, meets enhanced ratios and space, age range approved is 2 through 12 years with a capacity of 233. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on February 112, 2024, and Ela KidsNet Holdings, LLC was listed as current- active. You, Aubrey McPhaul, district manager, was present during today’s visit and accompanied me on the observations and walk through of the two buildings. In addition, the director and the assistant director were present and assisted with the visit. All indoor and outdoor areas were observed and monitored. Children were observed engaged in various free choice and small group activities including art, working on puzzles, playing games, playing outside, and other activities. In addition, since today was Valentines Day, children were engaged in a variety of activities related to the holiday such as sharing candy, making hearts, Valentine cards, etc. Staff/child ratios and group sizes were monitored and in compliance. There were 134 children present ranging in age from 2 years to 5 years old. The facility does not currently have a video camera system. Investigation: I discussed the allegation with you, and you were given the opportunity to state your perception. In addition, two other administrative staff were interviewed along with six other classroom staff members. I was provided with Employee Counseling form for one staff member along with other documentation related to a concern with staff members in another classroom. Findings: Allegation: There is a concern that staff did not interact with a child in a nurturing and caring manner. It was reported there have been recent incidents where children were not cared for in a nurturing and caring manner. It was confirmed by multiple staff members that two staff members did not treat children in a nurturing and caring manner. The staff member that worked in the classroom for two- and three-year-old children, which is an Early Head Start funded classroom, was witnessed using inappropriate language and tone with children on multiple occasions. She was witnessed screaming in children’s faces, “Don’t talk to me”, “Sit down and be quiet”, and “Knock it off. The staff member was also observed holding her cell phone and threatening to call the children’s parents if they did not comply with her requests. On one occasion, the staff member stated in front of the children, “The child needs a good spanking”. In addition, it was reported the staff member would also use an aggressive tone with children. On one occasion, she bent down near the child’s ear and aggressively stated, “Wash your hands, I said wash your hands”. On February 6, 2024, a second incident occurred with a different staff member. This incident was also confirmed by multiple staff members during my investigation today. The administrator told the staff member she had worked her eight hours for the day and could leave. The staff member walked into a classroom and began complaining, using inappropriate language, volume, and tone in front of the children. The regional manager issued a Written Warning to this employee which was documented on an Employee Counseling and Corrective Action form. Based on the reporter, staff members’ information, and my investigation, this allegation is substantiated. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. It was confirmed on two separate incidents, two staff members used in appropriate language, tone, and volume with children. One staff member screamed in children’s faces, “Don’t talk to me”, “Sit down and be quiet”, and “Knock it off'. The staff member would hold her cell phone and threaten to call the children’s parents if they did not comply with her requests. The staff member stated in front of the children, “The child needs a good spanking”. The second staff member was upset with an administrator and used inappropriate language in front of the school age children. G.S. 110-91(10) A violation was documented during the complaint investigation. On or before February 26, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violation was corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Kim Sherry, Child Care Consultant, Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Based on a Substantiated complaint, a follow-up visit will be conducted. In addition, an administrative action may be issued. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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. Technical Assistance for Violation Cited: A violation was documented related to nurture, care and treatment in GS 110-91(10)- Children must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Discuss with all staff the importance of nurture, care and treatment of children. Each child should be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child’s developmental needs. Some examples of nurturing behavior are: being fully present in your interactions with children (verbally and non-verbally), validating their feelings, providing physical affection and comfort when sought, laughing and playing games, providing safe mental, physical and social challenges that promote healthy growth and development. Staff may not threaten children with contacting their parents. I highly recommend you install cameras in the classrooms and other areas, indoors and outdoors, for security purposes. In addition, if a child gets hurt or if an incident happens, surveillance video can help owners and parents identify what happened without much questioning. 