Home › NC › Kernersville › LA Petite Academy, Inc.
LA Petite Academy, Inc.
1975 West Mountain Street, Kernersville NC 27284 · License #3455196 · Child Care Center
Contact
- Phone
- (336) 993-4555
- 7483@lapetite.com
- Website
- Add via profile claim
- Address
- 1975 West Mountain Street, Kernersville NC 27284 · Directions
Hours
Not published by the state. Owners can add hours via profile claim.
Care & schedule
When they operate
Ages served
- 5-Star quality rating
- Accepts subsidy
- Licensed for 131 children
Inspection history & violations
Source: North Carolina's child care licensing agency- Violation
G.S. 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/26/2025 Number Present: 52 Completed Date: 11/26/2025 Age: From 9 To 10 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 09:50 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 visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Tiffany McCummings, Center Director assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued December 7, 2018, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component (meeting all enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for the facility offering a staff benefits package and offering and infrastructure of parent involvement. The sanitation inspection was completed 1/27/2025 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 9/23/2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. Ms. McCummings provided me a copy of the fire inspection during the visit. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 88% percent as of 11/25/25. All programs are required to maintain 75% compliance. Upon arrival, the license was posted, and all restrictions were observed in compliance. Eight classrooms were observed during this visit. All indoor and outdoor areas were observed during the visit. Upon arrival staff/child ratio was observed and recorded on the attached worksheet. Supervision was adequate during the visit. I observed developmentally appropriate materials and activities were available to the children in the classrooms. I observed the children playing in activity areas, participating in general routines, engaging in conversations and activities with their teachers, playing outdoors, eating lunch, and napping during the visit. I observed interactions between staff and children. An allergy list was posted in each classroom and in the kitchen. Storage of hazardous items was monitored. No medications were observed, nor reported. Ms. McCummings stated program does not currently participate in off-premise activities; she stated these only occur during the summer months. Ms. McCummings also stated the program does not currently participate in aquatic activities. This program does transport seven (7) children who are School Age enrolled at this time. Three microbuses are stored on the property for La Petite Academy, Inc.; however, Ms. McCummings stated only one bus (License Plate # RC-1573) is used at the facility to transport children enrolled. Due to time restrictions, transportation was not monitored during today’s visit. The facility was closing at 2 p.m. for the holiday weekend. A follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor transportation requirements. Staff and Training Worksheets were not submitted prior to the visit, but were not due until 11/28/25. Due to time restrictions, staff and children’s files were not monitored during today’s visit; a follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor these records. Ms. McCummings stated she will email me her updated Staff & Training Worksheets by 12/01/2025 and copy my supervisor, Pam Hauser, on the email. Ms. McCummings stated during the visit she currently has twenty (20) staff members, inclusive of herself and administration, eight (8) of which are new staff members. Due to time restrictions, the EPR plan and Ready to Go file were not monitored during today’s visit; a follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor these records. Playground inspections, lockdown/ shelter-in-place drills and fire drill logs were monitored and observed to be in compliance for one year. A fire drill was conducted on 11/23/2025. A shelter-in-place drill was completed on 11/20/25. A playground inspection was completed on 11/26/2025. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. The full-day daily schedule for Space 7, the classroom designated for children of School Age, was not posted; only the before/after school schedule was posted. School Age children in care were out of school and present at the center today, due to the Thanksgiving holiday. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 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. A small container of super glue labeled Keep Out of Reach of Children with additional warnings was observed inside an unlocked drawer in Space 5, accessible to children. .2820(b) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. A safe sleep policy was not observed to be posted in Space 1. .0606(b) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. A facility profile for Criminal Background Checks has been created; however, the Criminal Background Check Qualification letters for one existing staff member and two new staff members were not yet linked to this profile. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 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. If additional violations are found in staff and children’s records, transportation requirements, or EPR requirements during the follow-up visit, they will be added to today's visit summary. You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately and send me documentation verifying compliance on or before 12/10/2025. The following information must be included in your compliance letter: • each violation number, • how you corrected each violation, • what plan will be implemented to prevent each violation from occurring again, • the name of your center, • facility ID number, • date, • title of the person who signs the letter If you state in your Compliance Letter that corrections or changes have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information and could lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. You may email the letter to cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or mail two copies of the letter to: Cara McKeown 4948 Martin View Lane, Unit #146 Winston Salem, NC 27104 Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical Assistance Provided During Visit: A facility profile for Criminal Background Checks has been created; however, the Criminal Background Check Qualification letters for one existing staff member and two new staff members were not yet linked to this profile. It is necessary for all staff members to be linked to the center’s facility profile in the ABCMS system, as the process of notifying the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days has changed to include this process. Ms. McCummings stated one staff member who was onsite during the visit should have been linked to another sister site, as the staff member helps at both sites, but the staff member was not observed to be linked to the sister site either. If you need additional assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. Consultation Provided During Visit: Please consider adding additional art, home living, reading, and blocks/ accessory materials to each classroom of toddler age up through School Age. The majority of classrooms were observed to have just enough materials for children enrolled, but could benefit from having a greater variety of materials. As the Hold Harmless period has ended, and preparations for the new QRIS Modernization process are underway, I have included the link below to DCDEE’s NC Child Care Commission’s QRIS Modernization Plan (QRIS Reform) website link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization • Consider participating in an outreach assessment: https://ncrlap.org/Resources/pages/outreachassessments/ • Visit the NCRLAP website: Get Ready for the 3s (ECERS-3, ITERS-3, FCCERS-3) https://ncrlap.org/Resources/pages/get-ready-for-3s/ Additionally, you may consider reaching out to local partners at Child Care Resource Center and/or Smart Start of Forsyth County. Their teams are working diligently to support programs with training and more detailed information on the ERS-3 at this time. Beginning in October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license. Ms. McCummings stated she is considering moving forward with Pathway 2, but has not yet made a final decision. On-Going Professional Development In addition to the required Health and Safety Trainings, staff can access professional development training on the DCDEE website in Moodle under Early Childhood Professional Development in the categories of Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF), Orientation and Regulatory. Updated training modules are being added, including a Child Care Rule Rollout with new rules effective July 1, 2025, found under the Regulatory tab. Specifically, under the Orientation tab, I would encourage all staff to complete the training for “Child Development Module.” This training module provides a basic overview about child development and is designed to help early educators support infants, toddlers, and preschool children to reach their next developmental milestone. In addition to gaining introductory knowledge about child development, early educators will learn about the many resources and professional agencies available in North Carolina to help with promoting a responsive and engaging learning environment to support all children served. Upon completion, participants will receive one (1) contact hour credit (CHC). An individual NCID username and password is needed to access the DCDEE Moodle. If you experience problems with Moodle, contact dcdee_moodle_support@dhhs.nc.gov for assistance. For other training-related questions, please contact the Training and Program Development Consultant, Amia Eaton by calling (919) 814-6365 or emailing her at Amia.Eaton@dhhs.nc.gov Thank you for your time and assistance during this visit. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary and enrollment worksheet were provided to you. Contact me at Cara McKeown, Child Care Consultant, (336) 408-4849 or cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or Pamela Hauser, Licensing Supervisor, pamela.hauser@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
- Violation
GS 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/26/2025 Number Present: 52 Completed Date: 11/26/2025 Age: From 9 To 10 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 09:50 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 visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Tiffany McCummings, Center Director assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued December 7, 2018, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component (meeting all enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for the facility offering a staff benefits package and offering and infrastructure of parent involvement. The sanitation inspection was completed 1/27/2025 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 9/23/2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. Ms. McCummings provided me a copy of the fire inspection during the visit. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 88% percent as of 11/25/25. All programs are required to maintain 75% compliance. Upon arrival, the license was posted, and all restrictions were observed in compliance. Eight classrooms were observed during this visit. All indoor and outdoor areas were observed during the visit. Upon arrival staff/child ratio was observed and recorded on the attached worksheet. Supervision was adequate during the visit. I observed developmentally appropriate materials and activities were available to the children in the classrooms. I observed the children playing in activity areas, participating in general routines, engaging in conversations and activities with their teachers, playing outdoors, eating lunch, and napping during the visit. I observed interactions between staff and children. An allergy list was posted in each classroom and in the kitchen. Storage of hazardous items was monitored. No medications were observed, nor reported. Ms. McCummings stated program does not currently participate in off-premise activities; she stated these only occur during the summer months. Ms. McCummings also stated the program does not currently participate in aquatic activities. This program does transport seven (7) children who are School Age enrolled at this time. Three microbuses are stored on the property for La Petite Academy, Inc.; however, Ms. McCummings stated only one bus (License Plate # RC-1573) is used at the facility to transport children enrolled. Due to time restrictions, transportation was not monitored during today’s visit. The facility was closing at 2 p.m. for the holiday weekend. A follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor transportation requirements. Staff and Training Worksheets were not submitted prior to the visit, but were not due until 11/28/25. Due to time restrictions, staff and children’s files were not monitored during today’s visit; a follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor these records. Ms. McCummings stated she will email me her updated Staff & Training Worksheets by 12/01/2025 and copy my supervisor, Pam Hauser, on the email. Ms. McCummings stated during the visit she currently has twenty (20) staff members, inclusive of herself and administration, eight (8) of which are new staff members. Due to time restrictions, the EPR plan and Ready to Go file were not monitored during today’s visit; a follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor these records. Playground inspections, lockdown/ shelter-in-place drills and fire drill logs were monitored and observed to be in compliance for one year. A fire drill was conducted on 11/23/2025. A shelter-in-place drill was completed on 11/20/25. A playground inspection was completed on 11/26/2025. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. The full-day daily schedule for Space 7, the classroom designated for children of School Age, was not posted; only the before/after school schedule was posted. School Age children in care were out of school and present at the center today, due to the Thanksgiving holiday. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 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. A small container of super glue labeled Keep Out of Reach of Children with additional warnings was observed inside an unlocked drawer in Space 5, accessible to children. .2820(b) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. A safe sleep policy was not observed to be posted in Space 1. .0606(b) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. A facility profile for Criminal Background Checks has been created; however, the Criminal Background Check Qualification letters for one existing staff member and two new staff members were not yet linked to this profile. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 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. If additional violations are found in staff and children’s records, transportation requirements, or EPR requirements during the follow-up visit, they will be added to today's visit summary. You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately and send me documentation verifying compliance on or before 12/10/2025. The following information must be included in your compliance letter: • each violation number, • how you corrected each violation, • what plan will be implemented to prevent each violation from occurring again, • the name of your center, • facility ID number, • date, • title of the person who signs the letter If you state in your Compliance Letter that corrections or changes have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information and could lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. You may email the letter to cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or mail two copies of the letter to: Cara McKeown 4948 Martin View Lane, Unit #146 Winston Salem, NC 27104 Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical Assistance Provided During Visit: A facility profile for Criminal Background Checks has been created; however, the Criminal Background Check Qualification letters for one existing staff member and two new staff members were not yet linked to this profile. It is necessary for all staff members to be linked to the center’s facility profile in the ABCMS system, as the process of notifying the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days has changed to include this process. Ms. McCummings stated one staff member who was onsite during the visit should have been linked to another sister site, as the staff member helps at both sites, but the staff member was not observed to be linked to the sister site either. If you need additional assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. Consultation Provided During Visit: Please consider adding additional art, home living, reading, and blocks/ accessory materials to each classroom of toddler age up through School Age. The majority of classrooms were observed to have just enough materials for children enrolled, but could benefit from having a greater variety of materials. As the Hold Harmless period has ended, and preparations for the new QRIS Modernization process are underway, I have included the link below to DCDEE’s NC Child Care Commission’s QRIS Modernization Plan (QRIS Reform) website link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization • Consider participating in an outreach assessment: https://ncrlap.org/Resources/pages/outreachassessments/ • Visit the NCRLAP website: Get Ready for the 3s (ECERS-3, ITERS-3, FCCERS-3) https://ncrlap.org/Resources/pages/get-ready-for-3s/ Additionally, you may consider reaching out to local partners at Child Care Resource Center and/or Smart Start of Forsyth County. Their teams are working diligently to support programs with training and more detailed information on the ERS-3 at this time. Beginning in October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license. Ms. McCummings stated she is considering moving forward with Pathway 2, but has not yet made a final decision. On-Going Professional Development In addition to the required Health and Safety Trainings, staff can access professional development training on the DCDEE website in Moodle under Early Childhood Professional Development in the categories of Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF), Orientation and Regulatory. Updated training modules are being added, including a Child Care Rule Rollout with new rules effective July 1, 2025, found under the Regulatory tab. Specifically, under the Orientation tab, I would encourage all staff to complete the training for “Child Development Module.” This training module provides a basic overview about child development and is designed to help early educators support infants, toddlers, and preschool children to reach their next developmental milestone. In addition to gaining introductory knowledge about child development, early educators will learn about the many resources and professional agencies available in North Carolina to help with promoting a responsive and engaging learning environment to support all children served. Upon completion, participants will receive one (1) contact hour credit (CHC). An individual NCID username and password is needed to access the DCDEE Moodle. If you experience problems with Moodle, contact dcdee_moodle_support@dhhs.nc.gov for assistance. For other training-related questions, please contact the Training and Program Development Consultant, Amia Eaton by calling (919) 814-6365 or emailing her at Amia.Eaton@dhhs.nc.gov Thank you for your time and assistance during this visit. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary and enrollment worksheet were provided to you. Contact me at Cara McKeown, Child Care Consultant, (336) 408-4849 or cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or Pamela Hauser, Licensing Supervisor, pamela.hauser@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
- Violation
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/26/2025 Number Present: 52 Completed Date: 11/26/2025 Age: From 9 To 10 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 09:50 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 visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Tiffany McCummings, Center Director assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued December 7, 2018, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component (meeting all enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for the facility offering a staff benefits package and offering and infrastructure of parent involvement. The sanitation inspection was completed 1/27/2025 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 9/23/2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. Ms. McCummings provided me a copy of the fire inspection during the visit. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 88% percent as of 11/25/25. All programs are required to maintain 75% compliance. Upon arrival, the license was posted, and all restrictions were observed in compliance. Eight classrooms were observed during this visit. All indoor and outdoor areas were observed during the visit. Upon arrival staff/child ratio was observed and recorded on the attached worksheet. Supervision was adequate during the visit. I observed developmentally appropriate materials and activities were available to the children in the classrooms. I observed the children playing in activity areas, participating in general routines, engaging in conversations and activities with their teachers, playing outdoors, eating lunch, and napping during the visit. I observed interactions between staff and children. An allergy list was posted in each classroom and in the kitchen. Storage of hazardous items was monitored. No medications were observed, nor reported. Ms. McCummings stated program does not currently participate in off-premise activities; she stated these only occur during the summer months. Ms. McCummings also stated the program does not currently participate in aquatic activities. This program does transport seven (7) children who are School Age enrolled at this time. Three microbuses are stored on the property for La Petite Academy, Inc.; however, Ms. McCummings stated only one bus (License Plate # RC-1573) is used at the facility to transport children enrolled. Due to time restrictions, transportation was not monitored during today’s visit. The facility was closing at 2 p.m. for the holiday weekend. A follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor transportation requirements. Staff and Training Worksheets were not submitted prior to the visit, but were not due until 11/28/25. Due to time restrictions, staff and children’s files were not monitored during today’s visit; a follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor these records. Ms. McCummings stated she will email me her updated Staff & Training Worksheets by 12/01/2025 and copy my supervisor, Pam Hauser, on the email. Ms. McCummings stated during the visit she currently has twenty (20) staff members, inclusive of herself and administration, eight (8) of which are new staff members. Due to time restrictions, the EPR plan and Ready to Go file were not monitored during today’s visit; a follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor these records. Playground inspections, lockdown/ shelter-in-place drills and fire drill logs were monitored and observed to be in compliance for one year. A fire drill was conducted on 11/23/2025. A shelter-in-place drill was completed on 11/20/25. A playground inspection was completed on 11/26/2025. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. The full-day daily schedule for Space 7, the classroom designated for children of School Age, was not posted; only the before/after school schedule was posted. School Age children in care were out of school and present at the center today, due to the Thanksgiving holiday. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 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. A small container of super glue labeled Keep Out of Reach of Children with additional warnings was observed inside an unlocked drawer in Space 5, accessible to children. .2820(b) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. A safe sleep policy was not observed to be posted in Space 1. .0606(b) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. A facility profile for Criminal Background Checks has been created; however, the Criminal Background Check Qualification letters for one existing staff member and two new staff members were not yet linked to this profile. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 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. If additional violations are found in staff and children’s records, transportation requirements, or EPR requirements during the follow-up visit, they will be added to today's visit summary. You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately and send me documentation verifying compliance on or before 12/10/2025. The following information must be included in your compliance letter: • each violation number, • how you corrected each violation, • what plan will be implemented to prevent each violation from occurring again, • the name of your center, • facility ID number, • date, • title of the person who signs the letter If you state in your Compliance Letter that corrections or changes have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information and could lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. You may email the letter to cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or mail two copies of the letter to: Cara McKeown 4948 Martin View Lane, Unit #146 Winston Salem, NC 27104 Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical Assistance Provided During Visit: A facility profile for Criminal Background Checks has been created; however, the Criminal Background Check Qualification letters for one existing staff member and two new staff members were not yet linked to this profile. It is necessary for all staff members to be linked to the center’s facility profile in the ABCMS system, as the process of notifying the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days has changed to include this process. Ms. McCummings stated one staff member who was onsite during the visit should have been linked to another sister site, as the staff member helps at both sites, but the staff member was not observed to be linked to the sister site either. If you need additional assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. Consultation Provided During Visit: Please consider adding additional art, home living, reading, and blocks/ accessory materials to each classroom of toddler age up through School Age. The majority of classrooms were observed to have just enough materials for children enrolled, but could benefit from having a greater variety of materials. As the Hold Harmless period has ended, and preparations for the new QRIS Modernization process are underway, I have included the link below to DCDEE’s NC Child Care Commission’s QRIS Modernization Plan (QRIS Reform) website link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization • Consider participating in an outreach assessment: https://ncrlap.org/Resources/pages/outreachassessments/ • Visit the NCRLAP website: Get Ready for the 3s (ECERS-3, ITERS-3, FCCERS-3) https://ncrlap.org/Resources/pages/get-ready-for-3s/ Additionally, you may consider reaching out to local partners at Child Care Resource Center and/or Smart Start of Forsyth County. Their teams are working diligently to support programs with training and more detailed information on the ERS-3 at this time. Beginning in October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license. Ms. McCummings stated she is considering moving forward with Pathway 2, but has not yet made a final decision. On-Going Professional Development In addition to the required Health and Safety Trainings, staff can access professional development training on the DCDEE website in Moodle under Early Childhood Professional Development in the categories of Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF), Orientation and Regulatory. Updated training modules are being added, including a Child Care Rule Rollout with new rules effective July 1, 2025, found under the Regulatory tab. Specifically, under the Orientation tab, I would encourage all staff to complete the training for “Child Development Module.” This training module provides a basic overview about child development and is designed to help early educators support infants, toddlers, and preschool children to reach their next developmental milestone. In addition to gaining introductory knowledge about child development, early educators will learn about the many resources and professional agencies available in North Carolina to help with promoting a responsive and engaging learning environment to support all children served. Upon completion, participants will receive one (1) contact hour credit (CHC). An individual NCID username and password is needed to access the DCDEE Moodle. If you experience problems with Moodle, contact dcdee_moodle_support@dhhs.nc.gov for assistance. For other training-related questions, please contact the Training and Program Development Consultant, Amia Eaton by calling (919) 814-6365 or emailing her at Amia.Eaton@dhhs.nc.gov Thank you for your time and assistance during this visit. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary and enrollment worksheet were provided to you. Contact me at Cara McKeown, Child Care Consultant, (336) 408-4849 or cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or Pamela Hauser, Licensing Supervisor, pamela.hauser@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
- Violation
10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/25/2025 Number Present: 70 Completed Date: 6/25/3035 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 280 Time In: 10:35 AM Time Out: 03:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable childcare requirements for a routine unannounced visit. This visit was conducted with Tiffany McCummings, Director. Your program currently operates with a 5-Star license effective 12/07/2018. Restrictions include 1st shift care, meets enhanced space, meets enhanced ratios, and can provide care for children up to 14 years old. The program’s compliance history was 86% prior to today’s visit. All programs are required to maintain at least 75% compliance. Today, the following items were monitored: • Supervision • Staff / Child Ratio • CPR / First Aid • Special Training • CBC Qualification • ITS – SIDS • Emergency Medical Care Plan • Administration of Medication • Storage of Hazardous Products • Storage of Medication • General Safety • Discipline • Adequate / Approved Space • Program Records • License Posted • Permit Restrictions The license was observed, and the restrictions were found in compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. Indoor and outdoor areas were observed. Staff/child ratio and space capacity were monitored as indicated on the attached worksheet. Supervision was adequate during the visit. I observed staff/child interactions today. I observed children engaging in conversations and activities with their teachers and in centers, participating in general routines, and eating lunch during the visit. Seven new staff members were reported at this program. The files for these staff members were reviewed. Limited monitoring of staff files was conducted for the purpose of reviewing training regarding CPR/First Aid, EPR, Playground Safety, ITS-SIDS, Special Training including Criminal Background Checks. No medications were observed nor reported. Storage of hazardous items was monitored today and found to be in compliance. The most recent playground inspection was recorded 5/29/2025. A fire drill was recorded 6/10/2025. The most recent lockdown drill for the facility was recorded 3/05/25. The most recent fire inspection was on 9/10/2024. I observed a sanitation inspection was last conducted on 1/27/2025 earning a Superior classification. The program does not participate in aquatic activities at this time. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The top drawer of each of the metal filing cabinets located in Spaces 3, 5, and 6 were observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. The top right edge of an art easel located in Space 4 was observed to be broken and sharp to the touch. One plastic bin was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch in Space 3. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Five plastic grocery bags containing soiled clothing were observed to be stored in cubbies located less than five feet from the ground in Space 8. .0604(q) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. The First Aid certification observed on file for a new employee whose start date was 2/05/2025 was observed to be received from an unapproved training agency. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. The CPR certification observed on file for a new employee whose start date was 2/05/2025 was observed to be received from an unapproved training agency. .1102(d) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The emergency information for nine staff members and the applications for 72 children enrolled were not observed in the Ready To Go file. .0607(d)(10) 1870 The prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy did not have the required information. The signed Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy for two new staff members did not contain a date the employees signed the policy. The date one employee received the policy was not recorded for one new staff member. .0608(a)(1-6) Compliance documentation: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately and send me documentation verifying compliance on or before 7/09/25. The following information must be included in your compliance letter: • each violation number, • how you corrected each violation, • what plan will be implemented to prevent each violation from occurring again, • the name of your center, • facility ID number, • date, • title of the person who signs the letter If you state in your Compliance Letter that corrections or changes have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information and could lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. You may email the letter to cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or mail two copies of the letter to: Cara McKeown 353 Jonestown Road, Unit #146 Winston Salem, NC 27104 Repeated violations, continued non-compliance, or failure to submit the compliance letter prior to the date given in this visit summary can also lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical Assistance Provided During the Visit: The CPR/FA certification observed on file for a new employee whose start date was 2/05/2025 was observed to be received from an unapproved training agency. It is important for all training certifications to be completed through approved trainers/agencies for the safety of children enrolled. I showed Ms. McCummings and Ms. Jones where to find North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education CPR and First Aid Training Information with approved training agencies/organizations on the DCDEE website during the visit. Ms. McCummings also confirmed a CPR/FA class has already been scheduled for 7/1/2025 for all new employees through the American Red Cross. Consultation Provided During Visit: The following Child Care Rules were discussed with Ms. McCummings during the visit: 10A NCAC 09 .2508 AGE APPROPRIATE ACTIVITIES regarding screen time (I also showed Ms. McCummings where to locate the Screen Time Log template on the DCDEE website). A facility profile for Criminal Background Checks has been created; six staff CBCs are not yet linked to this profile. It is necessary for all staff members to be linked to the center's facility profile in the ABCMS system, as the process of notifying the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days has changed to include this process. Ms. McCummings stated she will complete this process prior to the compliance due date. The facility has been repainted indoors and inside all classrooms and main areas over the past two weeks, beginning on 6/12/25; this process is still not complete. Ms. McCummings is waiting for an adhesive to be sent and received from the corporate office which will not remove the new paint from the walls. Once this is received, all required documents will be reposted in each classroom; I was able to see all required documents which had been posted during today’s visit, even if some had been temporarily taken down due to painting. Ms. McCummings also reported a capital order was recently placed for classroom materials across all classrooms in the programs; materials are expected to arrive by or before August, 2025. Please monitor plastic playground borders for border tacks not flush with the border. A physical copy of the NC Foundations resource was provided to the center during the visit. • You must notify your consultant 30 days prior to changing the ownership status of your facility. At the completion of the visit, this visit was reviewed with and provided to you, and you were given the opportunity to ask questions. Thank you for your time and assistance during the visit. If you have any questions about the visit, please contact me or my supervisor using the information below. Cara McKeown-Stewart, Child Care Consultant (336) 408-4849 cara.mckeown-stewart@dhhs.nc.gov Pamela Hauser, Supervisor pamela.hauser@dhhs.nc.gov 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/ 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
