Emmanuel Child Care Center

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: EMMANUEL CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 90000377 Consultant: TRACI J. MEYER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/5/2025 Number Present: 116 Completed Date: 8/5/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 291 Time In: 08:38 AM Time Out: 01:29 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 unannounced annual compliance visit. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. E. Drye and I shared the reason for the visit. She accompanied me throughout the walk-through of the facility and the outdoor learning environments. Your program currently operates with a Five (5) star center license. The license was posted, with restrictions to first (1st) shift care, meets enhanced ratios and space, meets reduced ratios and meets 35 (thirty-five) square feet per child of indoor space. Ownership: The facility owner is Emmanuel Baptist Church. If any changes to the ownership need to be made, you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location or inherited. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable childcare requirements pertinent to this facility and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers. I monitored the following items today: supervision, staff/child ratio, staff, health, safety, and program records. All licensed spaces were observed including, all classrooms, three (3) outdoor learning environments and kitchen. Program Records: We reviewed all the required records and were in compliance. Inspections: All inspections were monitored, and inspection dates are listed below. •Fire drill was conducted on 7/22/25 •Emergency drill was conducted on 7/22/25 •Fire inspection was completed on 2/5/25 •Playground inspection was completed on 7/22/25 •Sanitation inspection was conducted on 6/10/25 and received a Superior classification. •EPR manual was updated and in compliance. Please review and update before 8/12/25. •Incident logs and sheets were completed and up to date. Indoor Learning Environment: I observed children in the indoor learning environment and the following items were posted in the classrooms that were monitored: Daily schedules, activity plans, staff/child ratio worksheets, emergency numbers, emergency procedures, arrival/departure procedures, summary of law and menus. Children in the rooms that serve infants were participating in self care need such as feeding and diaper changing. Children in the room that serves toddler aged children were participating in free choice centers and play. The children in the rooms that serves preschool aged children were participating in free play center choice time and transitioning to circle time. The rooms that serve School aged children were participating in group gross motor activities and finishing the AM meal. Outdoor Learning Environment: The outdoor learning environments were monitored and in compliance. We discussed standing water and any concerns, the only concern was ants after storms. The facility will reach out to Union County Environmental Health for assistance. Staff Records: The staff-training worksheet was completed prior to the visit and the qualifying letters for staff were verified. There were five (5) new staff files to review today, and five (5) existing staff files. Please refer to the staff/training worksheet to review which files were monitored. Children’s Records: Staff reported there were one hundred and fifty six (156) children enrolled in this center. There were one hundred and eighteen (118) in attendance today and sixteen (16) children’s files were reviewed today, please refer to the children’s worksheet to review which files were monitored. Medication: All emergency and other medications were reviewed today and were in compliance. Nutrition: The facility was in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Meal Patterns Requirements. The menu and allergy listings were posted and for lunch the children were having chicken nuggets with ketchup, mixed vegetables, fruit cocktail, and milk. Weapons: Your facility reported that they were in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Requirements regarding firearms. Transportation: The facility reported the does provide transportation during the summer months. The registration and insurance were up to date and current. Two (2) violations were observed and one (1) corrected during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 846 Over-the-counter medicines were not in their original containers or administered as authorized in writing by parent, physician or authorized health professional. In space 10A there were two (2) children's over the counter medications without authorization. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4) 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. An expired epi-pen in space 10b was not returned to the family within seventy-two (72) hours. .0803(12) The violations not corrected during the visit must be corrected immediately. On or before 8/18/25, 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 considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant PO Box 364 Matthews, NC 28105 Traci.meyer@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 (75%). Any violation (s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-six (96%) percent prior to today’s visit. The compliance history could be impacted after today’s visit. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Rated License: •The NC Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is actively planning for the implementation of new QRIS requirements. Since February 2023, the NC Child Care Commission has been working toward revising the Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) as required by Session Law 2023-40. In addition, on July 8, 2024, Governor Roy Cooper signed Session Law 2024-34, which includes Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) Modernization. This law established three pathways to earn star ratings, directed the Commission to continue with rulemaking to support the pathways and allowed the following while rulemaking occurs: If you have questions about the requirements, please visit QRIS Modernization for resources or contact your consultant. •Today we discussed the three (3) proposed pathways to a five (5) star license. Technical Assistance •Resource Center (SSRC) is funded by and in partnership with the Alliance for Children and is hosted by South Piedmont Community College. The SSRC offers a variety of materials to support children ages 0-5 in their learning and development. The SSRC is a lending library of more than 5,000 resources with a delivery service. If you are interested you can reach the SSRC via email at smartstartresourcecenter@gmail.com or by phone at 704-290-5894. •Rule 15A NCAC 18A .2816 requires currently operating child care centers to test water initially and every three years. Family child care homes