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: KIM SHERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0224-094L Visit Date: 2/14/2024 Number Present: 134 Completed Date: 2/14/2024 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 355 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 03:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegation is as follows: There is a concern that staff did not interact with a child in a nurturing and caring manner. This program currently operates with a 5 Star License, issued February 20, 2022. The restrictions listed are as follows: 1st shift only, meets enhanced ratios and space, age range approved is 2 through 12 years with a capacity of 233. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on February 112, 2024, and Ela KidsNet Holdings, LLC was listed as current- active. You, Aubrey McPhaul, district manager, was present during today’s visit and accompanied me on the observations and walk through of the two buildings. In addition, the director and the assistant director were present and assisted with the visit. All indoor and outdoor areas were observed and monitored. Children were observed engaged in various free choice and small group activities including art, working on puzzles, playing games, playing outside, and other activities. In addition, since today was Valentines Day, children were engaged in a variety of activities related to the holiday such as sharing candy, making hearts, Valentine cards, etc. Staff/child ratios and group sizes were monitored and in compliance. There were 134 children present ranging in age from 2 years to 5 years old. The facility does not currently have a video camera system. Investigation: I discussed the allegation with you, and you were given the opportunity to state your perception. In addition, two other administrative staff were interviewed along with six other classroom staff members. I was provided with Employee Counseling form for one staff member along with other documentation related to a concern with staff members in another classroom. Findings: Allegation: There is a concern that staff did not interact with a child in a nurturing and caring manner. It was reported there have been recent incidents where children were not cared for in a nurturing and caring manner. It was confirmed by multiple staff members that two staff members did not treat children in a nurturing and caring manner. The staff member that worked in the classroom for two- and three-year-old children, which is an Early Head Start funded classroom, was witnessed using inappropriate language and tone with children on multiple occasions. She was witnessed screaming in children’s faces, “Don’t talk to me”, “Sit down and be quiet”, and “Knock it off. The staff member was also observed holding her cell phone and threatening to call the children’s parents if they did not comply with her requests. On one occasion, the staff member stated in front of the children, “The child needs a good spanking”. In addition, it was reported the staff member would also use an aggressive tone with children. On one occasion, she bent down near the child’s ear and aggressively stated, “Wash your hands, I said wash your hands”. On February 6, 2024, a second incident occurred with a different staff member. This incident was also confirmed by multiple staff members during my investigation today. The administrator told the staff member she had worked her eight hours for the day and could leave. The staff member walked into a classroom and began complaining, using inappropriate language, volume, and tone in front of the children. The regional manager issued a Written Warning to this employee which was documented on an Employee Counseling and Corrective Action form. Based on the reporter, staff members’ information, and my investigation, this allegation is substantiated. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. It was confirmed on two separate incidents, two staff members used in appropriate language, tone, and volume with children. One staff member screamed in children’s faces, “Don’t talk to me”, “Sit down and be quiet”, and “Knock it off'. The staff member would hold her cell phone and threaten to call the children’s parents if they did not comply with her requests. The staff member stated in front of the children, “The child needs a good spanking”. The second staff member was upset with an administrator and used inappropriate language in front of the school age children. G.S. 110-91(10) A violation was documented during the complaint investigation. On or before February 26, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violation was corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Kim Sherry, Child Care Consultant, Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Based on a Substantiated complaint, a follow-up visit will be conducted. In addition, an administrative action may be issued. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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. Technical Assistance for Violation Cited: A violation was documented related to nurture, care and treatment in GS 110-91(10)- Children must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Discuss with all staff the importance of nurture, care and treatment of children. Each child should be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child’s developmental needs. Some examples of nurturing behavior are: being fully present in your interactions with children (verbally and non-verbally), validating their feelings, providing physical affection and comfort when sought, laughing and playing games, providing safe mental, physical and social challenges that promote healthy growth and development. Staff may not threaten children with contacting their parents. I highly recommend you install cameras in the classrooms and other areas, indoors and outdoors, for security purposes. In addition, if a child gets hurt or if an incident happens, surveillance video can help owners and parents identify what happened without much questioning. 