- Violation
10A NCAC 09 .2508 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/25/2025 Number Present: 70 Completed Date: 6/25/3035 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 280 Time In: 10:35 AM Time Out: 03:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable childcare requirements for a routine unannounced visit. This visit was conducted with Tiffany McCummings, Director. Your program currently operates with a 5-Star license effective 12/07/2018. Restrictions include 1st shift care, meets enhanced space, meets enhanced ratios, and can provide care for children up to 14 years old. The program’s compliance history was 86% prior to today’s visit. All programs are required to maintain at least 75% compliance. Today, the following items were monitored: • Supervision • Staff / Child Ratio • CPR / First Aid • Special Training • CBC Qualification • ITS – SIDS • Emergency Medical Care Plan • Administration of Medication • Storage of Hazardous Products • Storage of Medication • General Safety • Discipline • Adequate / Approved Space • Program Records • License Posted • Permit Restrictions The license was observed, and the restrictions were found in compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. Indoor and outdoor areas were observed. Staff/child ratio and space capacity were monitored as indicated on the attached worksheet. Supervision was adequate during the visit. I observed staff/child interactions today. I observed children engaging in conversations and activities with their teachers and in centers, participating in general routines, and eating lunch during the visit. Seven new staff members were reported at this program. The files for these staff members were reviewed. Limited monitoring of staff files was conducted for the purpose of reviewing training regarding CPR/First Aid, EPR, Playground Safety, ITS-SIDS, Special Training including Criminal Background Checks. No medications were observed nor reported. Storage of hazardous items was monitored today and found to be in compliance. The most recent playground inspection was recorded 5/29/2025. A fire drill was recorded 6/10/2025. The most recent lockdown drill for the facility was recorded 3/05/25. The most recent fire inspection was on 9/10/2024. I observed a sanitation inspection was last conducted on 1/27/2025 earning a Superior classification. The program does not participate in aquatic activities at this time. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The top drawer of each of the metal filing cabinets located in Spaces 3, 5, and 6 were observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. The top right edge of an art easel located in Space 4 was observed to be broken and sharp to the touch. One plastic bin was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch in Space 3. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Five plastic grocery bags containing soiled clothing were observed to be stored in cubbies located less than five feet from the ground in Space 8. .0604(q) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. The First Aid certification observed on file for a new employee whose start date was 2/05/2025 was observed to be received from an unapproved training agency. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. The CPR certification observed on file for a new employee whose start date was 2/05/2025 was observed to be received from an unapproved training agency. .1102(d) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The emergency information for nine staff members and the applications for 72 children enrolled were not observed in the Ready To Go file. .0607(d)(10) 1870 The prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy did not have the required information. The signed Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy for two new staff members did not contain a date the employees signed the policy. The date one employee received the policy was not recorded for one new staff member. .0608(a)(1-6) Compliance documentation: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately and send me documentation verifying compliance on or before 7/09/25. The following information must be included in your compliance letter: • each violation number, • how you corrected each violation, • what plan will be implemented to prevent each violation from occurring again, • the name of your center, • facility ID number, • date, • title of the person who signs the letter If you state in your Compliance Letter that corrections or changes have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information and could lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. You may email the letter to cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or mail two copies of the letter to: Cara McKeown 353 Jonestown Road, Unit #146 Winston Salem, NC 27104 Repeated violations, continued non-compliance, or failure to submit the compliance letter prior to the date given in this visit summary can also lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical Assistance Provided During the Visit: The CPR/FA certification observed on file for a new employee whose start date was 2/05/2025 was observed to be received from an unapproved training agency. It is important for all training certifications to be completed through approved trainers/agencies for the safety of children enrolled. I showed Ms. McCummings and Ms. Jones where to find North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education CPR and First Aid Training Information with approved training agencies/organizations on the DCDEE website during the visit. Ms. McCummings also confirmed a CPR/FA class has already been scheduled for 7/1/2025 for all new employees through the American Red Cross. Consultation Provided During Visit: The following Child Care Rules were discussed with Ms. McCummings during the visit: 10A NCAC 09 .2508 AGE APPROPRIATE ACTIVITIES regarding screen time (I also showed Ms. McCummings where to locate the Screen Time Log template on the DCDEE website). A facility profile for Criminal Background Checks has been created; six staff CBCs are not yet linked to this profile. It is necessary for all staff members to be linked to the center's facility profile in the ABCMS system, as the process of notifying the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days has changed to include this process. Ms. McCummings stated she will complete this process prior to the compliance due date. The facility has been repainted indoors and inside all classrooms and main areas over the past two weeks, beginning on 6/12/25; this process is still not complete. Ms. McCummings is waiting for an adhesive to be sent and received from the corporate office which will not remove the new paint from the walls. Once this is received, all required documents will be reposted in each classroom; I was able to see all required documents which had been posted during today’s visit, even if some had been temporarily taken down due to painting. Ms. McCummings also reported a capital order was recently placed for classroom materials across all classrooms in the programs; materials are expected to arrive by or before August, 2025. Please monitor plastic playground borders for border tacks not flush with the border. A physical copy of the NC Foundations resource was provided to the center during the visit. • You must notify your consultant 30 days prior to changing the ownership status of your facility. At the completion of the visit, this visit was reviewed with and provided to you, and you were given the opportunity to ask questions. Thank you for your time and assistance during the visit. If you have any questions about the visit, please contact me or my supervisor using the information below. Cara McKeown-Stewart, Child Care Consultant (336) 408-4849 cara.mckeown-stewart@dhhs.nc.gov Pamela Hauser, Supervisor pamela.hauser@dhhs.nc.gov 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/ 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
- Violation
10A NCAC 09 .0801 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/16/2024 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 12/16/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 423 Time In: 08:42 AM Time Out: 03:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced An unannounced annual compliance visit was conducted at this childcare center to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. This visit was conducted by Cara McKeown-Stewart, Childcare Consultant with Tiffany Cummings, Director, and Patricia Jones, Assistant Director. Your program currently operates with a 5-Star license. Restrictions include 1st shift care, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and allowed to provide care for children up to 14 years of age. The Secretary of State website was monitored on 12/16/2024, and La Petite Academy, Inc. was listed as Current/ Active. The license was observed, and the restrictions were monitored. The program’s compliance history was 85% prior to today’s visit. All programs are required to maintain at least 75% compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. Indoor and outdoor areas were observed. Upon arrival, staff/child ratio and space capacity were monitored as indicated on the attached worksheet. Supervision was monitored during the visit. I observed children playing in activity centers, engaging in conversations and activities with their teachers, and eating lunch during the visit. I observed developmentally appropriate materials and activities were available to the children in the classrooms. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/23/2024. A sanitation inspection was completed 7/24/2024 with a Superior classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on 9/10/2024. Program records and required postings were monitored. A fire drill was conducted on 12/10/2024. A shelter-in-place drill was documented on 12/06/2024. An outdoor inspection was documented on 11/25/2024. Staff files and children’s records were monitored per DCDEE procedures. One new staff member was reported at the program. The files for two existing staff members and the one new staff member were monitored during the visit. The files for eleven children enrolled were monitored during the visit. Storage of hazardous items was monitored today and found to be in compliance. All medications and required medication documentation was monitored. This program currently provides transportation for four school age children in the afternoons, using one mini bus (license plate number KME-9428) which was borrowed from another facility. The program’s typical mini bus used for transportation was reported by Ms. McCummings to be under repair. The registration and inspection for the borrowed vehicle were observed to be current on this vehicle until February 28, 2025. Insurance was observed to be current through 4/01/2025. All booster seats were current. All required transportation documentation was monitored. Ms. McCummings stated the program does not participate in off-premise or aquatic activities at this time. I stated to Ms. McCummings she must send me updated inspection and registration information for the facility’s regular mini bus used for transportation once the vehicle is repaired and returned to the site. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 468 When three year old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. In Space 8, a classroom designated for children two and three years of age, only paintbrushes and construction paper were accessible to children. .0510(d)(1) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On the playground used by children enrolled, the base of one wooden slat enclosing an air conditioning unit was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. Paint was observed to be peeling and flaking off the windowsills of the building on the playground used by infants and toddlers. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. The length of time the authorization was valid for the diaper cream for one child enrolled in Space 1 was observed to have expired. The emergency medication for one child enrolled in Space 6 was observed to have expired in July, 2024. .0803(12) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The Ready to Go file did not contain medical authorizations and instructions for one child enrolled with an emergency medication. .0607(d)(10) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. The printed copy of the EPR plan was last updated on 7/25/2023. .0607(f) 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. A Health & Safety training certificate for Topic #2 Administration of Medication with standards for parental consent was not on file for one existing employee. .1103(b) Compliance documentation: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately and send me documentation verifying compliance on or before 12/30/2024. The following information must be included in your compliance letter: • each violation number, • how you corrected each violation, • what plan will be implemented to prevent each violation from occurring again, • the name of your center, • facility ID number, • date, • title of the person who signs the letter If you state in your Compliance Letter that corrections or changes have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information and could lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. You may email the letter to cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or mail two copies of the letter to: Cara McKeown 353 Jonestown Road, Unit #146 Winston Salem, NC 27104 Repeated violations, continued non-compliance, or failure to submit the compliance letter prior to the date given in this visit summary can also lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical Assistance Provided During Visit: In Space 8, a classroom designated for children two and three years of age, only paintbrushes and construction paper were accessible to children. Scissors, crayons, and Play Doh with tools were added to this classroom during the visit. The printed copy of the EPR plan was last updated on 7/25/2023; Ms. McCummings updated and printed this plan during the visit. The length of time the authorization was valid for the diaper cream for one child enrolled in Space 1 was observed to have expired; Ms. Jones removed this cream from the classroom during the visit. The emergency medication for one child enrolled in Space 6 was observed to have expired in July, 2024; this medication was removed from the classroom during the visit. The Ready to Go file did not contain medical authorizations and instructions for one child enrolled with an emergency medication. A Health & Safety training certificate for Topic #2 Administration of Medication with standards for parental consent was not on file for one existing employee. Ms. Jones stated she was not aware these records were not on file and that the employee without the Health & Safety training had likely overlooked the training because it is located in Moodle in a different section than the other Health & Safety trainings. It is imperative that all required records are current and onsite for review at all times to ensure the health, safety, and quality of care of children enrolled. You may consider creating a routine schedule for monitoring all program, staff, and children’s files to ensure all records remain complete and current. On the playground used by children enrolled, the base of one wooden slat enclosing an air conditioning unit was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. Paint was observed to be peeling and flaking off the windowsills of the building on the playground used by infants and toddlers. Ms. McCummings stated work orders had already been placed for these items, and a temporary solution would be discussed. It is imperative the outdoor learning environment be safe for children to engage with at all times. You may consider temporary solutions for these items as soon as they are identified while waiting for work orders to be completed. Consultation Provided During Visit: The following Child Care Rule was reviewed with Ms. McCummings and Ms. Jones during the visit: - 10A NCAC 09 .0801 APPLICATION FOR ENROLLMENT (a) (7) Please consider adding more materials to Spaces 2, 3, and 8. As new staff members begin, submit their education to DCDEE Works. North Carolina child care administrators can now view and edit their facility’s staff roster in ABCMS, the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Provider Access to ABCMS allows administrators to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. To get started, complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training in Moodle—a video tutorial followed by a few questions. 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. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. 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 on 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. Thank you for your time and assistance during this visit. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary, enrollment worksheet, and monitoring checklist were provided to you. Contact me, Cara McKeown, Child Care Consultant, at (336) 408-4849 or cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or Pamela Hauser, Licensing Supervisor, pamela.hauser@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
- Violation
G.S. 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/16/2024 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 12/16/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 423 Time In: 08:42 AM Time Out: 03:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced An unannounced annual compliance visit was conducted at this childcare center to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. This visit was conducted by Cara McKeown-Stewart, Childcare Consultant with Tiffany Cummings, Director, and Patricia Jones, Assistant Director. Your program currently operates with a 5-Star license. Restrictions include 1st shift care, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and allowed to provide care for children up to 14 years of age. The Secretary of State website was monitored on 12/16/2024, and La Petite Academy, Inc. was listed as Current/ Active. The license was observed, and the restrictions were monitored. The program’s compliance history was 85% prior to today’s visit. All programs are required to maintain at least 75% compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. Indoor and outdoor areas were observed. Upon arrival, staff/child ratio and space capacity were monitored as indicated on the attached worksheet. Supervision was monitored during the visit. I observed children playing in activity centers, engaging in conversations and activities with their teachers, and eating lunch during the visit. I observed developmentally appropriate materials and activities were available to the children in the classrooms. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/23/2024. A sanitation inspection was completed 7/24/2024 with a Superior classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on 9/10/2024. Program records and required postings were monitored. A fire drill was conducted on 12/10/2024. A shelter-in-place drill was documented on 12/06/2024. An outdoor inspection was documented on 11/25/2024. Staff files and children’s records were monitored per DCDEE procedures. One new staff member was reported at the program. The files for two existing staff members and the one new staff member were monitored during the visit. The files for eleven children enrolled were monitored during the visit. Storage of hazardous items was monitored today and found to be in compliance. All medications and required medication documentation was monitored. This program currently provides transportation for four school age children in the afternoons, using one mini bus (license plate number KME-9428) which was borrowed from another facility. The program’s typical mini bus used for transportation was reported by Ms. McCummings to be under repair. The registration and inspection for the borrowed vehicle were observed to be current on this vehicle until February 28, 2025. Insurance was observed to be current through 4/01/2025. All booster seats were current. All required transportation documentation was monitored. Ms. McCummings stated the program does not participate in off-premise or aquatic activities at this time. I stated to Ms. McCummings she must send me updated inspection and registration information for the facility’s regular mini bus used for transportation once the vehicle is repaired and returned to the site. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 468 When three year old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. In Space 8, a classroom designated for children two and three years of age, only paintbrushes and construction paper were accessible to children. .0510(d)(1) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On the playground used by children enrolled, the base of one wooden slat enclosing an air conditioning unit was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. Paint was observed to be peeling and flaking off the windowsills of the building on the playground used by infants and toddlers. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. The length of time the authorization was valid for the diaper cream for one child enrolled in Space 1 was observed to have expired. The emergency medication for one child enrolled in Space 6 was observed to have expired in July, 2024. .0803(12) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The Ready to Go file did not contain medical authorizations and instructions for one child enrolled with an emergency medication. .0607(d)(10) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. The printed copy of the EPR plan was last updated on 7/25/2023. .0607(f) 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. A Health & Safety training certificate for Topic #2 Administration of Medication with standards for parental consent was not on file for one existing employee. .1103(b) Compliance documentation: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately and send me documentation verifying compliance on or before 12/30/2024. The following information must be included in your compliance letter: • each violation number, • how you corrected each violation, • what plan will be implemented to prevent each violation from occurring again, • the name of your center, • facility ID number, • date, • title of the person who signs the letter If you state in your Compliance Letter that corrections or changes have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information and could lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. You may email the letter to cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or mail two copies of the letter to: Cara McKeown 353 Jonestown Road, Unit #146 Winston Salem, NC 27104 Repeated violations, continued non-compliance, or failure to submit the compliance letter prior to the date given in this visit summary can also lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical Assistance Provided During Visit: In Space 8, a classroom designated for children two and three years of age, only paintbrushes and construction paper were accessible to children. Scissors, crayons, and Play Doh with tools were added to this classroom during the visit. The printed copy of the EPR plan was last updated on 7/25/2023; Ms. McCummings updated and printed this plan during the visit. The length of time the authorization was valid for the diaper cream for one child enrolled in Space 1 was observed to have expired; Ms. Jones removed this cream from the classroom during the visit. The emergency medication for one child enrolled in Space 6 was observed to have expired in July, 2024; this medication was removed from the classroom during the visit. The Ready to Go file did not contain medical authorizations and instructions for one child enrolled with an emergency medication. A Health & Safety training certificate for Topic #2 Administration of Medication with standards for parental consent was not on file for one existing employee. Ms. Jones stated she was not aware these records were not on file and that the employee without the Health & Safety training had likely overlooked the training because it is located in Moodle in a different section than the other Health & Safety trainings. It is imperative that all required records are current and onsite for review at all times to ensure the health, safety, and quality of care of children enrolled. You may consider creating a routine schedule for monitoring all program, staff, and children’s files to ensure all records remain complete and current. On the playground used by children enrolled, the base of one wooden slat enclosing an air conditioning unit was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. Paint was observed to be peeling and flaking off the windowsills of the building on the playground used by infants and toddlers. Ms. McCummings stated work orders had already been placed for these items, and a temporary solution would be discussed. It is imperative the outdoor learning environment be safe for children to engage with at all times. You may consider temporary solutions for these items as soon as they are identified while waiting for work orders to be completed. Consultation Provided During Visit: The following Child Care Rule was reviewed with Ms. McCummings and Ms. Jones during the visit: - 10A NCAC 09 .0801 APPLICATION FOR ENROLLMENT (a) (7) Please consider adding more materials to Spaces 2, 3, and 8. As new staff members begin, submit their education to DCDEE Works. North Carolina child care administrators can now view and edit their facility’s staff roster in ABCMS, the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Provider Access to ABCMS allows administrators to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. To get started, complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training in Moodle—a video tutorial followed by a few questions. 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. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. 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 on 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. Thank you for your time and assistance during this visit. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary, enrollment worksheet, and monitoring checklist were provided to you. Contact me, Cara McKeown, Child Care Consultant, at (336) 408-4849 or cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or Pamela Hauser, Licensing Supervisor, pamela.hauser@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
- Violation
10A NCAC 09 .0510 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/23/2024 Number Present: 84 Completed Date: 7/23/2024 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 10:40 AM Time Out: 02:30 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 childcare requirements for a routine unannounced visit. This visit was conducted by Cara McKeown-Stewart, Childcare Consultant with Tiffany McCummings, Director. Your program currently operates with a 5-Star license effective 12/07/2018. Restrictions include 1st shift care, meets enhanced space, meets enhanced ratios, and allowed to provide care for children up to 14 years of age. The program’s compliance history was 81% prior to today’s visit. All programs are required to maintain at least 75% compliance. Today, the following items were monitored: • Supervision • Staff / Child Ratio • CPR / First Aid • Special Training • CBC Qualification • ITS – SIDS • Emergency Medical Care Plan • Administration of Medication • Storage of Hazardous Products • Storage of Medication • General Safety • Discipline • Adequate / Approved Space • Program Records • License Posted • Permit Restrictions The license was observed, and the restrictions were found in compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. Indoor and outdoor areas were observed. Staff/child ratio and space capacity were monitored as indicated on the attached worksheet. Supervision was adequate during the visit. I observed staff/child interactions today. I observed children playing with toys, engaging in conversations with their teachers, participating in general routines, eating lunch, and napping during the visit. Two new staff members were reported at this program. The files for these staff members were reviewed. Limited monitoring of staff files was conducted for the purpose of reviewing training regarding CPR/First Aid, EPR, Playground Safety, ITS-SIDS, Special Training including Criminal Background Checks. Storage and administration of medication and medication authorization were monitored and found to be in compliance. Storage of hazardous items was monitored today and found to be in compliance. A playground inspection was recorded 6/08/2024. A fire drill was recorded 7/08/2024. A lockdown drill for the facility was recorded 6/07/2024. The most recent fire inspection was on 8/21/2023. I observed a sanitation inspection was last conducted on 7/11/2024 earning a Disapproved classification. Ms. McCummings stated in an email sent this morning that a sanitation visit will be conducted on Wednesday, 7/24/2024 and that she would send me a copy of the visit inspection, once received. The program does not participate in aquatic activities at this time. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 3, a classroom designated for children two and three years of age, four plastic bags and/or wrappers were observed in two unlatched file cabinet drawers less than five feet from the ground, accessible to children. .0604(q) Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical Assistance Provided During Visit: In Space 3, a classroom designated for children two and three years of age, four plastic bags and/or wrappers were observed in two unlatched file cabinet drawers less than five feet from the ground. A staff member removed all plastic bags and wrappers from the drawer during the visit. Consultation Provided During Visit: The following Child Care Rules were reviewed with Ms. McCummings during the visit: 10A NCAC 09 .0510 ACTIVITY AREAS (d) (e ) 10A NCAC 09 .0901 GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS (b) (g) 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (7) Please add additional materials to the following Spaces: art materials (Space 4); literacy materials (Space 6); blocks accessories (Space 7); and blocks, literacy, and art materials and accessories (Space 8). • You must notify your consultant 30 days prior to changing the ownership status of your facility. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed with and provided to you. Thank you for your time and assistance during the visit. If you have any questions about the visit, please contact me or my supervisor using the information below. Cara McKeown-Stewart, Child Care Consultant (336) 408-4849 cara.mckeown-stewart@dhhs.nc.gov Pamela Hauser, Supervisor pamela.hauser@dhhs.nc.gov 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/ 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
- Violation
10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/23/2024 Number Present: 84 Completed Date: 7/23/2024 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 10:40 AM Time Out: 02:30 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 childcare requirements for a routine unannounced visit. This visit was conducted by Cara McKeown-Stewart, Childcare Consultant with Tiffany McCummings, Director. Your program currently operates with a 5-Star license effective 12/07/2018. Restrictions include 1st shift care, meets enhanced space, meets enhanced ratios, and allowed to provide care for children up to 14 years of age. The program’s compliance history was 81% prior to today’s visit. All programs are required to maintain at least 75% compliance. Today, the following items were monitored: • Supervision • Staff / Child Ratio • CPR / First Aid • Special Training • CBC Qualification • ITS – SIDS • Emergency Medical Care Plan • Administration of Medication • Storage of Hazardous Products • Storage of Medication • General Safety • Discipline • Adequate / Approved Space • Program Records • License Posted • Permit Restrictions The license was observed, and the restrictions were found in compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. Indoor and outdoor areas were observed. Staff/child ratio and space capacity were monitored as indicated on the attached worksheet. Supervision was adequate during the visit. I observed staff/child interactions today. I observed children playing with toys, engaging in conversations with their teachers, participating in general routines, eating lunch, and napping during the visit. Two new staff members were reported at this program. The files for these staff members were reviewed. Limited monitoring of staff files was conducted for the purpose of reviewing training regarding CPR/First Aid, EPR, Playground Safety, ITS-SIDS, Special Training including Criminal Background Checks. Storage and administration of medication and medication authorization were monitored and found to be in compliance. Storage of hazardous items was monitored today and found to be in compliance. A playground inspection was recorded 6/08/2024. A fire drill was recorded 7/08/2024. A lockdown drill for the facility was recorded 6/07/2024. The most recent fire inspection was on 8/21/2023. I observed a sanitation inspection was last conducted on 7/11/2024 earning a Disapproved classification. Ms. McCummings stated in an email sent this morning that a sanitation visit will be conducted on Wednesday, 7/24/2024 and that she would send me a copy of the visit inspection, once received. The program does not participate in aquatic activities at this time. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 3, a classroom designated for children two and three years of age, four plastic bags and/or wrappers were observed in two unlatched file cabinet drawers less than five feet from the ground, accessible to children. .0604(q) Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical Assistance Provided During Visit: In Space 3, a classroom designated for children two and three years of age, four plastic bags and/or wrappers were observed in two unlatched file cabinet drawers less than five feet from the ground. A staff member removed all plastic bags and wrappers from the drawer during the visit. Consultation Provided During Visit: The following Child Care Rules were reviewed with Ms. McCummings during the visit: 10A NCAC 09 .0510 ACTIVITY AREAS (d) (e ) 10A NCAC 09 .0901 GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS (b) (g) 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (7) Please add additional materials to the following Spaces: art materials (Space 4); literacy materials (Space 6); blocks accessories (Space 7); and blocks, literacy, and art materials and accessories (Space 8). • You must notify your consultant 30 days prior to changing the ownership status of your facility. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed with and provided to you. Thank you for your time and assistance during the visit. If you have any questions about the visit, please contact me or my supervisor using the information below. Cara McKeown-Stewart, Child Care Consultant (336) 408-4849 cara.mckeown-stewart@dhhs.nc.gov Pamela Hauser, Supervisor pamela.hauser@dhhs.nc.gov 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/ 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
