10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: RANGER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRE-K Facility ID: 20000074 Consultant: BRIDGET OWEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/19/2026 Number Present: 14 Completed Date: 2/19/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 216 Time In: 09:39 AM Time Out: 01:15 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 compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and a signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site for you. Brandy Raper Administrator/Principal was on-site and available to answer and ask questions. Tasha Williamson, NC Pre-K Teacher, assisted with the visit and was available to answer and ask questions. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today to include: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-six (96%) percentage as of 02/10/2026. The ownership of the child care facility is by Cherokee County Public Schools. Permit type – Five Star Center License, issued on 04/25/2016 Special Services/Restrictions –NCPK approved and approved for transportation. Daytime care only. Meets enhanced space and reduced ratios. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 03/05/2025 The last fire drill was practiced on 1/12/2026 The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on11/14/2025 The last playground inspection was documented on 2/5/2026 The last fire inspection was approved on 09/29/2025 The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 12/03/2025 with zero (0) demerits for a Superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum Lead water testing was completed on 5/2/2024 without hazards. Lead paint and asbestos testing have not been completed. Upon my arrival, I introduced my presence to Ms. Williamson, Lead Teacher. There is one (1) class of eighteen (18) children enrolled 4 to 5 years of age with two (2) staff. The children were engaged in free play, appeared happy and content in their environment. Staff were up moving around and interacting with children. For lunch the children had chicken alfredo, garlic bread stick, Caesar salad, grape tomatoes with ranch, orange, and milk. There are no known allergies. No medication onsite. There are two (2) teaching staff. One (1) existing staff file was monitored; there are no new employees. There are eighteen (18) children enrolled, and two (2) children’s files were monitored. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing (DCDEE-0357) as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. For specific rule references, refer to Chapter 110 General Statues Child Care Facilities, Chapter nine (9) Child Care Rule (10A NCAC 09) and Section 2800 Sanitation of Child Care Center (15A NCAC 18A) for additional information. Updated copies of these rules can be located on our website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ The program does provide transportation. The program uses public school buses. There was a public school off-site records verification form on file for transportation records. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC PK monitoring tool was completed on 12/03/2025 and reviewed today. Two (2) children’s files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 07:20 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 115 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not posted in a prominent place in the center. The Summary of the law was not posted in a prominent place identifying the entire NC Summary of the Law. Only a portion of the summary of Law was posted. G.S. 110-102 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. On 2/4/26 (15 children), 2/5/26 (15 children), 2/11/26 (15 children), 2/12/26 (16 children), 2/13/26 (14 children), 2/17/26 (16 children), 2/18/26 (14 children), and 2/20/26 (16 children), were not signed out with a documented time of departure. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plan that was posted was dated February 2-6, 2026. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Alcohol Cleansing Wipes were in the gloves/thermometer drawer that was not locked or above five feet. .2820(b) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item # 115: Only one side of the Summary of Law was posted. This was corrected during the visit.The administrator was reminded that the Summary of Law must be posted in its entirety and visible to parents and staff at all times. During the visit, the missing page was posted to ensure compliance. Item # 125: Arrival and departure times must be consistently maintained. On 2/4/26 (15 children), 2/5/26 (15 children), 2/11/26 (15 children), 2/12/26 (16 children), 2/13/26 (14 children), 2/17/26 (16 children), 2/18/26 (14 children), and 2/20/26 (16 children), children were not signed out with a documented time of departure. The administrator was reminded that a complete and accurate sign-in/sign-out record, including the child’s time of arrival and departure, must be documented daily for each child. Technical assistance was provided on implementing procedures to ensure departure times are recorded at the time the child leaves the facility. Suggestions included assigning a staff member to monitor the sign-out process during peak pick-up times, placing a reminder sign near the sign-out sheet or electronic kiosk, and conducting a daily review of attendance records to verify completeness before closing. In your compliance letter, please state how you will prevent this violation from recurring. The facility must ensure that all children are signed in upon arrival and signed out at departure each day, including accurate documentation of arrival and departure times. Staff should review the daily sign-in/out sheet in real time to verify that each child’s name and time of arrival and departure are recorded completely and accurately. A designated staff member should be responsible for monitoring the sign-in/out process to ensure no child arrives or leaves without a documented time. At the end of each day, staff should reconcile attendance records to confirm that all children have recorded arrival and departure times. Ongoing monitoring and staff training on attendance procedures should be implemented to maintain consistent compliance Hazardous Materials Item # 840: Alcohol Cleansing Wipes were in the gloves/thermometer drawer that was not locked or above five feet. This was corrected during the visit. Ms. Williamson moved them to cabinet that was above five feet. Current Activity Plan Item # 428 To achieve compliance for the activity plans, current activity plans must be completed and posted. The current activity plan was posted during the visit. This was corrected during the visit. Achieving Compliance: 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. 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. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Name and position of individual submitting compliance statement • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 03/05/2026 Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) to: bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Bridget Owen Po Box 114 Rosman, NC 28772 Please call me at 828-530-2424, or email bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development 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. Consultation is provided as follows: The following staff need to update their DCDEE WORKS accounts. B. Raper needs to upload her Principal License and apply for the DPI EC Administrator position. T. Williamson needs to upload her B-K License to meet NC Pre-K requirements. As discussed, all staff members, including the bus driver, must be linked to the facility’s ABCMS. D.M. is listed on the staff training worksheet and has a current Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letter; however, D.M. is not currently linked in ABCMS. The expectation is that D.M.’s CBC be linked to the facility’s ABCMS immediately to ensure compliance. New and terminated staff notification requirement: As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. We discussed that the lead water testing is current and should be renewed every three years. The next lead water testing should be completed before 5/2/2027. Additionally, lead paint and asbestos testing need to be completed immediately. I have included the website here to begin this process: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Lead Paint and Asbestos Testing: In April 2023, North Carolina enacted final rules 10A NCAC 41C .1001-1007 requiring all public schools and child care facilities to: Test for lead in drinking/cooking water (.1005 and .2816), Identify lead-based paint hazards (.1004), Identify asbestos hazards (.1003), Mitigate or restrict access to any identified hazards. Testing was required to be completed by May 31, 2025. Rated License Consultation: Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, and Bridget Owen, Child Care Consultant, met with Thomas Graham, Administrator, on 01/05/2026 to provide technical assistance regarding new child care rules in the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES for all Cherokee County Schools NC Pre-K Programs. After reviewing the three pathway options to achieve a star license, the Cherokee County Schools NC Pre-K programs have chosen the classroom and instructional quality pathway. Please reach out with your questions as needed and be prepared to submit a rated license application in 2026. An ERS request will be submitted at the time of the rated license application to complete ECERS-3 assessment as required by NC Pre-K requirements. This assessment will not be part of the rated license process, but is required to meet NC Pre-K requirements. If you elect to change and/or alter any previously approved spaces used by children as indicated on the approved indoor and outdoor floor plan, you will need to contact me within thirty (30) days prior to the change. Failure to notify a DCDEE representative may result in a violation of child care requirements. