10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: HERON POND MONTESSORI SCHOOL Facility ID: 28000093 Consultant: MARJORIE WHITE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/23/2026 Number Present: 27 Completed Date: 2/23/2026 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 04:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced * The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit and review your progress towards making your application for your rated license assessment under the new QRIS rules in Section .3200. Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, accompanied me on today's visit. M. McDaniel, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 8/17/2022, earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space) and 1 quality point for staff benefits and enhanced parent involvement. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 3/11/25. The sanitation inspection was completed 12/3/25 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 1/14/25 with a Satisfactory rating and approval for daytime care only; however, it is expired. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-seven percent as of 2/20/2026. This facility is owned by Ackley Education Enterprise, Inc. The corporation was listed as current- active on the NC Secretary of State website. License information was current. We updated the administrator’s work phone number. Contact me to request any changes to your license or contact information. I monitored the classrooms and spaces used for child care and outdoor play areas for applicable child care center requirements using the Child Care Center Requirements, effective 7/1/2025 and Item Numbers Listing, effective 4/2025. I monitored five staff records, three children’s records and all program records. Children were arriving and signing themselves in with their personal codes on the Brightwheel App with the help of their parents. They transitioned to their work cycle, pulling out their mats to the tables or floor and bringing their chosen materials over for learning and playing. The teachers moved throughout the classroom, providing guidance and resources as needed. Because of the cold temperatures, they did some group exercising and yoga movements. Lunches are brought from home, but today the center staff served a chicken nugget lunch to parents who had signed up. Children washed their hands upon arrival and before and after eating. After lunch children rested on linen-covered mats. Lunch was observed and those provided by the center consisted of chicken nuggets, carrots, grapes or blueberries, oat cereal rings and milk. I observed and documented the following violations during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. Documentation of a current fire inspection was not available. The most recent fire inspection was completed on January 14, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 107 The center did not comply with the permit restrictions. A permit restriction listed on the license states, "No cooking". Staff prepared chicken nuggets for the children using an air fryer. GS 110-91; GS 110-106 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. A refrigerator thermometer was not available in a refrigerator used to served food and milk consumed by children. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. Documentation of a monthly fire inspection was not available for January 2026. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. The prescription box was not available for an Albuterol inhaler. The box and packaging was not available for Children’s Tylenol. .0803(2)(a) 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. A medication permission form for Auvi-Q expired on 1/13/26. A medication permission form for an epinephrine pen expired on 6/1/25. A medication permission form for Albuterol expired on 12/3/25. A medication permission for Albuterol expired on 9/13/25, and the Albuterol expired on August 2025. Medications were not returned to the families. .0803(12) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). The owner was due to complete her five-year criminal background check by August 21, 2025 but did not complete it until August 27, 2025. A teacher was required to complete her five-year criminal background check by February 22, 2026 but had not completed it. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. In one of three children's files reviewed, a current child's medical report or health assessment was not available for a child enrolled on October, 13, 2025. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. In one of three children's files reviewed, a current immunization record was not available for a child enrolled on October, 13, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A current qualification letter was not available for a teacher. The qualification letter on file expired on February 22, 2026. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1791 The child care provider did not provide the required beverage(s). The center served whole milk at lunch. .0901(e)(1-7) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. A medical action plan was not available in three files for children using an Auvi-Q, an epinephrine pen, and an albuterol inhaler. .0801(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. A teacher hired on February 17, 2025 did not complete medication administration. .1102(a) * Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 3/9/26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Marjorie White, Child Care Consultant PO Box 116 Aydlett, NC 27916 Email – marjorie.white@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE which serves as your signature, hpmschool@gmail.com, and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 A violation was documented that requires a follow-up visit. An unannounced visit will be made soon to verify correction. You are still required to send a compliance letter. Technical Assistance With Documented Violations: #106: Annual Fire Inspection – Annual fire inspections ensure that the building meets fire codes and that your fire detection and alarm systems are operating correctly in the event of a fire. The fire inspector completed a fire inspection on 1/14/25; a new fire inspection has not been completed. The administrator stated that the owner normally schedules the fire inspection, and she was not aware that it had not been scheduled. You immediately contacted the fire inspector to request a new fire inspection. For your compliance letter, state the date the fire inspection is completed and include a copy of the new fire inspection form. #107: Permit Restrictions – Restrictions on the permit are added to ensure the health and safety of children. When licensed, Environmental Health included a “No Cooking” restriction because your kitchen is not fully set up with a ventilation system to allow for cooking, and it was shared that families would provide lunches. Today, I observed teachers using an air fryer to cook chicken nuggets for the children. You stated that Monday is chicken nugget day, and parents can sign up for their child to be served lunch by the center which includes chicken nuggets, carrots, oat cereal rings, and milk. You added blueberries or grapes to include a fruit component. You were not aware that you could not prepare chicken nuggets for the children. You stated that you will stop cooking and serving chicken nuggets for children. #601: Refrigerator Thermometer – A thermometer ensures that refrigerators are maintaining cold temperatures for the safe storage of food and beverages, including milk, formula, and human milk in order to prevent food borne illness. There was not a thermometer in the kitchen refrigerator which is used to store food and beverages served to children. You were not sure where it went but will purchase one. Remind staff to check their thermometers to ensure that they maintain a temperature of 45 degrees or colder. (Forty-one degrees is preferred by Environmental Health.) For your compliance letter, state the date you put a new thermometer in the refrigerator. #805: Fire Drills - Practicing and documenting fire drills monthly and lock-down or shelter-in-place drills quarterly is critical to teaching and reminding staff and children the procedures for evacuating the building safely in case of a fire or staying safe inside in the event of an intruder or tornado. Documentation of a fire drill was not completed for January 2026. You stated that you thought you had to either complete a fire drill or an emergency drill monthly. I shared that fire drills are required monthly and either a lock-down or a shelter-in-place drill is required every three months. It is a good idea to practice fire and emergency drills at different times during the day including meal time and nap time. For your compliance letter, state the date you complete a February fire drill and include a copy of your updated fire and emergency drill log. #844: Prescription Medication – To verify that prescription medication supplied to you from parents is for the child using the medication, the parent needs to provide the medication in the original container or box with the prescription attached. Over-the-Counter medication also needs to be accompanied by the original packaging so that you have all information and instructions related to the OTC medication. The prescription box was not available for an Albuterol inhaler used by QC. (This medication has expired.) The box and packaging was not available for Children’s Tylenol used by ET. You were not aware that this is required. Return these medications to the parents and ask them to provide you with the prescription box or original OTC medication box. For your compliance letter, state the date when the prescription box is available for the inhaler and the box and instructions are available for the Children’s Tylenol. #849: Expired Medication/Medication Permission Forms – Not having current authorization to administer medication or unexpired medication could create medical or liability issues if there are changes to the child’s medication, dosage, or instructions for administration or the potency of the expired medication is not at the level needed to treat the condition. A medication permission form for Auvi-Q used by MA expired on 1/13/26. A medication permission form for an epinephrine pen used by EM expired on 6/1/25. A medication permission form for Albuterol used by MA expired on 12/3/25. A medication permission for Albuterol used by QC expired on 9/13/25, and the Albuterol expired on August 2025. Medication permission forms were not updated, and the medications were not returned to the families to be taken home. You stated that you trusted the parents to provide the correct information on the medication permission forms. Either return the medications to the parent or have the parent review and update the medication permission form or complete a new form if any of the instructions have changed. Medications can be authorized for the following time frames: 12 months – topical non-prescription, non-medication creams and lotions like sunscreen or hand lotion (February 23, 2026 – February 23, 2027) 6 months – medications for chronic illness or emergency medications like Epi-pens, inhalers, anti-seizure medication, Benadryl (must be locked) 30 days – medications for acute issues like tooth pain like Children’s Tylenol For your compliance letter, state the date when the Auvi-Q, epinephrine pen, and two Albuterol inhalers (one expired) are returned to the parent or an updated medication administration form is on file. #1044 and #1757: Criminal Background Check (CBC) – Criminal Background Checks ensure that staff have not committed any crimes which could potentially make them unsafe to be around children and other staff. Because Abuse and Neglect registries are also checked, it helps to ensure that children are protected from physical, mental, and sexual abuse. Performing diligent background screenings also protects the child care facility against future legal challenges. S. Ackley, Owner/Authorized Individual, was due to complete her five-year criminal background check renewal by 8/21/25 but did not complete it until 8/27/25. A current qualifying letter was available. This has been corrected. Dawn Latonick, Teacher, was due to complete her five-year CBC by 2/22/2026 but did not start the application process until 2/20/2026 so the criminal background check was not completed by 2/22/2026. A current qualifying letter was not available. Ms. Latonick needs to complete her on-line application and fingerprints immediately. She needs to provide you with a current qualifying letter by 3/10/2026. If not received, Ms. Latonick may no longer be on the premises. For your compliance letter, state the date when Ms. Latonick completes her on-line application and fingerprints. Include a copy of her qualifying letter with your compliance letter. Note that repeated violations related to criminal background checks will result in an administrative action. #1321 and #1323: Children’s Medical Report and Immunizations – Having knowledge of a child’s health history and immunizations provides you with the information needed to offer a safe, healthy environment for both the child and the other children in your care. In one of three children’s files reviewed, a child’s medical report completed by the child’s physician and documentation of immunizations for a child (EM) enrolled on 10/13/25 were not available. You stated that you have been requesting these documents since enrollment. Inform the child’s parent/guardian that the medical report and immunizations are required and if not received by 3/9/26, the child may no longer attend. Use Children’s File Checklist to verify you have received all required enrollment documents. For your compliance letter, state the date you have received a copy of EM’s Medical Report (or a copy of a current health assessment no more than 12 months old) and a current copy of immunizations. Do not send copies of these health documents. *Documentation of immunizations are due for BC (enrolled 2/9/26) by 3/9/26. #1791: Beverages – Serving beverages that are healthy for children are important for physical and cognitive development. The center served whole milk at lunch instead of skim or 1% milk. The administrator stated that parents who bring in the snack of the day also provide the milk offered at lunch time. She was not aware that whole milk was not allowed and will inform parents to provide skim or 1% milk moving forward. For your compliance letter, state the date when you inform the parents to provide the lower fat milk. #1834: Medical Action Plan – The Medical Action Plan signed by either the parent and/or the physician accompanies any medication and medication permission form used by children with emergency medical conditions. MAPs provide additional information for the administration of the emergency medications. A medical action plan was not available for an Auvi-Q used by MA, an epinephrine pen used by EM, and an Albuterol inhaler used by QC. You were not aware that the parent needed to provide the medical action plan. A copy of the medical action plan needs to be included with the child’s application in the child’s file and in the Ready-to-Go file. It is also a good idea to have a copy available with the child’s medication. Medical Action Plans need to be updated annually. For your compliance letter, state the date when parents provide you with a medical action plan for the medications listed. #1898 Health & Safety Training – Health & Safety (H&S) Training includes training in 9 topic areas plus Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment and CPR/First Aid. These topic areas provide a foundation for maintaining a safe and healthy environment for children and staff. M. McDaniel as hired on 2/17/25 and had completed all H&S modules except for Medication Administration. New staff are required to complete H&S Training within one year of hire (CPR/First Aid and Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment within 3 months of hire) and then complete training in all topic areas every five years. M. McDaniel needs to complete Medication Administration by 3/9/25. Send a copy of the medication administration certificate for MM with the compliance letter. *E. Ginn was hired on 2/24/25 and needs to complete H&S modules by 2/24/26. Resources: As a licensed child care facility, it is your responsibility to be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and to teach your staff the rules to ensure your center remains in compliance. The following resources are available to you: 1. DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov – current laws and rules regarding child care facilities in North Carolina, “What’s New” tab, Items Number Listing which you can use as a checklist for your program. 2. Raise NC Newsletter – weekly newsletter emailed to facility email including relevant information from the Division, training opportunities, grants, and more. You can sign up to receive Raise NC on the What’s New tab. 3. NC Health & Safety Resource Center publishes a quarterly newsletter which provides topical information on a variety of health and safety topics. If you are not receiving these emails and newsletters, then please go to https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/resources/nc-child-care-health-and-safety-e-news/ and click on ‘Newsletter Signup’ to join their mailing list. The Winter 2026 edition, “Ready, Set, Action!” includes articles on the emergency medical care plan and responding to infant/toddler emergencies. 