are required to test water for lead once. •Ms. Drye and I discussed different training sites that are approved by the Division of Early Education and Child Development. https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/DCDEE-Training-Approval-Renewal this link will provide guidance on how to become an exempt and non-exempt trainer in Early Childhood topics. The topic areas are listed in G.S. 110-91(11) Staff Development. Also, consider countable technical assistance as a training option in addition to traditional trainings. •We also discussed Raise North Carolina, newsletter that offers various trainings and information in the Early Care Community. •The annual North Carolina NCAEYC conference is October 24th to the 25th, 2025, listed below is the link to register and for more information https://2025ncaeycannualconference.sched.com/registration • Today we discussed using the gym area for rainy day activities and to use the off-premise permission form and the link to the of premise permission form is here. https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/O/Off_Premise_Activity_Permission_FCCH_and_Center.pdf?ver=5-ehtUhHO8LH_n5VHvZPgw%3d%3d •Ms. Dyre and I discussed options about having an unlicensed afterschool program and a licensed birth (0) to five (5) program. More information will be provided after the Pathway to Stars QRIS policies and procedures are finalized. •More information will be provided on the time line a Lead Teacher needs to complete relevant course work. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. We jointly reviewed the visit summary and documentation of my findings and violations with you, I encouraged to ask any questions and you did not have any. If you have questions or need further assistance, please contact me at 704-594-0041 or via email at Traci.Meyer@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your assistance during today’s visit. Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant Division of Child Development and Early Education If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: EMMANUEL CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 90000377 Consultant: TRACI J. MEYER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/5/2025 Number Present: 116 Completed Date: 8/5/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 291 Time In: 08:38 AM Time Out: 01:29 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 unannounced annual compliance visit. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. E. Drye and I shared the reason for the visit. She accompanied me throughout the walk-through of the facility and the outdoor learning environments. Your program currently operates with a Five (5) star center license. The license was posted, with restrictions to first (1st) shift care, meets enhanced ratios and space, meets reduced ratios and meets 35 (thirty-five) square feet per child of indoor space. Ownership: The facility owner is Emmanuel Baptist Church. If any changes to the ownership need to be made, you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location or inherited. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable childcare requirements pertinent to this facility and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers. I monitored the following items today: supervision, staff/child ratio, staff, health, safety, and program records. All licensed spaces were observed including, all classrooms, three (3) outdoor learning environments and kitchen. Program Records: We reviewed all the required records and were in compliance. Inspections: All inspections were monitored, and inspection dates are listed below. •Fire drill was conducted on 7/22/25 •Emergency drill was conducted on 7/22/25 •Fire inspection was completed on 2/5/25 •Playground inspection was completed on 7/22/25 •Sanitation inspection was conducted on 6/10/25 and received a Superior classification. •EPR manual was updated and in compliance. Please review and update before 8/12/25. •Incident logs and sheets were completed and up to date. Indoor Learning Environment: I observed children in the indoor learning environment and the following items were posted in the classrooms that were monitored: Daily schedules, activity plans, staff/child ratio worksheets, emergency numbers, emergency procedures, arrival/departure procedures, summary of law and menus. Children in the rooms that serve infants were participating in self care need such as feeding and diaper changing. Children in the room that serves toddler aged children were participating in free choice centers and play. The children in the rooms that serves preschool aged children were participating in free play center choice time and transitioning to circle time. The rooms that serve School aged children were participating in group gross motor activities and finishing the AM meal. Outdoor Learning Environment: The outdoor learning environments were monitored and in compliance. We discussed standing water and any concerns, the only concern was ants after storms. The facility will reach out to Union County Environmental Health for assistance. Staff Records: The staff-training worksheet was completed prior to the visit and the qualifying letters for staff were verified. There were five (5) new staff files to review today, and five (5) existing staff files. Please refer to the staff/training worksheet to review which files were monitored. Children’s Records: Staff reported there were one hundred and fifty six (156) children enrolled in this center. There were one hundred and eighteen (118) in attendance today and sixteen (16) children’s files were reviewed today, please refer to the children’s worksheet to review which files were monitored. Medication: All emergency and other medications were reviewed today and were in compliance. Nutrition: The facility was in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Meal Patterns Requirements. The menu and allergy listings were posted and for lunch the children were having chicken nuggets with ketchup, mixed vegetables, fruit cocktail, and milk. Weapons: Your facility reported that they were in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Requirements regarding firearms. Transportation: The facility reported the does provide transportation during the summer months. The registration and insurance were up to date and current. Two (2) violations were observed and one (1) corrected during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 846 Over-the-counter medicines were not in their original containers or administered as authorized in writing by parent, physician or authorized health professional. In space 10A there were two (2) children's over the counter medications without authorization. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4) 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. An expired epi-pen in space 10b was not returned to the family within seventy-two (72) hours. .0803(12) The violations not corrected during the visit must be corrected immediately. On or before 8/18/25, 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 considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant PO Box 364 Matthews, NC 28105 Traci.meyer@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 (75%). Any violation (s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-six (96%) percent prior to today’s visit. The compliance history could be impacted after today’s visit. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Rated License: •The NC Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is actively planning for the implementation of new QRIS requirements. Since February 2023, the NC Child Care Commission has been working toward revising the Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) as required by Session Law 2023-40. In addition, on July 8, 2024, Governor Roy Cooper signed Session Law 2024-34, which includes Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) Modernization. This law established three pathways to earn star ratings, directed the Commission to continue with rulemaking to support the pathways and allowed the following while rulemaking occurs: If you have questions about the requirements, please visit QRIS Modernization for resources or contact your consultant. •Today we discussed the three (3) proposed pathways to a five (5) star license. Technical Assistance •Resource Center (SSRC) is funded by and in partnership with the Alliance for Children and is hosted by South Piedmont Community College. The SSRC offers a variety of materials to support children ages 0-5 in their learning and development. The SSRC is a lending library of more than 5,000 resources with a delivery service. If you are interested you can reach the SSRC via email at smartstartresourcecenter@gmail.com or by phone at 704-290-5894. •Rule 15A NCAC 18A .2816 requires currently operating child care centers to test water initially and every three years. Family child care homes are required to test water for lead once. •Ms. Drye and I discussed different training sites that are approved by the Division of Early Education and Child Development. https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/DCDEE-Training-Approval-Renewal this link will provide guidance on how to become an exempt and non-exempt trainer in Early Childhood topics. The topic areas are listed in G.S. 110-91(11) Staff Development. Also, consider countable technical assistance as a training option in addition to traditional trainings. •We also discussed Raise North Carolina, newsletter that offers various trainings and information in the Early Care Community. •The annual North Carolina NCAEYC conference is October 24th to the 25th, 2025, listed below is the link to register and for more information https://2025ncaeycannualconference.sched.com/registration • Today we discussed using the gym area for rainy day activities and to use the off-premise permission form and the link to the of premise permission form is here. https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/O/Off_Premise_Activity_Permission_FCCH_and_Center.pdf?ver=5-ehtUhHO8LH_n5VHvZPgw%3d%3d •Ms. Dyre and I discussed options about having an unlicensed afterschool program and a licensed birth (0) to five (5) program. More information will be provided after the Pathway to Stars QRIS policies and procedures are finalized. •More information will be provided on the time line a Lead Teacher needs to complete relevant course work. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. We jointly reviewed the visit summary and documentation of my findings and violations with you, I encouraged to ask any questions and you did not have any. If you have questions or need further assistance, please contact me at 704-594-0041 or via email at Traci.Meyer@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your assistance during today’s visit. Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant Division of Child Development and Early Education 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: EMMANUEL CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 90000377 Consultant: TRACI J. MEYER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/5/2025 Number Present: 116 Completed Date: 8/5/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 291 Time In: 08:38 AM Time Out: 01:29 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 unannounced annual compliance visit. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. E. Drye and I shared the reason for the visit. She accompanied me throughout the walk-through of the facility and the outdoor learning environments. Your program currently operates with a Five (5) star center license. The license was posted, with restrictions to first (1st) shift care, meets enhanced ratios and space, meets reduced ratios and meets 35 (thirty-five) square feet per child of indoor space. Ownership: The facility owner is Emmanuel Baptist Church. If any changes to the ownership need to be made, you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location or inherited. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable childcare requirements pertinent to this facility and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers. I monitored the following items today: supervision, staff/child ratio, staff, health, safety, and program records. All licensed spaces were observed including, all classrooms, three (3) outdoor learning environments and kitchen. Program Records: We reviewed all the required records and were in compliance. Inspections: All inspections were monitored, and inspection dates are listed below. •Fire drill was conducted on 7/22/25 •Emergency drill was conducted on 7/22/25 •Fire inspection was completed on 2/5/25 •Playground inspection was completed on 7/22/25 •Sanitation inspection was conducted on 6/10/25 and received a Superior classification. •EPR manual was updated and in compliance. Please review and update before 8/12/25. •Incident logs and sheets were completed and up to date. Indoor Learning Environment: I observed children in the indoor learning environment and the following items were posted in the classrooms that were monitored: Daily schedules, activity plans, staff/child ratio worksheets, emergency numbers, emergency procedures, arrival/departure procedures, summary of law and menus. Children in the rooms that serve infants were participating in self care need such as feeding and diaper changing. Children in the room that serves toddler aged children were participating in free choice centers and play. The children in the rooms that serves preschool aged children were participating in free play center choice time and transitioning to circle time. The rooms that serve School aged children were participating in group gross motor activities and finishing the AM meal. Outdoor Learning Environment: The outdoor learning environments were monitored and in compliance. We discussed standing