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) states “Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division. As child care providers, you are a vital part in the prevention and intervention of child maltreatment! You may see potential indicators of maltreatment in the children under your care. Some children may even be more likely to disclose maltreatment to a child care provider than to a family member. It is required that all providers are aware of maltreatment indicators and to report any suspicions of maltreatment. Follow child care rules related to child maltreatment training: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(g) and 10A NCAC 09 .1703(a)(5) states the child care administrator, operator, and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submit an official transcript (if applicable) and apply for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3222 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in noncompliance with or failure to meet the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within six months. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within six months, the operator shall notify the Division. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any monitoring visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and want to be a resource for you. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.530-2424 or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@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: RANGER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRE-K Facility ID: 20000074 Consultant: BRIDGET OWEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/19/2026 Number Present: 14 Completed Date: 2/19/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 216 Time In: 09:39 AM Time Out: 01:15 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 compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and a signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site for you. Brandy Raper Administrator/Principal was on-site and available to answer and ask questions. Tasha Williamson, NC Pre-K Teacher, assisted with the visit and was available to answer and ask questions. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today to include: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-six (96%) percentage as of 02/10/2026. The ownership of the child care facility is by Cherokee County Public Schools. Permit type – Five Star Center License, issued on 04/25/2016 Special Services/Restrictions –NCPK approved and approved for transportation. Daytime care only. Meets enhanced space and reduced ratios. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 03/05/2025 The last fire drill was practiced on 1/12/2026 The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on11/14/2025 The last playground inspection was documented on 2/5/2026 The last fire inspection was approved on 09/29/2025 The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 12/03/2025 with zero (0) demerits for a Superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum Lead water testing was completed on 5/2/2024 without hazards. Lead paint and asbestos testing have not been completed. Upon my arrival, I introduced my presence to Ms. Williamson, Lead Teacher. There is one (1) class of eighteen (18) children enrolled 4 to 5 years of age with two (2) staff. The children were engaged in free play, appeared happy and content in their environment. Staff were up moving around and interacting with children. For lunch the children had chicken alfredo, garlic bread stick, Caesar salad, grape tomatoes with ranch, orange, and milk. There are no known allergies. No medication onsite. There are two (2) teaching staff. One (1) existing staff file was monitored; there are no new employees. There are eighteen (18) children enrolled, and two (2) children’s files were monitored. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing (DCDEE-0357) as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. For specific rule references, refer to Chapter 110 General Statues Child Care Facilities, Chapter nine (9) Child Care Rule (10A NCAC 09) and Section 2800 Sanitation of Child Care Center (15A NCAC 18A) for additional information. Updated copies of these rules can be located on our website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ The program does provide transportation. The program uses public school buses. There was a public school off-site records verification form on file for transportation records. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC PK monitoring tool was completed on 12/03/2025 and reviewed today. Two (2) children’s files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 07:20 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 115 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not posted in a prominent place in the center. The Summary of the law was not posted in a prominent place identifying the entire NC Summary of the Law. Only a portion of the summary of Law was posted. G.S. 110-102 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. On 2/4/26 (15 children), 2/5/26 (15 children), 2/11/26 (15 children), 2/12/26 (16 children), 2/13/26 (14 children), 2/17/26 (16 children), 2/18/26 (14 children), and 2/20/26 (16 children), were not signed out with a documented time of departure. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plan that was posted was dated February 2-6, 2026. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Alcohol Cleansing Wipes were in the gloves/thermometer drawer that was not locked or above five feet. .2820(b) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item # 115: Only one side of the Summary of Law was posted. This was corrected during the visit.The administrator was reminded that the Summary of Law must be posted in its entirety and visible to parents and staff at all times. During the visit, the missing page was posted to ensure compliance. Item # 125: Arrival and departure times must be consistently maintained. On 2/4/26 (15 children), 2/5/26 (15 children), 2/11/26 (15 children), 2/12/26 (16 children), 2/13/26 (14 children), 2/17/26 (16 children), 2/18/26 (14 children), and 2/20/26 (16 children), children were not signed out with a documented time of departure. The administrator was reminded that a complete and accurate sign-in/sign-out record, including the child’s time of arrival and departure, must be documented daily for each child. Technical assistance was provided on implementing procedures to ensure departure times are recorded at the time the child leaves the facility. Suggestions included assigning a staff member to monitor the sign-out process during peak pick-up times, placing a reminder sign near the sign-out sheet or electronic kiosk, and conducting a daily review of attendance records to verify completeness before closing. In your compliance letter, please state how you will prevent this violation from recurring. The facility must ensure that all children are signed in upon arrival and signed out at departure each day, including accurate documentation of arrival and departure times. Staff should review the daily sign-in/out sheet in real time to verify that each child’s name and time of arrival and departure are recorded completely and accurately. A designated staff member should be responsible for monitoring the sign-in/out process to ensure no child arrives or leaves without a documented time. At the end of each day, staff should reconcile attendance records to confirm that all children have recorded arrival and departure times. Ongoing monitoring and staff training on attendance procedures should be implemented to maintain consistent compliance Hazardous Materials Item # 840: Alcohol Cleansing Wipes were in the gloves/thermometer drawer that was not locked or above five feet. This was corrected during the visit. Ms. Williamson moved them to cabinet that was above five feet. Current Activity Plan Item # 428 To achieve compliance for the activity plans, current activity plans must be completed and posted. The current activity plan was posted during the visit. This was corrected during the visit. Achieving Compliance: 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. 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. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Name and position of individual submitting compliance statement • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 03/05/2026 Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) to: bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Bridget Owen Po Box 114 Rosman, NC 28772 Please call me at 828-530-2424, or email bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development 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. Consultation is provided as follows: The following staff need to update their DCDEE WORKS accounts. B. Raper needs to upload her Principal License and apply for the DPI EC Administrator position. T. Williamson needs to upload her B-K License to meet NC Pre-K requirements. As discussed, all staff members, including the bus driver, must be linked to the facility’s ABCMS. D.M. is listed on the staff training worksheet and has a current Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letter; however, D.M. is not currently linked in ABCMS. The expectation is that D.M.’s CBC be linked to the facility’s ABCMS immediately to ensure compliance. New and terminated staff notification requirement: As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. We discussed that the lead water testing is current and should be renewed every three years. The next lead water testing should be completed before 5/2/2027. Additionally, lead paint and asbestos testing need to be completed immediately. I have included the website here to begin this process: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Lead Paint and Asbestos Testing: In April 2023, North Carolina enacted final rules 10A NCAC 41C .1001-1007 requiring all public schools and child care facilities to: Test for lead in drinking/cooking water (.1005 and .2816), Identify lead-based paint hazards (.1004), Identify asbestos hazards (.1003), Mitigate or restrict access to any identified hazards. Testing was required to be completed by May 31, 2025. Rated License Consultation: Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, and Bridget Owen, Child Care Consultant, met with Thomas Graham, Administrator, on 01/05/2026 to provide technical assistance regarding new child care rules in the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES for all Cherokee County Schools NC Pre-K Programs. After reviewing the three pathway options to achieve a star license, the Cherokee County Schools NC Pre-K programs have chosen the classroom and instructional quality pathway. Please reach out with your questions as needed and be prepared to submit a rated license application in 2026. An ERS request will be submitted at the time of the rated license application to complete ECERS-3 assessment as required by NC Pre-K requirements. This assessment will not be part of the rated license process, but is required to meet NC Pre-K requirements. If you elect to change and/or alter any previously approved spaces used by children as indicated on the approved indoor and outdoor floor plan, you will need to contact me within thirty (30) days prior to the change. Failure to notify a DCDEE representative may result in a violation of child care requirements. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) states “Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division. As child care providers, you are a vital part in the prevention and intervention of child maltreatment! You may see potential indicators of maltreatment in the children under your care. Some children may even be more likely to disclose maltreatment to a child care provider than to a family member. It is required that all providers are aware of maltreatment indicators and to report any suspicions of maltreatment. Follow child care rules related to child maltreatment training: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(g) and 10A NCAC 09 .1703(a)(5) states the child care administrator, operator, and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submit an official transcript (if applicable) and apply for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3222 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in noncompliance with or failure to meet the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within six months. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within six months, the operator shall notify the Division. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any monitoring visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and want to be a resource for you. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.530-2424 or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@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 .1703 · Violation

Name of Operation: RANGER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRE-K Facility ID: 20000074 Consultant: BRIDGET OWEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/19/2026 Number Present: 14 Completed Date: 2/19/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 216 Time In: 09:39 AM Time Out: 01:15 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 compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and a signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site for you. Brandy Raper Administrator/Principal was on-site and available to answer and ask questions. Tasha Williamson, NC Pre-K Teacher, assisted with the visit and was available to answer and ask questions. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today to include: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-six (96%) percentage as of 02/10/2026. The ownership of the child care facility is by Cherokee County Public Schools. Permit type – Five Star Center License, issued on 04/25/2016 Special Services/Restrictions –NCPK approved and approved for transportation. Daytime care only. Meets enhanced space and reduced ratios. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 03/05/2025 The last fire drill was practiced on 1/12/2026 The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on11/14/2025 The last playground inspection was documented on 2/5/2026 The last fire inspection was approved on 09/29/2025 The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 12/03/2025 with zero (0) demerits for a Superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum Lead water testing was completed on 5/2/2024 without hazards. Lead paint and asbestos testing have not been completed. Upon my arrival, I introduced my presence to Ms. Williamson, Lead Teacher. There is one (1) class of eighteen (18) children enrolled 4 to 5 years of age with two (2) staff. The children were engaged in free play, appeared happy and content in their environment. Staff were up moving around and interacting with children. For lunch the children had chicken alfredo, garlic bread stick, Caesar salad, grape tomatoes with ranch, orange, and milk. There are no known allergies. No medication onsite. There are two (2) teaching staff. One (1) existing staff file was monitored; there are no new employees. There are eighteen (18) children enrolled, and two (2) children’s files were monitored. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing (DCDEE-0357) as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. For specific rule references, refer to Chapter 110 General Statues Child Care Facilities, Chapter nine (9) Child Care Rule (10A NCAC 09) and Section 2800 Sanitation of Child Care Center (15A NCAC 18A) for additional information. Updated copies of these rules can be located on our website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ The program does provide transportation. The program uses public school buses. There was a public school off-site records verification form on file for transportation records. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC PK monitoring tool was completed on 12/03/2025 and reviewed today. Two (2) children’s files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 07:20 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 115 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not posted in a prominent place in the center. The Summary of the law was not posted in a prominent place identifying the entire NC Summary of the Law. Only a portion of the summary of Law was posted. G.S. 110-102 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. On 2/4/26 (15 children), 2/5/26 (15 children), 2/11/26 (15 children), 2/12/26 (16 children), 2/13/26 (14 children), 2/17/26 (16 children), 2/18/26 (14 children), and 2/20/26 (16 children), were not signed out with a documented time of departure. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plan that was posted was dated February 2-6, 2026. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Alcohol Cleansing Wipes were in the gloves/thermometer drawer that was not locked or above five feet. .2820(b) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item # 115: Only one side of the Summary of Law was posted. This was corrected during the visit.The administrator was reminded that the Summary of Law must be posted in its entirety and visible to parents and staff at all times. During the visit, the missing page was posted to ensure compliance. Item # 125: Arrival and departure times must be consistently maintained. On 2/4/26 (15 children), 2/5/26 (15 children), 2/11/26 (15 children), 2/12/26 (16 children), 2/13/26 (14 children), 2/17/26 (16 children), 2/18/26 (14 children), and 2/20/26 (16 children), children were not signed out with a documented time of departure. The administrator was reminded that a complete and accurate sign-in/sign-out record, including the child’s time of arrival and departure, must be documented daily for each child. Technical assistance was provided on implementing procedures to ensure departure times are recorded at the time the child leaves the facility. Suggestions included assigning a staff member to monitor the sign-out process during peak pick-up times, placing a reminder sign near the sign-out sheet or electronic kiosk, and conducting a daily review of attendance records to verify completeness before closing. In your compliance letter, please state how you will prevent this violation from recurring. The facility must ensure that all children are signed in upon arrival and signed out at departure each day, including accurate documentation of arrival and departure times. Staff should review the daily sign-in/out sheet in real time to verify that each child’s name and time of arrival and departure are recorded completely and accurately. A designated staff member should be responsible for monitoring the sign-in/out process to ensure no child arrives or leaves without a documented time. At the end of each day, staff should reconcile attendance records to confirm that all children have recorded arrival and departure times. Ongoing monitoring and staff training on attendance procedures should be implemented to maintain consistent compliance Hazardous Materials Item # 840: Alcohol Cleansing Wipes were in the gloves/thermometer drawer that was not locked or above five feet. This was corrected during the visit. Ms. Williamson moved them to cabinet that was above five feet. Current Activity Plan Item # 428 To achieve compliance for the activity plans, current activity plans must be completed and posted. The current activity plan was posted during the visit. This was corrected during the visit. Achieving Compliance: 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. 