4. Your local Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies and Child Care Health Consultants. * Children & Youth Partnership for Dare County: Phone - (252) 441-0614; website - www.darekids.org. *Albemarle Alliance for Children and Families (AACF) and Region 1 Child Care Resource and Referral: Phone – (252) 333-1233; website - www.aacfnc.org . *Healthy Behaviors Specialist: P. White – Phone (252) 333-1233; pam@aacfnc.org *The North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP), www.ncrlap.org , has resources to help you and your staff prepare for the third editions of the Environment Rating Scales (ECERS-3 and ITERS-3). Visit the website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, self-assessments and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. At this time the SACERS-U will continue to be the program assessment tool for school-age programs and classrooms. *Southwestern Child Development Commission, www.swcdcinc.org, Child Care Resources Inc., https://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/ and Early Years, https://www.earlyyearsnc.org/ offer DCDEE approved, on-line, self-paced and virtual real-time training and CEUs. SWCDC also offers affordable annual packages allowing you to take as many courses as you need or want for one price. The Natural Learning Initiative (https://naturalearning.org/) offers a variety of resources such as training, YouTube videos, handouts, etc. to help you add natural elements to your outdoor play spaces to promote time outdoors. Check out the NLI Resource Hub including Design Sites, Infosheets, The Green Desk, Interactive Apps and more! Your children and your teachers will want to go outdoors again! Reminders: Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website reflects the following information about your center’s required three-year water testing and one-time lead paint testing, and asbestos testing: Three-year Water Testing – 6/26/25 due again 6/26/28 Lead Paint Testing – Survey Review by RTI pending Asbestos Testing - Enrollment started *The Clean Water for Carolina Kids website still reflects that you have started enrollment but are not in the survey review phase of the project. Complete enrollment and upload documentation such as property tax records to verify date building was built. This needs to be done as soon as possible. Maintain any paperwork received by mail or email in your Program Records file. *For more information check out the FAQ page at https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. Go to the Contact Us tab if you need assistance or have questions. ABCMS Portal - You have completed the ABCMS Provider Portal Training and are now authorized to log in the ABCMS Provider Portal https://ncabcms.nc.gov/DCDEE/ using your Business NCID. You have not connected your staff and created your roster. I am emailing the ABCMS Provider Portal Access Guide which will assist with the step-by-step process of working in the ABCMS Portal, accessing your Pay Codes, helping your staff complete their Connecting Applications, and eventually “hiring” staff to your roster. The Provider Portal Access Guide also includes contact information for additional assistance. If you are still having difficulties working through this process, consider completing the ABCMS Provider Portal Training on Moodle again and ensure that you are using the correct Business NCID to access the ABCMS Provider Portal and Individual NCID to access your own ABCMS Applicant Portal. Staff Worksheets – We reviewed your staff worksheet. I highlighted items that were delinquent and items that are coming due in the next year. * On-going Training Hours – Review Row 18 (# hours to carry over) on the Staff Worksheets to determine how many on-going training hours returning staff will need by 3/11/26 (anniversary of last Annual Compliance visit). If they have not completed the required number of on-going training hours, they have until 3/11/26 to complete them and I will check at the next monitoring visit. Emergency Preparedness – Your Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan along with your Ready-to-Go File, Emergency Medical Care Plan (EMCP) and consistent practice of Fire and Emergency Drills are your center’s foundation for emergency preparedness. *Review your EPR Plan at least annually in the NC Risk Management Portal and update, if needed. Print updated plan or updated cover sheet and page 28. (Per your request I will email instructions on how to update your EPR Plan. *At the same time, review and update your Emergency Medical Care Plan, if needed. *Ensure your Ready-to-Go File is current and includes the following: a copy of the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, child's Application for Child Care (includes health & emergency information, contacts, authorization to seek emergency medical 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. *EPR Plan – last updated in Portal 2/2025– update by 2/2026 *Emergency Medical Care Plan – updated today Nutrition – Staff are required to model healthy eating habits when consuming food and beverages in front of children. Cans or bottles of soda pop (or cups from fast food restaurants) may not be visible in the classroom or in front of children. Staff may use opaque cups, if needed. Consultation: Food Service – Take a hard look at your food service. You are currently doing a hybrid of parent-provided group snack in the morning, lunches from home, and center-provided snack. Parents complete Opt-out forms; however, if they are completing these, you should not be providing food on a regular basis. Consider only providing Opt-out forms for the parents who want to provide all food for their children. Have supplemental food available when food brought from home does not meet nutritional requirements. Additional Comments: Keep Your NCID Active - Did you know that if you do not login on to any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. *Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you, your staff and your household members (CLIAR only) every 6 months to log in and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. *For assistance with NCID, contact ncid.nc.gov or 919.754.6000. Sex Offender Registry and Notification Email - North Carolina General Statute 14-208 requires sex offenders to register with the North Carolina Department of Justice. The law states that a sex offender shall not knowingly reside within 1,000 feet of the property on which any public or nonpublic school or child care center is located. This does not apply to child care centers that are located on or within 1,000 feet of property of an institution of higher education where the registrant is a student or is employed. All licensed child care centers must register to receive e-mail notification when a registered sex offender moves within a one-mile radius of the center. (§14-208.19) To register for the e-mail notification, go to http://sexoffender.ncsbi.gov. If you have any questions, please contact your local sheriff's department. QRIS (Quality Rating Improvement System) Technical Assistance: Pathway 2: Classroom and Instructional Quality During a Technical Assistance visit on 11/19/2026, you elected to complete Pathway 2. Your rated license assessment is currently due by 12/31/2026, but your requested timeline is to complete this by Fall 2026. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me, Marjorie White, by phone at (252) 373-9385 or by e-mail at Marjorie.White@dhhs.nc.gov, or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, at (252) 373-4199 or Jennifer.Linhardt@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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: HERON POND MONTESSORI SCHOOL Facility ID: 28000093 Consultant: MARJORIE WHITE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/23/2026 Number Present: 27 Completed Date: 2/23/2026 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 04:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced * The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit and review your progress towards making your application for your rated license assessment under the new QRIS rules in Section .3200. Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, accompanied me on today's visit. M. McDaniel, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 8/17/2022, earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space) and 1 quality point for staff benefits and enhanced parent involvement. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 3/11/25. The sanitation inspection was completed 12/3/25 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 1/14/25 with a Satisfactory rating and approval for daytime care only; however, it is expired. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-seven percent as of 2/20/2026. This facility is owned by Ackley Education Enterprise, Inc. The corporation was listed as current- active on the NC Secretary of State website. License information was current. We updated the administrator’s work phone number. Contact me to request any changes to your license or contact information. I monitored the classrooms and spaces used for child care and outdoor play areas for applicable child care center requirements using the Child Care Center Requirements, effective 7/1/2025 and Item Numbers Listing, effective 4/2025. I monitored five staff records, three children’s records and all program records. Children were arriving and signing themselves in with their personal codes on the Brightwheel App with the help of their parents. They transitioned to their work cycle, pulling out their mats to the tables or floor and bringing their chosen materials over for learning and playing. The teachers moved throughout the classroom, providing guidance and resources as needed. Because of the cold temperatures, they did some group exercising and yoga movements. Lunches are brought from home, but today the center staff served a chicken nugget lunch to parents who had signed up. Children washed their hands upon arrival and before and after eating. After lunch children rested on linen-covered mats. Lunch was observed and those provided by the center consisted of chicken nuggets, carrots, grapes or blueberries, oat cereal rings and milk. I observed and documented the following violations during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. Documentation of a current fire inspection was not available. The most recent fire inspection was completed on January 14, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 107 The center did not comply with the permit restrictions. A permit restriction listed on the license states, "No cooking". Staff prepared chicken nuggets for the children using an air fryer. GS 110-91; GS 110-106 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. A refrigerator thermometer was not available in a refrigerator used to served food and milk consumed by children. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. Documentation of a monthly fire inspection was not available for January 2026. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. The prescription box was not available for an Albuterol inhaler. The box and packaging was not available for Children’s Tylenol. .0803(2)(a) 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. A medication permission form for Auvi-Q expired on 1/13/26. A medication permission form for an epinephrine pen expired on 6/1/25. A medication permission form for Albuterol expired on 12/3/25. A medication permission for Albuterol expired on 9/13/25, and the Albuterol expired on August 2025. Medications were not returned to the families. .0803(12) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). The owner was due to complete her five-year criminal background check by August 21, 2025 but did not complete it until August 27, 2025. A teacher was required to complete her five-year criminal background check by February 22, 2026 but had not completed it. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. In one of three children's files reviewed, a current child's medical report or health assessment was not available for a child enrolled on October, 13, 2025. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. In one of three children's files reviewed, a current immunization record was not available for a child enrolled on October, 13, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A current qualification letter was not available for a teacher. The qualification letter on file expired on February 22, 2026. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1791 The child care provider did not provide the required beverage(s). The center served whole milk at lunch. .0901(e)(1-7) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. A medical action plan was not available in three files for children using an Auvi-Q, an epinephrine pen, and an albuterol inhaler. .0801(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. A teacher hired on February 17, 2025 did not complete medication administration. .1102(a) * Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 3/9/26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Marjorie White, Child Care Consultant PO Box 116 Aydlett, NC 27916 Email – marjorie.white@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE which serves as your signature, hpmschool@gmail.com, and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 A violation was documented that requires a follow-up visit. An unannounced visit will be made soon to verify correction. You are still required to send a compliance letter. Technical Assistance With Documented Violations: #106: Annual Fire Inspection – Annual fire inspections ensure that the building meets fire codes and that your fire detection and alarm systems are operating correctly in the event of a fire. The fire inspector completed a fire inspection on 1/14/25; a new fire inspection has not been completed. The administrator stated that the owner normally schedules the fire inspection, and she was not aware that it had not been scheduled. You immediately contacted the fire inspector to request a new fire inspection. For your compliance letter, state the date the fire inspection is completed and include a copy of the new fire inspection form. #107: Permit Restrictions – Restrictions on the permit are added to ensure the health and safety of children. When licensed, Environmental Health included a “No Cooking” restriction because your kitchen is not fully set up with a ventilation system to allow for cooking, and it was shared that families would provide lunches. Today, I observed teachers using an air fryer to cook chicken nuggets for the children. You stated that Monday is chicken nugget day, and parents can sign up for their child to be served lunch by the center which includes chicken nuggets, carrots, oat cereal rings, and milk. You added blueberries or grapes to include a fruit component. You were not aware that you could not prepare chicken nuggets for the children. You stated that you will stop cooking and serving chicken nuggets for children. #601: Refrigerator Thermometer – A thermometer ensures that refrigerators are maintaining cold temperatures for the safe storage of food and beverages, including milk, formula, and human milk in order to prevent food borne illness. There was not a thermometer in the kitchen refrigerator which is used to store food and beverages served to children. You were not sure where it went but will purchase one. Remind staff to check their thermometers to ensure that they maintain a temperature of 45 degrees or colder. (Forty-one degrees is preferred by Environmental Health.) For your compliance letter, state the date you put a new thermometer in the refrigerator. #805: Fire Drills - Practicing and documenting fire drills monthly and lock-down or shelter-in-place drills quarterly is critical to teaching and reminding staff and children the procedures for evacuating the building safely in case of a fire or staying safe inside in the event of an intruder or tornado. Documentation of a fire drill was not completed for January 2026. You stated that you thought you had to either complete a fire drill or an emergency drill monthly. I shared that fire drills are required monthly and either a lock-down or a shelter-in-place drill is required every three months. It is a good idea to practice fire and emergency drills at different times during the day including meal time and nap time. For your compliance letter, state the date you complete a February fire drill and include a copy of your updated fire and emergency drill log. #844: Prescription Medication – To verify that prescription medication supplied to you from parents is for the child using the medication, the parent needs to provide the medication in the original container or box with the prescription attached. Over-the-Counter medication also needs to be accompanied by the original packaging so that you have all information and instructions related to the OTC medication. The prescription box was not available for an Albuterol inhaler used by QC. (This medication has expired.) The box and packaging was not available for Children’s Tylenol used by ET. You were not aware that this is required. Return these medications to the parents and ask them to provide you with the prescription box or original OTC medication box. For your compliance letter, state the date when the prescription box is available for the inhaler and the box and instructions are available for the Children’s Tylenol. #849: Expired Medication/Medication Permission Forms – Not having current authorization to administer medication or unexpired medication could create medical or liability issues if there are changes to the child’s medication, dosage, or instructions for administration or the potency of the expired medication is not at the level needed to treat the condition. A medication permission form for Auvi-Q used by MA expired on 1/13/26. A medication permission form for an epinephrine pen used by EM expired on 6/1/25. A medication permission form for Albuterol used by MA expired on 12/3/25. A medication permission for Albuterol used by QC expired on 9/13/25, and the Albuterol expired on August 2025. Medication permission forms were not updated, and the medications were not returned to the families to be taken home. You stated that you trusted the parents to provide the correct information on the medication permission forms. Either return the medications to the parent or have the parent review and update the medication permission form or complete a new form if any of the instructions have changed. Medications can be authorized for the following time frames: 12 months – topical non-prescription, non-medication creams and lotions like sunscreen or hand lotion (February 23, 2026 – February 23, 2027) 6 months – medications for chronic illness or emergency medications like Epi-pens, inhalers, anti-seizure medication, Benadryl (must be locked) 30 days – medications for acute issues like tooth pain like Children’s Tylenol For your compliance letter, state the date when the Auvi-Q, epinephrine pen, and two Albuterol inhalers (one expired) are returned to the parent or an updated medication administration form is on file. #1044 and #1757: Criminal Background Check (CBC) – Criminal Background Checks ensure that staff have not committed any crimes which could potentially make them unsafe to be around children and other staff. Because Abuse and Neglect registries are also checked, it helps to ensure that children are protected from physical, mental, and sexual abuse. Performing diligent background screenings also protects the child care facility against future legal challenges. S. Ackley, Owner/Authorized Individual, was due to complete her five-year criminal background check renewal by 8/21/25 but did not complete it until 8/27/25. A current qualifying letter was available. This has been corrected. Dawn Latonick, Teacher, was due to complete her five-year CBC by 2/22/2026 but did not start the application process until 2/20/2026 so the criminal background check was not completed by 2/22/2026. A current qualifying letter was not available. Ms. Latonick needs to complete her on-line application and fingerprints immediately. She needs to provide you with a current qualifying