water and any concerns, the only concern was ants after storms. The facility will reach out to Union County Environmental Health for assistance. Staff Records: The staff-training worksheet was completed prior to the visit and the qualifying letters for staff were verified. There were five (5) new staff files to review today, and five (5) existing staff files. Please refer to the staff/training worksheet to review which files were monitored. Children’s Records: Staff reported there were one hundred and fifty six (156) children enrolled in this center. There were one hundred and eighteen (118) in attendance today and sixteen (16) children’s files were reviewed today, please refer to the children’s worksheet to review which files were monitored. Medication: All emergency and other medications were reviewed today and were in compliance. Nutrition: The facility was in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Meal Patterns Requirements. The menu and allergy listings were posted and for lunch the children were having chicken nuggets with ketchup, mixed vegetables, fruit cocktail, and milk. Weapons: Your facility reported that they were in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Requirements regarding firearms. Transportation: The facility reported the does provide transportation during the summer months. The registration and insurance were up to date and current. Two (2) violations were observed and one (1) corrected during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 846 Over-the-counter medicines were not in their original containers or administered as authorized in writing by parent, physician or authorized health professional. In space 10A there were two (2) children's over the counter medications without authorization. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4) 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. An expired epi-pen in space 10b was not returned to the family within seventy-two (72) hours. .0803(12) The violations not corrected during the visit must be corrected immediately. On or before 8/18/25, 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 considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant PO Box 364 Matthews, NC 28105 Traci.meyer@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 (75%). Any violation (s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-six (96%) percent prior to today’s visit. The compliance history could be impacted after today’s visit. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Rated License: •The NC Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is actively planning for the implementation of new QRIS requirements. Since February 2023, the NC Child Care Commission has been working toward revising the Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) as required by Session Law 2023-40. In addition, on July 8, 2024, Governor Roy Cooper signed Session Law 2024-34, which includes Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) Modernization. This law established three pathways to earn star ratings, directed the Commission to continue with rulemaking to support the pathways and allowed the following while rulemaking occurs: If you have questions about the requirements, please visit QRIS Modernization for resources or contact your consultant. •Today we discussed the three (3) proposed pathways to a five (5) star license. Technical Assistance •Resource Center (SSRC) is funded by and in partnership with the Alliance for Children and is hosted by South Piedmont Community College. The SSRC offers a variety of materials to support children ages 0-5 in their learning and development. The SSRC is a lending library of more than 5,000 resources with a delivery service. If you are interested you can reach the SSRC via email at smartstartresourcecenter@gmail.com or by phone at 704-290-5894. •Rule 15A NCAC 18A .2816 requires currently operating child care centers to test water initially and every three years. Family child care homes are required to test water for lead once. •Ms. Drye and I discussed different training sites that are approved by the Division of Early Education and Child Development. https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/DCDEE-Training-Approval-Renewal this link will provide guidance on how to become an exempt and non-exempt trainer in Early Childhood topics. The topic areas are listed in G.S. 110-91(11) Staff Development. Also, consider countable technical assistance as a training option in addition to traditional trainings. •We also discussed Raise North Carolina, newsletter that offers various trainings and information in the Early Care Community. •The annual North Carolina NCAEYC conference is October 24th to the 25th, 2025, listed below is the link to register and for more information https://2025ncaeycannualconference.sched.com/registration • Today we discussed using the gym area for rainy day activities and to use the off-premise permission form and the link to the of premise permission form is here. https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/O/Off_Premise_Activity_Permission_FCCH_and_Center.pdf?ver=5-ehtUhHO8LH_n5VHvZPgw%3d%3d •Ms. Dyre and I discussed options about having an unlicensed afterschool program and a licensed birth (0) to five (5) program. More information will be provided after the Pathway to Stars QRIS policies and procedures are finalized. •More information will be provided on the time line a Lead Teacher needs to complete relevant course work. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. We jointly reviewed the visit summary and documentation of my findings and violations with you, I encouraged to ask any questions and you did not have any. If you have questions or need further assistance, please contact me at 704-594-0041 or via email at Traci.Meyer@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your assistance during today’s visit. Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant Division of Child Development and Early Education If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: EMMANUEL CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 90000377 Consultant: ABIGAIL ROWE Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-022A Visit Date: 3/6/2025 Number Present: 110 Completed Date: 3/6/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 75 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of childcare requirements at this child care facility. Erin Drye, administrator, accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. Drye and an additional staff member. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A qualified staff member’s file did not have a valid qualification letter available for review. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) You may contact me at Abigail Rowe, Investigations Consultant, 704-641-5218, Abigail.rowe@dhhs.nc.gov or Veronica Grant, South Central Investigations Team Supervisor, veronica.grant@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: EMMANUEL CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 90000377 Consultant: TRACI J. MEYER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/12/2024 Number Present: 142 Completed Date: 8/12/2024 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 258 Time In: 08:56 AM Time Out: 01:14 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Announced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an unannounced annual compliance visit. Upon arrival I was greeted by M. E. Drye and I shared the reason for the visit. She accompanied me throughout the walk-through of the facility and the outdoor learning environments. Your program currently operates with a Five (5) Star License. The license was posted, with restrictions to first (1st) shift care, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, meets reduced ratios minus one and thirty five (35) sq. feet per child of indoor space. Ownership: The facility owner is Emmanuel Baptist Ministries, Inc and is current and active. If any changes to the ownership need to be made, you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location or inherited. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable childcare requirements pertinent to this facility and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers. I monitored the following items today: supervision, staff/child ratio, staff, health, safety, and program records. All classrooms, kitchen, inside and outside learning environments were monitored. Program Records: We reviewed all the required records and were in compliance. Inspections: All inspections were monitored, and inspection dates are listed below. •Fire drill was conducted on 7/24/2024. •Emergency drill was conducted on 7/24/2024 •Fire inspection was completed on 1/18/2024 as a reminder, please submit the completed and approved fire inspection to your Childcare Consultant within seven (7) days of inspection. •Playground inspection was completed on 7/24/2024. •Sanitation inspection was conducted on 6/19/2024 and received a Superior classification. •The incident reports and log were up to date and filed. •The EPR plan was reviewed and while it was deemed to be current and accurate, please remember to go to the DCDEE website and update changes annually or when changes occur. Indoor Learning Environment: I observed children in the indoor learning environment and the following items were posted in the classrooms that were monitored: Daily schedules, activity plans, staff/child ratio worksheets, emergency numbers, emergency procedures, arrival/departure procedures, summary of law and menus. The children in the classroom that serves infants were following teacher-led self help activities such as feeding and napping. There was one new child enrolled in the infant classroom who “was ready for his nap”, according to the schedule. Please keep in mind an infant can be laid down for nap but if they are as sleep in a reasonable timeframe, they need to be removed from the crib and other activities should be offered. The children in the room that serves toddlers, they were transitioning from breakfast to teacher-led story time, hand washing and outdoor learning activities. The children in the room that serves older toddlers to preschool ages were participating in child-directed free center choice time, handwashing and transitioning to outdoor learning. The children in the School Age/Summer Camp aged rooms were participating in finishing breakfast, and transitioning to an in house field trip. Outdoor Learning Environment: The outdoor learning environments were monitored and was in compliance. The playground that serves the infants has a gate with small protrusions sticking out in the bottom of the gate that need to be addressed. It was in an area less accessible to the children but still could be considered a hazard if not corrected. Staff Records: The staff-training worksheet was completed prior to the visit. There were seven (7) new staff files to review today, and four (4) existing staff file. Please refer to the staff/training worksheet to review which files were monitored. Although the staff orientation in the first two weeks took a total of six (6) hours to completed, the hours recorded were less than the required time. Moving forward, please make sure the accurately reflect the hours on the orientation documents. Children’s Records: There are one hundred and sixty-six (166) children enrolled in this center. There were one hundred and forty-two (142) children attendance today. Sixteen (16) children’s files were reviewed today, please refer to the children’s worksheet to review which files was monitored. Medication: All emergency and other medications were reviewed today and there were two emergency medication out of compliance. Nutrition: The facility was in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Meal Patterns Requirements. The menu and allergy lists were posted in the kitchen and all classrooms. The menu consisted of chicken nuggets, mixed vegetables, pears, whole wheat bread and milk for lunch. Weapons: Your facility reported that they were in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Requirements regarding firearms. Transportation: The facility reported they do not offer transportation for the school year but do offer transportations for field trips. The registration is current but there is not a registration sticker at this time, when it arrives, the facility make the Child Care Consultant aware. Three (3) violations were observed today and two (2) were corrected during the visit. Please make note of the technical assistance listed below. The violations are as follows: 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. Epi-pens in room three (3) and room two (2) were expired. .0803(12) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Staff members A.B. and B.I. did not have a current health questionnaire on file. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Staff members A.B. and B.I did not have a current yearly updated emergency information form on file. .0701(a) The violations not corrected during the visit must be corrected immediately. On or before 8/25/2024 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 considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant PO Box 364 Matthews, NC 28105 or Traci.meyer@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 (75%). Any violation (s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-five percent (95%) prior to today’s visit. The compliance history could be impacted after today’s visit. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Rated License: •Hold Harmless has been extended until the new QRIS is implemented (SB 425). Providers in Cohort #1 (number one) are not required to go any further with a rated license assessment unless they want to, and providers in Cohort #2 (number two) do not need to start their preparation year unless they want to. Upon request, a childcare facility may be awarded a star-rated license based on accreditation from a national childhood education accreditation organization provided the facility maintains its accreditation and remains in good standing. •Use this time for staff to update their information in the WORKS database. For more information, please go to https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/DCDEE-WORKS. Have all staff update their education including certifications. Technical Assistance •Over the counter medications can use the twelve month (12) permission slip forms while all prescription medications will use the six (6) month permission slip forms. •While the initial orientation may take six hours in the first two weeks to complete, it is important to accurately document the correct hours on the orientation sheet. •In the restroom area in room number three (3) there is leakage that is causing a small amount of standing water in the restroom area. Ms. Dyre advised that this has a work order, and they are aware of issue. •In the room number (10a) please make sure there is an adequate quantity of books, toys and materials for the children to use and are available. •The EPR documents, while reviewed annually or when changes occur, there is a site via the DCDEE website where updates should be processed and printed showing a current ERP review and plan. •Resource Center (SSRC) is funded by and in partnership with the Alliance for Children and is hosted by South Piedmont Community College. The SSRC offers a variety of materials to support children ages 0-5 in their learning and development. The SSRC is a lending library of more than 5,000 resources with a delivery service. If you are interested you can reach the SSRC via email at smartstartresourcecenter@gmail.com or by phone at 704-290-5894. •Rule 15A NCAC 18A .2816 requires currently operating child care centers to test water initially and every three years. Family child care homes are required to test water for lead once. o DCDEE encourages you to utilize the Clean Classrooms for Children’s program. You can take the pre-enrollment webinars which is available at www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina then enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina completing the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. Keep mindful that once you evaluate potential hazards and receive results if there are recommendations and/or water mitigation support is needed they will provide direction in how to mitigate and ways to fund said mitigation. •All facilities who want to be eligible for mitigation must enroll in in Clean Water for Kids by November 1st, 2024. Please enroll as soon as possible if you have not already done so. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. We jointly reviewed the visit summary and documentation of my findings and violations with you, I encouraged to ask any questions and you did not have any. If you have questions or need further assistance, please contact me at 704-594-0041 or via email at Traci.Meyer@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your assistance during today’s visit. Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant Division of Child Development and Early Education 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 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: EMMANUEL CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 90000377 Consultant: KATHY WILLIS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/23/2024 Number Present: 110 Completed Date: 1/23/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 180 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my Annual Complaince visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Upon arrival I introduced myself to Ms. Debbie Hildreth, Corporate Contact, Erin Drye Administrator and explained the reason for my visit. Both Ms. Hildreth and Ms. Drye stated that they had a disgruntled employee who had walked out and not returned to work last week and that she was making threats to Ms. Hildreth. I assured them that this visit was a routine unannounced visit and was not related to any allegations from previous employees. We used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable childcare requirements pertinent to this facility and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers Ownership: The facility corporate owner Emmanuel Baptist Ministries, Inc. and in the Secretary of State website the Non-profit organization is listed as current and active as of August 8, 2008. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or the church is incorporated, you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location or inherited. The following items were monitored today: Supervision, Capacity, Staff-Child Ratios, Emergency Medical Plan, Storage and Administration of Medication, Storage of Hazardous materials, General Safety, Discipline, Adequate and Approved Space, Program Records, License Posted and Permit Restrictions. Indoor learning Environment and Outdoor Learning Environment: A walk-through of the facility was completed today; all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children going outside , playing in their classrooms in their center areas, participating in creative dramatic play, as well as diaper changing and tummy time for the infants. Program Records: Postings were reviewed as well as attendance and arrival and departure. All items were in compliance. Also monitored were new staff records, Specialized Trainings, Criminal Record Checks. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. There was one bottle on nonprescription medication on Ms. Dryes desk assessable to the children in care. Upon arrival there was a sick child in the office and this medication was in locked storage. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Of the three staff files reviewed one staff (see staff and training worksheet) did not have a medical report that was completed prior to employment. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. Of the three staff files reviewed one staff (see staff and training worksheet) did not have the required documentation to show that they are free of active TB. .0701(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Of the three staff files reviewed none of the staff (see staff and training worksheet) had proof of completion on the six clock hours of orientation in the required topic areas. .1101(a)(b) 1873 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with existing staff who care for children ages 0-5 within 30 days of adopting the policy. Of the three staff files reviewed one staff (see staff and training worksheet) did not have proof of having the policy reviewed with them. .0608 (d) Documentation of Violation Corrections: All violations documented above must be corrected immediately. A letter or email must be submitted to me within 14 days, no later than February 6, 2024 with the specifics of how you corrected all violations and how you will prevent them in the future. Please include your Facility Name, Facility ID number, date of visit, date of corrections, and date of submission of the correction letter/email. Failure to maintain compliance with all requirements may result in an Administrative Action against the license, which could include civil penalties. Repeated violations may significantly affect your compliance history. An unannounced visit may be conducted to verify compliance with child care requirements. Rated License: Your program currently is in its prep year of 06/27/2023 to 06/30/24 – and your assessment year begins 07/01/2024. The preparation year is an opportunity to focus on your Star Rated License and consider strategies to help maintain or increase your star rating. Some preparation year ideas to consider related specifically to the program standards component of the Star Rated License are: 1. First and foremost, approach this as a learning process. There will always be things to work on, but make sure to acknowledge areas of strength along the way, communicate with others, ask questions, and be open to new or different ideas. 2. Always remember that you know the children and families and the program’s culture, current situations, priorities, and challenges. When considering the requirements, use your own expertise when deciding how best to focus time and energy. Administrators Review Requirements •Be familiar with the NC Child Care Law and Rules that apply to your program. •Review the ECERS-R, ITERS-R, SACERS-U, and/or FCCERS-R for your setting. Gather Resources •Look for assessment related resources at ncrlap.org •Have copies of the rating scales applicable to the age groups your program serves. •Seek out webinars and/or in-person trainings related to topics of interest. •Check out various provider resources and download NC's Foundations for Early Learning and Development at DCDEE's website: ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov Create a Plan of Action •Start a self-study process to become more familiar with the ERS or priority areas relevant to your program. •Brainstorm and collaborate with others about questions or current challenges you would like to address. Reach Out •Share your ideas and needs with others that can help with resources of various types •Get your questions answered by contacting your local CCR&R or Partnership for Children, NCRLAP, or your program's DCDEE consultant depending on the topic areas. •Talk with your consultant about completing a prep year ERS assessment to get more information about current situations at your program. Use staff meetings to discuss topics related to the Environment Rating Scales or other quality initiatives. For example, if transitions are challenging, ask everyone to share what strategies help, or which transitions take longer and why? Support and encourage staff during a self-study process. Connect them with resources at ncrlap.org including contact hour earning webinars and Thinking More worksheets for every rating scale. Engage to brainstorm, offer support and clarification, and set goals to help everyone become more familiar and confident with the assessment process. Allocate resources so they can focus on self-study as part of the workday. Access WWW.NCRLAP.ORG for additional resources. We discussed the facility having their prep year assessment completed and the benefits of this assessment as a teaching tool. The Administrative staff stated that they were ready to have the prep year assessment completed. These assessment was were ordered during today’s visit. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Kathy Twitty Willis, Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section, (704) 594-0148 or kathy.willis@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. Kathy Twitty Willis M.Ed. Child Care Consultant – Regulatory Services Section Division of Child Development and Early Education NC Department of Health and Human Services Office: 704-594-0148 Kathy.Willis@dhhs.nc.gov - PO Box 192 Mineral Springs, NC 28108 If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: EMMANUEL CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 90000377 Consultant: KATHY WILLIS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/17/2023 Number Present: 126 Completed Date: 8/17/2023 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 12:00 PM Time Out: 02:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my Annual Compliance unannounced visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Traci Meyer Carpenter, Child Care Consultant, assisted me with today’s visit. Upon arrival the Ms. Debbie Hildreth, Corporate Contact, Erin Drye Assistant Administrator assisted me during today’s visit. We used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing (DCD 0357) as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers. Ownership: The facility corporate owner Emmanuel Baptist Ministries, Inc. and in the Secretary of State website the Non-profit organization is listed as current and active as of August 8, 2008. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or the church is incorporated, you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location or inherited. Inspections: All inspections were completed within the required time frames and are documented on the Annual Compliance worksheet attached to today’s visit. Ms. Drye, accompanied us today on the walk-through of the facility and the outdoor learning environment. Indoor Environment: The younger children were playing in the classrooms on the floor in tummy time and the older children were resting with the school age children participating in group activities including art, language, and teacher directed activities. Each classroom was set up developmentally appropriate with technical assistance provided in preparation of the Environmental Rating Scale once DCDEE sets forth a plan regarding Rated Licenses. Outdoor Learning Environment: The outdoor learning environment was monitored, and the suggestion was made to ensure that all ages of children have access to outdoor play materials that encourage vigorous play (balls, jump ropes, hula-hoops, climbing equipment, Trikes, etc. We observed children playing in the gross motor area and the observed that the metal poles and the top of a fence and around one of the play structures there was piping insulation and duct tape which was splitting and unraveling. There was trash on the playground that had not been picked up and there was a mulch issue where it was coming out of the fence area and they were losing a great deal of mulch to the parking lot or outside the fence. Suggestions were made about ways to ensure that the mulch stays within the fence area. A great resource for this area can be found on the North Carolina Rated License Project website, www.ncrlap.org, under resources regarding outside play that could assist your program in preparing for the Rated