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. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Name and position of individual submitting compliance statement • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 03/05/2026 Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) to: bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Bridget Owen Po Box 114 Rosman, NC 28772 Please call me at 828-530-2424, or email bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development 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. Consultation is provided as follows: The following staff need to update their DCDEE WORKS accounts. B. Raper needs to upload her Principal License and apply for the DPI EC Administrator position. T. Williamson needs to upload her B-K License to meet NC Pre-K requirements. As discussed, all staff members, including the bus driver, must be linked to the facility’s ABCMS. D.M. is listed on the staff training worksheet and has a current Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letter; however, D.M. is not currently linked in ABCMS. The expectation is that D.M.’s CBC be linked to the facility’s ABCMS immediately to ensure compliance. New and terminated staff notification requirement: As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. We discussed that the lead water testing is current and should be renewed every three years. The next lead water testing should be completed before 5/2/2027. Additionally, lead paint and asbestos testing need to be completed immediately. I have included the website here to begin this process: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Lead Paint and Asbestos Testing: In April 2023, North Carolina enacted final rules 10A NCAC 41C .1001-1007 requiring all public schools and child care facilities to: Test for lead in drinking/cooking water (.1005 and .2816), Identify lead-based paint hazards (.1004), Identify asbestos hazards (.1003), Mitigate or restrict access to any identified hazards. Testing was required to be completed by May 31, 2025. Rated License Consultation: Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, and Bridget Owen, Child Care Consultant, met with Thomas Graham, Administrator, on 01/05/2026 to provide technical assistance regarding new child care rules in the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES for all Cherokee County Schools NC Pre-K Programs. After reviewing the three pathway options to achieve a star license, the Cherokee County Schools NC Pre-K programs have chosen the classroom and instructional quality pathway. Please reach out with your questions as needed and be prepared to submit a rated license application in 2026. An ERS request will be submitted at the time of the rated license application to complete ECERS-3 assessment as required by NC Pre-K requirements. This assessment will not be part of the rated license process, but is required to meet NC Pre-K requirements. If you elect to change and/or alter any previously approved spaces used by children as indicated on the approved indoor and outdoor floor plan, you will need to contact me within thirty (30) days prior to the change. Failure to notify a DCDEE representative may result in a violation of child care requirements. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) states “Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division. As child care providers, you are a vital part in the prevention and intervention of child maltreatment! You may see potential indicators of maltreatment in the children under your care. Some children may even be more likely to disclose maltreatment to a child care provider than to a family member. It is required that all providers are aware of maltreatment indicators and to report any suspicions of maltreatment. Follow child care rules related to child maltreatment training: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(g) and 10A NCAC 09 .1703(a)(5) states the child care administrator, operator, and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submit an official transcript (if applicable) and apply for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3222 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in noncompliance with or failure to meet the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within six months. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within six months, the operator shall notify the Division. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any monitoring visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and want to be a resource for you. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.530-2424 or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@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 .3222 · Violation

Name of Operation: RANGER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRE-K Facility ID: 20000074 Consultant: BRIDGET OWEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/19/2026 Number Present: 14 Completed Date: 2/19/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 216 Time In: 09:39 AM Time Out: 01:15 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 compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and a signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site for you. Brandy Raper Administrator/Principal was on-site and available to answer and ask questions. Tasha Williamson, NC Pre-K Teacher, assisted with the visit and was available to answer and ask questions. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today to include: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-six (96%) percentage as of 02/10/2026. The ownership of the child care facility is by Cherokee County Public Schools. Permit type – Five Star Center License, issued on 04/25/2016 Special Services/Restrictions –NCPK approved and approved for transportation. Daytime care only. Meets enhanced space and reduced ratios. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 03/05/2025 The last fire drill was practiced on 1/12/2026 The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on11/14/2025 The last playground inspection was documented on 2/5/2026 The last fire inspection was approved on 09/29/2025 The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 12/03/2025 with zero (0) demerits for a Superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum Lead water testing was completed on 5/2/2024 without hazards. Lead paint and asbestos testing have not been completed. Upon my arrival, I introduced my presence to Ms. Williamson, Lead Teacher. There is one (1) class of eighteen (18) children enrolled 4 to 5 years of age with two (2) staff. The children were engaged in free play, appeared happy and content in their environment. Staff were up moving around and interacting with children. For lunch the children had chicken alfredo, garlic bread stick, Caesar salad, grape tomatoes with ranch, orange, and milk. There are no known allergies. No medication onsite. There are two (2) teaching staff. One (1) existing staff file was monitored; there are no new employees. There are eighteen (18) children enrolled, and two (2) children’s files were monitored. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing (DCDEE-0357) as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. For specific rule references, refer to Chapter 110 General Statues Child Care Facilities, Chapter nine (9) Child Care Rule (10A NCAC 09) and Section 2800 Sanitation of Child Care Center (15A NCAC 18A) for additional information. Updated copies of these rules can be located on our website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ The program does provide transportation. The program uses public school buses. There was a public school off-site records verification form on file for transportation records. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC PK monitoring tool was completed on 12/03/2025 and reviewed today. Two (2) children’s files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 07:20 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 115 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not posted in a prominent place in the center. The Summary of the law was not posted in a prominent place identifying the entire NC Summary of the Law. Only a portion of the summary of Law was posted. G.S. 110-102 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. On 2/4/26 (15 children), 2/5/26 (15 children), 2/11/26 (15 children), 2/12/26 (16 children), 2/13/26 (14 children), 2/17/26 (16 children), 2/18/26 (14 children), and 2/20/26 (16 children), were not signed out with a documented time of departure. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plan that was posted was dated February 2-6, 2026. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Alcohol Cleansing Wipes were in the gloves/thermometer drawer that was not locked or above five feet. .2820(b) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item # 115: Only one side of the Summary of Law was posted. This was corrected during the visit.The administrator was reminded that the Summary of Law must be posted in its entirety and visible to parents and staff at all times. During the visit, the missing page was posted to ensure compliance. Item # 125: Arrival and departure times must be consistently maintained. On 2/4/26 (15 children), 2/5/26 (15 children), 2/11/26 (15 children), 2/12/26 (16 children), 2/13/26 (14 children), 2/17/26 (16 children), 2/18/26 (14 children), and 2/20/26 (16 children), children were not signed out with a documented time of departure. The administrator was reminded that a complete and accurate sign-in/sign-out record, including the child’s time of arrival and departure, must be documented daily for each child. Technical assistance was provided on implementing procedures to ensure departure times are recorded at the time the child leaves the facility. Suggestions included assigning a staff member to monitor the sign-out process during peak pick-up times, placing a reminder sign near the sign-out sheet or electronic kiosk, and conducting a daily review of attendance records to verify completeness before closing. In your compliance letter, please state how you will prevent this violation from recurring. The facility must ensure that all children are signed in upon arrival and signed out at departure each day, including accurate documentation of arrival and departure times. Staff should review the daily sign-in/out sheet in real time to verify that each child’s name and time of arrival and departure are recorded completely and accurately. A designated staff member should be responsible for monitoring the sign-in/out process to ensure no child arrives or leaves without a documented time. At the end of each day, staff should reconcile attendance records to confirm that all children have recorded arrival and departure times. Ongoing monitoring and staff training on attendance procedures should be implemented to maintain consistent compliance Hazardous Materials Item # 840: Alcohol Cleansing Wipes were in the gloves/thermometer drawer that was not locked or above five feet. This was corrected during the visit. Ms. Williamson moved them to cabinet that was above five feet. Current Activity Plan Item # 428 To achieve compliance for the activity plans, current activity plans must be completed and posted. The current activity plan was posted during the visit. This was corrected during the visit. Achieving Compliance: 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. 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. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Name and position of individual submitting compliance statement • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 03/05/2026 Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) to: bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Bridget Owen Po Box 114 Rosman, NC 28772 Please call me at 828-530-2424, or email bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development 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. Consultation is provided as follows: The following staff need to update their DCDEE WORKS accounts. B. Raper needs to upload her Principal License and apply for the DPI EC Administrator position. T. Williamson needs to upload her B-K License to meet NC Pre-K requirements. As discussed, all staff members, including the bus driver, must be linked to the facility’s ABCMS. D.M. is listed on the staff training worksheet and has a current Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letter; however, D.M. is not currently linked in ABCMS. The expectation is that D.M.’s CBC be linked to the facility’s ABCMS immediately to ensure compliance. New and terminated staff notification requirement: As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. We discussed that the lead water testing is current and should be renewed every three years. The next lead water testing should be completed before 5/2/2027. Additionally, lead paint and asbestos testing need to be completed immediately. I have included the website here to begin this process: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Lead Paint and Asbestos Testing: In April 2023, North Carolina enacted final rules 10A NCAC 41C .1001-1007 requiring all public schools and child care facilities to: Test for lead in drinking/cooking water (.1005 and .2816), Identify lead-based paint hazards (.1004), Identify asbestos hazards (.1003), Mitigate or restrict access to any identified hazards. Testing was required to be completed by May 31, 2025. Rated License Consultation: Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, and Bridget Owen, Child Care Consultant, met with Thomas Graham, Administrator, on 01/05/2026 to provide technical assistance regarding new child care rules in the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES for all Cherokee County Schools NC Pre-K Programs. After reviewing the three pathway options to achieve a star license, the Cherokee County Schools NC Pre-K programs have chosen the classroom and instructional quality pathway. Please reach out with your questions as needed and be prepared to submit a rated license application in 2026. An ERS request will be submitted at the time of the rated license application to complete ECERS-3 assessment as required by NC Pre-K requirements. This assessment will not be part of the rated license process, but is required to meet NC Pre-K requirements. If you elect to change and/or alter any previously approved spaces used by children as indicated on the approved indoor and outdoor floor plan, you will need to contact me within thirty (30) days prior to the change. Failure to notify a DCDEE representative may result in a violation of child care requirements. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) states “Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division. As child care providers, you are a vital part in the prevention and intervention of child maltreatment! You may see potential indicators of maltreatment in the children under your care. Some children may even be more likely to disclose maltreatment to a child care provider than to a family member. It is required that all providers are aware of maltreatment indicators and to report any suspicions of maltreatment. Follow child care rules related to child maltreatment training: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(g) and 10A NCAC 09 .1703(a)(5) states the child care administrator, operator, and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submit an official transcript (if applicable) and apply for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3222 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in noncompliance with or failure to meet the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within six months. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within six months, the operator shall notify the Division. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any monitoring visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and want to be a resource for you. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.530-2424 or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@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. 110-102 · Violation

Name of Operation: RANGER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRE-K Facility ID: 20000074 Consultant: BRIDGET OWEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/19/2026 Number Present: 14 Completed Date: 2/19/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 216 Time In: 09:39 AM Time Out: 01:15 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 compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and a signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site for you. Brandy Raper Administrator/Principal was on-site and available to answer and ask questions. Tasha Williamson, NC Pre-K Teacher, assisted with the visit and was available to answer and ask questions. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today to include: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-six (96%) percentage as of 02/10/2026. The ownership of the child care facility is by Cherokee County Public Schools. Permit type – Five Star Center License, issued on 04/25/2016 Special Services/Restrictions –NCPK approved and approved for transportation. Daytime care only. Meets enhanced space and reduced ratios. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 03/05/2025 The last fire drill was practiced on 1/12/2026 The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on11/14/2025 The last playground inspection was documented on 2/5/2026 The last fire inspection was approved on 09/29/2025 The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 12/03/2025 with zero (0) demerits for a Superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum Lead water testing was completed on 5/2/2024 without hazards. Lead paint and asbestos testing have not been completed. Upon my arrival, I introduced my presence to Ms. Williamson, Lead Teacher. There is one (1) class of eighteen (18) children enrolled 4 to 5 years of age with two (2) staff. The children were engaged in free play, appeared happy and content in their environment. Staff were up moving around and interacting with children. For lunch the children had chicken alfredo, garlic bread stick, Caesar salad, grape tomatoes with ranch, orange, and milk. There are no known allergies. No medication onsite. There are two (2) teaching staff. One (1) existing staff file was monitored; there are no new employees. There are eighteen (18) children enrolled, and two (2) children’s files were monitored. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing (DCDEE-0357) as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. For specific rule references, refer to Chapter 110 General Statues Child Care Facilities, Chapter nine (9) Child Care Rule (10A NCAC 09) and Section 2800 Sanitation of Child Care Center (15A NCAC 18A) for additional information. Updated copies of these rules can be located on our website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ The program does provide transportation. The program uses public school buses. There was a public school off-site records verification form on file for transportation records. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC PK monitoring tool was completed on 12/03/2025 and reviewed today. Two (2) children’s files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 07:20 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 115 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not posted in a prominent place in the center. The Summary of the law was not posted in a prominent place identifying the entire NC Summary of the Law. Only a portion of the summary of Law was posted. G.S. 110-102 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. On 2/4/26 (15 children), 2/5/26 (15 children), 2/11/26 (15 children), 2/12/26 (16 children), 2/13/26 (14 children), 2/17/26 (16 children), 2/18/26 (14 children), and 2/20/26 (16 children), were not signed out with a documented time of departure. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plan that was posted was dated February 2-6, 2026. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Alcohol Cleansing Wipes were in the gloves/thermometer drawer that was not locked or above five feet. .2820(b) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item # 115: Only one side of the Summary of Law was posted. This was corrected during the visit.The administrator was reminded that the Summary of Law must be posted in its entirety and visible to parents and staff at all times. During the visit, the missing page was posted to ensure compliance. Item # 125: Arrival and departure times must be consistently maintained. On 2/4/26 (15 children), 2/5/26 (15 children), 2/11/26 (15 children), 2/12/26 (16 children), 2/13/26 (14 children), 2/17/26 (16 children), 2/18/26 (14 children), and 2/20/26 (16 children), children were not signed out with a documented time of departure. The administrator was reminded that a complete and accurate sign-in/sign-out record, including the child’s time of arrival and departure, must be documented daily for each child. Technical assistance was provided on implementing procedures to ensure departure times are recorded at the time the child leaves the facility. Suggestions included assigning a staff member to monitor the sign-out process during peak pick-up times, placing a reminder sign near the sign-out sheet or electronic kiosk, and conducting a daily review of attendance records to verify completeness before closing. In your compliance letter, please state how you will prevent this violation from recurring. The facility must ensure that all children are signed in upon arrival and signed out at departure each day, including accurate documentation of arrival and departure times. Staff should review the daily sign-in/out sheet in real time to verify that each child’s name and time of arrival and departure are recorded completely and accurately. A designated staff member should be responsible for monitoring the sign-in/out process to ensure no child arrives or leaves without a documented time. At the end of each day, staff should reconcile attendance records to confirm that all children have recorded arrival and departure times. Ongoing monitoring and staff training on attendance procedures should be implemented to maintain consistent compliance Hazardous Materials Item # 840: Alcohol Cleansing Wipes were in the gloves/thermometer drawer that was not locked or above five feet. This was corrected during the visit. Ms. Williamson moved them to cabinet that was above five feet. Current Activity Plan Item # 428 To achieve compliance for the activity plans, current activity plans must be completed and posted. The current activity plan was posted during the visit. This was corrected during the visit. Achieving Compliance: 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. 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. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Name and position of individual submitting compliance statement • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 03/05/2026 Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) to: bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Bridget Owen Po Box 114 Rosman, NC 28772 Please call me at 828-530-2424, or email bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development 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. Consultation is provided as follows: The following staff need to update their DCDEE WORKS accounts. B. Raper needs to upload her Principal License and apply for the DPI EC Administrator position. T. Williamson needs to upload her B-K License to meet NC Pre-K requirements. As discussed, all staff members, including the bus driver, must be linked to the facility’s ABCMS. D.M. is listed on the staff training worksheet and has a current Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letter; however, D.M. is not currently linked in ABCMS. The expectation is that D.M.’s CBC be linked to the facility’s ABCMS immediately to ensure compliance. New and terminated staff notification requirement: As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. We discussed that the lead water testing is current and should be renewed every three years. The next lead water testing should be completed before 5/2/2027. Additionally, lead paint and asbestos testing need to be completed immediately. I have included the website here to begin this process: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Lead Paint and Asbestos Testing: In April 2023, North Carolina enacted final rules 10A NCAC 41C .1001-1007 requiring all public schools and child care facilities to: Test for lead in drinking/cooking water (.1005 and .2816), Identify lead-based paint hazards (.1004), Identify asbestos hazards (.1003), Mitigate or restrict access to any identified hazards. Testing was required to be completed by May 31, 2025. Rated License Consultation: Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, and Bridget Owen, Child Care Consultant, met with Thomas Graham, Administrator, on 01/05/2026 to provide technical assistance regarding new child care rules in the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES for all Cherokee County Schools NC Pre-K Programs. After reviewing the three pathway options to achieve a star license, the Cherokee County Schools NC Pre-K programs have chosen the classroom and instructional quality pathway. Please reach out with your questions as needed and be prepared to submit a rated license application in 2026. An ERS request will be submitted at the time of the rated license application to complete ECERS-3 assessment as required by NC Pre-K requirements. This assessment will not be part of the rated license process, but is required to meet NC Pre-K requirements. If you elect to change and/or alter any previously approved spaces used by children as indicated on the approved indoor and outdoor floor plan, you will need to contact me within thirty (30) days prior to the change. Failure to notify a DCDEE representative may result in a violation of child care requirements. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) states “Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division. As child care providers, you are a vital part in the prevention and intervention of child maltreatment! You may see potential indicators of maltreatment in the children under your care. Some children may even be more likely to disclose maltreatment to a child care provider than to a family member. It is required that all providers are aware of maltreatment indicators and to report any suspicions of maltreatment. Follow child care rules related to child maltreatment training: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(g) and 10A NCAC 09 .1703(a)(5) states the child care administrator, operator, and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submit an official transcript (if applicable) and apply for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3222 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in noncompliance with or failure to meet the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within six months. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within six months, the operator shall notify the Division. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any monitoring visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and want to be a resource for you. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.530-2424 or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@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. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: RANGER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRE-K Facility ID: 20000074 Consultant: BRIDGET OWEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/19/2026 Number Present: 14 Completed Date: 2/19/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 216 Time In: 09:39 AM Time Out: 01:15 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 compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and a signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site for you. Brandy Raper Administrator/Principal was on-site and available to answer and ask questions. Tasha Williamson, NC Pre-K Teacher, assisted with the visit and was available to answer and ask questions. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today to include: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-six (96%) percentage as of 02/10/2026. The ownership of the child care facility is by Cherokee County Public Schools. Permit type – Five Star Center License, issued on 04/25/2016 Special Services/Restrictions –NCPK approved and approved for transportation. Daytime care only. Meets enhanced space and reduced ratios. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 03/05/2025 The last fire drill was practiced on 1/12/2026 The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on11/14/2025 The last playground inspection was documented on 2/5/2026 The last fire inspection was approved on 09/29/2025 The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 12/03/2025 with zero (0) demerits for a Superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum Lead water testing was completed on 5/2/2024 without hazards. Lead paint and asbestos testing have not been completed. Upon my arrival, I introduced my presence to Ms. Williamson, Lead Teacher. There is one (1) class of eighteen (18) children enrolled 4 to 5 years of age with two (2) staff. The children were engaged in free play, appeared happy and content in their environment. Staff were up moving around and interacting with children. For lunch the children had chicken alfredo, garlic bread stick, Caesar salad, grape tomatoes with ranch, orange, and milk. There are no known allergies. No medication onsite. There are two (2) teaching staff. One (1) existing staff file was monitored; there are no new employees. There are eighteen (18) children enrolled, and two (2) children’s files were monitored. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing (DCDEE-0357) as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. For specific rule references, refer to Chapter 110 General Statues Child Care Facilities, Chapter nine (9) Child Care Rule (10A NCAC 09) and Section 2800 Sanitation of Child Care Center (15A NCAC 18A) for additional information. Updated copies of these rules can be located on our website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ The program does provide transportation. The program uses public school buses. There was a public school off-site records verification form on file for transportation records. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC PK monitoring tool was completed on 12/03/2025 and reviewed today. Two (2) children’s files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 07:20 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 115 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not posted in a prominent place in the center. The Summary of the law was not posted in a prominent place identifying the entire NC Summary of the Law. Only a portion of the summary of Law was posted. G.S. 110-102 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. On 2/4/26 (15 children), 2/5/26 (15 children), 2/11/26 (15 children), 2/12/26 (16 children), 2/13/26 (14 children), 2/17/26 (16 children), 2/18/26 (14 children), and 2/20/26 (16 children), were not signed out with a documented time of departure. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plan that was posted was dated February 2-6, 2026. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Alcohol Cleansing Wipes were in the gloves/thermometer drawer that was not locked or above five feet. .2820(b) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item # 115: Only one side of the Summary of Law was posted. This was corrected during the visit.The administrator was reminded that the Summary of Law must be posted in its entirety and visible to parents and staff at all times. During the visit, the missing page was posted to ensure compliance. Item # 125: Arrival and departure times must be consistently maintained. On 2/4/26 (15 children), 2/5/26 (15 children), 2/11/26 (15 children), 2/12/26 (16 children), 2/13/26 (14 children), 2/17/26 (16 children), 2/18/26 (14 children), and 2/20/26 (16 children), children were not signed out with a documented time of departure. The administrator was reminded that a complete and accurate sign-in/sign-out record, including the child’s time of arrival and departure, must be documented daily for each child. Technical assistance was provided on implementing procedures to ensure departure times are recorded at the time the child leaves the facility. Suggestions included assigning a staff member to monitor the sign-out process during peak pick-up times, placing a reminder sign near the sign-out sheet or electronic kiosk, and conducting a daily review of attendance records to verify completeness before closing. In your compliance letter, please state how you will prevent this violation from recurring. The facility must ensure that all children are signed in upon arrival and signed out at departure each day, including accurate documentation of arrival and departure times. Staff should review the daily sign-in/out sheet in real time to verify that each child’s name and time of arrival and departure are recorded completely and accurately. A designated staff member should be responsible for monitoring the sign-in/out process to ensure no child arrives or leaves without a documented time. At the end of each day, staff should reconcile attendance records to confirm that all children have recorded arrival and departure times. Ongoing monitoring and staff training on attendance procedures should be implemented to maintain consistent compliance Hazardous Materials Item # 840: Alcohol Cleansing Wipes were in the gloves/thermometer drawer that was not locked or above five feet. This was corrected during the visit. Ms. Williamson moved them to cabinet that was above five feet. Current Activity Plan Item # 428 To achieve compliance for the activity plans, current activity plans must be completed and posted. The current activity plan was posted during the visit. This was corrected during the visit. Achieving Compliance: 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. 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. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Name and position of individual submitting compliance statement • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 03/05/2026 Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) to: bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Bridget Owen Po Box 114 Rosman, NC 28772 Please call me at 828-530-2424, or email bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development 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. Consultation is provided as follows: The following staff need to update their DCDEE WORKS accounts. B. Raper needs to upload her Principal License and apply for the DPI EC Administrator position. T. Williamson needs to upload her B-K License to meet NC Pre-K requirements. As discussed, all staff members, including the bus driver, must be linked to the facility’s ABCMS. D.M. is listed on the staff training worksheet and has a current Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letter; however, D.M. is not currently linked in ABCMS. The expectation is that D.M.’s CBC be linked to the facility’s ABCMS immediately to ensure compliance. New and terminated staff notification requirement: As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. We discussed that the lead water testing is current and should be renewed every three years. The next lead water testing should be completed before 5/2/2027. Additionally, lead paint and asbestos testing need to be completed immediately. I have included the website here to begin this process: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Lead Paint and Asbestos Testing: In April 2023, North Carolina enacted final rules 10A NCAC 41C .1001-1007 requiring all public schools and child care facilities to: Test for lead in drinking/cooking water (.1005 and .2816), Identify lead-based paint hazards (.1004), Identify asbestos hazards (.1003), Mitigate or restrict access to any identified hazards. Testing was required to be completed by May 31, 2025. Rated License Consultation: Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, and Bridget Owen, Child Care Consultant, met with Thomas Graham, Administrator, on 01/05/2026 to provide technical assistance regarding new child care rules in the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES for all Cherokee County Schools NC Pre-K Programs. After reviewing the three pathway options to achieve a star license, the Cherokee County Schools NC Pre-K programs have chosen the classroom and instructional quality pathway. Please reach out with your questions as needed and be prepared to submit a rated license application in 2026. An ERS request will be submitted at the time of the rated license application to complete ECERS-3 assessment as required by NC Pre-K requirements. This assessment will not be part of the rated license process, but is required to meet NC Pre-K requirements. If you elect to change and/or alter any previously approved spaces used by children as indicated on the approved indoor and outdoor floor plan, you will need to contact me within thirty (30) days prior to the change. Failure to notify a DCDEE representative may result in a violation of child care requirements. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) states “Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division. As child care providers, you are a vital part in the prevention and intervention of child maltreatment! You may see potential indicators of maltreatment in the children under your care. Some children may even be more likely to disclose maltreatment to a child care provider than to a family member. It is required that all providers are aware of maltreatment indicators and to report any suspicions of maltreatment. Follow child care rules related to child maltreatment training: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(g) and 10A NCAC 09 .1703(a)(5) states the child care administrator, operator, and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submit an official transcript (if applicable) and apply for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3222 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in noncompliance with or failure to meet the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within six months. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within six months, the operator shall notify the Division. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any monitoring visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and want to be a resource for you. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.530-2424 or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@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.