letter by 3/10/2026. If not received, Ms. Latonick may no longer be on the premises. For your compliance letter, state the date when Ms. Latonick completes her on-line application and fingerprints. Include a copy of her qualifying letter with your compliance letter. Note that repeated violations related to criminal background checks will result in an administrative action. #1321 and #1323: Children’s Medical Report and Immunizations – Having knowledge of a child’s health history and immunizations provides you with the information needed to offer a safe, healthy environment for both the child and the other children in your care. In one of three children’s files reviewed, a child’s medical report completed by the child’s physician and documentation of immunizations for a child (EM) enrolled on 10/13/25 were not available. You stated that you have been requesting these documents since enrollment. Inform the child’s parent/guardian that the medical report and immunizations are required and if not received by 3/9/26, the child may no longer attend. Use Children’s File Checklist to verify you have received all required enrollment documents. For your compliance letter, state the date you have received a copy of EM’s Medical Report (or a copy of a current health assessment no more than 12 months old) and a current copy of immunizations. Do not send copies of these health documents. *Documentation of immunizations are due for BC (enrolled 2/9/26) by 3/9/26. #1791: Beverages – Serving beverages that are healthy for children are important for physical and cognitive development. The center served whole milk at lunch instead of skim or 1% milk. The administrator stated that parents who bring in the snack of the day also provide the milk offered at lunch time. She was not aware that whole milk was not allowed and will inform parents to provide skim or 1% milk moving forward. For your compliance letter, state the date when you inform the parents to provide the lower fat milk. #1834: Medical Action Plan – The Medical Action Plan signed by either the parent and/or the physician accompanies any medication and medication permission form used by children with emergency medical conditions. MAPs provide additional information for the administration of the emergency medications. A medical action plan was not available for an Auvi-Q used by MA, an epinephrine pen used by EM, and an Albuterol inhaler used by QC. You were not aware that the parent needed to provide the medical action plan. A copy of the medical action plan needs to be included with the child’s application in the child’s file and in the Ready-to-Go file. It is also a good idea to have a copy available with the child’s medication. Medical Action Plans need to be updated annually. For your compliance letter, state the date when parents provide you with a medical action plan for the medications listed. #1898 Health & Safety Training – Health & Safety (H&S) Training includes training in 9 topic areas plus Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment and CPR/First Aid. These topic areas provide a foundation for maintaining a safe and healthy environment for children and staff. M. McDaniel as hired on 2/17/25 and had completed all H&S modules except for Medication Administration. New staff are required to complete H&S Training within one year of hire (CPR/First Aid and Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment within 3 months of hire) and then complete training in all topic areas every five years. M. McDaniel needs to complete Medication Administration by 3/9/25. Send a copy of the medication administration certificate for MM with the compliance letter. *E. Ginn was hired on 2/24/25 and needs to complete H&S modules by 2/24/26. Resources: As a licensed child care facility, it is your responsibility to be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and to teach your staff the rules to ensure your center remains in compliance. The following resources are available to you: 1. DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov – current laws and rules regarding child care facilities in North Carolina, “What’s New” tab, Items Number Listing which you can use as a checklist for your program. 2. Raise NC Newsletter – weekly newsletter emailed to facility email including relevant information from the Division, training opportunities, grants, and more. You can sign up to receive Raise NC on the What’s New tab. 3. NC Health & Safety Resource Center publishes a quarterly newsletter which provides topical information on a variety of health and safety topics. If you are not receiving these emails and newsletters, then please go to https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/resources/nc-child-care-health-and-safety-e-news/ and click on ‘Newsletter Signup’ to join their mailing list. The Winter 2026 edition, “Ready, Set, Action!” includes articles on the emergency medical care plan and responding to infant/toddler emergencies. 4. Your local Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies and Child Care Health Consultants. * Children & Youth Partnership for Dare County: Phone - (252) 441-0614; website - www.darekids.org. *Albemarle Alliance for Children and Families (AACF) and Region 1 Child Care Resource and Referral: Phone – (252) 333-1233; website - www.aacfnc.org . *Healthy Behaviors Specialist: P. White – Phone (252) 333-1233; pam@aacfnc.org *The North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP), www.ncrlap.org , has resources to help you and your staff prepare for the third editions of the Environment Rating Scales (ECERS-3 and ITERS-3). Visit the website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, self-assessments and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. At this time the SACERS-U will continue to be the program assessment tool for school-age programs and classrooms. *Southwestern Child Development Commission, www.swcdcinc.org, Child Care Resources Inc., https://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/ and Early Years, https://www.earlyyearsnc.org/ offer DCDEE approved, on-line, self-paced and virtual real-time training and CEUs. SWCDC also offers affordable annual packages allowing you to take as many courses as you need or want for one price. The Natural Learning Initiative (https://naturalearning.org/) offers a variety of resources such as training, YouTube videos, handouts, etc. to help you add natural elements to your outdoor play spaces to promote time outdoors. Check out the NLI Resource Hub including Design Sites, Infosheets, The Green Desk, Interactive Apps and more! Your children and your teachers will want to go outdoors again! Reminders: Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website reflects the following information about your center’s required three-year water testing and one-time lead paint testing, and asbestos testing: Three-year Water Testing – 6/26/25 due again 6/26/28 Lead Paint Testing – Survey Review by RTI pending Asbestos Testing - Enrollment started *The Clean Water for Carolina Kids website still reflects that you have started enrollment but are not in the survey review phase of the project. Complete enrollment and upload documentation such as property tax records to verify date building was built. This needs to be done as soon as possible. Maintain any paperwork received by mail or email in your Program Records file. *For more information check out the FAQ page at https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. Go to the Contact Us tab if you need assistance or have questions. ABCMS Portal - You have completed the ABCMS Provider Portal Training and are now authorized to log in the ABCMS Provider Portal https://ncabcms.nc.gov/DCDEE/ using your Business NCID. You have not connected your staff and created your roster. I am emailing the ABCMS Provider Portal Access Guide which will assist with the step-by-step process of working in the ABCMS Portal, accessing your Pay Codes, helping your staff complete their Connecting Applications, and eventually “hiring” staff to your roster. The Provider Portal Access Guide also includes contact information for additional assistance. If you are still having difficulties working through this process, consider completing the ABCMS Provider Portal Training on Moodle again and ensure that you are using the correct Business NCID to access the ABCMS Provider Portal and Individual NCID to access your own ABCMS Applicant Portal. Staff Worksheets – We reviewed your staff worksheet. I highlighted items that were delinquent and items that are coming due in the next year. * On-going Training Hours – Review Row 18 (# hours to carry over) on the Staff Worksheets to determine how many on-going training hours returning staff will need by 3/11/26 (anniversary of last Annual Compliance visit). If they have not completed the required number of on-going training hours, they have until 3/11/26 to complete them and I will check at the next monitoring visit. Emergency Preparedness – Your Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan along with your Ready-to-Go File, Emergency Medical Care Plan (EMCP) and consistent practice of Fire and Emergency Drills are your center’s foundation for emergency preparedness. *Review your EPR Plan at least annually in the NC Risk Management Portal and update, if needed. Print updated plan or updated cover sheet and page 28. (Per your request I will email instructions on how to update your EPR Plan. *At the same time, review and update your Emergency Medical Care Plan, if needed. *Ensure your Ready-to-Go File is current and includes the following: a copy of the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, child's Application for Child Care (includes health & emergency information, contacts, authorization to seek emergency medical 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. *EPR Plan – last updated in Portal 2/2025– update by 2/2026 *Emergency Medical Care Plan – updated today Nutrition – Staff are required to model healthy eating habits when consuming food and beverages in front of children. Cans or bottles of soda pop (or cups from fast food restaurants) may not be visible in the classroom or in front of children. Staff may use opaque cups, if needed. Consultation: Food Service – Take a hard look at your food service. You are currently doing a hybrid of parent-provided group snack in the morning, lunches from home, and center-provided snack. Parents complete Opt-out forms; however, if they are completing these, you should not be providing food on a regular basis. Consider only providing Opt-out forms for the parents who want to provide all food for their children. Have supplemental food available when food brought from home does not meet nutritional requirements. Additional Comments: Keep Your NCID Active - Did you know that if you do not login on to any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. *Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you, your staff and your household members (CLIAR only) every 6 months to log in and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. *For assistance with NCID, contact ncid.nc.gov or 919.754.6000. Sex Offender Registry and Notification Email - North Carolina General Statute 14-208 requires sex offenders to register with the North Carolina Department of Justice. The law states that a sex offender shall not knowingly reside within 1,000 feet of the property on which any public or nonpublic school or child care center is located. This does not apply to child care centers that are located on or within 1,000 feet of property of an institution of higher education where the registrant is a student or is employed. All licensed child care centers must register to receive e-mail notification when a registered sex offender moves within a one-mile radius of the center. (§14-208.19) To register for the e-mail notification, go to http://sexoffender.ncsbi.gov. If you have any questions, please contact your local sheriff's department. QRIS (Quality Rating Improvement System) Technical Assistance: Pathway 2: Classroom and Instructional Quality During a Technical Assistance visit on 11/19/2026, you elected to complete Pathway 2. Your rated license assessment is currently due by 12/31/2026, but your requested timeline is to complete this by Fall 2026. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me, Marjorie White, by phone at (252) 373-9385 or by e-mail at Marjorie.White@dhhs.nc.gov, or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, at (252) 373-4199 or Jennifer.Linhardt@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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

GS 110-106 · Violation

Name of Operation: HERON POND MONTESSORI SCHOOL Facility ID: 28000093 Consultant: MARJORIE WHITE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/23/2026 Number Present: 27 Completed Date: 2/23/2026 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 04:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced * The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit and review your progress towards making your application for your rated license assessment under the new QRIS rules in Section .3200. Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, accompanied me on today's visit. M. McDaniel, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 8/17/2022, earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space) and 1 quality point for staff benefits and enhanced parent involvement. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 3/11/25. The sanitation inspection was completed 12/3/25 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 1/14/25 with a Satisfactory rating and approval for daytime care only; however, it is expired. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-seven percent as of 2/20/2026. This facility is owned by Ackley Education Enterprise, Inc. The corporation was listed as current- active on the NC Secretary of State website. License information was current. We updated the administrator’s work phone number. Contact me to request any changes to your license or contact information. I monitored the classrooms and spaces used for child care and outdoor play areas for applicable child care center requirements using the Child Care Center Requirements, effective 7/1/2025 and Item Numbers Listing, effective 4/2025. I monitored five staff records, three children’s records and all program records. Children were arriving and signing themselves in with their personal codes on the Brightwheel App with the help of their parents. They transitioned to their work cycle, pulling out their mats to the tables or floor and bringing their chosen materials over for learning and playing. The teachers moved throughout the classroom, providing guidance and resources as needed. Because of the cold temperatures, they did some group exercising and yoga movements. Lunches are brought from home, but today the center staff served a chicken nugget lunch to parents who had signed up. Children washed their hands upon arrival and before and after eating. After lunch children rested on linen-covered mats. Lunch was observed and those provided by the center consisted of chicken nuggets, carrots, grapes or blueberries, oat cereal rings and milk. I observed and documented the following violations during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. Documentation of a current fire inspection was not available. The most recent fire inspection was completed on January 14, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 107 The center did not comply with the permit restrictions. A permit restriction listed on the license states, "No cooking". Staff prepared chicken nuggets for the children using an air fryer. GS 110-91; GS 110-106 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. A refrigerator thermometer was not available in a refrigerator used to served food and milk consumed by children. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. Documentation of a monthly fire inspection was not available for January 2026. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. The prescription box was not available for an Albuterol inhaler. The box and packaging was not available for Children’s Tylenol. .0803(2)(a) 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. A medication permission form for Auvi-Q expired on 1/13/26. A medication permission form for an epinephrine pen expired on 6/1/25. A medication permission form for Albuterol expired on 12/3/25. A medication permission for Albuterol expired on 9/13/25, and the Albuterol expired on August 2025. Medications were not returned to the families. .0803(12) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). The owner was due to complete her five-year criminal background check by August 21, 2025 but did not complete it until August 27, 2025. A teacher was required to complete her five-year criminal background check by February 22, 2026 but had not completed it. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. In one of three children's files reviewed, a current child's medical report or health assessment was not available for a child enrolled on October, 13, 2025. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. In one of three children's files reviewed, a current immunization record was not available for a child enrolled on October, 13, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A current qualification letter was not available for a teacher. The qualification letter on file expired on February 22, 2026. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1791 The child care provider did not provide the required beverage(s). The center served whole milk at lunch. .0901(e)(1-7) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. A medical action plan was not available in three files for children using an Auvi-Q, an epinephrine pen, and an albuterol inhaler. .0801(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. A teacher hired on February 17, 2025 did not complete medication administration. .1102(a) * Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 3/9/26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Marjorie White, Child Care Consultant PO Box 116 Aydlett, NC 27916 Email – marjorie.white@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE which serves as your signature, hpmschool@gmail.com, and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 A violation was documented that requires a follow-up visit. An unannounced visit will be made soon to verify correction. You are still required to send a compliance letter. Technical Assistance With Documented Violations: #106: Annual Fire Inspection – Annual fire inspections ensure that the building meets fire codes and that your fire detection and alarm systems are operating correctly in the event of a fire. The fire inspector completed a fire inspection on 1/14/25; a new fire inspection has not been completed. The administrator stated that the owner normally schedules the fire inspection, and she was not aware that it had not been scheduled. You immediately contacted the fire inspector to request a new fire inspection. For your compliance letter, state the date the fire inspection is completed and include a copy of the new fire inspection form. #107: Permit Restrictions – Restrictions on the permit are added to ensure the health and safety of children. When licensed, Environmental Health included a “No Cooking” restriction because your kitchen is not fully set up with a ventilation system to allow for cooking, and it was shared that families would provide lunches. Today, I observed teachers using an air fryer to cook chicken nuggets for the children. You stated that Monday is chicken nugget day, and parents can sign up for their child to be served lunch by the center which includes chicken nuggets, carrots, oat cereal rings, and milk. You added blueberries or grapes to include a fruit component. You were not aware that you could not prepare chicken nuggets for the children. You stated that you will stop cooking and serving chicken nuggets for children. #601: Refrigerator Thermometer – A thermometer ensures that refrigerators are maintaining cold temperatures for the safe storage of food and beverages, including milk, formula, and human milk in order to prevent food borne illness. There was not a thermometer in the kitchen refrigerator which is used to store food and beverages served to children. You were not sure where it went but will purchase one. Remind staff to check their thermometers to ensure that they maintain a temperature of 45 degrees or colder. (Forty-one degrees is preferred by Environmental Health.) For your compliance letter, state the date you put a new thermometer in the refrigerator. #805: Fire Drills - Practicing and documenting fire drills monthly and lock-down or shelter-in-place drills quarterly is critical to teaching and reminding staff and children the procedures for evacuating the building safely in case of a fire or staying safe inside in the event of an intruder or tornado. Documentation of a fire drill was not completed for January 2026. You stated that you thought you had to either complete a fire drill or an emergency drill monthly. I shared that fire drills are required monthly and either a lock-down or a shelter-in-place drill is required every three months. It is a good idea to practice fire and emergency drills at different times during the day including meal time and nap time. For your compliance letter, state the date you complete a February fire drill and include a copy of your updated fire and emergency drill log. #844: Prescription Medication – To verify that prescription medication supplied to you from parents is for the child using the medication, the parent needs to provide the medication in the original container or box with the prescription attached. Over-the-Counter medication also needs to be accompanied by the original packaging so that you have all information and instructions related to the OTC medication. The prescription box was not available for an Albuterol inhaler used by QC. (This medication has expired.) The box and packaging was not available for Children’s Tylenol used by ET. You were not aware that this is required. Return these medications to the parents and ask them to provide you with the prescription box or original OTC medication box. For your compliance letter, state the date when the prescription box is available for the inhaler and the box and instructions are available for the Children’s Tylenol. #849: Expired Medication/Medication Permission Forms – Not having current authorization to administer medication or unexpired medication could create medical or liability issues if there are changes to the child’s medication, dosage, or instructions for administration or the potency of the expired medication is not at the level needed to treat the condition. A medication permission form for Auvi-Q used by MA expired on 1/13/26. A medication permission form for an epinephrine pen used by EM expired on 6/1/25. A medication permission form for Albuterol used by MA expired on 12/3/25. A medication permission for Albuterol used by QC expired on 9/13/25, and the Albuterol expired on August 2025. Medication permission forms were not updated, and the medications were not returned to the families to be taken home. You stated that you trusted the parents to provide the correct information on the medication permission forms. Either return the medications to the parent or have the parent review and update the medication permission form or complete a new form if any of the instructions have changed. Medications can be authorized for the following time frames: 12 months – topical non-prescription, non-medication creams and lotions like sunscreen or hand lotion (February 23, 2026 – February 23, 2027) 6 months – medications for chronic illness or emergency medications like Epi-pens, inhalers, anti-seizure medication, Benadryl (must be locked) 30 days – medications for acute issues like tooth pain like Children’s Tylenol For your compliance letter, state the date when the Auvi-Q, epinephrine pen, and two Albuterol inhalers (one expired) are returned to the parent or an updated medication administration form is on file. #1044 and #1757: Criminal Background Check (CBC) – Criminal Background Checks ensure that staff have not committed any crimes which could potentially make them unsafe to be around children and other staff. Because Abuse and Neglect registries are also checked, it helps to ensure that children are protected from physical, mental, and sexual abuse. Performing diligent background screenings also protects the child care facility against future legal challenges. S. Ackley, Owner/Authorized Individual, was due to complete her five-year criminal background check renewal by 8/21/25 but did not complete it until 8/27/25. A current qualifying letter was available. This has been corrected. Dawn Latonick, Teacher, was due to complete her five-year CBC by 2/22/2026 but did not start the application process until 2/20/2026 so the criminal background check was not completed by 2/22/2026. A current qualifying letter was not available. Ms. Latonick needs to complete her on-line application and fingerprints immediately. She needs to provide you with a current qualifying letter by 3/10/2026. If not received, Ms. Latonick may no longer be on the premises. For your compliance letter, state the date when Ms. Latonick completes her on-line application and fingerprints. Include a copy of her qualifying letter with your compliance letter. Note that repeated violations related to criminal background checks will result in an administrative action. #1321 and #1323: Children’s Medical Report and Immunizations – Having knowledge of a child’s health history and immunizations provides you with the information needed to offer a safe, healthy environment for both the child and the other children in your care. In one of three children’s files reviewed, a child’s medical report completed by the child’s physician and documentation of immunizations for a child (EM) enrolled on 10/13/25 were not available. You stated that you have been requesting these documents since enrollment. Inform the child’s parent/guardian that the medical report and immunizations are required and if not received by 3/9/26, the child may no longer attend. Use Children’s File Checklist to verify you have received all required enrollment documents. For your compliance letter, state the date you have received a copy of EM’s Medical Report (or a copy of a current health assessment no more than 12 months old) and a current copy of immunizations. Do not send copies of these health documents. *Documentation of immunizations are due for BC (enrolled 2/9/26) by 3/9/26. #1791: Beverages – Serving beverages that are healthy for children are important for physical and cognitive development. The center served whole milk at lunch instead of skim or 1% milk. The administrator stated that parents who bring in the snack of the day also provide the milk offered at lunch time. She was not aware that whole milk was not allowed and will inform parents to provide skim or 1% milk moving forward. For your compliance letter, state the date when you inform the parents to provide the lower fat milk. #1834: Medical Action Plan – The Medical Action Plan signed by either the parent and/or the physician accompanies any medication and medication permission form used by children with emergency medical conditions. MAPs provide additional information for the administration of the emergency medications. A medical action plan was not available for an Auvi-Q used by MA, an epinephrine pen used by EM, and an Albuterol inhaler used by QC. You were not aware that the parent needed to provide the medical action plan. A copy of the medical action plan needs to be included with the child’s application in the child’s file and in the Ready-to-Go file. It is also a good idea to have a copy available with the child’s medication. Medical Action Plans need to be updated annually. For your compliance letter, state the date when parents provide you with a medical action plan for the medications listed. #1898 Health & Safety Training – Health & Safety (H&S) Training includes training in 9 topic areas plus Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment and CPR/First Aid. These topic areas provide a foundation for maintaining a safe and healthy environment for children and staff. M. McDaniel as hired on 2/17/25 and had completed all H&S modules except for Medication Administration. New staff are required to complete H&S Training within one year of hire (CPR/First Aid and Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment within 3 months of hire) and then complete training in all topic areas every five years. M. McDaniel needs to complete Medication Administration by 3/9/25. Send a copy of the medication administration certificate for MM with the compliance letter. *E. Ginn was hired on 2/24/25 and needs to complete H&S modules by 2/24/26. Resources: As a licensed child care facility, it is your responsibility to be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and to teach your staff the rules to ensure your center remains in compliance. The following resources are available to you: 1. DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov – current laws and rules regarding child care facilities in North Carolina, “What’s New” tab, Items Number Listing which you can use as a checklist for your program. 2. Raise NC Newsletter – weekly newsletter emailed to facility email including relevant information from the Division, training opportunities, grants, and more. You can sign up to receive Raise NC on the What’s New tab. 3. NC Health & Safety Resource Center publishes a quarterly newsletter which provides topical information on a variety of health and safety topics. If you are not receiving these emails and newsletters, then please go to https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/resources/nc-child-care-health-and-safety-e-news/ and click on ‘Newsletter Signup’ to join their mailing list. The Winter 2026 edition, “Ready, Set, Action!” includes articles on the emergency medical care plan and responding to infant/toddler emergencies. 4. Your local Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies and Child Care Health Consultants. * Children & Youth Partnership for Dare County: Phone - (252) 441-0614; website - www.darekids.org. *Albemarle Alliance for Children and Families (AACF) and Region 1 Child Care Resource and Referral: Phone – (252) 333-1233; website - www.aacfnc.org . *Healthy Behaviors Specialist: P. White – Phone (252) 333-1233; pam@aacfnc.org *The North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP), www.ncrlap.org , has resources to help you and your staff prepare for the third editions of the Environment Rating Scales (ECERS-3 and ITERS-3). Visit the website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, self-assessments and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. At this time the SACERS-U will continue to be the program assessment tool for school-age programs and classrooms. *Southwestern Child Development Commission, www.swcdcinc.org, Child Care Resources Inc., https://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/ and Early Years, https://www.earlyyearsnc.org/ offer DCDEE approved, on-line, self-paced and virtual real-time training and CEUs. SWCDC also offers affordable annual packages allowing you to take as many courses as you need or want for one price. The Natural Learning Initiative (https://naturalearning.org/) offers a variety of resources such as training, YouTube videos, handouts, etc. to help you add natural elements to your outdoor play spaces to promote time outdoors. Check out the NLI Resource Hub including Design Sites, Infosheets, The Green Desk, Interactive Apps and more! Your children and your teachers will want to go outdoors again! Reminders: Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website reflects the following information about your center’s required three-year water testing and one-time lead paint testing, and asbestos testing: Three-year Water Testing – 6/26/25 due again 6/26/28 Lead Paint Testing – Survey Review by RTI pending Asbestos Testing - Enrollment started *The Clean Water for Carolina Kids website still reflects that you have started enrollment but are not in the survey review phase of the project. Complete enrollment and upload documentation such as property tax records to verify date building was built. This needs to be done as soon as possible. Maintain any paperwork received by mail or email in your Program Records file. *For more information check out the FAQ page at https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. Go to the Contact Us tab if you need assistance or have questions. ABCMS Portal - You have completed the ABCMS Provider Portal Training and are now authorized to log in the ABCMS Provider Portal https://ncabcms.nc.gov/DCDEE/ using your Business NCID. You have not connected your staff and created your roster. I am emailing the ABCMS Provider Portal Access Guide which will assist with the step-by-step process of working in the ABCMS Portal, accessing your Pay Codes, helping your staff complete their Connecting Applications, and eventually “hiring” staff to your roster. The Provider Portal Access Guide also includes contact information for additional assistance. If you are still having difficulties working through this process, consider completing the ABCMS Provider Portal Training on Moodle again and ensure that you are using the correct Business NCID to access the ABCMS Provider Portal and Individual NCID to access your own ABCMS Applicant Portal. Staff Worksheets – We reviewed your staff worksheet. I highlighted items that were delinquent and items that are coming due in the next year. * On-going Training Hours – Review Row 18 (# hours to carry over) on the Staff Worksheets to determine how many on-going training hours returning staff will need by 3/11/26 (anniversary of last Annual Compliance visit). If they have not completed the required number of on-going training hours, they have until 3/11/26 to complete them and I will check at the next monitoring visit. Emergency Preparedness – Your Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan along with your Ready-to-Go File, Emergency Medical Care Plan (EMCP) and consistent practice of Fire and Emergency Drills are your center’s foundation for emergency preparedness. *Review your EPR Plan at least annually in the NC Risk Management Portal and update, if needed. Print updated plan or updated cover sheet and page 28. (Per your request I will email instructions on how to update your EPR Plan. *At the same time, review and update your Emergency Medical Care Plan, if needed. *Ensure your Ready-to-Go File is current and includes the following: a copy of the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, child's Application for Child Care (includes health & emergency information, contacts, authorization to seek emergency medical 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. *EPR Plan – last updated in Portal 2/2025– update by 2/2026 *Emergency Medical Care Plan – updated today Nutrition – Staff are required to model healthy eating habits when consuming food and beverages in front of children. Cans or bottles of soda pop (or cups from fast food restaurants) may not be visible in the classroom or in front of children. Staff may use opaque cups, if needed. Consultation: Food Service – Take a hard look at your food service. You are currently doing a hybrid of parent-provided group snack in the morning, lunches from home, and center-provided snack. Parents complete Opt-out forms; however, if they are completing these, you should not be providing food on a regular basis. Consider only providing Opt-out forms for the parents who want to provide all food for their children. Have supplemental food available when food brought from home does not meet nutritional requirements. Additional Comments: Keep Your NCID Active - Did you know that if you do not login on to any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. *Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you, your staff and your household members (CLIAR only) every 6 months to log in and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. *For assistance with NCID, contact ncid.nc.gov or 919.754.6000. Sex Offender Registry and Notification Email - North Carolina General Statute 14-208 requires sex offenders to register with the North Carolina Department of Justice. The law states that a sex offender shall not knowingly reside within 1,000 feet of the property on which any public or nonpublic school or child care center is located. This does not apply to child care centers that are located on or within 1,000 feet of property of an institution of higher education where the registrant is a student or is employed. All licensed child care centers must register to receive e-mail notification when a registered sex offender moves within a one-mile radius of the center. (§14-208.19) To register for the e-mail notification, go to http://sexoffender.ncsbi.gov. If you have any questions, please contact your local sheriff's department. QRIS (Quality Rating Improvement System) Technical Assistance: Pathway 2: Classroom and Instructional Quality During a Technical Assistance visit on 11/19/2026, you elected to complete Pathway 2. Your rated license assessment is currently due by 12/31/2026, but your requested timeline is to complete this by Fall 2026. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me, Marjorie White, by phone at (252) 373-9385 or by e-mail at Marjorie.White@dhhs.nc.gov, or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, at (252) 373-4199 or Jennifer.Linhardt@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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: HERON POND MONTESSORI SCHOOL Facility ID: 28000093 Consultant: MARJORIE WHITE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/23/2026 Number Present: 27 Completed Date: 2/23/2026 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 04:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced * The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit and review your progress towards making your application for your rated license assessment under the new QRIS rules in Section .3200. Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, accompanied me on today's visit. M. McDaniel, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 8/17/2022, earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space) and 1 quality point for staff benefits and enhanced parent involvement. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 3/11/25. The sanitation inspection was completed 12/3/25 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 1/14/25 with a Satisfactory rating and approval for daytime care only; however, it is expired. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-seven percent as of 2/20/2026. This facility is owned by Ackley Education Enterprise, Inc. The corporation was listed as current- active on the NC Secretary of State website. License information was current. We updated the administrator’s work phone number. Contact me to request any changes to your license or contact information. I monitored the classrooms and spaces used for child care and outdoor play areas for applicable child care center requirements using the Child Care Center Requirements, effective 7/1/2025 and Item Numbers Listing, effective 4/2025. I monitored five staff records, three children’s records and all program records. Children were arriving and signing themselves in with their personal codes on the Brightwheel App with the help of their parents. They transitioned to their work cycle, pulling out their mats to the tables or floor and bringing their chosen materials over for learning and playing. The teachers moved throughout the classroom, providing guidance and resources as needed. Because of the cold temperatures, they did some group exercising and yoga movements. Lunches are brought from home, but today the center staff served a chicken nugget lunch to parents who had signed up. Children washed their hands upon arrival and before and after eating. After lunch children rested on linen-covered mats. Lunch was observed and those provided by the center consisted of chicken nuggets, carrots, grapes or blueberries, oat cereal rings and milk. I observed and documented the following violations during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. Documentation of a current fire inspection was not available. The most recent fire inspection was completed on January 14, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 107 The center did not comply with the permit restrictions. A permit restriction listed on the license states, "No cooking". Staff prepared chicken nuggets for the children using an air fryer. GS 110-91; GS 110-106 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. A refrigerator thermometer was not available in a refrigerator used to served food and milk consumed by children. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. Documentation of a monthly fire inspection was not available for January 2026. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. The prescription box was not available for an Albuterol inhaler. The box and packaging was not available for Children’s Tylenol. .0803(2)(a) 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. A medication permission form for Auvi-Q expired on 1/13/26. A medication permission form for an epinephrine pen expired on 6/1/25. A medication permission form for Albuterol expired on 12/3/25. A medication permission for Albuterol expired on 9/13/25, and the Albuterol expired on August 2025. Medications were not returned to the families. .0803(12) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). The owner was due to complete her five-year criminal background check by August 21, 2025 but did not complete it until August 27, 2025. A teacher was required to complete her five-year criminal background check by February 22, 2026 but had not completed it. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. In one of three children's files reviewed, a current child's medical report or health assessment was not available for a child enrolled on October, 13, 2025. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. In one of three children's files reviewed, a current immunization record was not available for a child enrolled on October, 13, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A current qualification letter was not available for a teacher. The qualification letter on file expired on February 22, 2026. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1791 The child care provider did not provide the required beverage(s). The center served whole milk at lunch. .0901(e)(1-7) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. A medical action plan was not available in three files for children using an Auvi-Q, an epinephrine pen, and an albuterol inhaler. .0801(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. A teacher hired on February 17, 2025 did not complete medication administration. .1102(a) * Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 3/9/26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Marjorie White, Child Care Consultant PO Box 116 Aydlett, NC 27916 Email – marjorie.white@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE which serves as your signature, hpmschool@gmail.com, and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 A violation was documented that requires a follow-up visit. An unannounced visit will be made soon to verify correction. You are still required to send a compliance letter. Technical Assistance With Documented Violations: #106: Annual Fire Inspection – Annual fire inspections ensure that the building meets fire codes and that your fire detection and alarm systems are operating correctly in the event of a fire. The fire inspector completed a fire inspection on 1/14/25; a new fire inspection has not been completed. The administrator stated that the owner normally schedules the fire inspection, and she was not aware that it had not been scheduled. You immediately contacted the fire inspector to request a new fire inspection. For your compliance letter, state the date the fire inspection is completed and include a copy of the new fire inspection form. #107: Permit Restrictions – Restrictions on the permit are added to ensure the health and safety of children. When licensed, Environmental Health included a “No Cooking” restriction because your kitchen is not fully set up with a ventilation system to allow for cooking, and it was shared that families would provide lunches. Today, I observed teachers using an air fryer to cook chicken nuggets for the children. You stated that Monday is chicken nugget day, and parents can sign up for their child to be served lunch by the center which includes chicken nuggets, carrots, oat cereal rings, and milk. You added blueberries or grapes to include a fruit component. You were not aware that you could not prepare chicken nuggets for the children. You stated that you will stop cooking and serving chicken nuggets for children. #601: Refrigerator Thermometer – A thermometer ensures that refrigerators are maintaining cold temperatures for the safe storage of food and beverages, including milk, formula, and human milk in order to prevent food borne illness. There was not a thermometer in the kitchen refrigerator which is used to store food and beverages served to children. You were not sure where it went but will purchase one. Remind staff to check their thermometers to ensure that they maintain a temperature of 45 degrees or colder. (Forty-one degrees is preferred by Environmental Health.) For your compliance letter, state the date you put a new thermometer in the refrigerator. #805: Fire Drills - Practicing and documenting fire drills monthly and lock-down or shelter-in-place drills quarterly is critical to teaching and reminding staff and children the procedures for evacuating the building safely in case of a fire or staying safe inside in the event of an intruder or tornado. Documentation of a fire drill was not completed for January 2026. You stated that you thought you had to either complete a fire drill or an emergency drill monthly. I shared that fire drills are required monthly and either a lock-down or a shelter-in-place drill is required every three months. It is a good idea to practice fire and emergency drills at different times during the day including meal time and nap time. For your compliance letter, state the date you complete a February fire drill and include a copy of your updated fire and emergency drill log. #844: Prescription Medication – To verify that prescription medication supplied to you from parents is for the child using the medication, the parent needs to provide the medication in the original container or box with the prescription attached. Over-the-Counter medication also needs to be accompanied by the original packaging so that you have all information and instructions related to the OTC medication. The prescription box was not available for an Albuterol inhaler used by QC. (This medication has expired.) The box and packaging was not available for Children’s Tylenol used by ET. You were not aware that this is required. Return these medications to the parents and ask them to provide you with the prescription box or original OTC medication box. For your compliance letter, state the date when the prescription box is available for the inhaler and the box and instructions are available for the Children’s Tylenol. #849: Expired Medication/Medication Permission Forms – Not having current authorization to administer medication or unexpired medication could create medical or liability issues if there are changes to the child’s medication, dosage, or instructions for administration or the potency of the expired medication is not at the level needed to treat the condition. A medication permission form for Auvi-Q used by MA expired on 1/13/26. A medication permission form for an epinephrine pen used by EM expired on 6/1/25. A medication permission form for Albuterol used by MA expired on 12/3/25. A medication permission for Albuterol used by QC expired on 9/13/25, and the Albuterol expired on August 2025. Medication permission forms were not updated, and the medications were not returned to the families to be taken home. You stated that you trusted the parents to provide the correct information on the medication permission forms. Either return the medications to the parent or have the parent review and update the medication permission form or complete a new form if any of the instructions have changed. Medications can be authorized for the following time frames: 12 months – topical non-prescription, non-medication creams and lotions like sunscreen or hand lotion (February 23, 2026 – February 23, 2027) 6 months – medications for chronic illness or emergency medications like Epi-pens, inhalers, anti-seizure medication, Benadryl (must be locked) 30 days – medications for acute issues like tooth pain like Children’s Tylenol For your compliance letter, state the date when the Auvi-Q, epinephrine pen, and two Albuterol inhalers (one expired) are returned to the parent or an updated medication administration form is on file. #1044 and #1757: Criminal Background Check (CBC) – Criminal Background Checks ensure that staff have not committed any crimes which could potentially make them unsafe to be around children and other staff. Because Abuse and Neglect registries are also checked, it helps to ensure that children are protected from physical, mental, and sexual abuse. Performing diligent background screenings also protects the child care facility against future legal challenges. S. Ackley, Owner/Authorized Individual, was due to complete her five-year criminal background check renewal by 8/21/25 but did not complete it until 8/27/25. A current qualifying letter was available. This has been corrected. Dawn Latonick, Teacher, was due to complete her five-year CBC by 2/22/2026 but did not start the application process until 2/20/2026 so the criminal background check was not completed by 2/22/2026. A current qualifying letter was not available. Ms. Latonick needs to complete her on-line application and fingerprints immediately. She needs to provide you with a current qualifying letter by 3/10/2026. If not received, Ms. Latonick may no longer be on the premises. For your compliance letter, state the date when Ms. Latonick completes her on-line application and fingerprints. Include a copy of her qualifying letter with your compliance letter. Note that repeated violations related to criminal background checks will result in an administrative action. #1321 and #1323: Children’s Medical Report and Immunizations – Having knowledge of a child’s health history and immunizations provides you with the information needed to offer a safe, healthy environment for both the child and the other children in your care. In one of three children’s files reviewed, a child’s medical report completed by the child’s physician and documentation of immunizations for a child (EM) enrolled on 10/13/25 were not available. You stated that you have been requesting these documents since enrollment. Inform the child’s parent/guardian that the medical report and immunizations are required and if not received by 3/9/26, the child may no longer attend. Use Children’s File Checklist to verify you have received all required enrollment documents. For your compliance letter, state the date you have received a copy of EM’s Medical Report (or a copy of a current health assessment no more than 12 months old) and a current copy of immunizations. Do not send copies of these health documents. *Documentation of immunizations are due for BC (enrolled 2/9/26) by 3/9/26. #1791: Beverages – Serving beverages that are healthy for children are important for physical and cognitive development. The center served whole milk at lunch instead of skim or 1% milk. The administrator stated that parents who bring in the snack of the day also provide the milk offered at lunch time. She was not aware that whole milk was not allowed and will inform parents to provide skim or 1% milk moving forward. For your compliance letter, state the date when you inform the parents to provide the lower fat milk. #1834: Medical Action Plan – The Medical Action Plan signed by either the parent and/or the physician accompanies any medication and medication permission form used by children with emergency medical conditions. MAPs provide additional information for the administration of the emergency medications. A medical action plan was not available for an Auvi-Q used by MA, an epinephrine pen used by EM, and an Albuterol inhaler used by QC. You were not aware that the parent needed to provide the medical action plan. A copy of the medical action plan needs to be included with the child’s application in the child’s file and in the Ready-to-Go file. It is also a good idea to have a copy available with the child’s medication. Medical Action Plans need to be updated annually. For your compliance letter, state the date when parents provide you with a medical action plan for the medications listed. #1898 Health & Safety Training – Health & Safety (H&S) Training includes training in 9 topic areas plus Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment and CPR/First Aid. These topic areas provide a foundation for maintaining a safe and healthy environment for children and staff. M. McDaniel as hired on 2/17/25 and had completed all H&S modules except for Medication Administration. New staff are required to complete H&S Training within one year of hire (CPR/First Aid and Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment within 3 months of hire) and then complete training in all topic areas every five years. M. McDaniel needs to complete Medication Administration by 3/9/25. Send a copy of the medication administration certificate for MM with the compliance letter. *E. Ginn was hired on 2/24/25 and needs to complete H&S modules by 2/24/26. Resources: As a licensed child care facility, it is your responsibility to be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and to teach your staff the rules to ensure your center remains in compliance. The following resources are available to you: 1. DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov – current laws and rules regarding child care facilities in North Carolina, “What’s New” tab, Items Number Listing which you can use as a checklist for your program. 2. Raise NC Newsletter – weekly newsletter emailed to facility email including relevant information from the Division, training opportunities, grants, and more. You can sign up to receive Raise NC on the What’s New tab. 3. NC Health & Safety Resource Center publishes a quarterly newsletter which provides topical information on a variety of health and safety topics. If you are not receiving these emails and newsletters, then please go to https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/resources/nc-child-care-health-and-safety-e-news/ and click on ‘Newsletter Signup’ to join their mailing list. The Winter 2026 edition, “Ready, Set, Action!” includes articles on the emergency medical care plan and responding to infant/toddler emergencies. 