- Violation
10A NCAC 09 .0901 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/23/2024 Number Present: 84 Completed Date: 7/23/2024 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 10:40 AM Time Out: 02:30 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 childcare requirements for a routine unannounced visit. This visit was conducted by Cara McKeown-Stewart, Childcare Consultant with Tiffany McCummings, Director. Your program currently operates with a 5-Star license effective 12/07/2018. Restrictions include 1st shift care, meets enhanced space, meets enhanced ratios, and allowed to provide care for children up to 14 years of age. The program’s compliance history was 81% prior to today’s visit. All programs are required to maintain at least 75% compliance. Today, the following items were monitored: • Supervision • Staff / Child Ratio • CPR / First Aid • Special Training • CBC Qualification • ITS – SIDS • Emergency Medical Care Plan • Administration of Medication • Storage of Hazardous Products • Storage of Medication • General Safety • Discipline • Adequate / Approved Space • Program Records • License Posted • Permit Restrictions The license was observed, and the restrictions were found in compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. Indoor and outdoor areas were observed. Staff/child ratio and space capacity were monitored as indicated on the attached worksheet. Supervision was adequate during the visit. I observed staff/child interactions today. I observed children playing with toys, engaging in conversations with their teachers, participating in general routines, eating lunch, and napping during the visit. Two new staff members were reported at this program. The files for these staff members were reviewed. Limited monitoring of staff files was conducted for the purpose of reviewing training regarding CPR/First Aid, EPR, Playground Safety, ITS-SIDS, Special Training including Criminal Background Checks. Storage and administration of medication and medication authorization were monitored and found to be in compliance. Storage of hazardous items was monitored today and found to be in compliance. A playground inspection was recorded 6/08/2024. A fire drill was recorded 7/08/2024. A lockdown drill for the facility was recorded 6/07/2024. The most recent fire inspection was on 8/21/2023. I observed a sanitation inspection was last conducted on 7/11/2024 earning a Disapproved classification. Ms. McCummings stated in an email sent this morning that a sanitation visit will be conducted on Wednesday, 7/24/2024 and that she would send me a copy of the visit inspection, once received. The program does not participate in aquatic activities at this time. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 3, a classroom designated for children two and three years of age, four plastic bags and/or wrappers were observed in two unlatched file cabinet drawers less than five feet from the ground, accessible to children. .0604(q) Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical Assistance Provided During Visit: In Space 3, a classroom designated for children two and three years of age, four plastic bags and/or wrappers were observed in two unlatched file cabinet drawers less than five feet from the ground. A staff member removed all plastic bags and wrappers from the drawer during the visit. Consultation Provided During Visit: The following Child Care Rules were reviewed with Ms. McCummings during the visit: 10A NCAC 09 .0510 ACTIVITY AREAS (d) (e ) 10A NCAC 09 .0901 GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS (b) (g) 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (7) Please add additional materials to the following Spaces: art materials (Space 4); literacy materials (Space 6); blocks accessories (Space 7); and blocks, literacy, and art materials and accessories (Space 8). • You must notify your consultant 30 days prior to changing the ownership status of your facility. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed with and provided to you. Thank you for your time and assistance during the visit. If you have any questions about the visit, please contact me or my supervisor using the information below. Cara McKeown-Stewart, Child Care Consultant (336) 408-4849 cara.mckeown-stewart@dhhs.nc.gov Pamela Hauser, Supervisor pamela.hauser@dhhs.nc.gov 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/ 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
- Violation
10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/23/2024 Number Present: 76 Completed Date: 1/23/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 555 Time In: 08:15 AM Time Out: 05:30 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. Tiffany McCummings, Director, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued December 7, 2018, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component (meeting all enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for the center having enhanced policies approved and a staff benefits package. The Secretary of State website was reviewed on 12/29/2023, and La Petite Academy, Inc. was observed to be listed as current and active. The sanitation inspection was completed 1/16/2024 with a “Superior” classification. A fire inspection was completed on 8/21/2023, and the facility was approved for day and night care. Ms. McCummings provided me with a copy of the fire inspection during the visit. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 87 % as of 1/22/2024. All programs are required to maintain 75% compliance. Upon arrival, the license was posted, and restrictions were observed to be in compliance. Eight classrooms were observed during this visit. All indoor and outdoor areas were observed during the visit. In Space 3, one open plastic bubbles wrapper and one plastic bag were observed in a set of plastic drawers accessible to children under three years of age. Also in Space 3, the plastic covering on the lower portion of two doors was observed to be peeling and accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, the bottom left corner of the window furthest to the left in the classroom (facing the playground), was observed to be broken and sharp to the touch. Also in Space 4, four upholstered child-sized chairs were observed to be frayed in greater than five areas each. In Space 5, a fabric curtain secured by staples was observed to be coming detached, and two staples, sharp to the touch were observed to be accessible to children. In Space 5, the posted activity plan was dated 1/08/2024; a current activity plan was posted during the visit. In Space 8, a set of six fabric soft blocks were observed to be fraying on the corners. Ms. McCummings removed these blocks from the classroom during the visit and replaced them with another set of blocks. Also in Space 8, there were not sufficient materials in the art center for three children to choose different activities; the assistant director added ink stampers to this center during the visit. On the playground used by children two years of age and preschoolers, a long, plastic bin housing manipulative blocks was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch; this bin was removed from the playground during the visit. On the playground used by Pre-K children, one border tack was observed to be raised and not flush with the border, creating a potential entanglement hazard. On the playground used by infants and toddlers, a shallow hole, large enough for a basketball to rest in, was observed in the middle of the play area, presenting a potential tripping hazard. A wooden beam boarding the mulched area was observed to be split, the broken piece extending outward slightly, creating a potential tripping hazard. The depth of the mulch surfacing could not be measured during this visit, due to the ground being frozen; however, brand new mulch was observed in all fall zones on each playground. The surfacing will be measured during the next monitoring visit. Upon arrival staff/child ratio was observed and recorded on the attached worksheet. Supervision was adequate during the visit. I observed developmentally appropriate materials and activities were available to the children in the classrooms. I observed the children playing in activity areas, participating in general routines, engaging in conversations, songs, and activities with their teachers, playing outdoors, and eating lunch during the visit. An allergy list was posted. Storage of hazardous items was monitored and found to be in compliance. Storage and administration of medication were monitored. Medication authorization was monitored. In Space 1, the authorization forms for two diaper creams had expired on 12/31/23. In Space 2, the authorization form for one diaper cream had expired on 1/05/24. Ms. McCummings removed each of these creams from the spaces during the visit. Also in Space 4, the medication authorization form for one child enrolled was not signed by a parent. First Aid kits were monitored, and Safe Arrival and Departure procedures were posted. The program does not participate in off-premise activities or aquatic activities at this time. The facility provides transportation for children who are School Age in the afternoons using one mini bus # 245307 (Tag #HN 5869). The registration for this vehicle expires on 6/20/2024, and the insurance on this vehicle is due to be renewed on 4/01/24. The permission to transport form was not on file for one child enrolled. The permission to transport form for one child enrolled was missing arrival and departure times, as well as from where and to where the child is transported. The missing information for arrival/departure times and from/to where the child is transported were corrected during the visit. Ms. McCummings stated the facility has another mini bus which is not being used currently that is in the shop for repair. I stated Ms. McCummings must contact me to monitor this vehicle prior to the vehicle being used to transport children enrolled. A staff training worksheet was submitted prior to the visit; the file for one existing staff member and six new staff members were monitored. A medical statement and TB test for one new employee who began work on 10/10/2023 was completed on 9/20/2022. The certificate for Health and Safety training topics #2 Administration of medication, with standards for parental consent, and 10 Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Abuse and Maltreatment were not observed on file and not current within the last five years, respectively, for one existing employee. The employee completed the training for Recognizing and Responding during the visit. Children’s Records forms were completed during the visit. The files for twelve children enrolled were monitored. The date of enrollment was not recorded on the signed Discipline Policy for two children enrolled; this was corrected during the visit. Playground inspections, lockdown/ shelter-in-place drills and fire drill logs were monitored for one year. A fire drill was conducted on 1/10/2023. A shelter-in-place drill was completed on 12/27/2023. A playground inspection was completed on 1/22/2024. A playground inspection for May, June, August, September, October, November, and December, 2023 were not available for review. The Ready to Go file did not contain the applications for seven children enrolled and the staff contact information for each staff member. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Space 5, the posted activity plan was dated 1/08/2024; a current activity plan was posted during the visit. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 468 When three year old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. In Space 8, there were not sufficient materials in the art center for three children to choose different activities. .0510(d)(1) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. In Space 8, a set of six fabric soft blocks were observed to be fraying on the corners. Ms. McCummings removed these blocks from the classroom during the visit and replaced them with another set of blocks. In Space 4, four upholstered child-sized chairs were observed to be frayed in greater than five areas each. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In Space 3, one open plastic bubbles wrapper and one plastic bag were observed in a set of plastic drawers accessible to children under three years of age. Also in Space 3, the plastic covering on the lower portion of two doors was observed to be peeling and accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, the bottom left corner of the window furthest to the left in the classroom (facing the playground), was observed to be broken and sharp to the touch. On the playground used by children two years of age and preschoolers, a long, plastic bin housing manipulative blocks was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch; this bin was removed from the playground during the visit. On the playground used by Pre-K children, one border tack was observed to be raised and not flush with the border, creating a potential entanglement hazard. On the playground used by infants and toddlers, a shallow hole, large enough for a basketball to rest in, was observed in the middle of the play area, presenting a potential tripping hazard. A wooden beam boarding the mulched area was observed to be split, the broken piece extending outward slightly, creating a potential tripping hazard. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. The diaper cream authorization for one child enrolled was not signed by a parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In Space 1, the authorization forms for two diaper creams had expired on 12/31/23. In Space 2, the authorization form for one diaper cream had expired on 1/05/24. .0803(12) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. A playground inspection was completed on 1/22/2024. A playground inspection for May, June, August, September, October, November, and December, 2023 were not available for review. .0605(q) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. A medical statement and TB test for one new employee who began work on 10/10/2023 was completed on 9/20/2022. .0701(a) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. The permission to transport form was not on file for one child enrolled. The permission to transport form for one child enrolled was missing arrival and departure times, as well as from where and to where the child is transported. The missing information for arrival/departure times and from/to where the child is transported were corrected during the visit. .1003(i)(j) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The Ready to Go file did not contain the applications for seven children enrolled and the staff contact information for each staff member. .0607(d)(10) 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. The certificate for Health and Safety training topics #2 Administration of medication, with standards for parental consent, and 10 Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Abuse and Maltreatment were not observed on file and not current within the last five years, respectively, for one existing employee. The employee completed the training for Recognizing and Responding during the visit. .1103(b) Compliance documentation: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately and send me documentation verifying compliance on or before 2/06/2024. The following information must be included in your compliance letter: • each violation number, • how you corrected each violation, • what plan will be implemented to prevent each violation from occurring again, • the name of your center, • facility ID number, • date, • title of the person who signs the letter If you state in your Compliance Letter that corrections or changes have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information and could lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. You may email the letter to cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or mail two copies of the letter to: Cara McKeown 353 Jonestown Road, Unit #146 Winston Salem, NC 27104 Repeated violations, continued non-compliance, or failure to submit the compliance letter prior to the date given in this visit summary can also lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical Assistance Provided During Visit: In Space 1, the authorization forms for two diaper creams had expired on 12/31/23. In Space 2, the authorization form for one diaper cream had expired on 1/05/24. Ms. McCummings removed each of these creams from the spaces during the visit. Also in Space 4, the medication authorization form for one child enrolled was not signed by a parent. The permission to transport form was not on file for one child enrolled. The permission to transport form for one child enrolled was missing arrival and departure times, as well as from where and to where the child is transported. The missing information for arrival/departure times and from/to where the child is transported were corrected during the visit. A medical statement and TB test for one new employee who began work on 10/10/2023 was completed on 9/20/2022. The certificate for Health and Safety training topics #2 Administration of medication, with standards for parental consent, and 10 Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Abuse and Maltreatment were not observed on file and not current within the last five years, respectively, for one existing employee. The employee completed the training for Recognizing and Responding during the visit. The date of enrollment was not recorded on the signed Discipline Policy for two children enrolled; this was corrected during the visit. A playground inspection for May, June, August, September, October, November, and December, 2023 were not available for review. The Ready to Go file did not contain the applications for seven children enrolled and the staff contact information for each staff member. Ms. McCummings stated she and her Assistant Director have been working consistently to update paper work. In regard to the playground inspections, Ms. McCummings stated these are completed daily, electronically via a corporate app. I was unable to view these in the app during the visit, as Ms. McCummings is unsure how far back these can be accessed. I did review the criteria for the playground checks, and not all criteria included on the monthly playground inspection required by the Division are on the daily electronic inspection. I recommended Ms. McCummings set a regular schedule to review new and existing staff files, as well as children’s files, to ensure all required documentation is on file, as well as setting calendar reminders for upcoming documentation due dates. In Space 3, one open plastic bubbles wrapper and one plastic bag were observed in a set of plastic drawers accessible to children under three years of age. Also in Space 3, the plastic covering on the lower portion of two doors was observed to be peeling and accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, the bottom left corner of the window furthest to the left in the classroom (facing the playground), was observed to be broken and sharp to the touch. In Space 5, a fabric curtain secured by staples was observed to be coming detached, and two staples, sharp to the touch were observed to be accessible to children. On the playground used by children two years of age and preschoolers, a long, plastic bin housing manipulative blocks was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch; this bin was removed from the playground during the visit. On the playground used by Pre-K children, one border tack was observed to be raised and not flush with the border, creating a potential entanglement hazard. On the playground used by infants and toddlers, a shallow hole, large enough for a basketball to rest in, was observed in the middle of the play area, presenting a potential tripping hazard. A wooden beam boarding the mulched area was observed to be split, the broken piece extending outward slightly, creating a potential tripping hazard. It is important to routinely and frequently monitor the indoor and outdoor areas accessed by children to ensure children enrolled can safely explore their learning environments. Ms. McCummings stated a work order had already been placed for repair of the window and that she had been keeping an eye on the hole on the infant playground. I recommended Ms. McCummings consider adding these items to their daily playground inspection checklist. Also in Space 4, four upholstered child-sized chairs were observed to be frayed in greater than five areas each. In Space 8, a set of six fabric soft blocks were observed to be fraying on the corners. Ms. McCummings removed these blocks from the classroom during the visit and replaced them with another set of blocks. It is important for all items mentioned above to be able to be cleaned and sanitized regularly and thoroughly. I recommended Ms. McCummings consider using an adhesive covering such as Flex Tape to cover the fraying spots on the upholstered chairs. Consultation Provided During Visit: The following Child Care Rules were reviewed with Ms. McCummings during the visit: 10A NCAC 09 .1714 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE 10A NCAC 09 .1003 SAFE PROCEDURES (b) • You can access the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) at the following link to print a copy of your most recent Criminal Background Check Qualifying Letter.: https://ncabcms.nc.gov/DCDEE/Applicant/ • Please remember to submit the education for all new staff and all staff who have advanced their education to DCDEE Works. Thank you for your time and assistance during this visit. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary, enrollment worksheet, and monitoring checklist were emailed to you. Contact me at Cara McKeown, Child Care Consultant, (336) 408-4849 or cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or Pamela Hauser, Licensing Supervisor, pamela.hauser@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
- Violation
10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/23/2024 Number Present: 76 Completed Date: 1/23/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 555 Time In: 08:15 AM Time Out: 05:30 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. Tiffany McCummings, Director, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued December 7, 2018, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component (meeting all enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for the center having enhanced policies approved and a staff benefits package. The Secretary of State website was reviewed on 12/29/2023, and La Petite Academy, Inc. was observed to be listed as current and active. The sanitation inspection was completed 1/16/2024 with a “Superior” classification. A fire inspection was completed on 8/21/2023, and the facility was approved for day and night care. Ms. McCummings provided me with a copy of the fire inspection during the visit. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 87 % as of 1/22/2024. All programs are required to maintain 75% compliance. Upon arrival, the license was posted, and restrictions were observed to be in compliance. Eight classrooms were observed during this visit. All indoor and outdoor areas were observed during the visit. In Space 3, one open plastic bubbles wrapper and one plastic bag were observed in a set of plastic drawers accessible to children under three years of age. Also in Space 3, the plastic covering on the lower portion of two doors was observed to be peeling and accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, the bottom left corner of the window furthest to the left in the classroom (facing the playground), was observed to be broken and sharp to the touch. Also in Space 4, four upholstered child-sized chairs were observed to be frayed in greater than five areas each. In Space 5, a fabric curtain secured by staples was observed to be coming detached, and two staples, sharp to the touch were observed to be accessible to children. In Space 5, the posted activity plan was dated 1/08/2024; a current activity plan was posted during the visit. In Space 8, a set of six fabric soft blocks were observed to be fraying on the corners. Ms. McCummings removed these blocks from the classroom during the visit and replaced them with another set of blocks. Also in Space 8, there were not sufficient materials in the art center for three children to choose different activities; the assistant director added ink stampers to this center during the visit. On the playground used by children two years of age and preschoolers, a long, plastic bin housing manipulative blocks was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch; this bin was removed from the playground during the visit. On the playground used by Pre-K children, one border tack was observed to be raised and not flush with the border, creating a potential entanglement hazard. On the playground used by infants and toddlers, a shallow hole, large enough for a basketball to rest in, was observed in the middle of the play area, presenting a potential tripping hazard. A wooden beam boarding the mulched area was observed to be split, the broken piece extending outward slightly, creating a potential tripping hazard. The depth of the mulch surfacing could not be measured during this visit, due to the ground being frozen; however, brand new mulch was observed in all fall zones on each playground. The surfacing will be measured during the next monitoring visit. Upon arrival staff/child ratio was observed and recorded on the attached worksheet. Supervision was adequate during the visit. I observed developmentally appropriate materials and activities were available to the children in the classrooms. I observed the children playing in activity areas, participating in general routines, engaging in conversations, songs, and activities with their teachers, playing outdoors, and eating lunch during the visit. An allergy list was posted. Storage of hazardous items was monitored and found to be in compliance. Storage and administration of medication were monitored. Medication authorization was monitored. In Space 1, the authorization forms for two diaper creams had expired on 12/31/23. In Space 2, the authorization form for one diaper cream had expired on 1/05/24. Ms. McCummings removed each of these creams from the spaces during the visit. Also in Space 4, the medication authorization form for one child enrolled was not signed by a parent. First Aid kits were monitored, and Safe Arrival and Departure procedures were posted. The program does not participate in off-premise activities or aquatic activities at this time. The facility provides transportation for children who are School Age in the afternoons using one mini bus # 245307 (Tag #HN 5869). The registration for this vehicle expires on 6/20/2024, and the insurance on this vehicle is due to be renewed on 4/01/24. The permission to transport form was not on file for one child enrolled. The permission to transport form for one child enrolled was missing arrival and departure times, as well as from where and to where the child is transported. The missing information for arrival/departure times and from/to where the child is transported were corrected during the visit. Ms. McCummings stated the facility has another mini bus which is not being used currently that is in the shop for repair. I stated Ms. McCummings must contact me to monitor this vehicle prior to the vehicle being used to transport children enrolled. A staff training worksheet was submitted prior to the visit; the file for one existing staff member and six new staff members were monitored. A medical statement and TB test for one new employee who began work on 10/10/2023 was completed on 9/20/2022. The certificate for Health and Safety training topics #2 Administration of medication, with standards for parental consent, and 10 Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Abuse and Maltreatment were not observed on file and not current within the last five years, respectively, for one existing employee. The employee completed the training for Recognizing and Responding during the visit. Children’s Records forms were completed during the visit. The files for twelve children enrolled were monitored. The date of enrollment was not recorded on the signed Discipline Policy for two children enrolled; this was corrected during the visit. Playground inspections, lockdown/ shelter-in-place drills and fire drill logs were monitored for one year. A fire drill was conducted on 1/10/2023. A shelter-in-place drill was completed on 12/27/2023. A playground inspection was completed on 1/22/2024. A playground inspection for May, June, August, September, October, November, and December, 2023 were not available for review. The Ready to Go file did not contain the applications for seven children enrolled and the staff contact information for each staff member. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Space 5, the posted activity plan was dated 1/08/2024; a current activity plan was posted during the visit. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 468 When three year old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. In Space 8, there were not sufficient materials in the art center for three children to choose different activities. .0510(d)(1) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. In Space 8, a set of six fabric soft blocks were observed to be fraying on the corners. Ms. McCummings removed these blocks from the classroom during the visit and replaced them with another set of blocks. In Space 4, four upholstered child-sized chairs were observed to be frayed in greater than five areas each. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In Space 3, one open plastic bubbles wrapper and one plastic bag were observed in a set of plastic drawers accessible to children under three years of age. Also in Space 3, the plastic covering on the lower portion of two doors was observed to be peeling and accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, the bottom left corner of the window furthest to the left in the classroom (facing the playground), was observed to be broken and sharp to the touch. On the playground used by children two years of age and preschoolers, a long, plastic bin housing manipulative blocks was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch; this bin was removed from the playground during the visit. On the playground used by Pre-K children, one border tack was observed to be raised and not flush with the border, creating a potential entanglement hazard. On the playground used by infants and toddlers, a shallow hole, large enough for a basketball to rest in, was observed in the middle of the play area, presenting a potential tripping hazard. A wooden beam boarding the mulched area was observed to be split, the broken piece extending outward slightly, creating a potential tripping hazard. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. The diaper cream authorization for one child enrolled was not signed by a parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In Space 1, the authorization forms for two diaper creams had expired on 12/31/23. In Space 2, the authorization form for one diaper cream had expired on 1/05/24. .0803(12) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. A playground inspection was completed on 1/22/2024. A playground inspection for May, June, August, September, October, November, and December, 2023 were not available for review. .0605(q) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. A medical statement and TB test for one new employee who began work on 10/10/2023 was completed on 9/20/2022. .0701(a) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. The permission to transport form was not on file for one child enrolled. The permission to transport form for one child enrolled was missing arrival and departure times, as well as from where and to where the child is transported. The missing information for arrival/departure times and from/to where the child is transported were corrected during the visit. .1003(i)(j) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The Ready to Go file did not contain the applications for seven children enrolled and the staff contact information for each staff member. .0607(d)(10) 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. The certificate for Health and Safety training topics #2 Administration of medication, with standards for parental consent, and 10 Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Abuse and Maltreatment were not observed on file and not current within the last five years, respectively, for one existing employee. The employee completed the training for Recognizing and Responding during the visit. .1103(b) Compliance documentation: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately and send me documentation verifying compliance on or before 2/06/2024. The following information must be included in your compliance letter: • each violation number, • how you corrected each violation, • what plan will be implemented to prevent each violation from occurring again, • the name of your center, • facility ID number, • date, • title of the person who signs the letter If you state in your Compliance Letter that corrections or changes have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information and could lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. You may email the letter to cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or mail two copies of the letter to: Cara McKeown 353 Jonestown Road, Unit #146 Winston Salem, NC 27104 Repeated violations, continued non-compliance, or failure to submit the compliance letter prior to the date given in this visit summary can also lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical Assistance Provided During Visit: In Space 1, the authorization forms for two diaper creams had expired on 12/31/23. In Space 2, the authorization form for one diaper cream had expired on 1/05/24. Ms. McCummings removed each of these creams from the spaces during the visit. Also in Space 4, the medication authorization form for one child enrolled was not signed by a parent. The permission to transport form was not on file for one child enrolled. The permission to transport form for one child enrolled was missing arrival and departure times, as well as from where and to where the child is transported. The missing information for arrival/departure times and from/to where the child is transported were corrected during the visit. A medical statement and TB test for one new employee who began work on 10/10/2023 was completed on 9/20/2022. The certificate for Health and Safety training topics #2 Administration of medication, with standards for parental consent, and 10 Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Abuse and Maltreatment were not observed on file and not current within the last five years, respectively, for one existing employee. The employee completed the training for Recognizing and Responding during the visit. The date of enrollment was not recorded on the signed Discipline Policy for two children enrolled; this was corrected during the visit. A playground inspection for May, June, August, September, October, November, and December, 2023 were not available for review. The Ready to Go file did not contain the applications for seven children enrolled and the staff contact information for each staff member. Ms. McCummings stated she and her Assistant Director have been working consistently to update paper work. In regard to the playground inspections, Ms. McCummings stated these are completed daily, electronically via a corporate app. I was unable to view these in the app during the visit, as Ms. McCummings is unsure how far back these can be accessed. I did review the criteria for the playground checks, and not all criteria included on the monthly playground inspection required by the Division are on the daily electronic inspection. I recommended Ms. McCummings set a regular schedule to review new and existing staff files, as well as children’s files, to ensure all required documentation is on file, as well as setting calendar reminders for upcoming documentation due dates. In Space 3, one open plastic bubbles wrapper and one plastic bag were observed in a set of plastic drawers accessible to children under three years of age. Also in Space 3, the plastic covering on the lower portion of two doors was observed to be peeling and accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, the bottom left corner of the window furthest to the left in the classroom (facing the playground), was observed to be broken and sharp to the touch. In Space 5, a fabric curtain secured by staples was observed to be coming detached, and two staples, sharp to the touch were observed to be accessible to children. On the playground used by children two years of age and preschoolers, a long, plastic bin housing manipulative blocks was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch; this bin was removed from the playground during the visit. On the playground used by Pre-K children, one border tack was observed to be raised and not flush with the border, creating a potential entanglement hazard. On the playground used by infants and toddlers, a shallow hole, large enough for a basketball to rest in, was observed in the middle of the play area, presenting a potential tripping hazard. A wooden beam boarding the mulched area was observed to be split, the broken piece extending outward slightly, creating a potential tripping hazard. It is important to routinely and frequently monitor the indoor and outdoor areas accessed by children to ensure children enrolled can safely explore their learning environments. Ms. McCummings stated a work order had already been placed for repair of the window and that she had been keeping an eye on the hole on the infant playground. I recommended Ms. McCummings consider adding these items to their daily playground inspection checklist. Also in Space 4, four upholstered child-sized chairs were observed to be frayed in greater than five areas each. In Space 8, a set of six fabric soft blocks were observed to be fraying on the corners. Ms. McCummings removed these blocks from the classroom during the visit and replaced them with another set of blocks. It is important for all items mentioned above to be able to be cleaned and sanitized regularly and thoroughly. I recommended Ms. McCummings consider using an adhesive covering such as Flex Tape to cover the fraying spots on the upholstered chairs. Consultation Provided During Visit: The following Child Care Rules were reviewed with Ms. McCummings during the visit: 10A NCAC 09 .1714 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE 10A NCAC 09 .1003 SAFE PROCEDURES (b) • You can access the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) at the following link to print a copy of your most recent Criminal Background Check Qualifying Letter.: https://ncabcms.nc.gov/DCDEE/Applicant/ • Please remember to submit the education for all new staff and all staff who have advanced their education to DCDEE Works. Thank you for your time and assistance during this visit. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary, enrollment worksheet, and monitoring checklist were emailed to you. Contact me at Cara McKeown, Child Care Consultant, (336) 408-4849 or cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or Pamela Hauser, Licensing Supervisor, pamela.hauser@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