License. Transportation: Ms. Hildreth stated that currently they do not currently provide transportation. She stated that the Church allows them to lease the church bus for summer field trips. I explained that if they do wish to provide transportation in the future, they must contact me in order to have the vehicle monitored and as a courtesy have a review of the Child Care Transportation requirements. Staff Records: The Staff and Training Worksheets were available for review and all there were no new staff therefore no new staff records were monitored. Of the remaining staff 10 % of staff, 2, files were reviewed with one violation observed. Children Records: Seventeen (17) Children’s files were reviewed. The children’s files were very organized. Program Records: I reviewed all the required records. I observed the Summary of the Child Care Law poster (the updated summary dated January 2021 was posted today), Monthly Fire Drill Log & Quarterly Shelter-in-place/Lock down drill Log, Safe Pick-up, and Delivery Procedures that are the same as what is in the facility handbook, Emergency Medical Care Plan (with all staff listed who preform listed duties), Emergency Phone Numbers (recommended – by telephone) Weekly menu for meals and snacks posted where it can be seen by parents and food preparation staff, Tobacco Free Environment/Campus restriction poster/sticker posted at main entrance. I reminded Mrs. Drye that if there is only ever one staff person left on site the emergency contact person for this situation information must be posted on the parent board. Nutrition: We discussed Child Care Meal Patterns Requirements. I observed today’s lunch which met the requirements for Child Care Meal Patterns. The menu was reviewed, and it met the meal pattern requirements. Weapons: Your facility reported that they were in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Requirements regarding firearms. The following violations were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the preschool playgrounds there was a fence by the gym and both shelters that had poles and they were covered with pipe covers and duct tape. The duct tape was peeling and tearing away, and the pipe covers were busting. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The loose surfacing under the swings was not the required 6 inches. Under the swings the children had kicked out all mulch therefore due to the displacement the mulch was not in adequate amount. The mulch under the non-mobile play units with slides there was compacted mulch which did not provide the required depth of protective surfacing. .0605(k)(1-4) Today the violations, that were not corrected during the visit, must be corrected immediately. You must submit a correction email or letter to me no later than August 31, 2022. Please note in this documentation you will need to provide specifics the “what, when, and where” of the corrective actions you have taken and how you will prevent reoccurrence. In the correction documentation (email or letter) please include the facility name, id number, date of the visit, date of the corrections and your signature (electronic is acceptable). Keep mindful that violations must be corrected immediately, and it is best practice to submit the correction letter as soon as possible. Waiting until the above noted date could result in the scheduling of a return visit to verify that the violations have been corrected. Compliance History: North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past 18 months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Other resources that were provided were: Rated License: We discussed that the facility is in the First Cohort: Cohort 1: Prep year 06/27/2023 to 06/30/24 – and your assessment year begins 07/01/2024. The preparation year is an opportunity to focus on your Star Rated License and consider strategies to help maintain or increase your star rating. Some preparation year ideas to consider related specifically to the program standards component of the Star Rated License are: 1. First and foremost, approach this as a learning process. There will always be things to work on, but make sure to acknowledge areas of strength along the way, communicate with others, ask questions, and be open to new or different ideas. 2. Always remember that you know the children and families and the program’s culture, current situations, priorities, and challenges. When considering the requirements, use your own expertise when deciding how best to focus time and energy. Administrators Review Requirements •Be familiar with the NC Child Care Law and Rules that apply to your program. •Review the ECERS-R, ITERS-R, SACERS-U, and/or FCCERS-R for your setting. Gather Resources •Look for assessment related resources at ncrlap.org •Have copies of the rating scales applicable to the age groups your program serves. •Seek out webinars and/or in-person trainings related to topics of interest. •Check out various provider resources and download NC's Foundations for Early Learning and Development at DCDEE's website: ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov Create a Plan of Action •Start a self-study process to become more familiar with the ERS or priority areas relevant to your program. •Brainstorm and collaborate with others about questions or current challenges you would like to address. Reach Out •Share your ideas and needs with others that can help with resources of various types •Get your questions answered by contacting your local CCR&R or Partnership for Children, NCRLAP, or your program's DCDEE consultant depending on the topic areas. •Talk with your consultant about completing a prep year ERS assessment to get more information about current situations at your program. Use staff meetings to discuss topics related to the Environment Rating Scales or other quality initiatives. For example, if transitions are challenging, ask everyone to share what strategies help, or which transitions take longer and why? Support and encourage staff during a self-study process. Connect them with resources at ncrlap.org including contact hour earning webinars and Thinking More worksheets for every rating scale. Engage to brainstorm, offer support and clarification, and set goals to help everyone become more familiar and confident with the assessment process. Allocate resources so they can focus on self-study as part of the workday. I suggested that the facility consider having the Mock Assessment in preparation. At the close of the visit, I asked if there were any questions or concerns, and we reviewed all questions and answers were provided. shared if any questions or concerns arose or if assistance was needed to please feel free to contact me at (704) 594-0148 or kathy.willis@dhhs.nc.gov. Kathy Twitty Willis M.Ed. Child Care Consultant NCDHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Regulatory Services Section PO Box 192 Mineral Springs NC 28108-0192 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