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: HEATHER BINDER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1223-162A Visit Date: 12/19/2023 Number Present: 78 Completed Date: 12/19/2023 Age: From 2 To 11 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 12:00 PM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Nicole Miller, Administrator, and Ellen Nix, Assistant Director, accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. Miller, Ms. Nix and two (2) additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. The following violations were observed and/or confirmed during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1118 Children were left in a vehicle unattended by an adult. On Tuesday, December 12, 2023, a staff member left a five-year-old child unsupervised on a bus for approximately two (2) minutes. GS 110-91 (13); .1003(g) Violations must be corrected immediately. Within one week (by December 26, 2023), you must submit documentation of the corrections you made and your plan to maintain compliance with the identified child care requirements to me at Heather Binder, Investigations Consultant, heather.binder@dhhs.nc.gov. You may contact Heather Binder, Investigations Consultant, at (252) 617-6237, heather.binder@dhhs.nc.gov or Corrie Davenport, Northeastern Investigations Supervisor, at corrie.davenport@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. 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 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: HEATHER BINDER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1023-072A Visit Date: 10/9/2023 Number Present: 46 Completed Date: 10/9/2023 Age: From 2 To 10 Total Minutes: 90 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Aubrie McPhaul, Interim Administrator, accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. McPhaul and two (2) additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On multiple occasions between November 2022 and October 2023, a staff member's inappropriate interactions with children created an unsafe environment and caused harm to the children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Between November 2022 and October 2023, a staff member in the classroom for four and five-year-old children, touched three children inappropriately. G.S. 110-91(10) 1810 There was a substantiation of child maltreatment. The Division of Child Development and Early Education substantiated child maltreatment regarding sexual maltreatment. GS 110-105.6(a) You may contact Heather Binder, Investigations Consultant, (252) 617-6237, heather.binder@dhhs.nc.gov or Corrie Davenport, Northeastern Investigations Supervisor, corrie.davenport@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: HEATHER BINDER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1023-072A Visit Date: 10/9/2023 Number Present: 46 Completed Date: 10/9/2023 Age: From 2 To 10 Total Minutes: 90 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Aubrie McPhaul, Interim Administrator, accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. McPhaul and two (2) additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On multiple occasions between November 2022 and October 2023, a staff member's inappropriate interactions with children created an unsafe environment and caused harm to the children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Between November 2022 and October 2023, a staff member in the classroom for four and five-year-old children, touched three children inappropriately. G.S. 110-91(10) 1810 There was a substantiation of child maltreatment. The Division of Child Development and Early Education substantiated child maltreatment regarding sexual maltreatment. GS 110-105.6(a) You may contact Heather Binder, Investigations Consultant, (252) 617-6237, heather.binder@dhhs.nc.gov or Corrie Davenport, Northeastern Investigations Supervisor, corrie.davenport@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. 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 110-105 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #8 Facility ID: 67001178 Consultant: HEATHER BINDER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1023-072A Visit Date: 10/9/2023 Number Present: 46 Completed Date: 10/9/2023 Age: From 2 To 10 Total Minutes: 90 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Aubrie McPhaul, Interim Administrator, accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. McPhaul and two (2) additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On multiple occasions between November 2022 and October 2023, a staff member's inappropriate interactions with children created an unsafe environment and caused harm to the children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Between November 2022 and October 2023, a staff member in the classroom for four and five-year-old children, touched three children inappropriately. G.S. 110-91(10) 1810 There was a substantiation of child maltreatment. The Division of Child Development and Early Education substantiated child maltreatment regarding sexual maltreatment. GS 110-105.6(a) You may contact Heather Binder, Investigations Consultant, (252) 617-6237, heather.binder@dhhs.nc.gov or Corrie Davenport, Northeastern Investigations Supervisor, corrie.davenport@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. 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