- Violation
10A NCAC 09 .1003 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/23/2024 Number Present: 76 Completed Date: 1/23/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 555 Time In: 08:15 AM Time Out: 05:30 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. Tiffany McCummings, Director, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued December 7, 2018, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component (meeting all enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for the center having enhanced policies approved and a staff benefits package. The Secretary of State website was reviewed on 12/29/2023, and La Petite Academy, Inc. was observed to be listed as current and active. The sanitation inspection was completed 1/16/2024 with a “Superior” classification. A fire inspection was completed on 8/21/2023, and the facility was approved for day and night care. Ms. McCummings provided me with a copy of the fire inspection during the visit. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 87 % as of 1/22/2024. All programs are required to maintain 75% compliance. Upon arrival, the license was posted, and restrictions were observed to be in compliance. Eight classrooms were observed during this visit. All indoor and outdoor areas were observed during the visit. In Space 3, one open plastic bubbles wrapper and one plastic bag were observed in a set of plastic drawers accessible to children under three years of age. Also in Space 3, the plastic covering on the lower portion of two doors was observed to be peeling and accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, the bottom left corner of the window furthest to the left in the classroom (facing the playground), was observed to be broken and sharp to the touch. Also in Space 4, four upholstered child-sized chairs were observed to be frayed in greater than five areas each. In Space 5, a fabric curtain secured by staples was observed to be coming detached, and two staples, sharp to the touch were observed to be accessible to children. In Space 5, the posted activity plan was dated 1/08/2024; a current activity plan was posted during the visit. In Space 8, a set of six fabric soft blocks were observed to be fraying on the corners. Ms. McCummings removed these blocks from the classroom during the visit and replaced them with another set of blocks. Also in Space 8, there were not sufficient materials in the art center for three children to choose different activities; the assistant director added ink stampers to this center during the visit. On the playground used by children two years of age and preschoolers, a long, plastic bin housing manipulative blocks was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch; this bin was removed from the playground during the visit. On the playground used by Pre-K children, one border tack was observed to be raised and not flush with the border, creating a potential entanglement hazard. On the playground used by infants and toddlers, a shallow hole, large enough for a basketball to rest in, was observed in the middle of the play area, presenting a potential tripping hazard. A wooden beam boarding the mulched area was observed to be split, the broken piece extending outward slightly, creating a potential tripping hazard. The depth of the mulch surfacing could not be measured during this visit, due to the ground being frozen; however, brand new mulch was observed in all fall zones on each playground. The surfacing will be measured during the next monitoring visit. Upon arrival staff/child ratio was observed and recorded on the attached worksheet. Supervision was adequate during the visit. I observed developmentally appropriate materials and activities were available to the children in the classrooms. I observed the children playing in activity areas, participating in general routines, engaging in conversations, songs, and activities with their teachers, playing outdoors, and eating lunch during the visit. An allergy list was posted. Storage of hazardous items was monitored and found to be in compliance. Storage and administration of medication were monitored. Medication authorization was monitored. In Space 1, the authorization forms for two diaper creams had expired on 12/31/23. In Space 2, the authorization form for one diaper cream had expired on 1/05/24. Ms. McCummings removed each of these creams from the spaces during the visit. Also in Space 4, the medication authorization form for one child enrolled was not signed by a parent. First Aid kits were monitored, and Safe Arrival and Departure procedures were posted. The program does not participate in off-premise activities or aquatic activities at this time. The facility provides transportation for children who are School Age in the afternoons using one mini bus # 245307 (Tag #HN 5869). The registration for this vehicle expires on 6/20/2024, and the insurance on this vehicle is due to be renewed on 4/01/24. The permission to transport form was not on file for one child enrolled. The permission to transport form for one child enrolled was missing arrival and departure times, as well as from where and to where the child is transported. The missing information for arrival/departure times and from/to where the child is transported were corrected during the visit. Ms. McCummings stated the facility has another mini bus which is not being used currently that is in the shop for repair. I stated Ms. McCummings must contact me to monitor this vehicle prior to the vehicle being used to transport children enrolled. A staff training worksheet was submitted prior to the visit; the file for one existing staff member and six new staff members were monitored. A medical statement and TB test for one new employee who began work on 10/10/2023 was completed on 9/20/2022. The certificate for Health and Safety training topics #2 Administration of medication, with standards for parental consent, and 10 Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Abuse and Maltreatment were not observed on file and not current within the last five years, respectively, for one existing employee. The employee completed the training for Recognizing and Responding during the visit. Children’s Records forms were completed during the visit. The files for twelve children enrolled were monitored. The date of enrollment was not recorded on the signed Discipline Policy for two children enrolled; this was corrected during the visit. Playground inspections, lockdown/ shelter-in-place drills and fire drill logs were monitored for one year. A fire drill was conducted on 1/10/2023. A shelter-in-place drill was completed on 12/27/2023. A playground inspection was completed on 1/22/2024. A playground inspection for May, June, August, September, October, November, and December, 2023 were not available for review. The Ready to Go file did not contain the applications for seven children enrolled and the staff contact information for each staff member. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Space 5, the posted activity plan was dated 1/08/2024; a current activity plan was posted during the visit. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 468 When three year old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. In Space 8, there were not sufficient materials in the art center for three children to choose different activities. .0510(d)(1) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. In Space 8, a set of six fabric soft blocks were observed to be fraying on the corners. Ms. McCummings removed these blocks from the classroom during the visit and replaced them with another set of blocks. In Space 4, four upholstered child-sized chairs were observed to be frayed in greater than five areas each. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In Space 3, one open plastic bubbles wrapper and one plastic bag were observed in a set of plastic drawers accessible to children under three years of age. Also in Space 3, the plastic covering on the lower portion of two doors was observed to be peeling and accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, the bottom left corner of the window furthest to the left in the classroom (facing the playground), was observed to be broken and sharp to the touch. On the playground used by children two years of age and preschoolers, a long, plastic bin housing manipulative blocks was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch; this bin was removed from the playground during the visit. On the playground used by Pre-K children, one border tack was observed to be raised and not flush with the border, creating a potential entanglement hazard. On the playground used by infants and toddlers, a shallow hole, large enough for a basketball to rest in, was observed in the middle of the play area, presenting a potential tripping hazard. A wooden beam boarding the mulched area was observed to be split, the broken piece extending outward slightly, creating a potential tripping hazard. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. The diaper cream authorization for one child enrolled was not signed by a parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In Space 1, the authorization forms for two diaper creams had expired on 12/31/23. In Space 2, the authorization form for one diaper cream had expired on 1/05/24. .0803(12) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. A playground inspection was completed on 1/22/2024. A playground inspection for May, June, August, September, October, November, and December, 2023 were not available for review. .0605(q) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. A medical statement and TB test for one new employee who began work on 10/10/2023 was completed on 9/20/2022. .0701(a) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. The permission to transport form was not on file for one child enrolled. The permission to transport form for one child enrolled was missing arrival and departure times, as well as from where and to where the child is transported. The missing information for arrival/departure times and from/to where the child is transported were corrected during the visit. .1003(i)(j) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The Ready to Go file did not contain the applications for seven children enrolled and the staff contact information for each staff member. .0607(d)(10) 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. The certificate for Health and Safety training topics #2 Administration of medication, with standards for parental consent, and 10 Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Abuse and Maltreatment were not observed on file and not current within the last five years, respectively, for one existing employee. The employee completed the training for Recognizing and Responding during the visit. .1103(b) Compliance documentation: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately and send me documentation verifying compliance on or before 2/06/2024. The following information must be included in your compliance letter: • each violation number, • how you corrected each violation, • what plan will be implemented to prevent each violation from occurring again, • the name of your center, • facility ID number, • date, • title of the person who signs the letter If you state in your Compliance Letter that corrections or changes have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information and could lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. You may email the letter to cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or mail two copies of the letter to: Cara McKeown 353 Jonestown Road, Unit #146 Winston Salem, NC 27104 Repeated violations, continued non-compliance, or failure to submit the compliance letter prior to the date given in this visit summary can also lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical Assistance Provided During Visit: In Space 1, the authorization forms for two diaper creams had expired on 12/31/23. In Space 2, the authorization form for one diaper cream had expired on 1/05/24. Ms. McCummings removed each of these creams from the spaces during the visit. Also in Space 4, the medication authorization form for one child enrolled was not signed by a parent. The permission to transport form was not on file for one child enrolled. The permission to transport form for one child enrolled was missing arrival and departure times, as well as from where and to where the child is transported. The missing information for arrival/departure times and from/to where the child is transported were corrected during the visit. A medical statement and TB test for one new employee who began work on 10/10/2023 was completed on 9/20/2022. The certificate for Health and Safety training topics #2 Administration of medication, with standards for parental consent, and 10 Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Abuse and Maltreatment were not observed on file and not current within the last five years, respectively, for one existing employee. The employee completed the training for Recognizing and Responding during the visit. The date of enrollment was not recorded on the signed Discipline Policy for two children enrolled; this was corrected during the visit. A playground inspection for May, June, August, September, October, November, and December, 2023 were not available for review. The Ready to Go file did not contain the applications for seven children enrolled and the staff contact information for each staff member. Ms. McCummings stated she and her Assistant Director have been working consistently to update paper work. In regard to the playground inspections, Ms. McCummings stated these are completed daily, electronically via a corporate app. I was unable to view these in the app during the visit, as Ms. McCummings is unsure how far back these can be accessed. I did review the criteria for the playground checks, and not all criteria included on the monthly playground inspection required by the Division are on the daily electronic inspection. I recommended Ms. McCummings set a regular schedule to review new and existing staff files, as well as children’s files, to ensure all required documentation is on file, as well as setting calendar reminders for upcoming documentation due dates. In Space 3, one open plastic bubbles wrapper and one plastic bag were observed in a set of plastic drawers accessible to children under three years of age. Also in Space 3, the plastic covering on the lower portion of two doors was observed to be peeling and accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, the bottom left corner of the window furthest to the left in the classroom (facing the playground), was observed to be broken and sharp to the touch. In Space 5, a fabric curtain secured by staples was observed to be coming detached, and two staples, sharp to the touch were observed to be accessible to children. On the playground used by children two years of age and preschoolers, a long, plastic bin housing manipulative blocks was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch; this bin was removed from the playground during the visit. On the playground used by Pre-K children, one border tack was observed to be raised and not flush with the border, creating a potential entanglement hazard. On the playground used by infants and toddlers, a shallow hole, large enough for a basketball to rest in, was observed in the middle of the play area, presenting a potential tripping hazard. A wooden beam boarding the mulched area was observed to be split, the broken piece extending outward slightly, creating a potential tripping hazard. It is important to routinely and frequently monitor the indoor and outdoor areas accessed by children to ensure children enrolled can safely explore their learning environments. Ms. McCummings stated a work order had already been placed for repair of the window and that she had been keeping an eye on the hole on the infant playground. I recommended Ms. McCummings consider adding these items to their daily playground inspection checklist. Also in Space 4, four upholstered child-sized chairs were observed to be frayed in greater than five areas each. In Space 8, a set of six fabric soft blocks were observed to be fraying on the corners. Ms. McCummings removed these blocks from the classroom during the visit and replaced them with another set of blocks. It is important for all items mentioned above to be able to be cleaned and sanitized regularly and thoroughly. I recommended Ms. McCummings consider using an adhesive covering such as Flex Tape to cover the fraying spots on the upholstered chairs. Consultation Provided During Visit: The following Child Care Rules were reviewed with Ms. McCummings during the visit: 10A NCAC 09 .1714 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE 10A NCAC 09 .1003 SAFE PROCEDURES (b) • You can access the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) at the following link to print a copy of your most recent Criminal Background Check Qualifying Letter.: https://ncabcms.nc.gov/DCDEE/Applicant/ • Please remember to submit the education for all new staff and all staff who have advanced their education to DCDEE Works. Thank you for your time and assistance during this visit. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary, enrollment worksheet, and monitoring checklist were emailed to you. Contact me at Cara McKeown, Child Care Consultant, (336) 408-4849 or cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or Pamela Hauser, Licensing Supervisor, pamela.hauser@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
- Violation
10A NCAC 09 .1714 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/23/2024 Number Present: 76 Completed Date: 1/23/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 555 Time In: 08:15 AM Time Out: 05:30 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. Tiffany McCummings, Director, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued December 7, 2018, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component (meeting all enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for the center having enhanced policies approved and a staff benefits package. The Secretary of State website was reviewed on 12/29/2023, and La Petite Academy, Inc. was observed to be listed as current and active. The sanitation inspection was completed 1/16/2024 with a “Superior” classification. A fire inspection was completed on 8/21/2023, and the facility was approved for day and night care. Ms. McCummings provided me with a copy of the fire inspection during the visit. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 87 % as of 1/22/2024. All programs are required to maintain 75% compliance. Upon arrival, the license was posted, and restrictions were observed to be in compliance. Eight classrooms were observed during this visit. All indoor and outdoor areas were observed during the visit. In Space 3, one open plastic bubbles wrapper and one plastic bag were observed in a set of plastic drawers accessible to children under three years of age. Also in Space 3, the plastic covering on the lower portion of two doors was observed to be peeling and accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, the bottom left corner of the window furthest to the left in the classroom (facing the playground), was observed to be broken and sharp to the touch. Also in Space 4, four upholstered child-sized chairs were observed to be frayed in greater than five areas each. In Space 5, a fabric curtain secured by staples was observed to be coming detached, and two staples, sharp to the touch were observed to be accessible to children. In Space 5, the posted activity plan was dated 1/08/2024; a current activity plan was posted during the visit. In Space 8, a set of six fabric soft blocks were observed to be fraying on the corners. Ms. McCummings removed these blocks from the classroom during the visit and replaced them with another set of blocks. Also in Space 8, there were not sufficient materials in the art center for three children to choose different activities; the assistant director added ink stampers to this center during the visit. On the playground used by children two years of age and preschoolers, a long, plastic bin housing manipulative blocks was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch; this bin was removed from the playground during the visit. On the playground used by Pre-K children, one border tack was observed to be raised and not flush with the border, creating a potential entanglement hazard. On the playground used by infants and toddlers, a shallow hole, large enough for a basketball to rest in, was observed in the middle of the play area, presenting a potential tripping hazard. A wooden beam boarding the mulched area was observed to be split, the broken piece extending outward slightly, creating a potential tripping hazard. The depth of the mulch surfacing could not be measured during this visit, due to the ground being frozen; however, brand new mulch was observed in all fall zones on each playground. The surfacing will be measured during the next monitoring visit. Upon arrival staff/child ratio was observed and recorded on the attached worksheet. Supervision was adequate during the visit. I observed developmentally appropriate materials and activities were available to the children in the classrooms. I observed the children playing in activity areas, participating in general routines, engaging in conversations, songs, and activities with their teachers, playing outdoors, and eating lunch during the visit. An allergy list was posted. Storage of hazardous items was monitored and found to be in compliance. Storage and administration of medication were monitored. Medication authorization was monitored. In Space 1, the authorization forms for two diaper creams had expired on 12/31/23. In Space 2, the authorization form for one diaper cream had expired on 1/05/24. Ms. McCummings removed each of these creams from the spaces during the visit. Also in Space 4, the medication authorization form for one child enrolled was not signed by a parent. First Aid kits were monitored, and Safe Arrival and Departure procedures were posted. The program does not participate in off-premise activities or aquatic activities at this time. The facility provides transportation for children who are School Age in the afternoons using one mini bus # 245307 (Tag #HN 5869). The registration for this vehicle expires on 6/20/2024, and the insurance on this vehicle is due to be renewed on 4/01/24. The permission to transport form was not on file for one child enrolled. The permission to transport form for one child enrolled was missing arrival and departure times, as well as from where and to where the child is transported. The missing information for arrival/departure times and from/to where the child is transported were corrected during the visit. Ms. McCummings stated the facility has another mini bus which is not being used currently that is in the shop for repair. I stated Ms. McCummings must contact me to monitor this vehicle prior to the vehicle being used to transport children enrolled. A staff training worksheet was submitted prior to the visit; the file for one existing staff member and six new staff members were monitored. A medical statement and TB test for one new employee who began work on 10/10/2023 was completed on 9/20/2022. The certificate for Health and Safety training topics #2 Administration of medication, with standards for parental consent, and 10 Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Abuse and Maltreatment were not observed on file and not current within the last five years, respectively, for one existing employee. The employee completed the training for Recognizing and Responding during the visit. Children’s Records forms were completed during the visit. The files for twelve children enrolled were monitored. The date of enrollment was not recorded on the signed Discipline Policy for two children enrolled; this was corrected during the visit. Playground inspections, lockdown/ shelter-in-place drills and fire drill logs were monitored for one year. A fire drill was conducted on 1/10/2023. A shelter-in-place drill was completed on 12/27/2023. A playground inspection was completed on 1/22/2024. A playground inspection for May, June, August, September, October, November, and December, 2023 were not available for review. The Ready to Go file did not contain the applications for seven children enrolled and the staff contact information for each staff member. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Space 5, the posted activity plan was dated 1/08/2024; a current activity plan was posted during the visit. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 468 When three year old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. In Space 8, there were not sufficient materials in the art center for three children to choose different activities. .0510(d)(1) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. In Space 8, a set of six fabric soft blocks were observed to be fraying on the corners. Ms. McCummings removed these blocks from the classroom during the visit and replaced them with another set of blocks. In Space 4, four upholstered child-sized chairs were observed to be frayed in greater than five areas each. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In Space 3, one open plastic bubbles wrapper and one plastic bag were observed in a set of plastic drawers accessible to children under three years of age. Also in Space 3, the plastic covering on the lower portion of two doors was observed to be peeling and accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, the bottom left corner of the window furthest to the left in the classroom (facing the playground), was observed to be broken and sharp to the touch. On the playground used by children two years of age and preschoolers, a long, plastic bin housing manipulative blocks was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch; this bin was removed from the playground during the visit. On the playground used by Pre-K children, one border tack was observed to be raised and not flush with the border, creating a potential entanglement hazard. On the playground used by infants and toddlers, a shallow hole, large enough for a basketball to rest in, was observed in the middle of the play area, presenting a potential tripping hazard. A wooden beam boarding the mulched area was observed to be split, the broken piece extending outward slightly, creating a potential tripping hazard. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. The diaper cream authorization for one child enrolled was not signed by a parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In Space 1, the authorization forms for two diaper creams had expired on 12/31/23. In Space 2, the authorization form for one diaper cream had expired on 1/05/24. .0803(12) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. A playground inspection was completed on 1/22/2024. A playground inspection for May, June, August, September, October, November, and December, 2023 were not available for review. .0605(q) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. A medical statement and TB test for one new employee who began work on 10/10/2023 was completed on 9/20/2022. .0701(a) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. The permission to transport form was not on file for one child enrolled. The permission to transport form for one child enrolled was missing arrival and departure times, as well as from where and to where the child is transported. The missing information for arrival/departure times and from/to where the child is transported were corrected during the visit. .1003(i)(j) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The Ready to Go file did not contain the applications for seven children enrolled and the staff contact information for each staff member. .0607(d)(10) 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. The certificate for Health and Safety training topics #2 Administration of medication, with standards for parental consent, and 10 Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Abuse and Maltreatment were not observed on file and not current within the last five years, respectively, for one existing employee. The employee completed the training for Recognizing and Responding during the visit. .1103(b) Compliance documentation: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately and send me documentation verifying compliance on or before 2/06/2024. The following information must be included in your compliance letter: • each violation number, • how you corrected each violation, • what plan will be implemented to prevent each violation from occurring again, • the name of your center, • facility ID number, • date, • title of the person who signs the letter If you state in your Compliance Letter that corrections or changes have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information and could lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. You may email the letter to cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or mail two copies of the letter to: Cara McKeown 353 Jonestown Road, Unit #146 Winston Salem, NC 27104 Repeated violations, continued non-compliance, or failure to submit the compliance letter prior to the date given in this visit summary can also lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical Assistance Provided During Visit: In Space 1, the authorization forms for two diaper creams had expired on 12/31/23. In Space 2, the authorization form for one diaper cream had expired on 1/05/24. Ms. McCummings removed each of these creams from the spaces during the visit. Also in Space 4, the medication authorization form for one child enrolled was not signed by a parent. The permission to transport form was not on file for one child enrolled. The permission to transport form for one child enrolled was missing arrival and departure times, as well as from where and to where the child is transported. The missing information for arrival/departure times and from/to where the child is transported were corrected during the visit. A medical statement and TB test for one new employee who began work on 10/10/2023 was completed on 9/20/2022. The certificate for Health and Safety training topics #2 Administration of medication, with standards for parental consent, and 10 Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Abuse and Maltreatment were not observed on file and not current within the last five years, respectively, for one existing employee. The employee completed the training for Recognizing and Responding during the visit. The date of enrollment was not recorded on the signed Discipline Policy for two children enrolled; this was corrected during the visit. A playground inspection for May, June, August, September, October, November, and December, 2023 were not available for review. The Ready to Go file did not contain the applications for seven children enrolled and the staff contact information for each staff member. Ms. McCummings stated she and her Assistant Director have been working consistently to update paper work. In regard to the playground inspections, Ms. McCummings stated these are completed daily, electronically via a corporate app. I was unable to view these in the app during the visit, as Ms. McCummings is unsure how far back these can be accessed. I did review the criteria for the playground checks, and not all criteria included on the monthly playground inspection required by the Division are on the daily electronic inspection. I recommended Ms. McCummings set a regular schedule to review new and existing staff files, as well as children’s files, to ensure all required documentation is on file, as well as setting calendar reminders for upcoming documentation due dates. In Space 3, one open plastic bubbles wrapper and one plastic bag were observed in a set of plastic drawers accessible to children under three years of age. Also in Space 3, the plastic covering on the lower portion of two doors was observed to be peeling and accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, the bottom left corner of the window furthest to the left in the classroom (facing the playground), was observed to be broken and sharp to the touch. In Space 5, a fabric curtain secured by staples was observed to be coming detached, and two staples, sharp to the touch were observed to be accessible to children. On the playground used by children two years of age and preschoolers, a long, plastic bin housing manipulative blocks was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch; this bin was removed from the playground during the visit. On the playground used by Pre-K children, one border tack was observed to be raised and not flush with the border, creating a potential entanglement hazard. On the playground used by infants and toddlers, a shallow hole, large enough for a basketball to rest in, was observed in the middle of the play area, presenting a potential tripping hazard. A wooden beam boarding the mulched area was observed to be split, the broken piece extending outward slightly, creating a potential tripping hazard. It is important to routinely and frequently monitor the indoor and outdoor areas accessed by children to ensure children enrolled can safely explore their learning environments. Ms. McCummings stated a work order had already been placed for repair of the window and that she had been keeping an eye on the hole on the infant playground. I recommended Ms. McCummings consider adding these items to their daily playground inspection checklist. Also in Space 4, four upholstered child-sized chairs were observed to be frayed in greater than five areas each. In Space 8, a set of six fabric soft blocks were observed to be fraying on the corners. Ms. McCummings removed these blocks from the classroom during the visit and replaced them with another set of blocks. It is important for all items mentioned above to be able to be cleaned and sanitized regularly and thoroughly. I recommended Ms. McCummings consider using an adhesive covering such as Flex Tape to cover the fraying spots on the upholstered chairs. Consultation Provided During Visit: The following Child Care Rules were reviewed with Ms. McCummings during the visit: 10A NCAC 09 .1714 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE 10A NCAC 09 .1003 SAFE PROCEDURES (b) • You can access the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) at the following link to print a copy of your most recent Criminal Background Check Qualifying Letter.: https://ncabcms.nc.gov/DCDEE/Applicant/ • Please remember to submit the education for all new staff and all staff who have advanced their education to DCDEE Works. Thank you for your time and assistance during this visit. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary, enrollment worksheet, and monitoring checklist were emailed to you. Contact me at Cara McKeown, Child Care Consultant, (336) 408-4849 or cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or Pamela Hauser, Licensing Supervisor, pamela.hauser@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