4. Your local Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies and Child Care Health Consultants. * Children & Youth Partnership for Dare County: Phone - (252) 441-0614; website - www.darekids.org. *Albemarle Alliance for Children and Families (AACF) and Region 1 Child Care Resource and Referral: Phone – (252) 333-1233; website - www.aacfnc.org . *Healthy Behaviors Specialist: P. White – Phone (252) 333-1233; pam@aacfnc.org *The North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP), www.ncrlap.org , has resources to help you and your staff prepare for the third editions of the Environment Rating Scales (ECERS-3 and ITERS-3). Visit the website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, self-assessments and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. At this time the SACERS-U will continue to be the program assessment tool for school-age programs and classrooms. *Southwestern Child Development Commission, www.swcdcinc.org, Child Care Resources Inc., https://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/ and Early Years, https://www.earlyyearsnc.org/ offer DCDEE approved, on-line, self-paced and virtual real-time training and CEUs. SWCDC also offers affordable annual packages allowing you to take as many courses as you need or want for one price. The Natural Learning Initiative (https://naturalearning.org/) offers a variety of resources such as training, YouTube videos, handouts, etc. to help you add natural elements to your outdoor play spaces to promote time outdoors. Check out the NLI Resource Hub including Design Sites, Infosheets, The Green Desk, Interactive Apps and more! Your children and your teachers will want to go outdoors again! Reminders: Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website reflects the following information about your center’s required three-year water testing and one-time lead paint testing, and asbestos testing: Three-year Water Testing – 6/26/25 due again 6/26/28 Lead Paint Testing – Survey Review by RTI pending Asbestos Testing - Enrollment started *The Clean Water for Carolina Kids website still reflects that you have started enrollment but are not in the survey review phase of the project. Complete enrollment and upload documentation such as property tax records to verify date building was built. This needs to be done as soon as possible. Maintain any paperwork received by mail or email in your Program Records file. *For more information check out the FAQ page at https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. Go to the Contact Us tab if you need assistance or have questions. ABCMS Portal - You have completed the ABCMS Provider Portal Training and are now authorized to log in the ABCMS Provider Portal https://ncabcms.nc.gov/DCDEE/ using your Business NCID. You have not connected your staff and created your roster. I am emailing the ABCMS Provider Portal Access Guide which will assist with the step-by-step process of working in the ABCMS Portal, accessing your Pay Codes, helping your staff complete their Connecting Applications, and eventually “hiring” staff to your roster. The Provider Portal Access Guide also includes contact information for additional assistance. If you are still having difficulties working through this process, consider completing the ABCMS Provider Portal Training on Moodle again and ensure that you are using the correct Business NCID to access the ABCMS Provider Portal and Individual NCID to access your own ABCMS Applicant Portal. Staff Worksheets – We reviewed your staff worksheet. I highlighted items that were delinquent and items that are coming due in the next year. * On-going Training Hours – Review Row 18 (# hours to carry over) on the Staff Worksheets to determine how many on-going training hours returning staff will need by 3/11/26 (anniversary of last Annual Compliance visit). If they have not completed the required number of on-going training hours, they have until 3/11/26 to complete them and I will check at the next monitoring visit. Emergency Preparedness – Your Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan along with your Ready-to-Go File, Emergency Medical Care Plan (EMCP) and consistent practice of Fire and Emergency Drills are your center’s foundation for emergency preparedness. *Review your EPR Plan at least annually in the NC Risk Management Portal and update, if needed. Print updated plan or updated cover sheet and page 28. (Per your request I will email instructions on how to update your EPR Plan. *At the same time, review and update your Emergency Medical Care Plan, if needed. *Ensure your Ready-to-Go File is current and includes the following: a copy of the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, child's Application for Child Care (includes health & emergency information, contacts, authorization to seek emergency medical 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. *EPR Plan – last updated in Portal 2/2025– update by 2/2026 *Emergency Medical Care Plan – updated today Nutrition – Staff are required to model healthy eating habits when consuming food and beverages in front of children. Cans or bottles of soda pop (or cups from fast food restaurants) may not be visible in the classroom or in front of children. Staff may use opaque cups, if needed. Consultation: Food Service – Take a hard look at your food service. You are currently doing a hybrid of parent-provided group snack in the morning, lunches from home, and center-provided snack. Parents complete Opt-out forms; however, if they are completing these, you should not be providing food on a regular basis. Consider only providing Opt-out forms for the parents who want to provide all food for their children. Have supplemental food available when food brought from home does not meet nutritional requirements. Additional Comments: Keep Your NCID Active - Did you know that if you do not login on to any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. *Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you, your staff and your household members (CLIAR only) every 6 months to log in and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. *For assistance with NCID, contact ncid.nc.gov or 919.754.6000. Sex Offender Registry and Notification Email - North Carolina General Statute 14-208 requires sex offenders to register with the North Carolina Department of Justice. The law states that a sex offender shall not knowingly reside within 1,000 feet of the property on which any public or nonpublic school or child care center is located. This does not apply to child care centers that are located on or within 1,000 feet of property of an institution of higher education where the registrant is a student or is employed. All licensed child care centers must register to receive e-mail notification when a registered sex offender moves within a one-mile radius of the center. (§14-208.19) To register for the e-mail notification, go to http://sexoffender.ncsbi.gov. If you have any questions, please contact your local sheriff's department. QRIS (Quality Rating Improvement System) Technical Assistance: Pathway 2: Classroom and Instructional Quality During a Technical Assistance visit on 11/19/2026, you elected to complete Pathway 2. Your rated license assessment is currently due by 12/31/2026, but your requested timeline is to complete this by Fall 2026. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me, Marjorie White, by phone at (252) 373-9385 or by e-mail at Marjorie.White@dhhs.nc.gov, or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, at (252) 373-4199 or Jennifer.Linhardt@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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

GS110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: HERON POND MONTESSORI SCHOOL Facility ID: 28000093 Consultant: MARJORIE WHITE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/23/2026 Number Present: 27 Completed Date: 2/23/2026 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 04:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced * The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit and review your progress towards making your application for your rated license assessment under the new QRIS rules in Section .3200. Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, accompanied me on today's visit. M. McDaniel, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 8/17/2022, earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space) and 1 quality point for staff benefits and enhanced parent involvement. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 3/11/25. The sanitation inspection was completed 12/3/25 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 1/14/25 with a Satisfactory rating and approval for daytime care only; however, it is expired. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-seven percent as of 2/20/2026. This facility is owned by Ackley Education Enterprise, Inc. The corporation was listed as current- active on the NC Secretary of State website. License information was current. We updated the administrator’s work phone number. Contact me to request any changes to your license or contact information. I monitored the classrooms and spaces used for child care and outdoor play areas for applicable child care center requirements using the Child Care Center Requirements, effective 7/1/2025 and Item Numbers Listing, effective 4/2025. I monitored five staff records, three children’s records and all program records. Children were arriving and signing themselves in with their personal codes on the Brightwheel App with the help of their parents. They transitioned to their work cycle, pulling out their mats to the tables or floor and bringing their chosen materials over for learning and playing. The teachers moved throughout the classroom, providing guidance and resources as needed. Because of the cold temperatures, they did some group exercising and yoga movements. Lunches are brought from home, but today the center staff served a chicken nugget lunch to parents who had signed up. Children washed their hands upon arrival and before and after eating. After lunch children rested on linen-covered mats. Lunch was observed and those provided by the center consisted of chicken nuggets, carrots, grapes or blueberries, oat cereal rings and milk. I observed and documented the following violations during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. Documentation of a current fire inspection was not available. The most recent fire inspection was completed on January 14, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 107 The center did not comply with the permit restrictions. A permit restriction listed on the license states, "No cooking". Staff prepared chicken nuggets for the children using an air fryer. GS 110-91; GS 110-106 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. A refrigerator thermometer was not available in a refrigerator used to served food and milk consumed by children. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. Documentation of a monthly fire inspection was not available for January 2026. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. The prescription box was not available for an Albuterol inhaler. The box and packaging was not available for Children’s Tylenol. .0803(2)(a) 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. A medication permission form for Auvi-Q expired on 1/13/26. A medication permission form for an epinephrine pen expired on 6/1/25. A medication permission form for Albuterol expired on 12/3/25. A medication permission for Albuterol expired on 9/13/25, and the Albuterol expired on August 2025. Medications were not returned to the families. .0803(12) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). The owner was due to complete her five-year criminal background check by August 21, 2025 but did not complete it until August 27, 2025. A teacher was required to complete her five-year criminal background check by February 22, 2026 but had not completed it. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. In one of three children's files reviewed, a current child's medical report or health assessment was not available for a child enrolled on October, 13, 2025. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. In one of three children's files reviewed, a current immunization record was not available for a child enrolled on October, 13, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A current qualification letter was not available for a teacher. The qualification letter on file expired on February 22, 2026. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1791 The child care provider did not provide the required beverage(s). The center served whole milk at lunch. .0901(e)(1-7) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. A medical action plan was not available in three files for children using an Auvi-Q, an epinephrine pen, and an albuterol inhaler. .0801(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. A teacher hired on February 17, 2025 did not complete medication administration. .1102(a) * Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 3/9/26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Marjorie White, Child Care Consultant PO Box 116 Aydlett, NC 27916 Email – marjorie.white@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE which serves as your signature, hpmschool@gmail.com, and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 A violation was documented that requires a follow-up visit. An unannounced visit will be made soon to verify correction. You are still required to send a compliance letter. Technical Assistance With Documented Violations: #106: Annual Fire Inspection – Annual fire inspections ensure that the building meets fire codes and that your fire detection and alarm systems are operating correctly in the event of a fire. The fire inspector completed a fire inspection on 1/14/25; a new fire inspection has not been completed. The administrator stated that the owner normally schedules the fire inspection, and she was not aware that it had not been scheduled. You immediately contacted the fire inspector to request a new fire inspection. For your compliance letter, state the date the fire inspection is completed and include a copy of the new fire inspection form. #107: Permit Restrictions – Restrictions on the permit are added to ensure the health and safety of children. When licensed, Environmental Health included a “No Cooking” restriction because your kitchen is not fully set up with a ventilation system to allow for cooking, and it was shared that families would provide lunches. Today, I observed teachers using an air fryer to cook chicken nuggets for the children. You stated that Monday is chicken nugget day, and parents can sign up for their child to be served lunch by the center which includes chicken nuggets, carrots, oat cereal rings, and milk. You added blueberries or grapes to include a fruit component. You were not aware that you could not prepare chicken nuggets for the children. You stated that you will stop cooking and serving chicken nuggets for children. #601: Refrigerator Thermometer – A thermometer ensures that refrigerators are maintaining cold temperatures for the safe storage of food and beverages, including milk, formula, and human milk in order to prevent food borne illness. There was not a thermometer in the kitchen refrigerator which is used to store food and beverages served to children. You were not sure where it went but will purchase one. Remind staff to check their thermometers to ensure that they maintain a temperature of 45 degrees or colder. (Forty-one degrees is preferred by Environmental Health.) For your compliance letter, state the date you put a new thermometer in the refrigerator. #805: Fire Drills - Practicing and documenting fire drills monthly and lock-down or shelter-in-place drills quarterly is critical to teaching and reminding staff and children the procedures for evacuating the building safely in case of a fire or staying safe inside in the event of an intruder or tornado. Documentation of a fire drill was not completed for January 2026. You stated that you thought you had to either complete a fire drill or an emergency drill monthly. I shared that fire drills are required monthly and either a lock-down or a shelter-in-place drill is required every three months. It is a good idea to practice fire and emergency drills at different times during the day including meal time and nap time. For your compliance letter, state the date you complete a February fire drill and include a copy of your updated fire and emergency drill log. #844: Prescription Medication – To verify that prescription medication supplied to you from parents is for the child using the medication, the parent needs to provide the medication in the original container or box with the prescription attached. Over-the-Counter medication also needs to be accompanied by the original packaging so that you have all information and instructions related to the OTC medication. The prescription box was not available for an Albuterol inhaler used by QC. (This medication has expired.) The box and packaging was not available for Children’s Tylenol used by ET. You were not aware that this is required. Return these medications to the parents and ask them to provide you with the prescription box or original OTC medication box. For your compliance letter, state the date when the prescription box is available for the inhaler and the box and instructions are available for the Children’s Tylenol. #849: Expired Medication/Medication Permission Forms – Not having current authorization to administer medication or unexpired medication could create medical or liability issues if there are changes to the child’s medication, dosage, or instructions for administration or the potency of the expired medication is not at the level needed to treat the condition. A medication permission form for Auvi-Q used by MA expired on 1/13/26. A medication permission form for an epinephrine pen used by EM expired on 6/1/25. A medication permission form for Albuterol used by MA expired on 12/3/25. A medication permission for Albuterol used by QC expired on 9/13/25, and the Albuterol expired on August 2025. Medication permission forms were not updated, and the medications were not returned to the families to be taken home. You stated that you trusted the parents to provide the correct information on the medication permission forms. Either return the medications to the parent or have the parent review and update the medication permission form or complete a new form if any of the instructions have changed. Medications can be authorized for the following time frames: 12 months – topical non-prescription, non-medication creams and lotions like sunscreen or hand lotion (February 23, 2026 – February 23, 2027) 6 months – medications for chronic illness or emergency medications like Epi-pens, inhalers, anti-seizure medication, Benadryl (must be locked) 30 days – medications for acute issues like tooth pain like Children’s Tylenol For your compliance letter, state the date when the Auvi-Q, epinephrine pen, and two Albuterol inhalers (one expired) are returned to the parent or an updated medication administration form is on file. #1044 and #1757: Criminal Background Check (CBC) – Criminal Background Checks ensure that staff have not committed any crimes which could potentially make them unsafe to be around children and other staff. Because Abuse and Neglect registries are also checked, it helps to ensure that children are protected from physical, mental, and sexual abuse. Performing diligent background screenings also protects the child care facility against future legal challenges. S. Ackley, Owner/Authorized Individual, was due to complete her five-year criminal background check renewal by 8/21/25 but did not complete it until 8/27/25. A current qualifying letter was available. This has been corrected. Dawn Latonick, Teacher, was due to complete her five-year CBC by 2/22/2026 but did not start the application process until 2/20/2026 so the criminal background check was not completed by 2/22/2026. A current qualifying letter was not available. Ms. Latonick needs to complete her on-line application and fingerprints immediately. She needs to provide you with