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Home › NC › Leland › Excel Learning Centers #5
111 Thomas Garst Lane, Leland NC 28451 · License #10000297 · Child Care Center
Not published by the state. Owners can add hours via profile claim.
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10A NCAC 09 .0514 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #5 Facility ID: 10000297 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/16/2026 Number Present: 101 Completed Date: 6/16/2026 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 275 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 01:20 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. NC Pre K is out for the summer. C. Pittman, Director, assisted with the visit. The program currently operates with a 5 star license issued February 22, 2022 earning 7 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point in the programmatic option. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on July 8, 2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on September 3, 2025, and the program received a supervisor classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on September 16, 2025, and the program was approved for day time care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety (90) percent as of June 15, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ETOILE LEARNING DEVELOPMENT LLC, was listed as current- active. You visited all licensed spaces with me today. Infants present in spaces 1 had routine care needs met such as rest time/feedings or participated in free play. Toddler aged children in space 6 participated in free play indoors. Preschool aged children in spaces 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, and 9, participated in free play either indoors or outdoors. School aged children in spaces 5 and 10 engaged in free play as well. Age-appropriate materials and activities were observed for all age groups. Routine toileting and handwashing procedures were monitored, and requirements were met. Staff/child ratios were in compliance in all classrooms. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers and children interacted with children. Lunch for today consisted of whole grain wraps, ham, cheese, green beans, applesauce, and milk. Staff and Training Worksheets- There were twenty-five (25) staff members employed at this facility. There were four (4) new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. Health & Safety Training – Three (3) new staff members who have been employed for at least one year, have not completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. New staff are in the process of completing these training courses. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Remember, the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training must be taken at www.preventchildabusenc.org, within the first 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. Bottles in space 1 wee not dated and/or labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The couches in spaces 2 and 6 are torn. The furniture in spaces 2, 3, 6, 7, and 8 are dirty with debris, dust, and/or sticky substances. The kitchen furniture in space 2 is broken. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Diaper cream in space 4 was not returned to the parent or discarded after the course of the treatment. .0803(12) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. Safe sleep checks are not being recorded daily as required. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. A staff member hired January 12, 2026, has not completed orientation. .1101(a)(b) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Eleven (11) staff did not have a current staff development plan and/or annual staff evaluation on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1430 Assistant group leaders were not 16 years of age and/or had not completed Basic School Age Care (BSAC) training. An assistant group leader has not completed BSAC training. .2510(d) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Three (3) staff members who have been employed for more and one year have not completed their Health and Safety Trainings. .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 violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 30, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance: The Staff and Training Worksheet is an administrative tool designed to track and maintain accurate records for all personnel. Utilizing this worksheet as an active, working document is essential for ensuring compliance, timely record submission, and up-to-date documentation. Each employee who is expected to have contact with children shall receive six clock hours of training in required topic areas within the first two weeks of employment and 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. A list of approved orientation topics and a documentation log along with required timelines can be found on the divisions website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ under the provider documents tab. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2805(f) requires that each employee’s personnel file contains an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan. I encourage you to streamline this process by selecting certain months to conduct evaluations and update staff development plans. This will result in easy tracking and ensure that all evaluations and development plans are completed within the yearly timeframe. The frequency of visual checks should be included in your Safe Sleep Policy and followed. Best practice is to check on sleeping infants every 15 minutes. Visual checks must be documented. Various sample sleeping charts are available to you on the DCDEE website, under the “provider documents” tab. Safe sleep checks must be kept for each child and kept on file for a minimum of one month. Safe sleep charts were monitored today for three weeks (May 18-June 5th) and multiple days checks were not completed. I strongly encourage the infant room staff to retake ITS/SIDS and for administration to do daily checks. Maintaining a clean environment for young children is crucial for their health, development, and overall well-being. A clean environment reduces the spread of germs and illnesses, promotes better focus and concentration, and fosters positive social interactions and habits. Reminders: Today required training hours were short for the following staff members. I suggest you give staff a monthly or quarterly goal to help keep them on track and ensure their annual requirement is met. Encourage staff members to reach out to your local Partnership for Children. Staff may also visit the DCDEE website to access several free, online training courses through Moodle using their NCID. The staff below must complete their required training(s) by July 8, 2026, or a violation will be cited at your next monitoring visit. You must email me once all training is completed (prior to 7/8/26). S. Tedder – 8 hours G. Patterson – 12 hours K. Frye – 9 hours D. Kinston – 20 hours A. Brice – 10 hours L. Holloman – 20 hours L. Harrison – 7 hours S. Williams – 2 hours M. Williams – 20 hours N. Raye – 12 hours C. Hawes – 1 hour Grass patches are starting to pop up near the side on the younger preschool playground. As the temperatures are warmer and grass is growing, be mindful and persistent on ensuring grass/weeds are not growing in the fall zones as it diminishes the integrity of the mulch surfacing. You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns or Licensing Supervisor, Kim Sherry at 910-824-0470 or kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Generated from this facility's specific inspection record
Data synced from North Carolina's child care licensing agency on Jul 9, 2026 · Report an error
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0606 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #5 Facility ID: 10000297 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/16/2026 Number Present: 101 Completed Date: 6/16/2026 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 275 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 01:20 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. NC Pre K is out for the summer. C. Pittman, Director, assisted with the visit. The program currently operates with a 5 star license issued February 22, 2022 earning 7 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point in the programmatic option. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on July 8, 2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on September 3, 2025, and the program received a supervisor classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on September 16, 2025, and the program was approved for day time care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety (90) percent as of June 15, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ETOILE LEARNING DEVELOPMENT LLC, was listed as current- active. You visited all licensed spaces with me today. Infants present in spaces 1 had routine care needs met such as rest time/feedings or participated in free play. Toddler aged children in space 6 participated in free play indoors. Preschool aged children in spaces 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, and 9, participated in free play either indoors or outdoors. School aged children in spaces 5 and 10 engaged in free play as well. Age-appropriate materials and activities were observed for all age groups. Routine toileting and handwashing procedures were monitored, and requirements were met. Staff/child ratios were in compliance in all classrooms. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers and children interacted with children. Lunch for today consisted of whole grain wraps, ham, cheese, green beans, applesauce, and milk. Staff and Training Worksheets- There were twenty-five (25) staff members employed at this facility. There were four (4) new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. Health & Safety Training – Three (3) new staff members who have been employed for at least one year, have not completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. New staff are in the process of completing these training courses. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Remember, the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training must be taken at www.preventchildabusenc.org, within the first 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. Bottles in space 1 wee not dated and/or labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The couches in spaces 2 and 6 are torn. The furniture in spaces 2, 3, 6, 7, and 8 are dirty with debris, dust, and/or sticky substances. The kitchen furniture in space 2 is broken. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Diaper cream in space 4 was not returned to the parent or discarded after the course of the treatment. .0803(12) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. Safe sleep checks are not being recorded daily as required. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. A staff member hired January 12, 2026, has not completed orientation. .1101(a)(b) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Eleven (11) staff did not have a current staff development plan and/or annual staff evaluation on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1430 Assistant group leaders were not 16 years of age and/or had not completed Basic School Age Care (BSAC) training. An assistant group leader has not completed BSAC training. .2510(d) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Three (3) staff members who have been employed for more and one year have not completed their Health and Safety Trainings. .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 violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 30, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance: The Staff and Training Worksheet is an administrative tool designed to track and maintain accurate records for all personnel. Utilizing this worksheet as an active, working document is essential for ensuring compliance, timely record submission, and up-to-date documentation. Each employee who is expected to have contact with children shall receive six clock hours of training in required topic areas within the first two weeks of employment and 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. A list of approved orientation topics and a documentation log along with required timelines can be found on the divisions website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ under the provider documents tab. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2805(f) requires that each employee’s personnel file contains an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan. I encourage you to streamline this process by selecting certain months to conduct evaluations and update staff development plans. This will result in easy tracking and ensure that all evaluations and development plans are completed within the yearly timeframe. The frequency of visual checks should be included in your Safe Sleep Policy and followed. Best practice is to check on sleeping infants every 15 minutes. Visual checks must be documented. Various sample sleeping charts are available to you on the DCDEE website, under the “provider documents” tab. Safe sleep checks must be kept for each child and kept on file for a minimum of one month. Safe sleep charts were monitored today for three weeks (May 18-June 5th) and multiple days checks were not completed. I strongly encourage the infant room staff to retake ITS/SIDS and for administration to do daily checks. Maintaining a clean environment for young children is crucial for their health, development, and overall well-being. A clean environment reduces the spread of germs and illnesses, promotes better focus and concentration, and fosters positive social interactions and habits. Reminders: Today required training hours were short for the following staff members. I suggest you give staff a monthly or quarterly goal to help keep them on track and ensure their annual requirement is met. Encourage staff members to reach out to your local Partnership for Children. Staff may also visit the DCDEE website to access several free, online training courses through Moodle using their NCID. The staff below must complete their required training(s) by July 8, 2026, or a violation will be cited at your next monitoring visit. You must email me once all training is completed (prior to 7/8/26). S. Tedder – 8 hours G. Patterson – 12 hours K. Frye – 9 hours D. Kinston – 20 hours A. Brice – 10 hours L. Holloman – 20 hours L. Harrison – 7 hours S. Williams – 2 hours M. Williams – 20 hours N. Raye – 12 hours C. Hawes – 1 hour Grass patches are starting to pop up near the side on the younger preschool playground. As the temperatures are warmer and grass is growing, be mindful and persistent on ensuring grass/weeds are not growing in the fall zones as it diminishes the integrity of the mulch surfacing. You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns or Licensing Supervisor, Kim Sherry at 910-824-0470 or kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #5 Facility ID: 10000297 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/16/2026 Number Present: 101 Completed Date: 6/16/2026 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 275 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 01:20 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. NC Pre K is out for the summer. C. Pittman, Director, assisted with the visit. The program currently operates with a 5 star license issued February 22, 2022 earning 7 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point in the programmatic option. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on July 8, 2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on September 3, 2025, and the program received a supervisor classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on September 16, 2025, and the program was approved for day time care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety (90) percent as of June 15, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ETOILE LEARNING DEVELOPMENT LLC, was listed as current- active. You visited all licensed spaces with me today. Infants present in spaces 1 had routine care needs met such as rest time/feedings or participated in free play. Toddler aged children in space 6 participated in free play indoors. Preschool aged children in spaces 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, and 9, participated in free play either indoors or outdoors. School aged children in spaces 5 and 10 engaged in free play as well. Age-appropriate materials and activities were observed for all age groups. Routine toileting and handwashing procedures were monitored, and requirements were met. Staff/child ratios were in compliance in all classrooms. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers and children interacted with children. Lunch for today consisted of whole grain wraps, ham, cheese, green beans, applesauce, and milk. Staff and Training Worksheets- There were twenty-five (25) staff members employed at this facility. There were four (4) new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. Health & Safety Training – Three (3) new staff members who have been employed for at least one year, have not completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. New staff are in the process of completing these training courses. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Remember, the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training must be taken at www.preventchildabusenc.org, within the first 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. Bottles in space 1 wee not dated and/or labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The couches in spaces 2 and 6 are torn. The furniture in spaces 2, 3, 6, 7, and 8 are dirty with debris, dust, and/or sticky substances. The kitchen furniture in space 2 is broken. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Diaper cream in space 4 was not returned to the parent or discarded after the course of the treatment. .0803(12) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. Safe sleep checks are not being recorded daily as required. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. A staff member hired January 12, 2026, has not completed orientation. .1101(a)(b) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Eleven (11) staff did not have a current staff development plan and/or annual staff evaluation on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1430 Assistant group leaders were not 16 years of age and/or had not completed Basic School Age Care (BSAC) training. An assistant group leader has not completed BSAC training. .2510(d) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Three (3) staff members who have been employed for more and one year have not completed their Health and Safety Trainings. .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 violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 30, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance: The Staff and Training Worksheet is an administrative tool designed to track and maintain accurate records for all personnel. Utilizing this worksheet as an active, working document is essential for ensuring compliance, timely record submission, and up-to-date documentation. Each employee who is expected to have contact with children shall receive six clock hours of training in required topic areas within the first two weeks of employment and 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. A list of approved orientation topics and a documentation log along with required timelines can be found on the divisions website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ under the provider documents tab. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2805(f) requires that each employee’s personnel file contains an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan. I encourage you to streamline this process by selecting certain months to conduct evaluations and update staff development plans. This will result in easy tracking and ensure that all evaluations and development plans are completed within the yearly timeframe. The frequency of visual checks should be included in your Safe Sleep Policy and followed. Best practice is to check on sleeping infants every 15 minutes. Visual checks must be documented. Various sample sleeping charts are available to you on the DCDEE website, under the “provider documents” tab. Safe sleep checks must be kept for each child and kept on file for a minimum of one month. Safe sleep charts were monitored today for three weeks (May 18-June 5th) and multiple days checks were not completed. I strongly encourage the infant room staff to retake ITS/SIDS and for administration to do daily checks. Maintaining a clean environment for young children is crucial for their health, development, and overall well-being. A clean environment reduces the spread of germs and illnesses, promotes better focus and concentration, and fosters positive social interactions and habits. Reminders: Today required training hours were short for the following staff members. I suggest you give staff a monthly or quarterly goal to help keep them on track and ensure their annual requirement is met. Encourage staff members to reach out to your local Partnership for Children. Staff may also visit the DCDEE website to access several free, online training courses through Moodle using their NCID. The staff below must complete their required training(s) by July 8, 2026, or a violation will be cited at your next monitoring visit. You must email me once all training is completed (prior to 7/8/26). S. Tedder – 8 hours G. Patterson – 12 hours K. Frye – 9 hours D. Kinston – 20 hours A. Brice – 10 hours L. Holloman – 20 hours L. Harrison – 7 hours S. Williams – 2 hours M. Williams – 20 hours N. Raye – 12 hours C. Hawes – 1 hour Grass patches are starting to pop up near the side on the younger preschool playground. As the temperatures are warmer and grass is growing, be mindful and persistent on ensuring grass/weeds are not growing in the fall zones as it diminishes the integrity of the mulch surfacing. You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns or Licensing Supervisor, Kim Sherry at 910-824-0470 or kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .2805 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #5 Facility ID: 10000297 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/16/2026 Number Present: 101 Completed Date: 6/16/2026 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 275 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 01:20 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. NC Pre K is out for the summer. C. Pittman, Director, assisted with the visit. The program currently operates with a 5 star license issued February 22, 2022 earning 7 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point in the programmatic option. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on July 8, 2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on September 3, 2025, and the program received a supervisor classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on September 16, 2025, and the program was approved for day time care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety (90) percent as of June 15, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ETOILE LEARNING DEVELOPMENT LLC, was listed as current- active. You visited all licensed spaces with me today. Infants present in spaces 1 had routine care needs met such as rest time/feedings or participated in free play. Toddler aged children in space 6 participated in free play indoors. Preschool aged children in spaces 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, and 9, participated in free play either indoors or outdoors. School aged children in spaces 5 and 10 engaged in free play as well. Age-appropriate materials and activities were observed for all age groups. Routine toileting and handwashing procedures were monitored, and requirements were met. Staff/child ratios were in compliance in all classrooms. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers and children interacted with children. Lunch for today consisted of whole grain wraps, ham, cheese, green beans, applesauce, and milk. Staff and Training Worksheets- There were twenty-five (25) staff members employed at this facility. There were four (4) new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. Health & Safety Training – Three (3) new staff members who have been employed for at least one year, have not completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. New staff are in the process of completing these training courses. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Remember, the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training must be taken at www.preventchildabusenc.org, within the first 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. Bottles in space 1 wee not dated and/or labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The couches in spaces 2 and 6 are torn. The furniture in spaces 2, 3, 6, 7, and 8 are dirty with debris, dust, and/or sticky substances. The kitchen furniture in space 2 is broken. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Diaper cream in space 4 was not returned to the parent or discarded after the course of the treatment. .0803(12) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. Safe sleep checks are not being recorded daily as required. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. A staff member hired January 12, 2026, has not completed orientation. .1101(a)(b) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Eleven (11) staff did not have a current staff development plan and/or annual staff evaluation on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1430 Assistant group leaders were not 16 years of age and/or had not completed Basic School Age Care (BSAC) training. An assistant group leader has not completed BSAC training. .2510(d) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Three (3) staff members who have been employed for more and one year have not completed their Health and Safety Trainings. .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 violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 30, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance: The Staff and Training Worksheet is an administrative tool designed to track and maintain accurate records for all personnel. Utilizing this worksheet as an active, working document is essential for ensuring compliance, timely record submission, and up-to-date documentation. Each employee who is expected to have contact with children shall receive six clock hours of training in required topic areas within the first two weeks of employment and 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. A list of approved orientation topics and a documentation log along with required timelines can be found on the divisions website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ under the provider documents tab. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2805(f) requires that each employee’s personnel file contains an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan. I encourage you to streamline this process by selecting certain months to conduct evaluations and update staff development plans. This will result in easy tracking and ensure that all evaluations and development plans are completed within the yearly timeframe. The frequency of visual checks should be included in your Safe Sleep Policy and followed. Best practice is to check on sleeping infants every 15 minutes. Visual checks must be documented. Various sample sleeping charts are available to you on the DCDEE website, under the “provider documents” tab. Safe sleep checks must be kept for each child and kept on file for a minimum of one month. Safe sleep charts were monitored today for three weeks (May 18-June 5th) and multiple days checks were not completed. I strongly encourage the infant room staff to retake ITS/SIDS and for administration to do daily checks. Maintaining a clean environment for young children is crucial for their health, development, and overall well-being. A clean environment reduces the spread of germs and illnesses, promotes better focus and concentration, and fosters positive social interactions and habits. Reminders: Today required training hours were short for the following staff members. I suggest you give staff a monthly or quarterly goal to help keep them on track and ensure their annual requirement is met. Encourage staff members to reach out to your local Partnership for Children. Staff may also visit the DCDEE website to access several free, online training courses through Moodle using their NCID. The staff below must complete their required training(s) by July 8, 2026, or a violation will be cited at your next monitoring visit. You must email me once all training is completed (prior to 7/8/26). S. Tedder – 8 hours G. Patterson – 12 hours K. Frye – 9 hours D. Kinston – 20 hours A. Brice – 10 hours L. Holloman – 20 hours L. Harrison – 7 hours S. Williams – 2 hours M. Williams – 20 hours N. Raye – 12 hours C. Hawes – 1 hour Grass patches are starting to pop up near the side on the younger preschool playground. As the temperatures are warmer and grass is growing, be mindful and persistent on ensuring grass/weeds are not growing in the fall zones as it diminishes the integrity of the mulch surfacing. You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns or Licensing Supervisor, Kim Sherry at 910-824-0470 or kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
G.S. 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #5 Facility ID: 10000297 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/16/2026 Number Present: 101 Completed Date: 6/16/2026 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 275 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 01:20 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. NC Pre K is out for the summer. C. Pittman, Director, assisted with the visit. The program currently operates with a 5 star license issued February 22, 2022 earning 7 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point in the programmatic option. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on July 8, 2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on September 3, 2025, and the program received a supervisor classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on September 16, 2025, and the program was approved for day time care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety (90) percent as of June 15, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ETOILE LEARNING DEVELOPMENT LLC, was listed as current- active. You visited all licensed spaces with me today. Infants present in spaces 1 had routine care needs met such as rest time/feedings or participated in free play. Toddler aged children in space 6 participated in free play indoors. Preschool aged children in spaces 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, and 9, participated in free play either indoors or outdoors. School aged children in spaces 5 and 10 engaged in free play as well. Age-appropriate materials and activities were observed for all age groups. Routine toileting and handwashing procedures were monitored, and requirements were met. Staff/child ratios were in compliance in all classrooms. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers and children interacted with children. Lunch for today consisted of whole grain wraps, ham, cheese, green beans, applesauce, and milk. Staff and Training Worksheets- There were twenty-five (25) staff members employed at this facility. There were four (4) new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. Health & Safety Training – Three (3) new staff members who have been employed for at least one year, have not completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. New staff are in the process of completing these training courses. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Remember, the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training must be taken at www.preventchildabusenc.org, within the first 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. Bottles in space 1 wee not dated and/or labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The couches in spaces 2 and 6 are torn. The furniture in spaces 2, 3, 6, 7, and 8 are dirty with debris, dust, and/or sticky substances. The kitchen furniture in space 2 is broken. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Diaper cream in space 4 was not returned to the parent or discarded after the course of the treatment. .0803(12) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. Safe sleep checks are not being recorded daily as required. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. A staff member hired January 12, 2026, has not completed orientation. .1101(a)(b) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Eleven (11) staff did not have a current staff development plan and/or annual staff evaluation on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1430 Assistant group leaders were not 16 years of age and/or had not completed Basic School Age Care (BSAC) training. An assistant group leader has not completed BSAC training. .2510(d) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Three (3) staff members who have been employed for more and one year have not completed their Health and Safety Trainings. .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 violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 30, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance: The Staff and Training Worksheet is an administrative tool designed to track and maintain accurate records for all personnel. Utilizing this worksheet as an active, working document is essential for ensuring compliance, timely record submission, and up-to-date documentation. Each employee who is expected to have contact with children shall receive six clock hours of training in required topic areas within the first two weeks of employment and 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. A list of approved orientation topics and a documentation log along with required timelines can be found on the divisions website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ under the provider documents tab. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2805(f) requires that each employee’s personnel file contains an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan. I encourage you to streamline this process by selecting certain months to conduct evaluations and update staff development plans. This will result in easy tracking and ensure that all evaluations and development plans are completed within the yearly timeframe. The frequency of visual checks should be included in your Safe Sleep Policy and followed. Best practice is to check on sleeping infants every 15 minutes. Visual checks must be documented. Various sample sleeping charts are available to you on the DCDEE website, under the “provider documents” tab. Safe sleep checks must be kept for each child and kept on file for a minimum of one month. Safe sleep charts were monitored today for three weeks (May 18-June 5th) and multiple days checks were not completed. I strongly encourage the infant room staff to retake ITS/SIDS and for administration to do daily checks. Maintaining a clean environment for young children is crucial for their health, development, and overall well-being. A clean environment reduces the spread of germs and illnesses, promotes better focus and concentration, and fosters positive social interactions and habits. Reminders: Today required training hours were short for the following staff members. I suggest you give staff a monthly or quarterly goal to help keep them on track and ensure their annual requirement is met. Encourage staff members to reach out to your local Partnership for Children. Staff may also visit the DCDEE website to access several free, online training courses through Moodle using their NCID. The staff below must complete their required training(s) by July 8, 2026, or a violation will be cited at your next monitoring visit. You must email me once all training is completed (prior to 7/8/26). S. Tedder – 8 hours G. Patterson – 12 hours K. Frye – 9 hours D. Kinston – 20 hours A. Brice – 10 hours L. Holloman – 20 hours L. Harrison – 7 hours S. Williams – 2 hours M. Williams – 20 hours N. Raye – 12 hours C. Hawes – 1 hour Grass patches are starting to pop up near the side on the younger preschool playground. As the temperatures are warmer and grass is growing, be mindful and persistent on ensuring grass/weeds are not growing in the fall zones as it diminishes the integrity of the mulch surfacing. You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns or Licensing Supervisor, Kim Sherry at 910-824-0470 or kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #5 Facility ID: 10000297 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/16/2026 Number Present: 101 Completed Date: 6/16/2026 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 275 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 01:20 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. NC Pre K is out for the summer. C. Pittman, Director, assisted with the visit. The program currently operates with a 5 star license issued February 22, 2022 earning 7 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point in the programmatic option. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on July 8, 2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on September 3, 2025, and the program received a supervisor classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on September 16, 2025, and the program was approved for day time care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety (90) percent as of June 15, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ETOILE LEARNING DEVELOPMENT LLC, was listed as current- active. You visited all licensed spaces with me today. Infants present in spaces 1 had routine care needs met such as rest time/feedings or participated in free play. Toddler aged children in space 6 participated in free play indoors. Preschool aged children in spaces 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, and 9, participated in free play either indoors or outdoors. School aged children in spaces 5 and 10 engaged in free play as well. Age-appropriate materials and activities were observed for all age groups. Routine toileting and handwashing procedures were monitored, and requirements were met. Staff/child ratios were in compliance in all classrooms. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers and children interacted with children. Lunch for today consisted of whole grain wraps, ham, cheese, green beans, applesauce, and milk. Staff and Training Worksheets- There were twenty-five (25) staff members employed at this facility. There were four (4) new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. Health & Safety Training – Three (3) new staff members who have been employed for at least one year, have not completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. New staff are in the process of completing these training courses. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Remember, the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training must be taken at www.preventchildabusenc.org, within the first 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. Bottles in space 1 wee not dated and/or labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The couches in spaces 2 and 6 are torn. The furniture in spaces 2, 3, 6, 7, and 8 are dirty with debris, dust, and/or sticky substances. The kitchen furniture in space 2 is broken. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Diaper cream in space 4 was not returned to the parent or discarded after the course of the treatment. .0803(12) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. Safe sleep checks are not being recorded daily as required. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. A staff member hired January 12, 2026, has not completed orientation. .1101(a)(b) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Eleven (11) staff did not have a current staff development plan and/or annual staff evaluation on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1430 Assistant group leaders were not 16 years of age and/or had not completed Basic School Age Care (BSAC) training. An assistant group leader has not completed BSAC training. .2510(d) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Three (3) staff members who have been employed for more and one year have not completed their Health and Safety Trainings. .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 violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 30, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance: The Staff and Training Worksheet is an administrative tool designed to track and maintain accurate records for all personnel. Utilizing this worksheet as an active, working document is essential for ensuring compliance, timely record submission, and up-to-date documentation. Each employee who is expected to have contact with children shall receive six clock hours of training in required topic areas within the first two weeks of employment and 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. A list of approved orientation topics and a documentation log along with required timelines can be found on the divisions website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ under the provider documents tab. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2805(f) requires that each employee’s personnel file contains an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan. I encourage you to streamline this process by selecting certain months to conduct evaluations and update staff development plans. This will result in easy tracking and ensure that all evaluations and development plans are completed within the yearly timeframe. The frequency of visual checks should be included in your Safe Sleep Policy and followed. Best practice is to check on sleeping infants every 15 minutes. Visual checks must be documented. Various sample sleeping charts are available to you on the DCDEE website, under the “provider documents” tab. Safe sleep checks must be kept for each child and kept on file for a minimum of one month. Safe sleep charts were monitored today for three weeks (May 18-June 5th) and multiple days checks were not completed. I strongly encourage the infant room staff to retake ITS/SIDS and for administration to do daily checks. Maintaining a clean environment for young children is crucial for their health, development, and overall well-being. A clean environment reduces the spread of germs and illnesses, promotes better focus and concentration, and fosters positive social interactions and habits. Reminders: Today required training hours were short for the following staff members. I suggest you give staff a monthly or quarterly goal to help keep them on track and ensure their annual requirement is met. Encourage staff members to reach out to your local Partnership for Children. Staff may also visit the DCDEE website to access several free, online training courses through Moodle using their NCID. The staff below must complete their required training(s) by July 8, 2026, or a violation will be cited at your next monitoring visit. You must email me once all training is completed (prior to 7/8/26). S. Tedder – 8 hours G. Patterson – 12 hours K. Frye – 9 hours D. Kinston – 20 hours A. Brice – 10 hours L. Holloman – 20 hours L. Harrison – 7 hours S. Williams – 2 hours M. Williams – 20 hours N. Raye – 12 hours C. Hawes – 1 hour Grass patches are starting to pop up near the side on the younger preschool playground. As the temperatures are warmer and grass is growing, be mindful and persistent on ensuring grass/weeds are not growing in the fall zones as it diminishes the integrity of the mulch surfacing. You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns or Licensing Supervisor, Kim Sherry at 910-824-0470 or kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #5 Facility ID: 10000297 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/2/2025 Number Present: 124 Completed Date: 12/3/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 180 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 09:40 AM Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 11:00 AM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements. Limited child care requirements pertinent to this visit type were monitored. This visit was initiated on 12/02/25; however, could not be completed until 12/03/25. This program currently operates with a 5 star license issued February 22, 2022 earning 7 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point in the programmatic option. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. As of 12/01/2025, this facility has an 18-month compliance history of 90%. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ELA Kidsnet Holdings, LLC was listed as current-active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 07/08/25. Six (6) new staff have been hired since the last monitoring visit and their files were monitored today. Sanitation Inspection – 09/03/25 – 15 Demerits – Superior Classification Fire Inspection – 09/16/25 – Approved for day time care only There are 10 (10) indoor spaces, and five (5) outdoor space approved for use. There are one hundred eighty-five children enrolled and one hundred twenty-four children, ages 0-5, were present today. Accurate attendance sheets were observed in each classroom. Infants present in space 1 participated in free play or had routine care needs completed such as diapering. Adequate handwashing and disinfecting practices were observed. Toddlers in space 6 participated in free play with gross motor toys and manipulatives. Preschool aged children in spaces 2-3 and 7-10 were observed participating in group time, or free play indoors/outdoors. Yesterdays lunch consisted of whole grain chicken nuggets, green beans, pears, and milk. Today’s lunch consisted of whole grain wraps, turkey, cheese, carrots, pineapple, and milk. Each classroom had spaces arranged into activity areas that include art, blocks, science, library, dramatic play, manipulative, music, and writing. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible and observed in each classroom. Activity plans and daily schedules were available for each group of children and observed posted in each classroom. During today's visit child care requirements monitored for compliance included supervision, staff/child ratio, CPR and First Aid, Criminal Record Checks, storage of hazardous substances and medications, approved space, posting of the license, and other applicable requirements. The NC Pre-Kindergarten Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. The tool has been completed by the contract administrator. The program follows the Brunswick County school calendar, the length of the day meets requirements, and all staff meet education requirements. The Creative Curriculum for Preschool, 6th Edition, has been implemented and the assessment tool, GOLD, Teaching Strategies are all in place. Three formal assessments with parent conferences are scheduled through the school year. Portfolios are maintained on Teac213her Strategies, GOLD by taking pictures of the children’s work and uploading them to the program. The facility uses the developmental screening tool, Brigance. NC Pre-K requirements were met today. The following violations were observed. Violations must be corrected immediately. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Electrical outlets were not covered in spaces 4, 8, 9, and 10. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Three staff members have not received at least 16 hours of orientation within the first 6 weeks of employment. .1101(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 violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 12/17/2025, 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. Email the information to April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov When you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance: Outlet covers create a shield between electrical parts inside outlets or switches and people's fingers or objects. This stops accidental contact that could give you a shock. Child Safety: Some covers are hard for kids to open, which helps keep them from sticking things into outlets and getting hurt. Today I suggested administration checking all classrooms each morning to ensure outlets are covered. New employee orientation is the process of helping new hires get familiar with the organization, its culture, their colleagues, and their role. At its core, orientation serves three main purposes: to welcome, inform, and engage employees as they begin their journey with the company. Today we discussed the importance of orientation being site specific and personal. Other Information: Criminal Background Check Information – You have completed the required ABCMS training and is currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information at facilities by verifying the roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on 02/07/24. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint-Exempt N/A • Asbestos-Exempt N/A Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, and it may be requested to verify compliance. Use this link to view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition has begun and the following informational opportunities are available to you: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and will be posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •In September, child care consultants hosted in-person facility operator/administrator meetings within the counties they serve to provide additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. If you were unable to attend, reach out to me so we can review the information. •Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to seeing you at these upcoming informational settings and working with you on your pathway to the stars! Today Ms. McKinney and I had a conversation on the facility’s plan on moving forward with their 2-5 Star Rated License. That document is attached to this visit summary. Remember! You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). Reminders - For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ Documentation was completed electronically on site, signed, and left with you today. Please remember it is your responsibility to always comply with all child care rules and requirements. Contact me at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #5 Facility ID: 10000297 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/2/2025 Number Present: 124 Completed Date: 12/3/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 180 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 09:40 AM Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 11:00 AM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements. Limited child care requirements pertinent to this visit type were monitored. This visit was initiated on 12/02/25; however, could not be completed until 12/03/25. This program currently operates with a 5 star license issued February 22, 2022 earning 7 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point in the programmatic option. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. As of 12/01/2025, this facility has an 18-month compliance history of 90%. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ELA Kidsnet Holdings, LLC was listed as current-active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 07/08/25. Six (6) new staff have been hired since the last monitoring visit and their files were monitored today. Sanitation Inspection – 09/03/25 – 15 Demerits – Superior Classification Fire Inspection – 09/16/25 – Approved for day time care only There are 10 (10) indoor spaces, and five (5) outdoor space approved for use. There are one hundred eighty-five children enrolled and one hundred twenty-four children, ages 0-5, were present today. Accurate attendance sheets were observed in each classroom. Infants present in space 1 participated in free play or had routine care needs completed such as diapering. Adequate handwashing and disinfecting practices were observed. Toddlers in space 6 participated in free play with gross motor toys and manipulatives. Preschool aged children in spaces 2-3 and 7-10 were observed participating in group time, or free play indoors/outdoors. Yesterdays lunch consisted of whole grain chicken nuggets, green beans, pears, and milk. Today’s lunch consisted of whole grain wraps, turkey, cheese, carrots, pineapple, and milk. Each classroom had spaces arranged into activity areas that include art, blocks, science, library, dramatic play, manipulative, music, and writing. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible and observed in each classroom. Activity plans and daily schedules were available for each group of children and observed posted in each classroom. During today's visit child care requirements monitored for compliance included supervision, staff/child ratio, CPR and First Aid, Criminal Record Checks, storage of hazardous substances and medications, approved space, posting of the license, and other applicable requirements. The NC Pre-Kindergarten Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. The tool has been completed by the contract administrator. The program follows the Brunswick County school calendar, the length of the day meets requirements, and all staff meet education requirements. The Creative Curriculum for Preschool, 6th Edition, has been implemented and the assessment tool, GOLD, Teaching Strategies are all in place. Three formal assessments with parent conferences are scheduled through the school year. Portfolios are maintained on Teac213her Strategies, GOLD by taking pictures of the children’s work and uploading them to the program. The facility uses the developmental screening tool, Brigance. NC Pre-K requirements were met today. The following violations were observed. Violations must be corrected immediately. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Electrical outlets were not covered in spaces 4, 8, 9, and 10. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Three staff members have not received at least 16 hours of orientation within the first 6 weeks of employment. .1101(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 violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 12/17/2025, 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. Email the information to April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov When you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance: Outlet covers create a shield between electrical parts inside outlets or switches and people's fingers or objects. This stops accidental contact that could give you a shock. Child Safety: Some covers are hard for kids to open, which helps keep them from sticking things into outlets and getting hurt. Today I suggested administration checking all classrooms each morning to ensure outlets are covered. New employee orientation is the process of helping new hires get familiar with the organization, its culture, their colleagues, and their role. At its core, orientation serves three main purposes: to welcome, inform, and engage employees as they begin their journey with the company. Today we discussed the importance of orientation being site specific and personal. Other Information: Criminal Background Check Information – You have completed the required ABCMS training and is currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information at facilities by verifying the roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on 02/07/24. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint-Exempt N/A • Asbestos-Exempt N/A Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, and it may be requested to verify compliance. Use this link to view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition has begun and the following informational opportunities are available to you: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and will be posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •In September, child care consultants hosted in-person facility operator/administrator meetings within the counties they serve to provide additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. If you were unable to attend, reach out to me so we can review the information. •Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to seeing you at these upcoming informational settings and working with you on your pathway to the stars! Today Ms. McKinney and I had a conversation on the facility’s plan on moving forward with their 2-5 Star Rated License. That document is attached to this visit summary. Remember! You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). Reminders - For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ Documentation was completed electronically on site, signed, and left with you today. Please remember it is your responsibility to always comply with all child care rules and requirements. Contact me at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .0902 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #5 Facility ID: 10000297 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0825-356L Visit Date: 9/4/2025 Number Present: 87 Completed Date: 9/4/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 190 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: There are concerns regarding staff/child ratio. There are concerns regarding incident reports. This facility operates with a 5 Star-Rated License effective February 20, 2022, earning 7 points in Education Standards, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. The restrictions include first shift care, meets enhanced ratios and space. The program’s compliance history was 90% as of September 3, 2025. In addition to the allegations, Supervision, Staff /Child Ratios, Adequate/Approved Space, and Permit Restrictions were monitored as well as sanitation. Child Care Consultant, Heather Elliott, accompanied me on the visit today. Latressa McKinney, Director, and Kamisha Bryant, Office Support, were present, assisted with the investigation, and accompanied me during the walk through and observations. Jennifer DeJoseph, District Manager was also present. There were one-hundred ninety-two (192) children enrolled and eighty-seven (87) children present ranging in age from infants to four-year-olds. Today, observations were conducted in the indoor and outdoor environments. Indoor spaces 1-3 and 5 through 10 are currently in use. Outdoor spaces 1 through 5 are used. I observed the teachers actively supervising children, assisting in routines care needs such as feeding/diapering/toileting/handwashing, and engaging in informal conversations. I observed the children in free play with age appropriate materials and activities, participating in small group and large group activities, or conducing routine care needs such as meals and handwashing. Lunch scheduled for today consisted of chicken nuggets, sweat peas, pears, and milk. The allegations were reviewed with you and other staff members. All were given the opportunity to state their perceptions of the allegations. The facility does not have video surveillance. Allegation 1: There are concerns regarding staff/child ratio. ** Administration stated there has been no concerns with staff/child ratios. They have not witnessed any staff being out of ratio and no staff/parents have brought any concerns to them about classrooms not maintaining ratios. Five (5) staff members were interviewed today, and none reported any instances of being out of compliance with staff/child ratios. We observed nine (9) classrooms today with children present and all classrooms were in compliance with staff/child ratios. The program completes staff/child ratios charts every 30 minutes and these were reviewed today and found in compliance. Based on your information, reporters’ information, staff information, and my investigation, this allegation was not confirmed. Allegation 3: There are concerns regarding incident reports. **Administration stated she did not have any concerns with incident reports. We observed all incident reports for the month of August. Staff were thorough in completing all sections of the incident reports and an incident log was on file. Based on your information, reporters’ information, staff information, and my investigation, this allegation was not confirmed. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 532 All children were not held or placed in feeding chairs or other appropriate apparatus to be fed. An infant in space 1 (tadpoles) was observed drinking a bottle while propped on a boppy pillow rather than an appropriate feeding apparatus. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(b) 1831 At least one child care provider, who has completed ITS-SIDS training was not present in the infant room, while children were in care. The two (2) teachers caring for infants in space 1 (tadpoles) did not have ITS-SIDS training. .01102 (f) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before September 18, 2025, 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. Email the information to April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov When you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. The violation documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 14, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. An administrative action may be issued based on a confirmed allegation. Technical Assistance: All adults who provide care for infants 12 months or younger are required to be trained in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) risk reduction practices. The Infant/Toddler Safe Sleep and SIDS Risk Reduction in Child Care (ITS-SIDS) is the approved training. It prepares child care providers to follow their facility’s safe sleep policy. Today I encouraged you to have all staff complete ITS-SIDS training so that anyone you place in the infant room will be in compliance. Additional Conversations: Today we discussed incident reports in detail. On August 28, 2025, an incident report was completed for a child 4 years of age who obtained a minor head injury after running into a wall. Staff must pay close attention to detail when completing the incident report forms. For example, staff had noted the incident occurred at 9:00 am; however, the parent was initially telephoned at 7:53 am. After interviewing the staff who completed the incident report it was evident that the errors on the report was not on purpose. After interviewing staff who have worked closely with the child who ran into the wall and injured his head it was evident that the staff are concerned with the child's vision and/or hearing as well as his overall behavioral development. The child has recently moved up to the NC Pre K program and the NC Pre K staff have suggested the child be evaluated by Brunswick County EC department and the child has an evaluation in late October. Staff could also reach out to Brunswick County Smart Start for classroom support if needed. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov or Kim Sherry, Licensing Supervisor, 910-824-0470, kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #5 Facility ID: 10000297 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0825-356L Visit Date: 9/4/2025 Number Present: 87 Completed Date: 9/4/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 190 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: There are concerns regarding staff/child ratio. There are concerns regarding incident reports. This facility operates with a 5 Star-Rated License effective February 20, 2022, earning 7 points in Education Standards, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. The restrictions include first shift care, meets enhanced ratios and space. The program’s compliance history was 90% as of September 3, 2025. In addition to the allegations, Supervision, Staff /Child Ratios, Adequate/Approved Space, and Permit Restrictions were monitored as well as sanitation. Child Care Consultant, Heather Elliott, accompanied me on the visit today. Latressa McKinney, Director, and Kamisha Bryant, Office Support, were present, assisted with the investigation, and accompanied me during the walk through and observations. Jennifer DeJoseph, District Manager was also present. There were one-hundred ninety-two (192) children enrolled and eighty-seven (87) children present ranging in age from infants to four-year-olds. Today, observations were conducted in the indoor and outdoor environments. Indoor spaces 1-3 and 5 through 10 are currently in use. Outdoor spaces 1 through 5 are used. I observed the teachers actively supervising children, assisting in routines care needs such as feeding/diapering/toileting/handwashing, and engaging in informal conversations. I observed the children in free play with age appropriate materials and activities, participating in small group and large group activities, or conducing routine care needs such as meals and handwashing. Lunch scheduled for today consisted of chicken nuggets, sweat peas, pears, and milk. The allegations were reviewed with you and other staff members. All were given the opportunity to state their perceptions of the allegations. The facility does not have video surveillance. Allegation 1: There are concerns regarding staff/child ratio. ** Administration stated there has been no concerns with staff/child ratios. They have not witnessed any staff being out of ratio and no staff/parents have brought any concerns to them about classrooms not maintaining ratios. Five (5) staff members were interviewed today, and none reported any instances of being out of compliance with staff/child ratios. We observed nine (9) classrooms today with children present and all classrooms were in compliance with staff/child ratios. The program completes staff/child ratios charts every 30 minutes and these were reviewed today and found in compliance. Based on your information, reporters’ information, staff information, and my investigation, this allegation was not confirmed. Allegation 3: There are concerns regarding incident reports. **Administration stated she did not have any concerns with incident reports. We observed all incident reports for the month of August. Staff were thorough in completing all sections of the incident reports and an incident log was on file. Based on your information, reporters’ information, staff information, and my investigation, this allegation was not confirmed. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 532 All children were not held or placed in feeding chairs or other appropriate apparatus to be fed. An infant in space 1 (tadpoles) was observed drinking a bottle while propped on a boppy pillow rather than an appropriate feeding apparatus. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(b) 1831 At least one child care provider, who has completed ITS-SIDS training was not present in the infant room, while children were in care. The two (2) teachers caring for infants in space 1 (tadpoles) did not have ITS-SIDS training. .01102 (f) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before September 18, 2025, 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. Email the information to April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov When you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. The violation documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 14, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. An administrative action may be issued based on a confirmed allegation. Technical Assistance: All adults who provide care for infants 12 months or younger are required to be trained in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) risk reduction practices. The Infant/Toddler Safe Sleep and SIDS Risk Reduction in Child Care (ITS-SIDS) is the approved training. It prepares child care providers to follow their facility’s safe sleep policy. Today I encouraged you to have all staff complete ITS-SIDS training so that anyone you place in the infant room will be in compliance. Additional Conversations: Today we discussed incident reports in detail. On August 28, 2025, an incident report was completed for a child 4 years of age who obtained a minor head injury after running into a wall. Staff must pay close attention to detail when completing the incident report forms. For example, staff had noted the incident occurred at 9:00 am; however, the parent was initially telephoned at 7:53 am. After interviewing the staff who completed the incident report it was evident that the errors on the report was not on purpose. After interviewing staff who have worked closely with the child who ran into the wall and injured his head it was evident that the staff are concerned with the child's vision and/or hearing as well as his overall behavioral development. The child has recently moved up to the NC Pre K program and the NC Pre K staff have suggested the child be evaluated by Brunswick County EC department and the child has an evaluation in late October. Staff could also reach out to Brunswick County Smart Start for classroom support if needed. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov or Kim Sherry, Licensing Supervisor, 910-824-0470, kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #5 Facility ID: 10000297 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0725-420L Visit Date: 7/31/2025 Number Present: 112 Completed Date: 7/31/2025 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 155 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 11:15 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: There are concerns that children are not being provided with adequate supervision. There are concerns regarding staff/child ratio. There are concerns regarding sanitation. This facility operates with a 5 Star-Rated License effective February 20, 2022, earning 7 points in Education Standards, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. The restrictions include first shift care, meets enhanced ratios and space. The program’s compliance history was 91% as of July 30, 2025. In addition to the allegations, Supervision, Staff /Child Ratios, Adequate/Approved Space, and Permit Restrictions were monitored as well as sanitation. Latressa McKinney, Director, and Kamisha Bryant, Office Support, were present, assisted with the investigation, and accompanied me during the walk through and observations. There were one-hundred fifty three (153) children enrolled and one hundred twelve (112) children present ranging in age from infants to ten-year-olds. Today, observations were conducted in the indoor and outdoor environments. Indoor spaces 1 through 3 and 5 through 10 are currently in use. Outdoor spaces 1 through 5 are used. I observed the teachers actively supervising children, assisting in routines care needs such as feeding/diapering/toileting/handwashing, and engaging in informal conversations. I observed the children in free play with age appropriate materials and activities, participating in small group and large group activities, or conducing routine care needs such as meals and handwashing. Lunch scheduled for today was corn dogs, baked beans, apples, and milk. The allegations were reviewed with you and other staff members. All were given the opportunity to state their perceptions of the allegations. The facility does not have video surveillance. Upon arrival I shared the allegations with you, and you stated that there have been some upset school age parents because field trips have been canceled due to transportation and staffing concerns. The air conditioning on the bus has been broken and administration did not want to risk the children in extreme heat conditions on the bus. In addition, due to staff call outs, administration has not had enough staff to send on field trips to maintain compliance throughout the rest of the center in regards to staff/child ratios. Allegation 1: There are concerns that children are not being provided with adequate supervision. **Administration stated there has been no concerns with supervision of children. They have not witnessed any children being unsupervised and no staff/parents have brought any concerns to them about children not being adequately supervised. Nineteen (19) staff members were interviewed today, and none reported any instances of children being unsupervised or any concerns with supervision. In addition, all nineteen (19) staff members stated that if they need to use the restroom, they call the office and wait for someone to cover their classroom so they can use the restroom. I observed nine (9) classrooms today with children present and all children were being supervised by staff. Staff were actively moving around the room, engaging in play, and were positioned in a manner to see/hear all children. Based on your information, reporters’ information, staff information, and my investigation, this allegation was not confirmed. Allegation 2: There are concerns regarding staff/child ratio. ** Administration stated there has been no concerns with staff/child ratios. They have not witnessed any staff being out of ratio and no staff/parents have brought any concerns to them about classrooms not maintaining ratios. Nineteen (19) staff members were interviewed today, and none reported any instances of being out of compliance with staff/child ratios. In addition, all nineteen (19) staff members stated that if they need to use the restroom, they call the office and wait for someone to cover their classroom so they can use the restroom. I observed nine (9) classrooms today with children present and all classrooms were in compliance with staff/child ratios. The program completes staff/child ratios charts every 30 minutes and these were reviewed today and found in compliance. Based on your information, reporters’ information, staff information, and my investigation, this allegation was not confirmed. Allegation 3: There are concerns regarding sanitation. **Administration stated she did not have any concerns with sanitation. You stated that staff are required to sweep, mop, and vacuum at the end of each day. I observed nine (9) classrooms today and six (6) classroom carpets had not been vacuumed from the night before and the tile floors were noticeably dirty with debris and stains. Based on your information, reporters’ information, staff information, and my investigation, this allegation was confirmed. The following violation was observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 603 All floors and floor coverings were not constructed of nonabsorbent material and/or were not kept clean and in good repair. The carpets and floors were not clean in spaces 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. 15A NCAC 18A .2824(a)&(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 14, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. An administrative action may be issued based on a confirmed allegation. Technical Assistance: Maintaining a clean environment for young children is crucial for their health, development, and overall well-being. A clean environment reduces the spread of germs and illnesses, promotes better focus and concentration, and fosters positive social interactions and habits. Today we discussed enforcing cleaning tasks at the end of each day by administration checking classrooms before staff leave at the end of the day. You stated you and your administrative team would start enforcing that immediately. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov or Kim Sherry, Licensing Supervisor, 910-824-0470, kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0901 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #5 Facility ID: 10000297 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/8/2025 Number Present: 119 Completed Date: 7/8/2025 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 235 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 12:45 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. Kamisha Bryant (Office Support) and Dyllan Price (Assistant Director) assisted me with the visit. This facility operates with a 5 Star-Rated License effective February 20, 2022, earning 7 points in Education Standards, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. The restrictions include first shift care, meets enhanced ratios and space. 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 July 17, 2024. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 95%. According to the NC Secretary of state website ELA KIDSNET HOLDINGS, LLC is listed as current/active. Children were observed in free play. All activity plans were current and aligned with NC Early Childhood Foundations. Staff had informal conversations with children and engaged in play. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored as well as transportation vehicles. Adequate handwashing practices were observed when returning to classrooms from outdoor play. Adequate materials and activities were observed for each space. Safe sleep checks and feeding schedules were monitored and found in compliance. Lunch today consisted of whole grain tortillas, beef, red beans, pineapple, and milk. The last sanitation inspection was completed on May 27, 2025, with a superior rating. The last fire inspection was completed on August 12, 2024, and the facility was approved for daytime care only. The following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately. Violation Number Comment Rule 609 Staff did not wash their hands thoroughly before beginning work, before/after handling food, before bottle feeding or serving to other children, after toileting or handling body fluids, after diaper changing and after handling soiled items. In space 1 (tadpoles) a staff member did not wash her hands before fastening a child into a bouncy seat nor did she wash her hands after disinfecting the diaper changing surface. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(a) 618 Diaper changing surfaces were not kept free of storage. In space 2 (guppies) a pack of diapers were stored on the diaper changing surface. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(b) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member's First Aid certification expired February 2025 and she did not renew her certification until April 2025. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member's CPR certification expired February 2025 and she did not renew her certification until April 2025. .1102(d) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. Of the seventeen (17) children's files reviewed, five (5) did not contain a signed and dated statement by parents that the discipline policy was received and explained at enrollment. .1804(c) 1449 Within the first two weeks of assuming responsibility for supervising a group of children, staff did not complete at least 6 hours of training on topics outlined in this rule. A staff member who started work June 23, 2025 has not completed 2 weeks of orientation. .2510(i)(1)(A-D) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In space 3 (patriots) there was a Dunkin' Donuts iced coffee and in space 9 (parrots) there was a bottle of grape soda. .0901(i) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. A staff member did not complete her five year renewal of health and safety training topics. .1103(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 22, 2025, 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. Email the information to April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov When you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance: According to Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Clean hands save lives. Handwashing is like a "do-it-yourself" vaccine—it involves five simple and effective steps (Wet, Lather, Scrub, Rinse, Dry) you can take to reduce the spread of diarrheal and respiratory illness so you can stay healthy. Regular handwashing, particularly before and after certain activities, is one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick, and prevent the spread of germs to others. It's quick, it's simple, and it can keep us all from getting sick. Handwashing is a win for everyone, except the germs. Health and safety trainings are required to be renewed every 5 years. Staff member (R. Peirce) completed most of her trainings in November 2019; therefore, those topics are past due. All trainings can be located through MOODLE on our website. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901(j) GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS states that staff shall role model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming only food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in this Rule in the presence of children in care. Fast Food or coffee drinks that staff might consume do not follow these requirements and should not be consumed in the classroom or in the presence of children. Reminders: Each center shall have a record of training activities in which each staff member participates, including copies of training certificates or official documentation provided by the trainer. That record shall include the subject matter, topic area in G.S. 110-91(11), training provider, date provided, hours, and name of staff who completed the training. This documentation shall be on file and current. The following staff must complete on-going trainings before July 17, 2025. You must email me confirmation of completion to avoid future violations. R. Oliver – 10 hours The vans needs to be vacuumed and cleaned out before their next use. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@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. 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #5 Facility ID: 10000297 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/8/2025 Number Present: 119 Completed Date: 7/8/2025 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 235 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 12:45 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. Kamisha Bryant (Office Support) and Dyllan Price (Assistant Director) assisted me with the visit. This facility operates with a 5 Star-Rated License effective February 20, 2022, earning 7 points in Education Standards, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. The restrictions include first shift care, meets enhanced ratios and space. 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 July 17, 2024. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 95%. According to the NC Secretary of state website ELA KIDSNET HOLDINGS, LLC is listed as current/active. Children were observed in free play. All activity plans were current and aligned with NC Early Childhood Foundations. Staff had informal conversations with children and engaged in play. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored as well as transportation vehicles. Adequate handwashing practices were observed when returning to classrooms from outdoor play. Adequate materials and activities were observed for each space. Safe sleep checks and feeding schedules were monitored and found in compliance. Lunch today consisted of whole grain tortillas, beef, red beans, pineapple, and milk. The last sanitation inspection was completed on May 27, 2025, with a superior rating. The last fire inspection was completed on August 12, 2024, and the facility was approved for daytime care only. The following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately. Violation Number Comment Rule 609 Staff did not wash their hands thoroughly before beginning work, before/after handling food, before bottle feeding or serving to other children, after toileting or handling body fluids, after diaper changing and after handling soiled items. In space 1 (tadpoles) a staff member did not wash her hands before fastening a child into a bouncy seat nor did she wash her hands after disinfecting the diaper changing surface. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(a) 618 Diaper changing surfaces were not kept free of storage. In space 2 (guppies) a pack of diapers were stored on the diaper changing surface. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(b) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member's First Aid certification expired February 2025 and she did not renew her certification until April 2025. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member's CPR certification expired February 2025 and she did not renew her certification until April 2025. .1102(d) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. Of the seventeen (17) children's files reviewed, five (5) did not contain a signed and dated statement by parents that the discipline policy was received and explained at enrollment. .1804(c) 1449 Within the first two weeks of assuming responsibility for supervising a group of children, staff did not complete at least 6 hours of training on topics outlined in this rule. A staff member who started work June 23, 2025 has not completed 2 weeks of orientation. .2510(i)(1)(A-D) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In space 3 (patriots) there was a Dunkin' Donuts iced coffee and in space 9 (parrots) there was a bottle of grape soda. .0901(i) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. A staff member did not complete her five year renewal of health and safety training topics. .1103(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 22, 2025, 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. Email the information to April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov When you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance: According to Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Clean hands save lives. Handwashing is like a "do-it-yourself" vaccine—it involves five simple and effective steps (Wet, Lather, Scrub, Rinse, Dry) you can take to reduce the spread of diarrheal and respiratory illness so you can stay healthy. Regular handwashing, particularly before and after certain activities, is one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick, and prevent the spread of germs to others. It's quick, it's simple, and it can keep us all from getting sick. Handwashing is a win for everyone, except the germs. Health and safety trainings are required to be renewed every 5 years. Staff member (R. Peirce) completed most of her trainings in November 2019; therefore, those topics are past due. All trainings can be located through MOODLE on our website. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901(j) GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS states that staff shall role model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming only food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in this Rule in the presence of children in care. Fast Food or coffee drinks that staff might consume do not follow these requirements and should not be consumed in the classroom or in the presence of children. Reminders: Each center shall have a record of training activities in which each staff member participates, including copies of training certificates or official documentation provided by the trainer. That record shall include the subject matter, topic area in G.S. 110-91(11), training provider, date provided, hours, and name of staff who completed the training. This documentation shall be on file and current. The following staff must complete on-going trainings before July 17, 2025. You must email me confirmation of completion to avoid future violations. R. Oliver – 10 hours The vans needs to be vacuumed and cleaned out before their next use. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #5 Facility ID: 10000297 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/8/2025 Number Present: 119 Completed Date: 7/8/2025 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 235 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 12:45 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. Kamisha Bryant (Office Support) and Dyllan Price (Assistant Director) assisted me with the visit. This facility operates with a 5 Star-Rated License effective February 20, 2022, earning 7 points in Education Standards, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. The restrictions include first shift care, meets enhanced ratios and space. 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 July 17, 2024. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 95%. According to the NC Secretary of state website ELA KIDSNET HOLDINGS, LLC is listed as current/active. Children were observed in free play. All activity plans were current and aligned with NC Early Childhood Foundations. Staff had informal conversations with children and engaged in play. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored as well as transportation vehicles. Adequate handwashing practices were observed when returning to classrooms from outdoor play. Adequate materials and activities were observed for each space. Safe sleep checks and feeding schedules were monitored and found in compliance. Lunch today consisted of whole grain tortillas, beef, red beans, pineapple, and milk. The last sanitation inspection was completed on May 27, 2025, with a superior rating. The last fire inspection was completed on August 12, 2024, and the facility was approved for daytime care only. The following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately. Violation Number Comment Rule 609 Staff did not wash their hands thoroughly before beginning work, before/after handling food, before bottle feeding or serving to other children, after toileting or handling body fluids, after diaper changing and after handling soiled items. In space 1 (tadpoles) a staff member did not wash her hands before fastening a child into a bouncy seat nor did she wash her hands after disinfecting the diaper changing surface. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(a) 618 Diaper changing surfaces were not kept free of storage. In space 2 (guppies) a pack of diapers were stored on the diaper changing surface. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(b) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member's First Aid certification expired February 2025 and she did not renew her certification until April 2025. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member's CPR certification expired February 2025 and she did not renew her certification until April 2025. .1102(d) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. Of the seventeen (17) children's files reviewed, five (5) did not contain a signed and dated statement by parents that the discipline policy was received and explained at enrollment. .1804(c) 1449 Within the first two weeks of assuming responsibility for supervising a group of children, staff did not complete at least 6 hours of training on topics outlined in this rule. A staff member who started work June 23, 2025 has not completed 2 weeks of orientation. .2510(i)(1)(A-D) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In space 3 (patriots) there was a Dunkin' Donuts iced coffee and in space 9 (parrots) there was a bottle of grape soda. .0901(i) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. A staff member did not complete her five year renewal of health and safety training topics. .1103(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 22, 2025, 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. Email the information to April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov When you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance: According to Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Clean hands save lives. Handwashing is like a "do-it-yourself" vaccine—it involves five simple and effective steps (Wet, Lather, Scrub, Rinse, Dry) you can take to reduce the spread of diarrheal and respiratory illness so you can stay healthy. Regular handwashing, particularly before and after certain activities, is one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick, and prevent the spread of germs to others. It's quick, it's simple, and it can keep us all from getting sick. Handwashing is a win for everyone, except the germs. Health and safety trainings are required to be renewed every 5 years. Staff member (R. Peirce) completed most of her trainings in November 2019; therefore, those topics are past due. All trainings can be located through MOODLE on our website. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901(j) GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS states that staff shall role model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming only food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in this Rule in the presence of children in care. Fast Food or coffee drinks that staff might consume do not follow these requirements and should not be consumed in the classroom or in the presence of children. Reminders: Each center shall have a record of training activities in which each staff member participates, including copies of training certificates or official documentation provided by the trainer. That record shall include the subject matter, topic area in G.S. 110-91(11), training provider, date provided, hours, and name of staff who completed the training. This documentation shall be on file and current. The following staff must complete on-going trainings before July 17, 2025. You must email me confirmation of completion to avoid future violations. R. Oliver – 10 hours The vans needs to be vacuumed and cleaned out before their next use. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #5 Facility ID: 10000297 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/17/2024 Number Present: 124 Completed Date: 7/17/2024 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 215 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance. Wendy Runkal, Director, and Jennifer DeJoseph, District Manager, assisted me with the visit. The program currently operates with a 5-star license issued February 20, 2022, earning 6 points in program standards, 7 points in staff education, and 1 quality point in the programmatic option. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted July 25, 2024. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 97%. The sanitation inspection was completed June 13, 2024, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was August 23, 2023, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and found current-active. Children were observed in free play. All activity plans were current and aligned with NC Early Childhood Foundations. Staff had informal conversations with children and engaged in play as well. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. School aged children were observed leaving and returning from a field trip to the train museum. Transportation requirements were monitored and found in compliance. Adequate materials and activities were observed for each space. Lunch for today consisted of whole grain wrap, carrots, pineapple, turkey, and milk. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired 2/19/24 did not have First Aid certification from an approved training organization. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired 2/19/24 did not have CPR certification from an approved training organization. .1102(d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 31, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: CPR and First Aid training for child care must be taught in-person by an approved training organization, and only certain courses meet requirements. For a list of approved organizations and courses, visit the website below: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed, signed and left with you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov or Lynette Robbins, Licensing Supervisor, 910-824-0235, Lynette.Robbins@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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #5 Facility ID: 10000297 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/20/2023 Number Present: 79 Completed Date: 12/20/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 10:30 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable childcare requirements for a routine unannounced visit. Directors, Wendy Runkal and Jennifer DeJoseph assisted me with the visit. This facility operates with a 5 Star-Rated License effective February 20, 2022, earning 7 points in Education Standards, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. The restrictions include first shift care, meets enhanced ratios and space. 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 center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 96% prior to the visit. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and ELA Kidsnet Holdings, LLC was listed as current- active. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions, and personal care routines. Infants were free play. Sleep checks were completed, recorded, and maintained as required. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Files for new staff were reviewed. Rated license requirements were reviewed to ensure compliance was maintained with current program and education components as well as the quality point. Fire and sanitation inspections remain current. Lunch for today was turkey, cheese, whole grain wraps, pineapple, carrots, and milk. NC Pre-K Monitoring: The NC Pre-Kindergarten Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. The tool has been completed by the contract administrator. The program follows the Brunswick County school calendar, the length of the day meets requirements, and all staff meet education requirements. The Creative Curriculum for Preschool, 6th Edition, has been implemented and the assessment tool, GOLD, Teaching Strategies are all in place. Three formal assessments with parent conferences are scheduled through the school year. Portfolios are maintained on Teac213her Strategies, GOLD by taking pictures of the children’s work and uploading them to the program. The facility uses the developmental screening tool, Brigance. NC Pre-K requirements were met today. The following violation was observed and corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 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. Leftover medication was observed in space 10 and discarded during the visit. .0803(12) Childcare programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Technical assistance: Leftover medication must be discarded or returned to parents after the course of the treatment. Also, be reminded that medications that are not emergency medications and accompanied by not accompanied by an action plan must be in locked storage. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed, signed, and emailed to you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov or Lynette Robbins, Licensing Supervisor, 910-824-0235, lynette.robbins@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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #5 Facility ID: 10000297 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/25/2023 Number Present: 138 Completed Date: 7/25/2023 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 180 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM 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. Wendy Runkal, Director, and Jennifer DeJoseph, District Manager, assisted me with the visit. The program currently operates with a 5-star license issued February 20, 2022, earning 6 points in program standards, 7 points in staff education, and 1 quality point in the programmatic option. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted August 8, 2022. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 95%. Children were observed in free play. All activity plans were current and aligned with NC Early Childhood Foundations. Staff had informal conversations with children and engaged in play as well. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored as well as transportation vehicles. Adequate materials and activities were observed for each space. Lunch for today consisted of whole grain corn dogs, baked beans, pineapple, and milk. The last sanitation inspection was completed on June 29, 2023, with 8 demerits and a superior rating. The last fire inspection was completed on August 30, 2022, and the facility was approved for daytime care only. The following violation was observed today and corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Plastic bags were observed in space 2 (guppies) in a shelving unit under 5 feet in height. Administration removed all plastic bags during the visit. .0604(q) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. Technical Assistance: For the safety of the children, ensure any plastic bags used for storage are kept inaccessible to children under the age of three years old by keeping them at a minimum height of five feet off the floor. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed and emailed to you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov or Lynette Robbins, Licensing Supervisor, 910-824-0235, Lynette.Robbins@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.
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.