- Violation
G.S. 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/23/2024 Number Present: 76 Completed Date: 1/23/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 555 Time In: 08:15 AM Time Out: 05:30 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. Tiffany McCummings, Director, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued December 7, 2018, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component (meeting all enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for the center having enhanced policies approved and a staff benefits package. The Secretary of State website was reviewed on 12/29/2023, and La Petite Academy, Inc. was observed to be listed as current and active. The sanitation inspection was completed 1/16/2024 with a “Superior” classification. A fire inspection was completed on 8/21/2023, and the facility was approved for day and night care. Ms. McCummings provided me with a copy of the fire inspection during the visit. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 87 % as of 1/22/2024. All programs are required to maintain 75% compliance. Upon arrival, the license was posted, and restrictions were observed to be in compliance. Eight classrooms were observed during this visit. All indoor and outdoor areas were observed during the visit. In Space 3, one open plastic bubbles wrapper and one plastic bag were observed in a set of plastic drawers accessible to children under three years of age. Also in Space 3, the plastic covering on the lower portion of two doors was observed to be peeling and accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, the bottom left corner of the window furthest to the left in the classroom (facing the playground), was observed to be broken and sharp to the touch. Also in Space 4, four upholstered child-sized chairs were observed to be frayed in greater than five areas each. In Space 5, a fabric curtain secured by staples was observed to be coming detached, and two staples, sharp to the touch were observed to be accessible to children. In Space 5, the posted activity plan was dated 1/08/2024; a current activity plan was posted during the visit. In Space 8, a set of six fabric soft blocks were observed to be fraying on the corners. Ms. McCummings removed these blocks from the classroom during the visit and replaced them with another set of blocks. Also in Space 8, there were not sufficient materials in the art center for three children to choose different activities; the assistant director added ink stampers to this center during the visit. On the playground used by children two years of age and preschoolers, a long, plastic bin housing manipulative blocks was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch; this bin was removed from the playground during the visit. On the playground used by Pre-K children, one border tack was observed to be raised and not flush with the border, creating a potential entanglement hazard. On the playground used by infants and toddlers, a shallow hole, large enough for a basketball to rest in, was observed in the middle of the play area, presenting a potential tripping hazard. A wooden beam boarding the mulched area was observed to be split, the broken piece extending outward slightly, creating a potential tripping hazard. The depth of the mulch surfacing could not be measured during this visit, due to the ground being frozen; however, brand new mulch was observed in all fall zones on each playground. The surfacing will be measured during the next monitoring visit. Upon arrival staff/child ratio was observed and recorded on the attached worksheet. Supervision was adequate during the visit. I observed developmentally appropriate materials and activities were available to the children in the classrooms. I observed the children playing in activity areas, participating in general routines, engaging in conversations, songs, and activities with their teachers, playing outdoors, and eating lunch during the visit. An allergy list was posted. Storage of hazardous items was monitored and found to be in compliance. Storage and administration of medication were monitored. Medication authorization was monitored. In Space 1, the authorization forms for two diaper creams had expired on 12/31/23. In Space 2, the authorization form for one diaper cream had expired on 1/05/24. Ms. McCummings removed each of these creams from the spaces during the visit. Also in Space 4, the medication authorization form for one child enrolled was not signed by a parent. First Aid kits were monitored, and Safe Arrival and Departure procedures were posted. The program does not participate in off-premise activities or aquatic activities at this time. The facility provides transportation for children who are School Age in the afternoons using one mini bus # 245307 (Tag #HN 5869). The registration for this vehicle expires on 6/20/2024, and the insurance on this vehicle is due to be renewed on 4/01/24. The permission to transport form was not on file for one child enrolled. The permission to transport form for one child enrolled was missing arrival and departure times, as well as from where and to where the child is transported. The missing information for arrival/departure times and from/to where the child is transported were corrected during the visit. Ms. McCummings stated the facility has another mini bus which is not being used currently that is in the shop for repair. I stated Ms. McCummings must contact me to monitor this vehicle prior to the vehicle being used to transport children enrolled. A staff training worksheet was submitted prior to the visit; the file for one existing staff member and six new staff members were monitored. A medical statement and TB test for one new employee who began work on 10/10/2023 was completed on 9/20/2022. The certificate for Health and Safety training topics #2 Administration of medication, with standards for parental consent, and 10 Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Abuse and Maltreatment were not observed on file and not current within the last five years, respectively, for one existing employee. The employee completed the training for Recognizing and Responding during the visit. Children’s Records forms were completed during the visit. The files for twelve children enrolled were monitored. The date of enrollment was not recorded on the signed Discipline Policy for two children enrolled; this was corrected during the visit. Playground inspections, lockdown/ shelter-in-place drills and fire drill logs were monitored for one year. A fire drill was conducted on 1/10/2023. A shelter-in-place drill was completed on 12/27/2023. A playground inspection was completed on 1/22/2024. A playground inspection for May, June, August, September, October, November, and December, 2023 were not available for review. The Ready to Go file did not contain the applications for seven children enrolled and the staff contact information for each staff member. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Space 5, the posted activity plan was dated 1/08/2024; a current activity plan was posted during the visit. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 468 When three year old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. In Space 8, there were not sufficient materials in the art center for three children to choose different activities. .0510(d)(1) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. In Space 8, a set of six fabric soft blocks were observed to be fraying on the corners. Ms. McCummings removed these blocks from the classroom during the visit and replaced them with another set of blocks. In Space 4, four upholstered child-sized chairs were observed to be frayed in greater than five areas each. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In Space 3, one open plastic bubbles wrapper and one plastic bag were observed in a set of plastic drawers accessible to children under three years of age. Also in Space 3, the plastic covering on the lower portion of two doors was observed to be peeling and accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, the bottom left corner of the window furthest to the left in the classroom (facing the playground), was observed to be broken and sharp to the touch. On the playground used by children two years of age and preschoolers, a long, plastic bin housing manipulative blocks was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch; this bin was removed from the playground during the visit. On the playground used by Pre-K children, one border tack was observed to be raised and not flush with the border, creating a potential entanglement hazard. On the playground used by infants and toddlers, a shallow hole, large enough for a basketball to rest in, was observed in the middle of the play area, presenting a potential tripping hazard. A wooden beam boarding the mulched area was observed to be split, the broken piece extending outward slightly, creating a potential tripping hazard. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. The diaper cream authorization for one child enrolled was not signed by a parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In Space 1, the authorization forms for two diaper creams had expired on 12/31/23. In Space 2, the authorization form for one diaper cream had expired on 1/05/24. .0803(12) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. A playground inspection was completed on 1/22/2024. A playground inspection for May, June, August, September, October, November, and December, 2023 were not available for review. .0605(q) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. A medical statement and TB test for one new employee who began work on 10/10/2023 was completed on 9/20/2022. .0701(a) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. The permission to transport form was not on file for one child enrolled. The permission to transport form for one child enrolled was missing arrival and departure times, as well as from where and to where the child is transported. The missing information for arrival/departure times and from/to where the child is transported were corrected during the visit. .1003(i)(j) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The Ready to Go file did not contain the applications for seven children enrolled and the staff contact information for each staff member. .0607(d)(10) 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. The certificate for Health and Safety training topics #2 Administration of medication, with standards for parental consent, and 10 Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Abuse and Maltreatment were not observed on file and not current within the last five years, respectively, for one existing employee. The employee completed the training for Recognizing and Responding during the visit. .1103(b) Compliance documentation: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately and send me documentation verifying compliance on or before 2/06/2024. The following information must be included in your compliance letter: • each violation number, • how you corrected each violation, • what plan will be implemented to prevent each violation from occurring again, • the name of your center, • facility ID number, • date, • title of the person who signs the letter If you state in your Compliance Letter that corrections or changes have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information and could lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. You may email the letter to cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or mail two copies of the letter to: Cara McKeown 353 Jonestown Road, Unit #146 Winston Salem, NC 27104 Repeated violations, continued non-compliance, or failure to submit the compliance letter prior to the date given in this visit summary can also lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical Assistance Provided During Visit: In Space 1, the authorization forms for two diaper creams had expired on 12/31/23. In Space 2, the authorization form for one diaper cream had expired on 1/05/24. Ms. McCummings removed each of these creams from the spaces during the visit. Also in Space 4, the medication authorization form for one child enrolled was not signed by a parent. The permission to transport form was not on file for one child enrolled. The permission to transport form for one child enrolled was missing arrival and departure times, as well as from where and to where the child is transported. The missing information for arrival/departure times and from/to where the child is transported were corrected during the visit. A medical statement and TB test for one new employee who began work on 10/10/2023 was completed on 9/20/2022. The certificate for Health and Safety training topics #2 Administration of medication, with standards for parental consent, and 10 Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Abuse and Maltreatment were not observed on file and not current within the last five years, respectively, for one existing employee. The employee completed the training for Recognizing and Responding during the visit. The date of enrollment was not recorded on the signed Discipline Policy for two children enrolled; this was corrected during the visit. A playground inspection for May, June, August, September, October, November, and December, 2023 were not available for review. The Ready to Go file did not contain the applications for seven children enrolled and the staff contact information for each staff member. Ms. McCummings stated she and her Assistant Director have been working consistently to update paper work. In regard to the playground inspections, Ms. McCummings stated these are completed daily, electronically via a corporate app. I was unable to view these in the app during the visit, as Ms. McCummings is unsure how far back these can be accessed. I did review the criteria for the playground checks, and not all criteria included on the monthly playground inspection required by the Division are on the daily electronic inspection. I recommended Ms. McCummings set a regular schedule to review new and existing staff files, as well as children’s files, to ensure all required documentation is on file, as well as setting calendar reminders for upcoming documentation due dates. In Space 3, one open plastic bubbles wrapper and one plastic bag were observed in a set of plastic drawers accessible to children under three years of age. Also in Space 3, the plastic covering on the lower portion of two doors was observed to be peeling and accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, the bottom left corner of the window furthest to the left in the classroom (facing the playground), was observed to be broken and sharp to the touch. In Space 5, a fabric curtain secured by staples was observed to be coming detached, and two staples, sharp to the touch were observed to be accessible to children. On the playground used by children two years of age and preschoolers, a long, plastic bin housing manipulative blocks was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch; this bin was removed from the playground during the visit. On the playground used by Pre-K children, one border tack was observed to be raised and not flush with the border, creating a potential entanglement hazard. On the playground used by infants and toddlers, a shallow hole, large enough for a basketball to rest in, was observed in the middle of the play area, presenting a potential tripping hazard. A wooden beam boarding the mulched area was observed to be split, the broken piece extending outward slightly, creating a potential tripping hazard. It is important to routinely and frequently monitor the indoor and outdoor areas accessed by children to ensure children enrolled can safely explore their learning environments. Ms. McCummings stated a work order had already been placed for repair of the window and that she had been keeping an eye on the hole on the infant playground. I recommended Ms. McCummings consider adding these items to their daily playground inspection checklist. Also in Space 4, four upholstered child-sized chairs were observed to be frayed in greater than five areas each. In Space 8, a set of six fabric soft blocks were observed to be fraying on the corners. Ms. McCummings removed these blocks from the classroom during the visit and replaced them with another set of blocks. It is important for all items mentioned above to be able to be cleaned and sanitized regularly and thoroughly. I recommended Ms. McCummings consider using an adhesive covering such as Flex Tape to cover the fraying spots on the upholstered chairs. Consultation Provided During Visit: The following Child Care Rules were reviewed with Ms. McCummings during the visit: 10A NCAC 09 .1714 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE 10A NCAC 09 .1003 SAFE PROCEDURES (b) • You can access the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) at the following link to print a copy of your most recent Criminal Background Check Qualifying Letter.: https://ncabcms.nc.gov/DCDEE/Applicant/ • Please remember to submit the education for all new staff and all staff who have advanced their education to DCDEE Works. Thank you for your time and assistance during this visit. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary, enrollment worksheet, and monitoring checklist were emailed to you. Contact me at Cara McKeown, Child Care Consultant, (336) 408-4849 or cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or Pamela Hauser, Licensing Supervisor, pamela.hauser@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
- Violation
GS 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/23/2024 Number Present: 76 Completed Date: 1/23/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 555 Time In: 08:15 AM Time Out: 05:30 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. Tiffany McCummings, Director, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued December 7, 2018, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component (meeting all enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for the center having enhanced policies approved and a staff benefits package. The Secretary of State website was reviewed on 12/29/2023, and La Petite Academy, Inc. was observed to be listed as current and active. The sanitation inspection was completed 1/16/2024 with a “Superior” classification. A fire inspection was completed on 8/21/2023, and the facility was approved for day and night care. Ms. McCummings provided me with a copy of the fire inspection during the visit. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 87 % as of 1/22/2024. All programs are required to maintain 75% compliance. Upon arrival, the license was posted, and restrictions were observed to be in compliance. Eight classrooms were observed during this visit. All indoor and outdoor areas were observed during the visit. In Space 3, one open plastic bubbles wrapper and one plastic bag were observed in a set of plastic drawers accessible to children under three years of age. Also in Space 3, the plastic covering on the lower portion of two doors was observed to be peeling and accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, the bottom left corner of the window furthest to the left in the classroom (facing the playground), was observed to be broken and sharp to the touch. Also in Space 4, four upholstered child-sized chairs were observed to be frayed in greater than five areas each. In Space 5, a fabric curtain secured by staples was observed to be coming detached, and two staples, sharp to the touch were observed to be accessible to children. In Space 5, the posted activity plan was dated 1/08/2024; a current activity plan was posted during the visit. In Space 8, a set of six fabric soft blocks were observed to be fraying on the corners. Ms. McCummings removed these blocks from the classroom during the visit and replaced them with another set of blocks. Also in Space 8, there were not sufficient materials in the art center for three children to choose different activities; the assistant director added ink stampers to this center during the visit. On the playground used by children two years of age and preschoolers, a long, plastic bin housing manipulative blocks was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch; this bin was removed from the playground during the visit. On the playground used by Pre-K children, one border tack was observed to be raised and not flush with the border, creating a potential entanglement hazard. On the playground used by infants and toddlers, a shallow hole, large enough for a basketball to rest in, was observed in the middle of the play area, presenting a potential tripping hazard. A wooden beam boarding the mulched area was observed to be split, the broken piece extending outward slightly, creating a potential tripping hazard. The depth of the mulch surfacing could not be measured during this visit, due to the ground being frozen; however, brand new mulch was observed in all fall zones on each playground. The surfacing will be measured during the next monitoring visit. Upon arrival staff/child ratio was observed and recorded on the attached worksheet. Supervision was adequate during the visit. I observed developmentally appropriate materials and activities were available to the children in the classrooms. I observed the children playing in activity areas, participating in general routines, engaging in conversations, songs, and activities with their teachers, playing outdoors, and eating lunch during the visit. An allergy list was posted. Storage of hazardous items was monitored and found to be in compliance. Storage and administration of medication were monitored. Medication authorization was monitored. In Space 1, the authorization forms for two diaper creams had expired on 12/31/23. In Space 2, the authorization form for one diaper cream had expired on 1/05/24. Ms. McCummings removed each of these creams from the spaces during the visit. Also in Space 4, the medication authorization form for one child enrolled was not signed by a parent. First Aid kits were monitored, and Safe Arrival and Departure procedures were posted. The program does not participate in off-premise activities or aquatic activities at this time. The facility provides transportation for children who are School Age in the afternoons using one mini bus # 245307 (Tag #HN 5869). The registration for this vehicle expires on 6/20/2024, and the insurance on this vehicle is due to be renewed on 4/01/24. The permission to transport form was not on file for one child enrolled. The permission to transport form for one child enrolled was missing arrival and departure times, as well as from where and to where the child is transported. The missing information for arrival/departure times and from/to where the child is transported were corrected during the visit. Ms. McCummings stated the facility has another mini bus which is not being used currently that is in the shop for repair. I stated Ms. McCummings must contact me to monitor this vehicle prior to the vehicle being used to transport children enrolled. A staff training worksheet was submitted prior to the visit; the file for one existing staff member and six new staff members were monitored. A medical statement and TB test for one new employee who began work on 10/10/2023 was completed on 9/20/2022. The certificate for Health and Safety training topics #2 Administration of medication, with standards for parental consent, and 10 Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Abuse and Maltreatment were not observed on file and not current within the last five years, respectively, for one existing employee. The employee completed the training for Recognizing and Responding during the visit. Children’s Records forms were completed during the visit. The files for twelve children enrolled were monitored. The date of enrollment was not recorded on the signed Discipline Policy for two children enrolled; this was corrected during the visit. Playground inspections, lockdown/ shelter-in-place drills and fire drill logs were monitored for one year. A fire drill was conducted on 1/10/2023. A shelter-in-place drill was completed on 12/27/2023. A playground inspection was completed on 1/22/2024. A playground inspection for May, June, August, September, October, November, and December, 2023 were not available for review. The Ready to Go file did not contain the applications for seven children enrolled and the staff contact information for each staff member. The following violations were cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In Space 5, the posted activity plan was dated 1/08/2024; a current activity plan was posted during the visit. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 468 When three year old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. In Space 8, there were not sufficient materials in the art center for three children to choose different activities. .0510(d)(1) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. In Space 8, a set of six fabric soft blocks were observed to be fraying on the corners. Ms. McCummings removed these blocks from the classroom during the visit and replaced them with another set of blocks. In Space 4, four upholstered child-sized chairs were observed to be frayed in greater than five areas each. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In Space 3, one open plastic bubbles wrapper and one plastic bag were observed in a set of plastic drawers accessible to children under three years of age. Also in Space 3, the plastic covering on the lower portion of two doors was observed to be peeling and accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, the bottom left corner of the window furthest to the left in the classroom (facing the playground), was observed to be broken and sharp to the touch. On the playground used by children two years of age and preschoolers, a long, plastic bin housing manipulative blocks was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch; this bin was removed from the playground during the visit. On the playground used by Pre-K children, one border tack was observed to be raised and not flush with the border, creating a potential entanglement hazard. On the playground used by infants and toddlers, a shallow hole, large enough for a basketball to rest in, was observed in the middle of the play area, presenting a potential tripping hazard. A wooden beam boarding the mulched area was observed to be split, the broken piece extending outward slightly, creating a potential tripping hazard. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. The diaper cream authorization for one child enrolled was not signed by a parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In Space 1, the authorization forms for two diaper creams had expired on 12/31/23. In Space 2, the authorization form for one diaper cream had expired on 1/05/24. .0803(12) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. A playground inspection was completed on 1/22/2024. A playground inspection for May, June, August, September, October, November, and December, 2023 were not available for review. .0605(q) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. A medical statement and TB test for one new employee who began work on 10/10/2023 was completed on 9/20/2022. .0701(a) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. The permission to transport form was not on file for one child enrolled. The permission to transport form for one child enrolled was missing arrival and departure times, as well as from where and to where the child is transported. The missing information for arrival/departure times and from/to where the child is transported were corrected during the visit. .1003(i)(j) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The Ready to Go file did not contain the applications for seven children enrolled and the staff contact information for each staff member. .0607(d)(10) 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. The certificate for Health and Safety training topics #2 Administration of medication, with standards for parental consent, and 10 Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Abuse and Maltreatment were not observed on file and not current within the last five years, respectively, for one existing employee. The employee completed the training for Recognizing and Responding during the visit. .1103(b) Compliance documentation: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately and send me documentation verifying compliance on or before 2/06/2024. The following information must be included in your compliance letter: • each violation number, • how you corrected each violation, • what plan will be implemented to prevent each violation from occurring again, • the name of your center, • facility ID number, • date, • title of the person who signs the letter If you state in your Compliance Letter that corrections or changes have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information and could lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. You may email the letter to cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or mail two copies of the letter to: Cara McKeown 353 Jonestown Road, Unit #146 Winston Salem, NC 27104 Repeated violations, continued non-compliance, or failure to submit the compliance letter prior to the date given in this visit summary can also lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical Assistance Provided During Visit: In Space 1, the authorization forms for two diaper creams had expired on 12/31/23. In Space 2, the authorization form for one diaper cream had expired on 1/05/24. Ms. McCummings removed each of these creams from the spaces during the visit. Also in Space 4, the medication authorization form for one child enrolled was not signed by a parent. The permission to transport form was not on file for one child enrolled. The permission to transport form for one child enrolled was missing arrival and departure times, as well as from where and to where the child is transported. The missing information for arrival/departure times and from/to where the child is transported were corrected during the visit. A medical statement and TB test for one new employee who began work on 10/10/2023 was completed on 9/20/2022. The certificate for Health and Safety training topics #2 Administration of medication, with standards for parental consent, and 10 Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Abuse and Maltreatment were not observed on file and not current within the last five years, respectively, for one existing employee. The employee completed the training for Recognizing and Responding during the visit. The date of enrollment was not recorded on the signed Discipline Policy for two children enrolled; this was corrected during the visit. A playground inspection for May, June, August, September, October, November, and December, 2023 were not available for review. The Ready to Go file did not contain the applications for seven children enrolled and the staff contact information for each staff member. Ms. McCummings stated she and her Assistant Director have been working consistently to update paper work. In regard to the playground inspections, Ms. McCummings stated these are completed daily, electronically via a corporate app. I was unable to view these in the app during the visit, as Ms. McCummings is unsure how far back these can be accessed. I did review the criteria for the playground checks, and not all criteria included on the monthly playground inspection required by the Division are on the daily electronic inspection. I recommended Ms. McCummings set a regular schedule to review new and existing staff files, as well as children’s files, to ensure all required documentation is on file, as well as setting calendar reminders for upcoming documentation due dates. In Space 3, one open plastic bubbles wrapper and one plastic bag were observed in a set of plastic drawers accessible to children under three years of age. Also in Space 3, the plastic covering on the lower portion of two doors was observed to be peeling and accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 4, the bottom left corner of the window furthest to the left in the classroom (facing the playground), was observed to be broken and sharp to the touch. In Space 5, a fabric curtain secured by staples was observed to be coming detached, and two staples, sharp to the touch were observed to be accessible to children. On the playground used by children two years of age and preschoolers, a long, plastic bin housing manipulative blocks was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch; this bin was removed from the playground during the visit. On the playground used by Pre-K children, one border tack was observed to be raised and not flush with the border, creating a potential entanglement hazard. On the playground used by infants and toddlers, a shallow hole, large enough for a basketball to rest in, was observed in the middle of the play area, presenting a potential tripping hazard. A wooden beam boarding the mulched area was observed to be split, the broken piece extending outward slightly, creating a potential tripping hazard. It is important to routinely and frequently monitor the indoor and outdoor areas accessed by children to ensure children enrolled can safely explore their learning environments. Ms. McCummings stated a work order had already been placed for repair of the window and that she had been keeping an eye on the hole on the infant playground. I recommended Ms. McCummings consider adding these items to their daily playground inspection checklist. Also in Space 4, four upholstered child-sized chairs were observed to be frayed in greater than five areas each. In Space 8, a set of six fabric soft blocks were observed to be fraying on the corners. Ms. McCummings removed these blocks from the classroom during the visit and replaced them with another set of blocks. It is important for all items mentioned above to be able to be cleaned and sanitized regularly and thoroughly. I recommended Ms. McCummings consider using an adhesive covering such as Flex Tape to cover the fraying spots on the upholstered chairs. Consultation Provided During Visit: The following Child Care Rules were reviewed with Ms. McCummings during the visit: 10A NCAC 09 .1714 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE 10A NCAC 09 .1003 SAFE PROCEDURES (b) • You can access the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) at the following link to print a copy of your most recent Criminal Background Check Qualifying Letter.: https://ncabcms.nc.gov/DCDEE/Applicant/ • Please remember to submit the education for all new staff and all staff who have advanced their education to DCDEE Works. Thank you for your time and assistance during this visit. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary, enrollment worksheet, and monitoring checklist were emailed to you. Contact me at Cara McKeown, Child Care Consultant, (336) 408-4849 or cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or Pamela Hauser, Licensing Supervisor, pamela.hauser@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