a current qualifying letter by 3/10/2026. If not received, Ms. Latonick may no longer be on the premises. For your compliance letter, state the date when Ms. Latonick completes her on-line application and fingerprints. Include a copy of her qualifying letter with your compliance letter. Note that repeated violations related to criminal background checks will result in an administrative action. #1321 and #1323: Children’s Medical Report and Immunizations – Having knowledge of a child’s health history and immunizations provides you with the information needed to offer a safe, healthy environment for both the child and the other children in your care. In one of three children’s files reviewed, a child’s medical report completed by the child’s physician and documentation of immunizations for a child (EM) enrolled on 10/13/25 were not available. You stated that you have been requesting these documents since enrollment. Inform the child’s parent/guardian that the medical report and immunizations are required and if not received by 3/9/26, the child may no longer attend. Use Children’s File Checklist to verify you have received all required enrollment documents. For your compliance letter, state the date you have received a copy of EM’s Medical Report (or a copy of a current health assessment no more than 12 months old) and a current copy of immunizations. Do not send copies of these health documents. *Documentation of immunizations are due for BC (enrolled 2/9/26) by 3/9/26. #1791: Beverages – Serving beverages that are healthy for children are important for physical and cognitive development. The center served whole milk at lunch instead of skim or 1% milk. The administrator stated that parents who bring in the snack of the day also provide the milk offered at lunch time. She was not aware that whole milk was not allowed and will inform parents to provide skim or 1% milk moving forward. For your compliance letter, state the date when you inform the parents to provide the lower fat milk. #1834: Medical Action Plan – The Medical Action Plan signed by either the parent and/or the physician accompanies any medication and medication permission form used by children with emergency medical conditions. MAPs provide additional information for the administration of the emergency medications. A medical action plan was not available for an Auvi-Q used by MA, an epinephrine pen used by EM, and an Albuterol inhaler used by QC. You were not aware that the parent needed to provide the medical action plan. A copy of the medical action plan needs to be included with the child’s application in the child’s file and in the Ready-to-Go file. It is also a good idea to have a copy available with the child’s medication. Medical Action Plans need to be updated annually. For your compliance letter, state the date when parents provide you with a medical action plan for the medications listed. #1898 Health & Safety Training – Health & Safety (H&S) Training includes training in 9 topic areas plus Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment and CPR/First Aid. These topic areas provide a foundation for maintaining a safe and healthy environment for children and staff. M. McDaniel as hired on 2/17/25 and had completed all H&S modules except for Medication Administration. New staff are required to complete H&S Training within one year of hire (CPR/First Aid and Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment within 3 months of hire) and then complete training in all topic areas every five years. M. McDaniel needs to complete Medication Administration by 3/9/25. Send a copy of the medication administration certificate for MM with the compliance letter. *E. Ginn was hired on 2/24/25 and needs to complete H&S modules by 2/24/26. Resources: As a licensed child care facility, it is your responsibility to be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and to teach your staff the rules to ensure your center remains in compliance. The following resources are available to you: 1. DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov – current laws and rules regarding child care facilities in North Carolina, “What’s New” tab, Items Number Listing which you can use as a checklist for your program. 2. Raise NC Newsletter – weekly newsletter emailed to facility email including relevant information from the Division, training opportunities, grants, and more. You can sign up to receive Raise NC on the What’s New tab. 3. NC Health & Safety Resource Center publishes a quarterly newsletter which provides topical information on a variety of health and safety topics. If you are not receiving these emails and newsletters, then please go to https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/resources/nc-child-care-health-and-safety-e-news/ and click on ‘Newsletter Signup’ to join their mailing list. The Winter 2026 edition, “Ready, Set, Action!” includes articles on the emergency medical care plan and responding to infant/toddler emergencies. 4. Your local Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies and Child Care Health Consultants. * Children & Youth Partnership for Dare County: Phone - (252) 441-0614; website - www.darekids.org. *Albemarle Alliance for Children and Families (AACF) and Region 1 Child Care Resource and Referral: Phone – (252) 333-1233; website - www.aacfnc.org . *Healthy Behaviors Specialist: P. White – Phone (252) 333-1233; pam@aacfnc.org *The North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP), www.ncrlap.org , has resources to help you and your staff prepare for the third editions of the Environment Rating Scales (ECERS-3 and ITERS-3). Visit the website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, self-assessments and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. At this time the SACERS-U will continue to be the program assessment tool for school-age programs and classrooms. *Southwestern Child Development Commission, www.swcdcinc.org, Child Care Resources Inc., https://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/ and Early Years, https://www.earlyyearsnc.org/ offer DCDEE approved, on-line, self-paced and virtual real-time training and CEUs. SWCDC also offers affordable annual packages allowing you to take as many courses as you need or want for one price. The Natural Learning Initiative (https://naturalearning.org/) offers a variety of resources such as training, YouTube videos, handouts, etc. to help you add natural elements to your outdoor play spaces to promote time outdoors. Check out the NLI Resource Hub including Design Sites, Infosheets, The Green Desk, Interactive Apps and more! Your children and your teachers will want to go outdoors again! Reminders: Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website reflects the following information about your center’s required three-year water testing and one-time lead paint testing, and asbestos testing: Three-year Water Testing – 6/26/25 due again 6/26/28 Lead Paint Testing – Survey Review by RTI pending Asbestos Testing - Enrollment started *The Clean Water for Carolina Kids website still reflects that you have started enrollment but are not in the survey review phase of the project. Complete enrollment and upload documentation such as property tax records to verify date building was built. This needs to be done as soon as possible. Maintain any paperwork received by mail or email in your Program Records file. *For more information check out the FAQ page at https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. Go to the Contact Us tab if you need assistance or have questions. ABCMS Portal - You have completed the ABCMS Provider Portal Training and are now authorized to log in the ABCMS Provider Portal https://ncabcms.nc.gov/DCDEE/ using your Business NCID. You have not connected your staff and created your roster. I am emailing the ABCMS Provider Portal Access Guide which will assist with the step-by-step process of working in the ABCMS Portal, accessing your Pay Codes, helping your staff complete their Connecting Applications, and eventually “hiring” staff to your roster. The Provider Portal Access Guide also includes contact information for additional assistance. If you are still having difficulties working through this process, consider completing the ABCMS Provider Portal Training on Moodle again and ensure that you are using the correct Business NCID to access the ABCMS Provider Portal and Individual NCID to access your own ABCMS Applicant Portal. Staff Worksheets – We reviewed your staff worksheet. I highlighted items that were delinquent and items that are coming due in the next year. * On-going Training Hours – Review Row 18 (# hours to carry over) on the Staff Worksheets to determine how many on-going training hours returning staff will need by 3/11/26 (anniversary of last Annual Compliance visit). If they have not completed the required number of on-going training hours, they have until 3/11/26 to complete them and I will check at the next monitoring visit. Emergency Preparedness – Your Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan along with your Ready-to-Go File, Emergency Medical Care Plan (EMCP) and consistent practice of Fire and Emergency Drills are your center’s foundation for emergency preparedness. *Review your EPR Plan at least annually in the NC Risk Management Portal and update, if needed. Print updated plan or updated cover sheet and page 28. (Per your request I will email instructions on how to update your EPR Plan. *At the same time, review and update your Emergency Medical Care Plan, if needed. *Ensure your Ready-to-Go File is current and includes the following: a copy of the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, child's Application for Child Care (includes health & emergency information, contacts, authorization to seek emergency medical 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. *EPR Plan – last updated in Portal 2/2025– update by 2/2026 *Emergency Medical Care Plan – updated today Nutrition – Staff are required to model healthy eating habits when consuming food and beverages in front of children. Cans or bottles of soda pop (or cups from fast food restaurants) may not be visible in the classroom or in front of children. Staff may use opaque cups, if needed. Consultation: Food Service – Take a hard look at your food service. You are currently doing a hybrid of parent-provided group snack in the morning, lunches from home, and center-provided snack. Parents complete Opt-out forms; however, if they are completing these, you should not be providing food on a regular basis. Consider only providing Opt-out forms for the parents who want to provide all food for their children. Have supplemental food available when food brought from home does not meet nutritional requirements. Additional Comments: Keep Your NCID Active - Did you know that if you do not login on to any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. *Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you, your staff and your household members (CLIAR only) every 6 months to log in and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. *For assistance with NCID, contact ncid.nc.gov or 919.754.6000. Sex Offender Registry and Notification Email - North Carolina General Statute 14-208 requires sex offenders to register with the North Carolina Department of Justice. The law states that a sex offender shall not knowingly reside within 1,000 feet of the property on which any public or nonpublic school or child care center is located. This does not apply to child care centers that are located on or within 1,000 feet of property of an institution of higher education where the registrant is a student or is employed. All licensed child care centers must register to receive e-mail notification when a registered sex offender moves within a one-mile radius of the center. (§14-208.19) To register for the e-mail notification, go to http://sexoffender.ncsbi.gov. If you have any questions, please contact your local sheriff's department. QRIS (Quality Rating Improvement System) Technical Assistance: Pathway 2: Classroom and Instructional Quality During a Technical Assistance visit on 11/19/2026, you elected to complete Pathway 2. Your rated license assessment is currently due by 12/31/2026, but your requested timeline is to complete this by Fall 2026. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me, Marjorie White, by phone at (252) 373-9385 or by e-mail at Marjorie.White@dhhs.nc.gov, or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, at (252) 373-4199 or Jennifer.Linhardt@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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: HERON POND MONTESSORI SCHOOL Facility ID: 28000093 Consultant: MARJORIE WHITE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/23/2026 Number Present: 27 Completed Date: 2/23/2026 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 04:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced * The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit and review your progress towards making your application for your rated license assessment under the new QRIS rules in Section .3200. Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, accompanied me on today's visit. M. McDaniel, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 8/17/2022, earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space) and 1 quality point for staff benefits and enhanced parent involvement. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 3/11/25. The sanitation inspection was completed 12/3/25 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 1/14/25 with a Satisfactory rating and approval for daytime care only; however, it is expired. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-seven percent as of 2/20/2026. This facility is owned by Ackley Education Enterprise, Inc. The corporation was listed as current- active on the NC Secretary of State website. License information was current. We updated the administrator’s work phone number. Contact me to request any changes to your license or contact information. I monitored the classrooms and spaces used for child care and outdoor play areas for applicable child care center requirements using the Child Care Center Requirements, effective 7/1/2025 and Item Numbers Listing, effective 4/2025. I monitored five staff records, three children’s records and all program records. Children were arriving and signing themselves in with their personal codes on the Brightwheel App with the help of their parents. They transitioned to their work cycle, pulling out their mats to the tables or floor and bringing their chosen materials over for learning and playing. The teachers moved throughout the classroom, providing guidance and resources as needed. Because of the cold temperatures, they did some group exercising and yoga movements. Lunches are brought from home, but today the center staff served a chicken nugget lunch to parents who had signed up. Children washed their hands upon arrival and before and after eating. After lunch children rested on linen-covered mats. Lunch was observed and those provided by the center consisted of chicken nuggets, carrots, grapes or blueberries, oat cereal rings and milk. I observed and documented the following violations during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. Documentation of a current fire inspection was not available. The most recent fire inspection was completed on January 14, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 107 The center did not comply with the permit restrictions. A permit restriction listed on the license states, "No cooking". Staff prepared chicken nuggets for the children using an air fryer. GS 110-91; GS 110-106 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. A refrigerator thermometer was not available in a refrigerator used to served food and milk consumed by children. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. Documentation of a monthly fire inspection was not available for January 2026. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. The prescription box was not available for an Albuterol inhaler. The box and packaging was not available for Children’s Tylenol. .0803(2)(a) 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. A medication permission form for Auvi-Q expired on 1/13/26. A medication permission form for an epinephrine pen expired on 6/1/25. A medication permission form for Albuterol expired on 12/3/25. A medication permission for Albuterol expired on 9/13/25, and the Albuterol expired on August 2025. Medications were not returned to the families. .0803(12) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). The owner was due to complete her five-year criminal background check by August 21, 2025 but did not complete it until August 27, 2025. A teacher was required to complete her five-year criminal background check by February 22, 2026 but had not completed it. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. In one of three children's files reviewed, a current child's medical report or health assessment was not available for a child enrolled on October, 13, 2025. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. In one of three children's files reviewed, a current immunization record was not available for a child enrolled on October, 13, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A current qualification letter was not available for a teacher. The qualification letter on file expired on February 22, 2026. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1791 The child care provider did not provide the required beverage(s). The center served whole milk at lunch. .0901(e)(1-7) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. A medical action plan was not available in three files for children using an Auvi-Q, an epinephrine pen, and an albuterol inhaler. .0801(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. A teacher hired on February 17, 2025 did not complete medication administration. .1102(a) * Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 3/9/26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Marjorie White, Child Care Consultant PO Box 116 Aydlett, NC 27916 Email – marjorie.white@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE which serves as your signature, hpmschool@gmail.com, and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 A violation was documented that requires a follow-up visit. An unannounced visit will be made soon to verify correction. You are still required to send a compliance letter. Technical Assistance With Documented Violations: #106: Annual Fire Inspection – Annual fire inspections ensure that the building meets fire codes and that your fire detection and alarm systems are operating correctly in the event of a fire. The fire inspector completed a fire inspection on 1/14/25; a new fire inspection has not been completed. The administrator stated that the owner normally schedules the fire inspection, and she was not aware that it had not been scheduled. You immediately contacted the fire inspector to request a new fire inspection. For your compliance letter, state the date the fire inspection is completed and include a copy of the new fire inspection form. #107: Permit Restrictions – Restrictions on the permit are added to ensure the health and safety of children. When licensed, Environmental Health included a “No Cooking” restriction because your kitchen is not fully set up with a ventilation system to allow for cooking, and it was shared that families would provide lunches. Today, I observed teachers using an air fryer to cook chicken nuggets for the children. You stated that Monday is chicken nugget day, and parents can sign up for their child to be served lunch by the center which includes chicken nuggets, carrots, oat cereal rings, and milk. You added blueberries or grapes to include a fruit component. You were not aware that you could not prepare chicken nuggets for the children. You stated that you will stop cooking and serving chicken nuggets for children. #601: Refrigerator Thermometer – A thermometer ensures that refrigerators are maintaining cold temperatures for the safe storage of food and beverages, including milk, formula, and human milk in order to prevent food borne illness. There was not a thermometer in the kitchen refrigerator which is used to store food and beverages served to children. You were not sure where it went but will purchase one. Remind staff to check their thermometers to ensure that they maintain a temperature of 45 degrees or colder. (Forty-one degrees is preferred by Environmental Health.) For your compliance letter, state the date you put a new thermometer in the refrigerator. #805: Fire Drills - Practicing and documenting fire drills monthly and lock-down or shelter-in-place drills quarterly is critical to teaching and reminding staff and children the procedures for evacuating the building safely in case of a fire or staying safe inside in the event of an intruder or tornado. Documentation of a fire drill was not completed for January 2026. You stated that you thought you had to either complete a fire drill or an emergency drill monthly. I shared that fire drills are required monthly and either a lock-down or a shelter-in-place drill is required every three months. It is a good idea to practice fire and emergency drills at different times during the day including meal time and nap time. For your compliance letter, state the date you complete a February fire drill and include a copy of your updated fire and emergency drill log. #844: Prescription Medication – To verify that prescription medication supplied to you from parents is for the child using the medication, the parent needs to provide the medication in the original container or box with the prescription attached. Over-the-Counter medication also needs to be accompanied by the original packaging so that you have all information and instructions related to the OTC medication. The prescription box was not available for an Albuterol inhaler used by QC. (This medication has expired.) The box and packaging was not available for Children’s Tylenol used by ET. You were not aware that this is required. Return these medications to the parents and ask them to provide you with the prescription box or original OTC medication box. For your compliance letter, state the date when the prescription box is available for the inhaler and the box and instructions are available for the Children’s Tylenol. #849: Expired Medication/Medication Permission Forms – Not having current authorization to administer medication or unexpired medication could create medical or liability issues if there are changes to the child’s medication, dosage, or instructions for administration or the potency of the expired medication is not at the level needed to treat the condition. A medication permission form for Auvi-Q used by MA expired on 1/13/26. A medication permission form for an epinephrine pen used by EM expired on 6/1/25. A medication permission form for Albuterol used by MA expired on 12/3/25. A medication permission for Albuterol used by QC expired on 9/13/25, and the Albuterol expired on August 2025. Medication permission forms were not updated, and the medications were not returned to the families to be taken home. You stated that you trusted the parents to provide the correct information on the medication permission forms. Either return the medications to the parent or have the parent review and update the medication permission form or complete a new form if any of the instructions have changed. Medications can be authorized for the following time frames: 12 months – topical non-prescription, non-medication creams and lotions like sunscreen or hand lotion (February 23, 2026 – February 23, 2027) 6 months – medications for chronic illness or emergency medications like Epi-pens, inhalers, anti-seizure medication, Benadryl (must be locked) 30 days – medications for acute issues like tooth pain like Children’s Tylenol For your compliance letter, state the date when the Auvi-Q, epinephrine pen, and two Albuterol inhalers (one expired) are returned to the parent or an updated medication administration form is on file. #1044 and #1757: Criminal Background Check (CBC) – Criminal Background Checks ensure that staff have not committed any crimes which could potentially make them unsafe to be around children and other staff. Because Abuse and Neglect registries are also checked, it helps to ensure that children are protected from physical, mental, and sexual abuse. Performing diligent background screenings also protects the child care facility against future legal challenges. S. Ackley, Owner/Authorized Individual, was due to complete her five-year criminal background check renewal by 8/21/25 but did not complete it until 8/27/25. A current qualifying letter was available. This has been corrected. Dawn Latonick, Teacher, was due to complete her five-year CBC by 2/22/2026 but did not start the application process until 2/20/2026 so the criminal background check was not completed by 2/22/2026. A current qualifying letter was not available. Ms. Latonick needs to complete her on-line application and fingerprints immediately. She needs to provide you with a current qualifying letter by 3/10/2026. If not received, Ms. Latonick may no longer be on the premises. For your compliance letter, state the date when Ms. Latonick completes her on-line application and fingerprints. Include a copy of her qualifying letter with your compliance letter. Note that repeated violations related to criminal background checks will result in an administrative action. #1321 and #1323: Children’s Medical Report and Immunizations – Having knowledge of a child’s health history and immunizations provides you with the information needed to offer a safe, healthy environment for both the child and the other children in your care. In one of three children’s files reviewed, a child’s medical report completed by the child’s physician and documentation of immunizations for a child (EM) enrolled on 10/13/25 were not available. You stated that you have been requesting these documents since enrollment. Inform the child’s parent/guardian that the medical report and immunizations are required and if not received by 3/9/26, the child may no longer attend. Use Children’s File Checklist to verify you have received all required enrollment documents. For your compliance letter, state the date you have received a copy of EM’s Medical Report (or a copy of a current health assessment no more than 12 months old) and a current copy of immunizations. Do not send copies of these health documents. *Documentation of immunizations are due for BC (enrolled 2/9/26) by 3/9/26. #1791: Beverages – Serving beverages that are healthy for children are important for physical and cognitive development. The center served whole milk at lunch instead of skim or 1% milk. The administrator stated that parents who bring in the snack of the day also provide the milk offered at lunch time. She was not aware that whole milk was not allowed and will inform parents to provide skim or 1% milk moving forward. For your compliance letter, state the date when you inform the parents to provide the lower fat milk. #1834: Medical Action Plan – The Medical Action Plan signed by either the parent and/or the physician accompanies any medication and medication permission form used by children with emergency medical conditions. MAPs provide additional information for the administration of the emergency medications. A medical action plan was not available for an Auvi-Q used by MA, an epinephrine pen used by EM, and an Albuterol inhaler used by QC. You were not aware that the parent needed to provide the medical action plan. A copy of the medical action plan needs to be included with the child’s application in the child’s file and in the Ready-to-Go file. It is also a good idea to have a copy available with the child’s medication. Medical Action Plans need to be updated annually. For your compliance letter, state the date when parents provide you with a medical action plan for the medications listed. #1898 Health & Safety Training – Health & Safety (H&S) Training includes training in 9 topic areas plus Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment and CPR/First Aid. These topic areas provide a foundation for maintaining a safe and healthy environment for children and staff. M. McDaniel as hired on 2/17/25 and had completed all H&S modules except for Medication Administration. New staff are required to complete H&S Training within one year of hire (CPR/First Aid and Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment within 3 months of hire) and then complete training in all topic areas every five years. M. McDaniel needs to complete Medication Administration by 3/9/25. Send a copy of the medication administration certificate for MM with the compliance letter. *E. Ginn was hired on 2/24/25 and needs to complete H&S modules by 2/24/26. Resources: As a licensed child care facility, it is your responsibility to be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and to teach your staff the rules to ensure your center remains in compliance. The following resources are available to you: 1. DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov – current laws and rules regarding child care facilities in North Carolina, “What’s New” tab, Items Number Listing which you can use as a checklist for your program. 2. Raise NC Newsletter – weekly newsletter emailed to facility email including relevant information from the Division, training opportunities, grants, and more. You can sign up to receive Raise NC on the What’s New tab. 3. NC Health & Safety Resource Center publishes a quarterly newsletter which provides topical information on a variety of health and safety topics. If you are not receiving these emails and newsletters, then please go to https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/resources/nc-child-care-health-and-safety-e-news/ and click on ‘Newsletter Signup’ to join their mailing list. The Winter 2026 edition, “Ready, Set, Action!” includes articles on the emergency medical care plan and responding to infant/toddler emergencies. 4. Your local Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies and Child Care Health Consultants. * Children & Youth Partnership for Dare County: Phone - (252) 441-0614; website - www.darekids.org. *Albemarle Alliance for Children and Families (AACF) and Region 1 Child Care Resource and Referral: Phone – (252) 333-1233; website - www.aacfnc.org . *Healthy Behaviors Specialist: P. White – Phone (252) 333-1233; pam@aacfnc.org *The North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP), www.ncrlap.org , has resources to help you and your staff prepare for the third editions of the Environment Rating Scales (ECERS-3 and ITERS-3). Visit the website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, self-assessments and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. At this time the SACERS-U will continue to be the program assessment tool for school-age programs and classrooms. *Southwestern Child Development Commission, www.swcdcinc.org, Child Care Resources Inc., https://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/ and Early Years, https://www.earlyyearsnc.org/ offer DCDEE approved, on-line, self-paced and virtual real-time training and CEUs. SWCDC also offers affordable annual packages allowing you to take as many courses as you need or want for one price. The Natural Learning Initiative (https://naturalearning.org/) offers a variety of resources such as training, YouTube videos, handouts, etc. to help you add natural elements to your outdoor play spaces to promote time outdoors. Check out the NLI Resource Hub including Design Sites, Infosheets, The Green Desk, Interactive Apps and more! Your children and your teachers will want to go outdoors again! Reminders: Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website reflects the following information about your center’s required three-year water testing and one-time lead paint testing, and asbestos testing: Three-year Water Testing – 6/26/25 due again 6/26/28 Lead Paint Testing – Survey Review by RTI pending Asbestos Testing - Enrollment started *The Clean Water for Carolina Kids website still reflects that you have started enrollment but are not in the survey review phase of the project. Complete enrollment and upload documentation such as property tax records to verify date building was built. This needs to be done as soon as possible. Maintain any paperwork received by mail or email in your Program Records file. *For more information check out the FAQ page at https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. Go to the Contact Us tab if you need assistance or have questions. ABCMS Portal - You have completed the ABCMS Provider Portal Training and are now authorized to log in the ABCMS Provider Portal https://ncabcms.nc.gov/DCDEE/ using your Business NCID. You have not connected your staff and created your roster. I am emailing the ABCMS Provider Portal Access Guide which will assist with the step-by-step process of working in the ABCMS Portal, accessing your Pay Codes, helping your staff complete their Connecting Applications, and eventually “hiring” staff to your roster. The Provider Portal Access Guide also includes contact information for additional assistance. If you are still having difficulties working through this process, consider completing the ABCMS Provider Portal Training on Moodle again and ensure that you are using the correct Business NCID to access the ABCMS Provider Portal and Individual NCID to access your own ABCMS Applicant Portal. Staff Worksheets – We reviewed your staff worksheet. I highlighted items that were delinquent and items that are coming due in the next year. * On-going Training Hours – Review Row 18 (# hours to carry over) on the Staff Worksheets to determine how many on-going training hours returning staff will need by 3/11/26 (anniversary of last Annual Compliance visit). If they have not completed the required number of on-going training hours, they have until 3/11/26 to complete them and I will check at the next monitoring visit. Emergency Preparedness – Your Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan along with your Ready-to-Go File, Emergency Medical Care Plan (EMCP) and consistent practice of Fire and Emergency Drills are your center’s foundation for emergency preparedness. *Review your EPR Plan at least annually in the NC Risk Management Portal and update, if needed. Print updated plan or updated cover sheet and page 28. (Per your request I will email instructions on how to update your EPR Plan. *At the same time, review and update your Emergency Medical Care Plan, if needed. *Ensure your Ready-to-Go File is current and includes the following: a copy of the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, child's Application for Child Care (includes health & emergency information, contacts, authorization to seek emergency medical 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. *EPR Plan – last updated in Portal 2/2025– update by 2/2026 *Emergency Medical Care Plan – updated today Nutrition – Staff are required to model healthy eating habits when consuming food and beverages in front of children. Cans or bottles of soda pop (or cups from fast food restaurants) may not be visible in the classroom or in front of children. Staff may use opaque cups, if needed. Consultation: Food Service – Take a hard look at your food service. You are currently doing a hybrid of parent-provided group snack in the morning, lunches from home, and center-provided snack. Parents complete Opt-out forms; however, if they are completing these, you should not be providing food on a regular basis. Consider only providing Opt-out forms for the parents who want to provide all food for their children. Have supplemental food available when food brought from home does not meet nutritional requirements. Additional Comments: Keep Your NCID Active - Did you know that if you do not login on to any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. *Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you, your staff and your household members (CLIAR only) every 6 months to log in and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. *For assistance with NCID, contact ncid.nc.gov or 919.754.6000. Sex Offender Registry and Notification Email - North Carolina General Statute 14-208 requires sex offenders to register with the North Carolina Department of Justice. The law states that a sex offender shall not knowingly reside within 1,000 feet of the property on which any public or nonpublic school or child care center is located. This does not apply to child care centers that are located on or within 1,000 feet of property of an institution of higher education where the registrant is a student or is employed. All licensed child care centers must register to receive e-mail notification when a registered sex offender moves within a one-mile radius of the center. (§14-208.19) To register for the e-mail notification, go to http://sexoffender.ncsbi.gov. If you have any questions, please contact your local sheriff's department. QRIS (Quality Rating Improvement System) Technical Assistance: Pathway 2: Classroom and Instructional Quality During a Technical Assistance visit on 11/19/2026, you elected to complete Pathway 2. Your rated license assessment is currently due by 12/31/2026, but your requested timeline is to complete this by Fall 2026. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me, Marjorie White, by phone at (252) 373-9385 or by e-mail at Marjorie.White@dhhs.nc.gov, or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, at (252) 373-4199 or Jennifer.Linhardt@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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.