- Violation
G.S. 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: SUSAN BROWN Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0124-012A Visit Date: 1/5/2024 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 1/5/2024 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 85 Time In: 12:20 PM Time Out: 01:45 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. Tiffany McCummings, Administrator accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. McCummings and one additional staff member. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 1802 The child care provider and/or household member who incurred pending charges, indictments, or convictions since their last qualification letter was issued by the Division, did not notify the operator of these charges within five business days or before returning to work. The operator did not notify the Division of these pending charges, indictments, or convictions within one business day of being notified by the child care provider or household member. The administrator/operator was aware a staff member incurred charges in February 2023 and failed to notify the Division of the charges. The staff member incurred additional charges in November 2023 and was incarcerated; the facility became aware of the charges and terminated the staff member's employment; however, the facility did not report the charges to the Division. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(m) You may contact me Susan Brown, Investigations Consultant at Phone: (704) 533-2037 Email: Susan.Brown@dhhs.nc.gov or Elizabeth Nichols, Investigations Supervisor at Elizabeth.Nichols@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
- Violation
10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/17/2023 Number Present: 84 Completed Date: 7/17/2023 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 360 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 05:00 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 childcare requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Tiffany McCummings, Director, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a 5-Star license effective December 7, 2018. Restrictions include 1st shift care, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and allowed to provide care for children up to 14 years of age. The program’s compliance history was 93% prior to today’s visit. All programs are required to maintain at least 75% compliance. Today, the following items were monitored: • Supervision • S/C Ratios • CPR • First Aid • Special Training • CBC Completed • ITS-SIDS Training • Emergency Medical Care Plan • Administering Medication • Storage of Hazardous Substances • Storage of Medication • General Safety • Discipline • Adequate/Approved Space • Program Records • License Posted • Permit Restrictions The license was observed, and the restrictions were found in compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. Indoor and outdoor areas were observed. In Space 3, rolls of paper towels wrapped in plastic and a plastic grocery bag were observed on a shelf and inside a child’s cubby, accessible to children. Plastic bags and wrappers were also observed in a classroom drawer accessible to children. Two children enrolled in this classroom are two years of age; Ms. McCummings made each of these items inaccessible to children during the visit. Also in Space 3, the door housing an inside air conditioning unit was observed to be unlocked; this was corrected during the visit. In Space 4, one broken Lincoln Log was observed in a toy bin which was sharp to the touch; a plastic measuring cup was also observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch in the home living area. Ms. McCummings removed each of the items from this space during the visit. In Space 6, a dry erase board was observed to have a broken metal frame which was sharp to the touch. Ms. McCummings removed this dry erase board from the classroom during the visit. In Space 7, a former connection for a water fountain was observed to have a circular metal guard which had become detached from the wall, exposing a hole in which a child’s fingers could potentially be caught. The metal guard was also observed to be sharp to the touch. This facility has three playgrounds: one playground (P1) used by infants and toddlers, one playground (P2) used by children two and three years of age, and one playground (P3) used by children four years of age and older. On P1, a wooden fence surrounding the air conditioning unit was observed to have holes at the children’s level large enough for a child’s hand or fingers to get caught in, presenting a potential safety issue. The outlet for a drainpipe on the side of the building was observed to have cracked plastic surrounding the edges of the outlet which were sharp to the touch. On P2, rust was observed on the handlebars and other areas of five tricycles and greater than five metal brackets securing gutters to the sides of the building (this number spanned all three playgrounds). The plastic lattice at the top of a small, stationary sliding structure was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. On P3, a large plastic storage bin was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. The brackets and hinges securing the wooden gate door housing the air conditioning unit were observed to be heavily rusted. The siding along both sides (stairs and landings on each level, as well as underneath the structure) of the large, stationary climbing structure were observed to be cracked in greater than fifteen areas. Greater than five of these areas have metal exposed which was observed to be beginning to rust. Brush was observed to be growing through at least one side of the fencing on each of the three playgrounds, which can encourage and potentially harbor vermin. Upon arrival, staff/child ratio and space capacity were monitored as indicated on the attached worksheet. Supervision was adequate during the visit. I observed positive interactions today. I observed children playing in activity centers, participating in general routines, engaging in conversations and activities with their teachers, and eating lunch during the visit. Books were not accessible to children in Space 2. Ms. McCummings stated she had ordered more books for this classroom. Six new staff members were reported at this program since the last visit. The files for these staff members were monitored and observed to be in compliance. Storage and administration of medication were monitored. Medication authorization was monitored. The medication authorization forms for diaper cream for two children enrolled in Space 2 did not have specific instructions as to how often to apply the cream. The medication authorization form for diaper cream for one child enrolled did not have a specific dosage listed on the form. A medication authorization form for diaper cream was not on file for the diaper cream for one child enrolled. Storage of hazardous items was monitored today. Insect sting reliever pads, alcohol swabs, antibacterial wipes, etc. were observed inside a first aid kit on Vehicle 3; each of these items was removed from the vehicle during the visit. A playground inspection was recorded on 6/17/2023. A fire drill was recorded on 7/12/2023. A lockdown for the facility was recorded on 3/01/23. A fire inspection was completed on 8/24/2022; Ms. McCummings provided me a copy of this inspection during the visit. I observed a sanitation inspection was last conducted on 1/19/2023 earning a Superior classification. A Ready to Go File was not available for review. The program currently transports twenty-five children of school age for field trips. Three vehicles (all minibuses) are used to transport children. One vehicle is currently at a vehicle service center for repairs and was not monitored during the visit today; this vehicle will be monitored during another visit. Ms. McCummings stated the second vehicle had been borrowed from the Children’s Courtyard while the first vehicle was under repair. A current vehicle insurance statement was neither on the vehicle, nor accessible for verification; I stated to Ms. McCummings that this vehicle may not be used to transport children until current insurance documentation is received and sent to me for review. On the third vehicle (license plate HN5869), the registration, inspection, and insurance documentation were observed to be current. Signage regarding tobacco and smoking restriction was not present on either vehicle. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not offered in sufficient quantity to allow all children to use them at some time during the day and to allow for a range of choices. Books were not accessible to children enrolled in Space 2. .0510(e)(3) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In Space 3, rolls of paper towels wrapped in plastic and a plastic grocery bag were observed on a shelf and inside a child’s cubby, accessible to children. Plastic bags and wrappers were also observed in a classroom drawer accessible to children. Two children enrolled in this classroom are two years of age; Ms. McCummings made each of these items inaccessible to children during the visit. Also in Space 3, the door housing an inside air conditioning unit was observed to be unlocked; this was corrected during the visit. In Space 4, one broken Lincoln Log was observed in a toy bin which was sharp to the touch; a plastic measuring cup was also observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch in the home living area. Ms. McCummings removed each of the items from this space during the visit. In Space 6, a dry erase board was observed to have a broken metal frame which was sharp to the touch. Ms. McCummings removed this dry erase board from the classroom during the visit. In Space 7, a former connection for a water fountain was observed to have a circular metal guard which had become detached from the wall, exposing a hole in which a child’s fingers could potentially be caught. The metal guard was also observed to be sharp to the touch. This facility has three playgrounds: one playground (P1) used by infants and toddlers, one playground (P2) used by children two and three years of age, and one playground (P3) used by children four years of age and older. On P1, a wooden fence surrounding the air conditioning unit was observed to have holes at the children’s level large enough for a child’s hand or fingers to get caught in, presenting a potential safety issue. The outlet for a drainpipe on the side of the building was observed to have cracked plastic surrounding the edges of the outlet which were sharp to the touch. On P2, rust was observed on the handlebars and other areas of five tricycles and greater than five metal brackets securing gutters to the sides of the building (this number spanned all three playgrounds). The plastic lattice at the top of a small, stationary sliding structure was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. On P3, a large plastic storage bin was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. The brackets and hinges securing the wooden gate door housing the air conditioning unit were observed to be heavily rusted. The siding along both sides (stairs and landings on each level, as well as underneath the structure) of the large, stationary climbing structure were observed to be cracked in greater than fifteen areas. Greater than five of these areas have metal exposed which was observed to be beginning to rust. Signage regarding tobacco and smoking restriction was not present on either vehicle. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 808 The outdoor premises were not clean, drained and free of litter and hazardous materials grass and other vegetation in a manner which does not encourage vermin. Brush was observed to be growing through at least one side of the fencing on each of the three playgrounds, which can encourage and potentially harbor vermin. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 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. Insect sting reliever pads, alcohol swabs, antibacterial wipes, etc. were observed inside a first aid kit on Vehicle 3 .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. The medication authorization forms for diaper cream for two children enrolled in Space 2 did not have specific instructions as to how often to apply the cream. The medication authorization form for diaper cream for one child enrolled did not have a specific dosage listed on the form. A medication authorization form for diaper cream was not on file for the diaper cream for one child enrolled. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1111 All vehicles were not insured for liability as required by state law. A current vehicle insurance statement was neither on a borrowed vehicle used to transport children, nor accessible for verification. .1002(c) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. A Ready to Go File was not available for review. .0607(d)(10) 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. You must correct the violations cited during today's visit immediately and send me documentation verifying compliance on or before 7/31/2023. The following information must be included in your signed and dated compliance letter: • the name of your center • facility ID number • date • title of the person who signs the letter • each violation number(s) • describes accurately and in detail how and when you corrected each violation If you state in your letter that corrections or changes have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information and could lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. You may email the letter to cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or mail two copies of the letter to: Cara McKeown 353 Jonestown Road, Unit #146 Winston Salem, NC 27104 Repeated violations, continued non-compliance, or failure to submit the compliance letter prior to the date given in this visit summary can also lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical assistance provided during today’s visit: • The following Child Care Rules were thoroughly reviewed and discussed with Ms. McCummings during the visit: 10A NCAC 09 .0607 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (10) the location of a Ready to Go File. A Ready to Go File means a collection of information on children, staff and the facility, to utilize, if an evacuation occurs. The file shall include, a copy of the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, contact information for individuals to pick-up children, each child's Application for Child Care, medication authorizations and instructions, any action plans for children with special health care needs, a list of any known food allergies of children and staff, staff contact information, Incident Report forms, an area map, and emergency telephone numbers. 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (c) When not in use, electrical outlets and power strips located in space used by children shall have safety outlets or be covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. 10A NCAC 09 .2508 AGE APPROPRIATE ACTIVITIES (e) When screen time is provided on any electronic device with a visual display, it shall be: (1) offered as a free choice activity; (2) used to meet a developmental goal; (3) limited to a maximum of 30 minutes per day and no more than two and a half hours per week, per child; (4) documented on a cumulative log or activity plan, available for review by a representative of the Division; and (5) usage time periods may be extended for school assigned homework. This does not include personal devices belonging to children enrolled, unless these are necessary for school assigned homework. • You can access the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) at the following link to print a copy of your most recent Criminal Background Check qualifying letter: https://ncabcms.nc.gov/DCDEE/Applicant/ • Please remember to submit the education for all new staff and all staff who have advanced their education to DCDEE Works. - You may access the Risk Management Portal to reprint and/or update your EPR plan at the following website: https://rmp.nc.gov/portal/portal.aspx# • Please monitor the outdoor environment and the inside of stationary structures for broken toys, cobwebs, and trash or debris prior to the children using the playground daily. • Please pressure wash all outdoor equipment and shade coverings used by children enrolled. • Please monitor the fencing surrounding each playground for developing rust. - Please monitor all stationary play structures for peeling and/or flaking paint. - When completing medication authorization forms for topical creams and/or sprays, please remember to record specific dosages, specific times for the topical cream/spray to be used, the specific reason the medication is used (ex. “to prevent sunburn from occurring”, etc.), and the specific name/brand of ointment being applied. - Please consider providing each classroom a separate list of children who may have center-purchased sunscreen applied daily. - Please always document that an infant has been placed onto his/her back on the safe sleep chart during the first recording of a nap session, even if the child immediately rolls to his/her side/tummy. Document the position the child adopted during the next recording. Please also document on each infant’s safe sleep record days he/she is absent from care. - Please check the box for each item on your facility’s safe sleep policy which the program follows; please also ensure that enrolled/enrolling parents receive a copy of this updated policy. - I recommended teachers turn off the classroom lights during nap/rest periods, unless lights are necessary, for example, in an infant room. Due to natural light filtering into each classroom, as long as teachers can see the children, children may rest more comfortably with less unnatural light. - I recommended also lowering the volume of music played during rest time in the classrooms. - Please ensure that all evacuation plans are posted in each classroom for review. - Please add more books to Space 8. - Please monitor all upholstered or padded furniture for frayed or worn edges, which prevent easy cleaning and sanitation. Thank you for your time and assistance during the visit. If you have any questions about the visit, please contact me or my supervisor using the information below. Cara McKeown, Child Care Consultant (336) 408-4849 cara.mckeown@dhh.nc.gov Pamela Hauser, Supervisor pamela.hauser@dhhs.nc.gov 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/ 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
- Violation
10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/17/2023 Number Present: 84 Completed Date: 7/17/2023 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 360 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 05:00 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 childcare requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Tiffany McCummings, Director, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a 5-Star license effective December 7, 2018. Restrictions include 1st shift care, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and allowed to provide care for children up to 14 years of age. The program’s compliance history was 93% prior to today’s visit. All programs are required to maintain at least 75% compliance. Today, the following items were monitored: • Supervision • S/C Ratios • CPR • First Aid • Special Training • CBC Completed • ITS-SIDS Training • Emergency Medical Care Plan • Administering Medication • Storage of Hazardous Substances • Storage of Medication • General Safety • Discipline • Adequate/Approved Space • Program Records • License Posted • Permit Restrictions The license was observed, and the restrictions were found in compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. Indoor and outdoor areas were observed. In Space 3, rolls of paper towels wrapped in plastic and a plastic grocery bag were observed on a shelf and inside a child’s cubby, accessible to children. Plastic bags and wrappers were also observed in a classroom drawer accessible to children. Two children enrolled in this classroom are two years of age; Ms. McCummings made each of these items inaccessible to children during the visit. Also in Space 3, the door housing an inside air conditioning unit was observed to be unlocked; this was corrected during the visit. In Space 4, one broken Lincoln Log was observed in a toy bin which was sharp to the touch; a plastic measuring cup was also observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch in the home living area. Ms. McCummings removed each of the items from this space during the visit. In Space 6, a dry erase board was observed to have a broken metal frame which was sharp to the touch. Ms. McCummings removed this dry erase board from the classroom during the visit. In Space 7, a former connection for a water fountain was observed to have a circular metal guard which had become detached from the wall, exposing a hole in which a child’s fingers could potentially be caught. The metal guard was also observed to be sharp to the touch. This facility has three playgrounds: one playground (P1) used by infants and toddlers, one playground (P2) used by children two and three years of age, and one playground (P3) used by children four years of age and older. On P1, a wooden fence surrounding the air conditioning unit was observed to have holes at the children’s level large enough for a child’s hand or fingers to get caught in, presenting a potential safety issue. The outlet for a drainpipe on the side of the building was observed to have cracked plastic surrounding the edges of the outlet which were sharp to the touch. On P2, rust was observed on the handlebars and other areas of five tricycles and greater than five metal brackets securing gutters to the sides of the building (this number spanned all three playgrounds). The plastic lattice at the top of a small, stationary sliding structure was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. On P3, a large plastic storage bin was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. The brackets and hinges securing the wooden gate door housing the air conditioning unit were observed to be heavily rusted. The siding along both sides (stairs and landings on each level, as well as underneath the structure) of the large, stationary climbing structure were observed to be cracked in greater than fifteen areas. Greater than five of these areas have metal exposed which was observed to be beginning to rust. Brush was observed to be growing through at least one side of the fencing on each of the three playgrounds, which can encourage and potentially harbor vermin. Upon arrival, staff/child ratio and space capacity were monitored as indicated on the attached worksheet. Supervision was adequate during the visit. I observed positive interactions today. I observed children playing in activity centers, participating in general routines, engaging in conversations and activities with their teachers, and eating lunch during the visit. Books were not accessible to children in Space 2. Ms. McCummings stated she had ordered more books for this classroom. Six new staff members were reported at this program since the last visit. The files for these staff members were monitored and observed to be in compliance. Storage and administration of medication were monitored. Medication authorization was monitored. The medication authorization forms for diaper cream for two children enrolled in Space 2 did not have specific instructions as to how often to apply the cream. The medication authorization form for diaper cream for one child enrolled did not have a specific dosage listed on the form. A medication authorization form for diaper cream was not on file for the diaper cream for one child enrolled. Storage of hazardous items was monitored today. Insect sting reliever pads, alcohol swabs, antibacterial wipes, etc. were observed inside a first aid kit on Vehicle 3; each of these items was removed from the vehicle during the visit. A playground inspection was recorded on 6/17/2023. A fire drill was recorded on 7/12/2023. A lockdown for the facility was recorded on 3/01/23. A fire inspection was completed on 8/24/2022; Ms. McCummings provided me a copy of this inspection during the visit. I observed a sanitation inspection was last conducted on 1/19/2023 earning a Superior classification. A Ready to Go File was not available for review. The program currently transports twenty-five children of school age for field trips. Three vehicles (all minibuses) are used to transport children. One vehicle is currently at a vehicle service center for repairs and was not monitored during the visit today; this vehicle will be monitored during another visit. Ms. McCummings stated the second vehicle had been borrowed from the Children’s Courtyard while the first vehicle was under repair. A current vehicle insurance statement was neither on the vehicle, nor accessible for verification; I stated to Ms. McCummings that this vehicle may not be used to transport children until current insurance documentation is received and sent to me for review. On the third vehicle (license plate HN5869), the registration, inspection, and insurance documentation were observed to be current. Signage regarding tobacco and smoking restriction was not present on either vehicle. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not offered in sufficient quantity to allow all children to use them at some time during the day and to allow for a range of choices. Books were not accessible to children enrolled in Space 2. .0510(e)(3) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In Space 3, rolls of paper towels wrapped in plastic and a plastic grocery bag were observed on a shelf and inside a child’s cubby, accessible to children. Plastic bags and wrappers were also observed in a classroom drawer accessible to children. Two children enrolled in this classroom are two years of age; Ms. McCummings made each of these items inaccessible to children during the visit. Also in Space 3, the door housing an inside air conditioning unit was observed to be unlocked; this was corrected during the visit. In Space 4, one broken Lincoln Log was observed in a toy bin which was sharp to the touch; a plastic measuring cup was also observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch in the home living area. Ms. McCummings removed each of the items from this space during the visit. In Space 6, a dry erase board was observed to have a broken metal frame which was sharp to the touch. Ms. McCummings removed this dry erase board from the classroom during the visit. In Space 7, a former connection for a water fountain was observed to have a circular metal guard which had become detached from the wall, exposing a hole in which a child’s fingers could potentially be caught. The metal guard was also observed to be sharp to the touch. This facility has three playgrounds: one playground (P1) used by infants and toddlers, one playground (P2) used by children two and three years of age, and one playground (P3) used by children four years of age and older. On P1, a wooden fence surrounding the air conditioning unit was observed to have holes at the children’s level large enough for a child’s hand or fingers to get caught in, presenting a potential safety issue. The outlet for a drainpipe on the side of the building was observed to have cracked plastic surrounding the edges of the outlet which were sharp to the touch. On P2, rust was observed on the handlebars and other areas of five tricycles and greater than five metal brackets securing gutters to the sides of the building (this number spanned all three playgrounds). The plastic lattice at the top of a small, stationary sliding structure was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. On P3, a large plastic storage bin was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. The brackets and hinges securing the wooden gate door housing the air conditioning unit were observed to be heavily rusted. The siding along both sides (stairs and landings on each level, as well as underneath the structure) of the large, stationary climbing structure were observed to be cracked in greater than fifteen areas. Greater than five of these areas have metal exposed which was observed to be beginning to rust. Signage regarding tobacco and smoking restriction was not present on either vehicle. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 808 The outdoor premises were not clean, drained and free of litter and hazardous materials grass and other vegetation in a manner which does not encourage vermin. Brush was observed to be growing through at least one side of the fencing on each of the three playgrounds, which can encourage and potentially harbor vermin. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 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. Insect sting reliever pads, alcohol swabs, antibacterial wipes, etc. were observed inside a first aid kit on Vehicle 3 .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. The medication authorization forms for diaper cream for two children enrolled in Space 2 did not have specific instructions as to how often to apply the cream. The medication authorization form for diaper cream for one child enrolled did not have a specific dosage listed on the form. A medication authorization form for diaper cream was not on file for the diaper cream for one child enrolled. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1111 All vehicles were not insured for liability as required by state law. A current vehicle insurance statement was neither on a borrowed vehicle used to transport children, nor accessible for verification. .1002(c) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. A Ready to Go File was not available for review. .0607(d)(10) 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. You must correct the violations cited during today's visit immediately and send me documentation verifying compliance on or before 7/31/2023. The following information must be included in your signed and dated compliance letter: • the name of your center • facility ID number • date • title of the person who signs the letter • each violation number(s) • describes accurately and in detail how and when you corrected each violation If you state in your letter that corrections or changes have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information and could lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. You may email the letter to cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or mail two copies of the letter to: Cara McKeown 353 Jonestown Road, Unit #146 Winston Salem, NC 27104 Repeated violations, continued non-compliance, or failure to submit the compliance letter prior to the date given in this visit summary can also lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical assistance provided during today’s visit: • The following Child Care Rules were thoroughly reviewed and discussed with Ms. McCummings during the visit: 10A NCAC 09 .0607 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (10) the location of a Ready to Go File. A Ready to Go File means a collection of information on children, staff and the facility, to utilize, if an evacuation occurs. The file shall include, a copy of the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, contact information for individuals to pick-up children, each child's Application for Child Care, medication authorizations and instructions, any action plans for children with special health care needs, a list of any known food allergies of children and staff, staff contact information, Incident Report forms, an area map, and emergency telephone numbers. 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (c) When not in use, electrical outlets and power strips located in space used by children shall have safety outlets or be covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. 10A NCAC 09 .2508 AGE APPROPRIATE ACTIVITIES (e) When screen time is provided on any electronic device with a visual display, it shall be: (1) offered as a free choice activity; (2) used to meet a developmental goal; (3) limited to a maximum of 30 minutes per day and no more than two and a half hours per week, per child; (4) documented on a cumulative log or activity plan, available for review by a representative of the Division; and (5) usage time periods may be extended for school assigned homework. This does not include personal devices belonging to children enrolled, unless these are necessary for school assigned homework. • You can access the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) at the following link to print a copy of your most recent Criminal Background Check qualifying letter: https://ncabcms.nc.gov/DCDEE/Applicant/ • Please remember to submit the education for all new staff and all staff who have advanced their education to DCDEE Works. - You may access the Risk Management Portal to reprint and/or update your EPR plan at the following website: https://rmp.nc.gov/portal/portal.aspx# • Please monitor the outdoor environment and the inside of stationary structures for broken toys, cobwebs, and trash or debris prior to the children using the playground daily. • Please pressure wash all outdoor equipment and shade coverings used by children enrolled. • Please monitor the fencing surrounding each playground for developing rust. - Please monitor all stationary play structures for peeling and/or flaking paint. - When completing medication authorization forms for topical creams and/or sprays, please remember to record specific dosages, specific times for the topical cream/spray to be used, the specific reason the medication is used (ex. “to prevent sunburn from occurring”, etc.), and the specific name/brand of ointment being applied. - Please consider providing each classroom a separate list of children who may have center-purchased sunscreen applied daily. - Please always document that an infant has been placed onto his/her back on the safe sleep chart during the first recording of a nap session, even if the child immediately rolls to his/her side/tummy. Document the position the child adopted during the next recording. Please also document on each infant’s safe sleep record days he/she is absent from care. - Please check the box for each item on your facility’s safe sleep policy which the program follows; please also ensure that enrolled/enrolling parents receive a copy of this updated policy. - I recommended teachers turn off the classroom lights during nap/rest periods, unless lights are necessary, for example, in an infant room. Due to natural light filtering into each classroom, as long as teachers can see the children, children may rest more comfortably with less unnatural light. - I recommended also lowering the volume of music played during rest time in the classrooms. - Please ensure that all evacuation plans are posted in each classroom for review. - Please add more books to Space 8. - Please monitor all upholstered or padded furniture for frayed or worn edges, which prevent easy cleaning and sanitation. Thank you for your time and assistance during the visit. If you have any questions about the visit, please contact me or my supervisor using the information below. Cara McKeown, Child Care Consultant (336) 408-4849 cara.mckeown@dhh.nc.gov Pamela Hauser, Supervisor pamela.hauser@dhhs.nc.gov 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/ 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
- Violation
10A NCAC 09 .0607 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/17/2023 Number Present: 84 Completed Date: 7/17/2023 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 360 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 05:00 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 childcare requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Tiffany McCummings, Director, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a 5-Star license effective December 7, 2018. Restrictions include 1st shift care, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and allowed to provide care for children up to 14 years of age. The program’s compliance history was 93% prior to today’s visit. All programs are required to maintain at least 75% compliance. Today, the following items were monitored: • Supervision • S/C Ratios • CPR • First Aid • Special Training • CBC Completed • ITS-SIDS Training • Emergency Medical Care Plan • Administering Medication • Storage of Hazardous Substances • Storage of Medication • General Safety • Discipline • Adequate/Approved Space • Program Records • License Posted • Permit Restrictions The license was observed, and the restrictions were found in compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. Indoor and outdoor areas were observed. In Space 3, rolls of paper towels wrapped in plastic and a plastic grocery bag were observed on a shelf and inside a child’s cubby, accessible to children. Plastic bags and wrappers were also observed in a classroom drawer accessible to children. Two children enrolled in this classroom are two years of age; Ms. McCummings made each of these items inaccessible to children during the visit. Also in Space 3, the door housing an inside air conditioning unit was observed to be unlocked; this was corrected during the visit. In Space 4, one broken Lincoln Log was observed in a toy bin which was sharp to the touch; a plastic measuring cup was also observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch in the home living area. Ms. McCummings removed each of the items from this space during the visit. In Space 6, a dry erase board was observed to have a broken metal frame which was sharp to the touch. Ms. McCummings removed this dry erase board from the classroom during the visit. In Space 7, a former connection for a water fountain was observed to have a circular metal guard which had become detached from the wall, exposing a hole in which a child’s fingers could potentially be caught. The metal guard was also observed to be sharp to the touch. This facility has three playgrounds: one playground (P1) used by infants and toddlers, one playground (P2) used by children two and three years of age, and one playground (P3) used by children four years of age and older. On P1, a wooden fence surrounding the air conditioning unit was observed to have holes at the children’s level large enough for a child’s hand or fingers to get caught in, presenting a potential safety issue. The outlet for a drainpipe on the side of the building was observed to have cracked plastic surrounding the edges of the outlet which were sharp to the touch. On P2, rust was observed on the handlebars and other areas of five tricycles and greater than five metal brackets securing gutters to the sides of the building (this number spanned all three playgrounds). The plastic lattice at the top of a small, stationary sliding structure was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. On P3, a large plastic storage bin was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. The brackets and hinges securing the wooden gate door housing the air conditioning unit were observed to be heavily rusted. The siding along both sides (stairs and landings on each level, as well as underneath the structure) of the large, stationary climbing structure were observed to be cracked in greater than fifteen areas. Greater than five of these areas have metal exposed which was observed to be beginning to rust. Brush was observed to be growing through at least one side of the fencing on each of the three playgrounds, which can encourage and potentially harbor vermin. Upon arrival, staff/child ratio and space capacity were monitored as indicated on the attached worksheet. Supervision was adequate during the visit. I observed positive interactions today. I observed children playing in activity centers, participating in general routines, engaging in conversations and activities with their teachers, and eating lunch during the visit. Books were not accessible to children in Space 2. Ms. McCummings stated she had ordered more books for this classroom. Six new staff members were reported at this program since the last visit. The files for these staff members were monitored and observed to be in compliance. Storage and administration of medication were monitored. Medication authorization was monitored. The medication authorization forms for diaper cream for two children enrolled in Space 2 did not have specific instructions as to how often to apply the cream. The medication authorization form for diaper cream for one child enrolled did not have a specific dosage listed on the form. A medication authorization form for diaper cream was not on file for the diaper cream for one child enrolled. Storage of hazardous items was monitored today. Insect sting reliever pads, alcohol swabs, antibacterial wipes, etc. were observed inside a first aid kit on Vehicle 3; each of these items was removed from the vehicle during the visit. A playground inspection was recorded on 6/17/2023. A fire drill was recorded on 7/12/2023. A lockdown for the facility was recorded on 3/01/23. A fire inspection was completed on 8/24/2022; Ms. McCummings provided me a copy of this inspection during the visit. I observed a sanitation inspection was last conducted on 1/19/2023 earning a Superior classification. A Ready to Go File was not available for review. The program currently transports twenty-five children of school age for field trips. Three vehicles (all minibuses) are used to transport children. One vehicle is currently at a vehicle service center for repairs and was not monitored during the visit today; this vehicle will be monitored during another visit. Ms. McCummings stated the second vehicle had been borrowed from the Children’s Courtyard while the first vehicle was under repair. A current vehicle insurance statement was neither on the vehicle, nor accessible for verification; I stated to Ms. McCummings that this vehicle may not be used to transport children until current insurance documentation is received and sent to me for review. On the third vehicle (license plate HN5869), the registration, inspection, and insurance documentation were observed to be current. Signage regarding tobacco and smoking restriction was not present on either vehicle. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not offered in sufficient quantity to allow all children to use them at some time during the day and to allow for a range of choices. Books were not accessible to children enrolled in Space 2. .0510(e)(3) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In Space 3, rolls of paper towels wrapped in plastic and a plastic grocery bag were observed on a shelf and inside a child’s cubby, accessible to children. Plastic bags and wrappers were also observed in a classroom drawer accessible to children. Two children enrolled in this classroom are two years of age; Ms. McCummings made each of these items inaccessible to children during the visit. Also in Space 3, the door housing an inside air conditioning unit was observed to be unlocked; this was corrected during the visit. In Space 4, one broken Lincoln Log was observed in a toy bin which was sharp to the touch; a plastic measuring cup was also observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch in the home living area. Ms. McCummings removed each of the items from this space during the visit. In Space 6, a dry erase board was observed to have a broken metal frame which was sharp to the touch. Ms. McCummings removed this dry erase board from the classroom during the visit. In Space 7, a former connection for a water fountain was observed to have a circular metal guard which had become detached from the wall, exposing a hole in which a child’s fingers could potentially be caught. The metal guard was also observed to be sharp to the touch. This facility has three playgrounds: one playground (P1) used by infants and toddlers, one playground (P2) used by children two and three years of age, and one playground (P3) used by children four years of age and older. On P1, a wooden fence surrounding the air conditioning unit was observed to have holes at the children’s level large enough for a child’s hand or fingers to get caught in, presenting a potential safety issue. The outlet for a drainpipe on the side of the building was observed to have cracked plastic surrounding the edges of the outlet which were sharp to the touch. On P2, rust was observed on the handlebars and other areas of five tricycles and greater than five metal brackets securing gutters to the sides of the building (this number spanned all three playgrounds). The plastic lattice at the top of a small, stationary sliding structure was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. On P3, a large plastic storage bin was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. The brackets and hinges securing the wooden gate door housing the air conditioning unit were observed to be heavily rusted. The siding along both sides (stairs and landings on each level, as well as underneath the structure) of the large, stationary climbing structure were observed to be cracked in greater than fifteen areas. Greater than five of these areas have metal exposed which was observed to be beginning to rust. Signage regarding tobacco and smoking restriction was not present on either vehicle. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 808 The outdoor premises were not clean, drained and free of litter and hazardous materials grass and other vegetation in a manner which does not encourage vermin. Brush was observed to be growing through at least one side of the fencing on each of the three playgrounds, which can encourage and potentially harbor vermin. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 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. Insect sting reliever pads, alcohol swabs, antibacterial wipes, etc. were observed inside a first aid kit on Vehicle 3 .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. The medication authorization forms for diaper cream for two children enrolled in Space 2 did not have specific instructions as to how often to apply the cream. The medication authorization form for diaper cream for one child enrolled did not have a specific dosage listed on the form. A medication authorization form for diaper cream was not on file for the diaper cream for one child enrolled. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1111 All vehicles were not insured for liability as required by state law. A current vehicle insurance statement was neither on a borrowed vehicle used to transport children, nor accessible for verification. .1002(c) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. A Ready to Go File was not available for review. .0607(d)(10) 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. You must correct the violations cited during today's visit immediately and send me documentation verifying compliance on or before 7/31/2023. The following information must be included in your signed and dated compliance letter: • the name of your center • facility ID number • date • title of the person who signs the letter • each violation number(s) • describes accurately and in detail how and when you corrected each violation If you state in your letter that corrections or changes have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information and could lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. You may email the letter to cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or mail two copies of the letter to: Cara McKeown 353 Jonestown Road, Unit #146 Winston Salem, NC 27104 Repeated violations, continued non-compliance, or failure to submit the compliance letter prior to the date given in this visit summary can also lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical assistance provided during today’s visit: • The following Child Care Rules were thoroughly reviewed and discussed with Ms. McCummings during the visit: 10A NCAC 09 .0607 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (10) the location of a Ready to Go File. A Ready to Go File means a collection of information on children, staff and the facility, to utilize, if an evacuation occurs. The file shall include, a copy of the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, contact information for individuals to pick-up children, each child's Application for Child Care, medication authorizations and instructions, any action plans for children with special health care needs, a list of any known food allergies of children and staff, staff contact information, Incident Report forms, an area map, and emergency telephone numbers. 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (c) When not in use, electrical outlets and power strips located in space used by children shall have safety outlets or be covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. 10A NCAC 09 .2508 AGE APPROPRIATE ACTIVITIES (e) When screen time is provided on any electronic device with a visual display, it shall be: (1) offered as a free choice activity; (2) used to meet a developmental goal; (3) limited to a maximum of 30 minutes per day and no more than two and a half hours per week, per child; (4) documented on a cumulative log or activity plan, available for review by a representative of the Division; and (5) usage time periods may be extended for school assigned homework. This does not include personal devices belonging to children enrolled, unless these are necessary for school assigned homework. • You can access the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) at the following link to print a copy of your most recent Criminal Background Check qualifying letter: https://ncabcms.nc.gov/DCDEE/Applicant/ • Please remember to submit the education for all new staff and all staff who have advanced their education to DCDEE Works. - You may access the Risk Management Portal to reprint and/or update your EPR plan at the following website: https://rmp.nc.gov/portal/portal.aspx# • Please monitor the outdoor environment and the inside of stationary structures for broken toys, cobwebs, and trash or debris prior to the children using the playground daily. • Please pressure wash all outdoor equipment and shade coverings used by children enrolled. • Please monitor the fencing surrounding each playground for developing rust. - Please monitor all stationary play structures for peeling and/or flaking paint. - When completing medication authorization forms for topical creams and/or sprays, please remember to record specific dosages, specific times for the topical cream/spray to be used, the specific reason the medication is used (ex. “to prevent sunburn from occurring”, etc.), and the specific name/brand of ointment being applied. - Please consider providing each classroom a separate list of children who may have center-purchased sunscreen applied daily. - Please always document that an infant has been placed onto his/her back on the safe sleep chart during the first recording of a nap session, even if the child immediately rolls to his/her side/tummy. Document the position the child adopted during the next recording. Please also document on each infant’s safe sleep record days he/she is absent from care. - Please check the box for each item on your facility’s safe sleep policy which the program follows; please also ensure that enrolled/enrolling parents receive a copy of this updated policy. - I recommended teachers turn off the classroom lights during nap/rest periods, unless lights are necessary, for example, in an infant room. Due to natural light filtering into each classroom, as long as teachers can see the children, children may rest more comfortably with less unnatural light. - I recommended also lowering the volume of music played during rest time in the classrooms. - Please ensure that all evacuation plans are posted in each classroom for review. - Please add more books to Space 8. - Please monitor all upholstered or padded furniture for frayed or worn edges, which prevent easy cleaning and sanitation. Thank you for your time and assistance during the visit. If you have any questions about the visit, please contact me or my supervisor using the information below. Cara McKeown, Child Care Consultant (336) 408-4849 cara.mckeown@dhh.nc.gov Pamela Hauser, Supervisor pamela.hauser@dhhs.nc.gov 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/ 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
- Violation
10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/17/2023 Number Present: 84 Completed Date: 7/17/2023 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 360 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 05:00 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 childcare requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Tiffany McCummings, Director, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a 5-Star license effective December 7, 2018. Restrictions include 1st shift care, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and allowed to provide care for children up to 14 years of age. The program’s compliance history was 93% prior to today’s visit. All programs are required to maintain at least 75% compliance. Today, the following items were monitored: • Supervision • S/C Ratios • CPR • First Aid • Special Training • CBC Completed • ITS-SIDS Training • Emergency Medical Care Plan • Administering Medication • Storage of Hazardous Substances • Storage of Medication • General Safety • Discipline • Adequate/Approved Space • Program Records • License Posted • Permit Restrictions The license was observed, and the restrictions were found in compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. Indoor and outdoor areas were observed. In Space 3, rolls of paper towels wrapped in plastic and a plastic grocery bag were observed on a shelf and inside a child’s cubby, accessible to children. Plastic bags and wrappers were also observed in a classroom drawer accessible to children. Two children enrolled in this classroom are two years of age; Ms. McCummings made each of these items inaccessible to children during the visit. Also in Space 3, the door housing an inside air conditioning unit was observed to be unlocked; this was corrected during the visit. In Space 4, one broken Lincoln Log was observed in a toy bin which was sharp to the touch; a plastic measuring cup was also observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch in the home living area. Ms. McCummings removed each of the items from this space during the visit. In Space 6, a dry erase board was observed to have a broken metal frame which was sharp to the touch. Ms. McCummings removed this dry erase board from the classroom during the visit. In Space 7, a former connection for a water fountain was observed to have a circular metal guard which had become detached from the wall, exposing a hole in which a child’s fingers could potentially be caught. The metal guard was also observed to be sharp to the touch. This facility has three playgrounds: one playground (P1) used by infants and toddlers, one playground (P2) used by children two and three years of age, and one playground (P3) used by children four years of age and older. On P1, a wooden fence surrounding the air conditioning unit was observed to have holes at the children’s level large enough for a child’s hand or fingers to get caught in, presenting a potential safety issue. The outlet for a drainpipe on the side of the building was observed to have cracked plastic surrounding the edges of the outlet which were sharp to the touch. On P2, rust was observed on the handlebars and other areas of five tricycles and greater than five metal brackets securing gutters to the sides of the building (this number spanned all three playgrounds). The plastic lattice at the top of a small, stationary sliding structure was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. On P3, a large plastic storage bin was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. The brackets and hinges securing the wooden gate door housing the air conditioning unit were observed to be heavily rusted. The siding along both sides (stairs and landings on each level, as well as underneath the structure) of the large, stationary climbing structure were observed to be cracked in greater than fifteen areas. Greater than five of these areas have metal exposed which was observed to be beginning to rust. Brush was observed to be growing through at least one side of the fencing on each of the three playgrounds, which can encourage and potentially harbor vermin. Upon arrival, staff/child ratio and space capacity were monitored as indicated on the attached worksheet. Supervision was adequate during the visit. I observed positive interactions today. I observed children playing in activity centers, participating in general routines, engaging in conversations and activities with their teachers, and eating lunch during the visit. Books were not accessible to children in Space 2. Ms. McCummings stated she had ordered more books for this classroom. Six new staff members were reported at this program since the last visit. The files for these staff members were monitored and observed to be in compliance. Storage and administration of medication were monitored. Medication authorization was monitored. The medication authorization forms for diaper cream for two children enrolled in Space 2 did not have specific instructions as to how often to apply the cream. The medication authorization form for diaper cream for one child enrolled did not have a specific dosage listed on the form. A medication authorization form for diaper cream was not on file for the diaper cream for one child enrolled. Storage of hazardous items was monitored today. Insect sting reliever pads, alcohol swabs, antibacterial wipes, etc. were observed inside a first aid kit on Vehicle 3; each of these items was removed from the vehicle during the visit. A playground inspection was recorded on 6/17/2023. A fire drill was recorded on 7/12/2023. A lockdown for the facility was recorded on 3/01/23. A fire inspection was completed on 8/24/2022; Ms. McCummings provided me a copy of this inspection during the visit. I observed a sanitation inspection was last conducted on 1/19/2023 earning a Superior classification. A Ready to Go File was not available for review. The program currently transports twenty-five children of school age for field trips. Three vehicles (all minibuses) are used to transport children. One vehicle is currently at a vehicle service center for repairs and was not monitored during the visit today; this vehicle will be monitored during another visit. Ms. McCummings stated the second vehicle had been borrowed from the Children’s Courtyard while the first vehicle was under repair. A current vehicle insurance statement was neither on the vehicle, nor accessible for verification; I stated to Ms. McCummings that this vehicle may not be used to transport children until current insurance documentation is received and sent to me for review. On the third vehicle (license plate HN5869), the registration, inspection, and insurance documentation were observed to be current. Signage regarding tobacco and smoking restriction was not present on either vehicle. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not offered in sufficient quantity to allow all children to use them at some time during the day and to allow for a range of choices. Books were not accessible to children enrolled in Space 2. .0510(e)(3) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In Space 3, rolls of paper towels wrapped in plastic and a plastic grocery bag were observed on a shelf and inside a child’s cubby, accessible to children. Plastic bags and wrappers were also observed in a classroom drawer accessible to children. Two children enrolled in this classroom are two years of age; Ms. McCummings made each of these items inaccessible to children during the visit. Also in Space 3, the door housing an inside air conditioning unit was observed to be unlocked; this was corrected during the visit. In Space 4, one broken Lincoln Log was observed in a toy bin which was sharp to the touch; a plastic measuring cup was also observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch in the home living area. Ms. McCummings removed each of the items from this space during the visit. In Space 6, a dry erase board was observed to have a broken metal frame which was sharp to the touch. Ms. McCummings removed this dry erase board from the classroom during the visit. In Space 7, a former connection for a water fountain was observed to have a circular metal guard which had become detached from the wall, exposing a hole in which a child’s fingers could potentially be caught. The metal guard was also observed to be sharp to the touch. This facility has three playgrounds: one playground (P1) used by infants and toddlers, one playground (P2) used by children two and three years of age, and one playground (P3) used by children four years of age and older. On P1, a wooden fence surrounding the air conditioning unit was observed to have holes at the children’s level large enough for a child’s hand or fingers to get caught in, presenting a potential safety issue. The outlet for a drainpipe on the side of the building was observed to have cracked plastic surrounding the edges of the outlet which were sharp to the touch. On P2, rust was observed on the handlebars and other areas of five tricycles and greater than five metal brackets securing gutters to the sides of the building (this number spanned all three playgrounds). The plastic lattice at the top of a small, stationary sliding structure was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. On P3, a large plastic storage bin was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. The brackets and hinges securing the wooden gate door housing the air conditioning unit were observed to be heavily rusted. The siding along both sides (stairs and landings on each level, as well as underneath the structure) of the large, stationary climbing structure were observed to be cracked in greater than fifteen areas. Greater than five of these areas have metal exposed which was observed to be beginning to rust. Signage regarding tobacco and smoking restriction was not present on either vehicle. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 808 The outdoor premises were not clean, drained and free of litter and hazardous materials grass and other vegetation in a manner which does not encourage vermin. Brush was observed to be growing through at least one side of the fencing on each of the three playgrounds, which can encourage and potentially harbor vermin. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 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. Insect sting reliever pads, alcohol swabs, antibacterial wipes, etc. were observed inside a first aid kit on Vehicle 3 .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. The medication authorization forms for diaper cream for two children enrolled in Space 2 did not have specific instructions as to how often to apply the cream. The medication authorization form for diaper cream for one child enrolled did not have a specific dosage listed on the form. A medication authorization form for diaper cream was not on file for the diaper cream for one child enrolled. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1111 All vehicles were not insured for liability as required by state law. A current vehicle insurance statement was neither on a borrowed vehicle used to transport children, nor accessible for verification. .1002(c) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. A Ready to Go File was not available for review. .0607(d)(10) 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. You must correct the violations cited during today's visit immediately and send me documentation verifying compliance on or before 7/31/2023. The following information must be included in your signed and dated compliance letter: • the name of your center • facility ID number • date • title of the person who signs the letter • each violation number(s) • describes accurately and in detail how and when you corrected each violation If you state in your letter that corrections or changes have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information and could lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. You may email the letter to cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or mail two copies of the letter to: Cara McKeown 353 Jonestown Road, Unit #146 Winston Salem, NC 27104 Repeated violations, continued non-compliance, or failure to submit the compliance letter prior to the date given in this visit summary can also lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical assistance provided during today’s visit: • The following Child Care Rules were thoroughly reviewed and discussed with Ms. McCummings during the visit: 10A NCAC 09 .0607 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (10) the location of a Ready to Go File. A Ready to Go File means a collection of information on children, staff and the facility, to utilize, if an evacuation occurs. The file shall include, a copy of the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, contact information for individuals to pick-up children, each child's Application for Child Care, medication authorizations and instructions, any action plans for children with special health care needs, a list of any known food allergies of children and staff, staff contact information, Incident Report forms, an area map, and emergency telephone numbers. 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (c) When not in use, electrical outlets and power strips located in space used by children shall have safety outlets or be covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. 10A NCAC 09 .2508 AGE APPROPRIATE ACTIVITIES (e) When screen time is provided on any electronic device with a visual display, it shall be: (1) offered as a free choice activity; (2) used to meet a developmental goal; (3) limited to a maximum of 30 minutes per day and no more than two and a half hours per week, per child; (4) documented on a cumulative log or activity plan, available for review by a representative of the Division; and (5) usage time periods may be extended for school assigned homework. This does not include personal devices belonging to children enrolled, unless these are necessary for school assigned homework. • You can access the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) at the following link to print a copy of your most recent Criminal Background Check qualifying letter: https://ncabcms.nc.gov/DCDEE/Applicant/ • Please remember to submit the education for all new staff and all staff who have advanced their education to DCDEE Works. - You may access the Risk Management Portal to reprint and/or update your EPR plan at the following website: https://rmp.nc.gov/portal/portal.aspx# • Please monitor the outdoor environment and the inside of stationary structures for broken toys, cobwebs, and trash or debris prior to the children using the playground daily. • Please pressure wash all outdoor equipment and shade coverings used by children enrolled. • Please monitor the fencing surrounding each playground for developing rust. - Please monitor all stationary play structures for peeling and/or flaking paint. - When completing medication authorization forms for topical creams and/or sprays, please remember to record specific dosages, specific times for the topical cream/spray to be used, the specific reason the medication is used (ex. “to prevent sunburn from occurring”, etc.), and the specific name/brand of ointment being applied. - Please consider providing each classroom a separate list of children who may have center-purchased sunscreen applied daily. - Please always document that an infant has been placed onto his/her back on the safe sleep chart during the first recording of a nap session, even if the child immediately rolls to his/her side/tummy. Document the position the child adopted during the next recording. Please also document on each infant’s safe sleep record days he/she is absent from care. - Please check the box for each item on your facility’s safe sleep policy which the program follows; please also ensure that enrolled/enrolling parents receive a copy of this updated policy. - I recommended teachers turn off the classroom lights during nap/rest periods, unless lights are necessary, for example, in an infant room. Due to natural light filtering into each classroom, as long as teachers can see the children, children may rest more comfortably with less unnatural light. - I recommended also lowering the volume of music played during rest time in the classrooms. - Please ensure that all evacuation plans are posted in each classroom for review. - Please add more books to Space 8. - Please monitor all upholstered or padded furniture for frayed or worn edges, which prevent easy cleaning and sanitation. Thank you for your time and assistance during the visit. If you have any questions about the visit, please contact me or my supervisor using the information below. Cara McKeown, Child Care Consultant (336) 408-4849 cara.mckeown@dhh.nc.gov Pamela Hauser, Supervisor pamela.hauser@dhhs.nc.gov 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/ 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
- Violation
10A NCAC 09 .2508 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/17/2023 Number Present: 84 Completed Date: 7/17/2023 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 360 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 05:00 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 childcare requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Tiffany McCummings, Director, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a 5-Star license effective December 7, 2018. Restrictions include 1st shift care, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and allowed to provide care for children up to 14 years of age. The program’s compliance history was 93% prior to today’s visit. All programs are required to maintain at least 75% compliance. Today, the following items were monitored: • Supervision • S/C Ratios • CPR • First Aid • Special Training • CBC Completed • ITS-SIDS Training • Emergency Medical Care Plan • Administering Medication • Storage of Hazardous Substances • Storage of Medication • General Safety • Discipline • Adequate/Approved Space • Program Records • License Posted • Permit Restrictions The license was observed, and the restrictions were found in compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. Indoor and outdoor areas were observed. In Space 3, rolls of paper towels wrapped in plastic and a plastic grocery bag were observed on a shelf and inside a child’s cubby, accessible to children. Plastic bags and wrappers were also observed in a classroom drawer accessible to children. Two children enrolled in this classroom are two years of age; Ms. McCummings made each of these items inaccessible to children during the visit. Also in Space 3, the door housing an inside air conditioning unit was observed to be unlocked; this was corrected during the visit. In Space 4, one broken Lincoln Log was observed in a toy bin which was sharp to the touch; a plastic measuring cup was also observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch in the home living area. Ms. McCummings removed each of the items from this space during the visit. In Space 6, a dry erase board was observed to have a broken metal frame which was sharp to the touch. Ms. McCummings removed this dry erase board from the classroom during the visit. In Space 7, a former connection for a water fountain was observed to have a circular metal guard which had become detached from the wall, exposing a hole in which a child’s fingers could potentially be caught. The metal guard was also observed to be sharp to the touch. This facility has three playgrounds: one playground (P1) used by infants and toddlers, one playground (P2) used by children two and three years of age, and one playground (P3) used by children four years of age and older. On P1, a wooden fence surrounding the air conditioning unit was observed to have holes at the children’s level large enough for a child’s hand or fingers to get caught in, presenting a potential safety issue. The outlet for a drainpipe on the side of the building was observed to have cracked plastic surrounding the edges of the outlet which were sharp to the touch. On P2, rust was observed on the handlebars and other areas of five tricycles and greater than five metal brackets securing gutters to the sides of the building (this number spanned all three playgrounds). The plastic lattice at the top of a small, stationary sliding structure was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. On P3, a large plastic storage bin was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. The brackets and hinges securing the wooden gate door housing the air conditioning unit were observed to be heavily rusted. The siding along both sides (stairs and landings on each level, as well as underneath the structure) of the large, stationary climbing structure were observed to be cracked in greater than fifteen areas. Greater than five of these areas have metal exposed which was observed to be beginning to rust. Brush was observed to be growing through at least one side of the fencing on each of the three playgrounds, which can encourage and potentially harbor vermin. Upon arrival, staff/child ratio and space capacity were monitored as indicated on the attached worksheet. Supervision was adequate during the visit. I observed positive interactions today. I observed children playing in activity centers, participating in general routines, engaging in conversations and activities with their teachers, and eating lunch during the visit. Books were not accessible to children in Space 2. Ms. McCummings stated she had ordered more books for this classroom. Six new staff members were reported at this program since the last visit. The files for these staff members were monitored and observed to be in compliance. Storage and administration of medication were monitored. Medication authorization was monitored. The medication authorization forms for diaper cream for two children enrolled in Space 2 did not have specific instructions as to how often to apply the cream. The medication authorization form for diaper cream for one child enrolled did not have a specific dosage listed on the form. A medication authorization form for diaper cream was not on file for the diaper cream for one child enrolled. Storage of hazardous items was monitored today. Insect sting reliever pads, alcohol swabs, antibacterial wipes, etc. were observed inside a first aid kit on Vehicle 3; each of these items was removed from the vehicle during the visit. A playground inspection was recorded on 6/17/2023. A fire drill was recorded on 7/12/2023. A lockdown for the facility was recorded on 3/01/23. A fire inspection was completed on 8/24/2022; Ms. McCummings provided me a copy of this inspection during the visit. I observed a sanitation inspection was last conducted on 1/19/2023 earning a Superior classification. A Ready to Go File was not available for review. The program currently transports twenty-five children of school age for field trips. Three vehicles (all minibuses) are used to transport children. One vehicle is currently at a vehicle service center for repairs and was not monitored during the visit today; this vehicle will be monitored during another visit. Ms. McCummings stated the second vehicle had been borrowed from the Children’s Courtyard while the first vehicle was under repair. A current vehicle insurance statement was neither on the vehicle, nor accessible for verification; I stated to Ms. McCummings that this vehicle may not be used to transport children until current insurance documentation is received and sent to me for review. On the third vehicle (license plate HN5869), the registration, inspection, and insurance documentation were observed to be current. Signage regarding tobacco and smoking restriction was not present on either vehicle. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not offered in sufficient quantity to allow all children to use them at some time during the day and to allow for a range of choices. Books were not accessible to children enrolled in Space 2. .0510(e)(3) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In Space 3, rolls of paper towels wrapped in plastic and a plastic grocery bag were observed on a shelf and inside a child’s cubby, accessible to children. Plastic bags and wrappers were also observed in a classroom drawer accessible to children. Two children enrolled in this classroom are two years of age; Ms. McCummings made each of these items inaccessible to children during the visit. Also in Space 3, the door housing an inside air conditioning unit was observed to be unlocked; this was corrected during the visit. In Space 4, one broken Lincoln Log was observed in a toy bin which was sharp to the touch; a plastic measuring cup was also observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch in the home living area. Ms. McCummings removed each of the items from this space during the visit. In Space 6, a dry erase board was observed to have a broken metal frame which was sharp to the touch. Ms. McCummings removed this dry erase board from the classroom during the visit. In Space 7, a former connection for a water fountain was observed to have a circular metal guard which had become detached from the wall, exposing a hole in which a child’s fingers could potentially be caught. The metal guard was also observed to be sharp to the touch. This facility has three playgrounds: one playground (P1) used by infants and toddlers, one playground (P2) used by children two and three years of age, and one playground (P3) used by children four years of age and older. On P1, a wooden fence surrounding the air conditioning unit was observed to have holes at the children’s level large enough for a child’s hand or fingers to get caught in, presenting a potential safety issue. The outlet for a drainpipe on the side of the building was observed to have cracked plastic surrounding the edges of the outlet which were sharp to the touch. On P2, rust was observed on the handlebars and other areas of five tricycles and greater than five metal brackets securing gutters to the sides of the building (this number spanned all three playgrounds). The plastic lattice at the top of a small, stationary sliding structure was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. On P3, a large plastic storage bin was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. The brackets and hinges securing the wooden gate door housing the air conditioning unit were observed to be heavily rusted. The siding along both sides (stairs and landings on each level, as well as underneath the structure) of the large, stationary climbing structure were observed to be cracked in greater than fifteen areas. Greater than five of these areas have metal exposed which was observed to be beginning to rust. Signage regarding tobacco and smoking restriction was not present on either vehicle. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 808 The outdoor premises were not clean, drained and free of litter and hazardous materials grass and other vegetation in a manner which does not encourage vermin. Brush was observed to be growing through at least one side of the fencing on each of the three playgrounds, which can encourage and potentially harbor vermin. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 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. Insect sting reliever pads, alcohol swabs, antibacterial wipes, etc. were observed inside a first aid kit on Vehicle 3 .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. The medication authorization forms for diaper cream for two children enrolled in Space 2 did not have specific instructions as to how often to apply the cream. The medication authorization form for diaper cream for one child enrolled did not have a specific dosage listed on the form. A medication authorization form for diaper cream was not on file for the diaper cream for one child enrolled. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1111 All vehicles were not insured for liability as required by state law. A current vehicle insurance statement was neither on a borrowed vehicle used to transport children, nor accessible for verification. .1002(c) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. A Ready to Go File was not available for review. .0607(d)(10) 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. You must correct the violations cited during today's visit immediately and send me documentation verifying compliance on or before 7/31/2023. The following information must be included in your signed and dated compliance letter: • the name of your center • facility ID number • date • title of the person who signs the letter • each violation number(s) • describes accurately and in detail how and when you corrected each violation If you state in your letter that corrections or changes have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information and could lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. You may email the letter to cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or mail two copies of the letter to: Cara McKeown 353 Jonestown Road, Unit #146 Winston Salem, NC 27104 Repeated violations, continued non-compliance, or failure to submit the compliance letter prior to the date given in this visit summary can also lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical assistance provided during today’s visit: • The following Child Care Rules were thoroughly reviewed and discussed with Ms. McCummings during the visit: 10A NCAC 09 .0607 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (10) the location of a Ready to Go File. A Ready to Go File means a collection of information on children, staff and the facility, to utilize, if an evacuation occurs. The file shall include, a copy of the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, contact information for individuals to pick-up children, each child's Application for Child Care, medication authorizations and instructions, any action plans for children with special health care needs, a list of any known food allergies of children and staff, staff contact information, Incident Report forms, an area map, and emergency telephone numbers. 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (c) When not in use, electrical outlets and power strips located in space used by children shall have safety outlets or be covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. 10A NCAC 09 .2508 AGE APPROPRIATE ACTIVITIES (e) When screen time is provided on any electronic device with a visual display, it shall be: (1) offered as a free choice activity; (2) used to meet a developmental goal; (3) limited to a maximum of 30 minutes per day and no more than two and a half hours per week, per child; (4) documented on a cumulative log or activity plan, available for review by a representative of the Division; and (5) usage time periods may be extended for school assigned homework. This does not include personal devices belonging to children enrolled, unless these are necessary for school assigned homework. • You can access the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) at the following link to print a copy of your most recent Criminal Background Check qualifying letter: https://ncabcms.nc.gov/DCDEE/Applicant/ • Please remember to submit the education for all new staff and all staff who have advanced their education to DCDEE Works. - You may access the Risk Management Portal to reprint and/or update your EPR plan at the following website: https://rmp.nc.gov/portal/portal.aspx# • Please monitor the outdoor environment and the inside of stationary structures for broken toys, cobwebs, and trash or debris prior to the children using the playground daily. • Please pressure wash all outdoor equipment and shade coverings used by children enrolled. • Please monitor the fencing surrounding each playground for developing rust. - Please monitor all stationary play structures for peeling and/or flaking paint. - When completing medication authorization forms for topical creams and/or sprays, please remember to record specific dosages, specific times for the topical cream/spray to be used, the specific reason the medication is used (ex. “to prevent sunburn from occurring”, etc.), and the specific name/brand of ointment being applied. - Please consider providing each classroom a separate list of children who may have center-purchased sunscreen applied daily. - Please always document that an infant has been placed onto his/her back on the safe sleep chart during the first recording of a nap session, even if the child immediately rolls to his/her side/tummy. Document the position the child adopted during the next recording. Please also document on each infant’s safe sleep record days he/she is absent from care. - Please check the box for each item on your facility’s safe sleep policy which the program follows; please also ensure that enrolled/enrolling parents receive a copy of this updated policy. - I recommended teachers turn off the classroom lights during nap/rest periods, unless lights are necessary, for example, in an infant room. Due to natural light filtering into each classroom, as long as teachers can see the children, children may rest more comfortably with less unnatural light. - I recommended also lowering the volume of music played during rest time in the classrooms. - Please ensure that all evacuation plans are posted in each classroom for review. - Please add more books to Space 8. - Please monitor all upholstered or padded furniture for frayed or worn edges, which prevent easy cleaning and sanitation. Thank you for your time and assistance during the visit. If you have any questions about the visit, please contact me or my supervisor using the information below. Cara McKeown, Child Care Consultant (336) 408-4849 cara.mckeown@dhh.nc.gov Pamela Hauser, Supervisor pamela.hauser@dhhs.nc.gov 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/ 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
- Violation
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/17/2023 Number Present: 84 Completed Date: 7/17/2023 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 360 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 05:00 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 childcare requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Tiffany McCummings, Director, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a 5-Star license effective December 7, 2018. Restrictions include 1st shift care, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and allowed to provide care for children up to 14 years of age. The program’s compliance history was 93% prior to today’s visit. All programs are required to maintain at least 75% compliance. Today, the following items were monitored: • Supervision • S/C Ratios • CPR • First Aid • Special Training • CBC Completed • ITS-SIDS Training • Emergency Medical Care Plan • Administering Medication • Storage of Hazardous Substances • Storage of Medication • General Safety • Discipline • Adequate/Approved Space • Program Records • License Posted • Permit Restrictions The license was observed, and the restrictions were found in compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. Indoor and outdoor areas were observed. In Space 3, rolls of paper towels wrapped in plastic and a plastic grocery bag were observed on a shelf and inside a child’s cubby, accessible to children. Plastic bags and wrappers were also observed in a classroom drawer accessible to children. Two children enrolled in this classroom are two years of age; Ms. McCummings made each of these items inaccessible to children during the visit. Also in Space 3, the door housing an inside air conditioning unit was observed to be unlocked; this was corrected during the visit. In Space 4, one broken Lincoln Log was observed in a toy bin which was sharp to the touch; a plastic measuring cup was also observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch in the home living area. Ms. McCummings removed each of the items from this space during the visit. In Space 6, a dry erase board was observed to have a broken metal frame which was sharp to the touch. Ms. McCummings removed this dry erase board from the classroom during the visit. In Space 7, a former connection for a water fountain was observed to have a circular metal guard which had become detached from the wall, exposing a hole in which a child’s fingers could potentially be caught. The metal guard was also observed to be sharp to the touch. This facility has three playgrounds: one playground (P1) used by infants and toddlers, one playground (P2) used by children two and three years of age, and one playground (P3) used by children four years of age and older. On P1, a wooden fence surrounding the air conditioning unit was observed to have holes at the children’s level large enough for a child’s hand or fingers to get caught in, presenting a potential safety issue. The outlet for a drainpipe on the side of the building was observed to have cracked plastic surrounding the edges of the outlet which were sharp to the touch. On P2, rust was observed on the handlebars and other areas of five tricycles and greater than five metal brackets securing gutters to the sides of the building (this number spanned all three playgrounds). The plastic lattice at the top of a small, stationary sliding structure was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. On P3, a large plastic storage bin was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. The brackets and hinges securing the wooden gate door housing the air conditioning unit were observed to be heavily rusted. The siding along both sides (stairs and landings on each level, as well as underneath the structure) of the large, stationary climbing structure were observed to be cracked in greater than fifteen areas. Greater than five of these areas have metal exposed which was observed to be beginning to rust. Brush was observed to be growing through at least one side of the fencing on each of the three playgrounds, which can encourage and potentially harbor vermin. Upon arrival, staff/child ratio and space capacity were monitored as indicated on the attached worksheet. Supervision was adequate during the visit. I observed positive interactions today. I observed children playing in activity centers, participating in general routines, engaging in conversations and activities with their teachers, and eating lunch during the visit. Books were not accessible to children in Space 2. Ms. McCummings stated she had ordered more books for this classroom. Six new staff members were reported at this program since the last visit. The files for these staff members were monitored and observed to be in compliance. Storage and administration of medication were monitored. Medication authorization was monitored. The medication authorization forms for diaper cream for two children enrolled in Space 2 did not have specific instructions as to how often to apply the cream. The medication authorization form for diaper cream for one child enrolled did not have a specific dosage listed on the form. A medication authorization form for diaper cream was not on file for the diaper cream for one child enrolled. Storage of hazardous items was monitored today. Insect sting reliever pads, alcohol swabs, antibacterial wipes, etc. were observed inside a first aid kit on Vehicle 3; each of these items was removed from the vehicle during the visit. A playground inspection was recorded on 6/17/2023. A fire drill was recorded on 7/12/2023. A lockdown for the facility was recorded on 3/01/23. A fire inspection was completed on 8/24/2022; Ms. McCummings provided me a copy of this inspection during the visit. I observed a sanitation inspection was last conducted on 1/19/2023 earning a Superior classification. A Ready to Go File was not available for review. The program currently transports twenty-five children of school age for field trips. Three vehicles (all minibuses) are used to transport children. One vehicle is currently at a vehicle service center for repairs and was not monitored during the visit today; this vehicle will be monitored during another visit. Ms. McCummings stated the second vehicle had been borrowed from the Children’s Courtyard while the first vehicle was under repair. A current vehicle insurance statement was neither on the vehicle, nor accessible for verification; I stated to Ms. McCummings that this vehicle may not be used to transport children until current insurance documentation is received and sent to me for review. On the third vehicle (license plate HN5869), the registration, inspection, and insurance documentation were observed to be current. Signage regarding tobacco and smoking restriction was not present on either vehicle. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not offered in sufficient quantity to allow all children to use them at some time during the day and to allow for a range of choices. Books were not accessible to children enrolled in Space 2. .0510(e)(3) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In Space 3, rolls of paper towels wrapped in plastic and a plastic grocery bag were observed on a shelf and inside a child’s cubby, accessible to children. Plastic bags and wrappers were also observed in a classroom drawer accessible to children. Two children enrolled in this classroom are two years of age; Ms. McCummings made each of these items inaccessible to children during the visit. Also in Space 3, the door housing an inside air conditioning unit was observed to be unlocked; this was corrected during the visit. In Space 4, one broken Lincoln Log was observed in a toy bin which was sharp to the touch; a plastic measuring cup was also observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch in the home living area. Ms. McCummings removed each of the items from this space during the visit. In Space 6, a dry erase board was observed to have a broken metal frame which was sharp to the touch. Ms. McCummings removed this dry erase board from the classroom during the visit. In Space 7, a former connection for a water fountain was observed to have a circular metal guard which had become detached from the wall, exposing a hole in which a child’s fingers could potentially be caught. The metal guard was also observed to be sharp to the touch. This facility has three playgrounds: one playground (P1) used by infants and toddlers, one playground (P2) used by children two and three years of age, and one playground (P3) used by children four years of age and older. On P1, a wooden fence surrounding the air conditioning unit was observed to have holes at the children’s level large enough for a child’s hand or fingers to get caught in, presenting a potential safety issue. The outlet for a drainpipe on the side of the building was observed to have cracked plastic surrounding the edges of the outlet which were sharp to the touch. On P2, rust was observed on the handlebars and other areas of five tricycles and greater than five metal brackets securing gutters to the sides of the building (this number spanned all three playgrounds). The plastic lattice at the top of a small, stationary sliding structure was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. On P3, a large plastic storage bin was observed to be cracked and sharp to the touch. The brackets and hinges securing the wooden gate door housing the air conditioning unit were observed to be heavily rusted. The siding along both sides (stairs and landings on each level, as well as underneath the structure) of the large, stationary climbing structure were observed to be cracked in greater than fifteen areas. Greater than five of these areas have metal exposed which was observed to be beginning to rust. Signage regarding tobacco and smoking restriction was not present on either vehicle. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 808 The outdoor premises were not clean, drained and free of litter and hazardous materials grass and other vegetation in a manner which does not encourage vermin. Brush was observed to be growing through at least one side of the fencing on each of the three playgrounds, which can encourage and potentially harbor vermin. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 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. Insect sting reliever pads, alcohol swabs, antibacterial wipes, etc. were observed inside a first aid kit on Vehicle 3 .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. The medication authorization forms for diaper cream for two children enrolled in Space 2 did not have specific instructions as to how often to apply the cream. The medication authorization form for diaper cream for one child enrolled did not have a specific dosage listed on the form. A medication authorization form for diaper cream was not on file for the diaper cream for one child enrolled. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1111 All vehicles were not insured for liability as required by state law. A current vehicle insurance statement was neither on a borrowed vehicle used to transport children, nor accessible for verification. .1002(c) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. A Ready to Go File was not available for review. .0607(d)(10) 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. You must correct the violations cited during today's visit immediately and send me documentation verifying compliance on or before 7/31/2023. The following information must be included in your signed and dated compliance letter: • the name of your center • facility ID number • date • title of the person who signs the letter • each violation number(s) • describes accurately and in detail how and when you corrected each violation If you state in your letter that corrections or changes have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information and could lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. You may email the letter to cara.mckeown@dhhs.nc.gov or mail two copies of the letter to: Cara McKeown 353 Jonestown Road, Unit #146 Winston Salem, NC 27104 Repeated violations, continued non-compliance, or failure to submit the compliance letter prior to the date given in this visit summary can also lead to administrative action taken by the DCDEE. Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical assistance provided during today’s visit: • The following Child Care Rules were thoroughly reviewed and discussed with Ms. McCummings during the visit: 10A NCAC 09 .0607 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (10) the location of a Ready to Go File. A Ready to Go File means a collection of information on children, staff and the facility, to utilize, if an evacuation occurs. The file shall include, a copy of the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, contact information for individuals to pick-up children, each child's Application for Child Care, medication authorizations and instructions, any action plans for children with special health care needs, a list of any known food allergies of children and staff, staff contact information, Incident Report forms, an area map, and emergency telephone numbers. 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (c) When not in use, electrical outlets and power strips located in space used by children shall have safety outlets or be covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. 10A NCAC 09 .2508 AGE APPROPRIATE ACTIVITIES (e) When screen time is provided on any electronic device with a visual display, it shall be: (1) offered as a free choice activity; (2) used to meet a developmental goal; (3) limited to a maximum of 30 minutes per day and no more than two and a half hours per week, per child; (4) documented on a cumulative log or activity plan, available for review by a representative of the Division; and (5) usage time periods may be extended for school assigned homework. This does not include personal devices belonging to children enrolled, unless these are necessary for school assigned homework. • You can access the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS) at the following link to print a copy of your most recent Criminal Background Check qualifying letter: https://ncabcms.nc.gov/DCDEE/Applicant/ • Please remember to submit the education for all new staff and all staff who have advanced their education to DCDEE Works. - You may access the Risk Management Portal to reprint and/or update your EPR plan at the following website: https://rmp.nc.gov/portal/portal.aspx# • Please monitor the outdoor environment and the inside of stationary structures for broken toys, cobwebs, and trash or debris prior to the children using the playground daily. • Please pressure wash all outdoor equipment and shade coverings used by children enrolled. • Please monitor the fencing surrounding each playground for developing rust. - Please monitor all stationary play structures for peeling and/or flaking paint. - When completing medication authorization forms for topical creams and/or sprays, please remember to record specific dosages, specific times for the topical cream/spray to be used, the specific reason the medication is used (ex. “to prevent sunburn from occurring”, etc.), and the specific name/brand of ointment being applied. - Please consider providing each classroom a separate list of children who may have center-purchased sunscreen applied daily. - Please always document that an infant has been placed onto his/her back on the safe sleep chart during the first recording of a nap session, even if the child immediately rolls to his/her side/tummy. Document the position the child adopted during the next recording. Please also document on each infant’s safe sleep record days he/she is absent from care. - Please check the box for each item on your facility’s safe sleep policy which the program follows; please also ensure that enrolled/enrolling parents receive a copy of this updated policy. - I recommended teachers turn off the classroom lights during nap/rest periods, unless lights are necessary, for example, in an infant room. Due to natural light filtering into each classroom, as long as teachers can see the children, children may rest more comfortably with less unnatural light. - I recommended also lowering the volume of music played during rest time in the classrooms. - Please ensure that all evacuation plans are posted in each classroom for review. - Please add more books to Space 8. - Please monitor all upholstered or padded furniture for frayed or worn edges, which prevent easy cleaning and sanitation. Thank you for your time and assistance during the visit. If you have any questions about the visit, please contact me or my supervisor using the information below. Cara McKeown, Child Care Consultant (336) 408-4849 cara.mckeown@dhh.nc.gov Pamela Hauser, Supervisor pamela.hauser@dhhs.nc.gov 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/ 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
Questions to ask on your tour
Generated from this facility's specific inspection record
- 1The Nov 26, 2025 inspection noted: “Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/26/2025 Numb…” — what has changed since then?
- 2The Jun 25, 2025 inspection noted: “Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/25/2025 Numbe…” — what has changed since then?
- 3The Dec 16, 2024 inspection noted: “Name of Operation: LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Facility ID: 3455196 Consultant: CARA MCKEOWN-STEWART Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/16/2024 Numb…” — what has changed since then?
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