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: RANGER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRE-K Facility ID: 20000074 Consultant: BRIDGET OWEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/19/2026 Number Present: 14 Completed Date: 2/19/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 216 Time In: 09:39 AM Time Out: 01:15 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 compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and a signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site for you. Brandy Raper Administrator/Principal was on-site and available to answer and ask questions. Tasha Williamson, NC Pre-K Teacher, assisted with the visit and was available to answer and ask questions. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today to include: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-six (96%) percentage as of 02/10/2026. The ownership of the child care facility is by Cherokee County Public Schools. Permit type – Five Star Center License, issued on 04/25/2016 Special Services/Restrictions –NCPK approved and approved for transportation. Daytime care only. Meets enhanced space and reduced ratios. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 03/05/2025 The last fire drill was practiced on 1/12/2026 The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on11/14/2025 The last playground inspection was documented on 2/5/2026 The last fire inspection was approved on 09/29/2025 The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 12/03/2025 with zero (0) demerits for a Superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum Lead water testing was completed on 5/2/2024 without hazards. Lead paint and asbestos testing have not been completed. Upon my arrival, I introduced my presence to Ms. Williamson, Lead Teacher. There is one (1) class of eighteen (18) children enrolled 4 to 5 years of age with two (2) staff. The children were engaged in free play, appeared happy and content in their environment. Staff were up moving around and interacting with children. For lunch the children had chicken alfredo, garlic bread stick, Caesar salad, grape tomatoes with ranch, orange, and milk. There are no known allergies. No medication onsite. There are two (2) teaching staff. One (1) existing staff file was monitored; there are no new employees. There are eighteen (18) children enrolled, and two (2) children’s files were monitored. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing (DCDEE-0357) as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. For specific rule references, refer to Chapter 110 General Statues Child Care Facilities, Chapter nine (9) Child Care Rule (10A NCAC 09) and Section 2800 Sanitation of Child Care Center (15A NCAC 18A) for additional information. Updated copies of these rules can be located on our website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ The program does provide transportation. The program uses public school buses. There was a public school off-site records verification form on file for transportation records. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC PK monitoring tool was completed on 12/03/2025 and reviewed today. Two (2) children’s files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 07:20 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 115 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not posted in a prominent place in the center. The Summary of the law was not posted in a prominent place identifying the entire NC Summary of the Law. Only a portion of the summary of Law was posted. G.S. 110-102 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. On 2/4/26 (15 children), 2/5/26 (15 children), 2/11/26 (15 children), 2/12/26 (16 children), 2/13/26 (14 children), 2/17/26 (16 children), 2/18/26 (14 children), and 2/20/26 (16 children), were not signed out with a documented time of departure. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plan that was posted was dated February 2-6, 2026. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Alcohol Cleansing Wipes were in the gloves/thermometer drawer that was not locked or above five feet. .2820(b) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item # 115: Only one side of the Summary of Law was posted. This was corrected during the visit.The administrator was reminded that the Summary of Law must be posted in its entirety and visible to parents and staff at all times. During the visit, the missing page was posted to ensure compliance. Item # 125: Arrival and departure times must be consistently maintained. On 2/4/26 (15 children), 2/5/26 (15 children), 2/11/26 (15 children), 2/12/26 (16 children), 2/13/26 (14 children), 2/17/26 (16 children), 2/18/26 (14 children), and 2/20/26 (16 children), children were not signed out with a documented time of departure. The administrator was reminded that a complete and accurate sign-in/sign-out record, including the child’s time of arrival and departure, must be documented daily for each child. Technical assistance was provided on implementing procedures to ensure departure times are recorded at the time the child leaves the facility. Suggestions included assigning a staff member to monitor the sign-out process during peak pick-up times, placing a reminder sign near the sign-out sheet or electronic kiosk, and conducting a daily review of attendance records to verify completeness before closing. In your compliance letter, please state how you will prevent this violation from recurring. The facility must ensure that all children are signed in upon arrival and signed out at departure each day, including accurate documentation of arrival and departure times. Staff should review the daily sign-in/out sheet in real time to verify that each child’s name and time of arrival and departure are recorded completely and accurately. A designated staff member should be responsible for monitoring the sign-in/out process to ensure no child arrives or leaves without a documented time. At the end of each day, staff should reconcile attendance records to confirm that all children have recorded arrival and departure times. Ongoing monitoring and staff training on attendance procedures should be implemented to maintain consistent compliance Hazardous Materials Item # 840: Alcohol Cleansing Wipes were in the gloves/thermometer drawer that was not locked or above five feet. This was corrected during the visit. Ms. Williamson moved them to cabinet that was above five feet. Current Activity Plan Item # 428 To achieve compliance for the activity plans, current activity plans must be completed and posted. The current activity plan was posted during the visit. This was corrected during the visit. Achieving Compliance: 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. 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. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Name and position of individual submitting compliance statement • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 03/05/2026 Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) to: bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Bridget Owen Po Box 114 Rosman, NC 28772 Please call me at 828-530-2424, or email bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development 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. Consultation is provided as follows: The following staff need to update their DCDEE WORKS accounts. B. Raper needs to upload her Principal License and apply for the DPI EC Administrator position. T. Williamson needs to upload her B-K License to meet NC Pre-K requirements. As discussed, all staff members, including the bus driver, must be linked to the facility’s ABCMS. D.M. is listed on the staff training worksheet and has a current Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letter; however, D.M. is not currently linked in ABCMS. The expectation is that D.M.’s CBC be linked to the facility’s ABCMS immediately to ensure compliance. New and terminated staff notification requirement: As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. We discussed that the lead water testing is current and should be renewed every three years. The next lead water testing should be completed before 5/2/2027. Additionally, lead paint and asbestos testing need to be completed immediately. I have included the website here to begin this process: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Lead Paint and Asbestos Testing: In April 2023, North Carolina enacted final rules 10A NCAC 41C .1001-1007 requiring all public schools and child care facilities to: Test for lead in drinking/cooking water (.1005 and .2816), Identify lead-based paint hazards (.1004), Identify asbestos hazards (.1003), Mitigate or restrict access to any identified hazards. Testing was required to be completed by May 31, 2025. Rated License Consultation: Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, and Bridget Owen, Child Care Consultant, met with Thomas Graham, Administrator, on 01/05/2026 to provide technical assistance regarding new child care rules in the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES for all Cherokee County Schools NC Pre-K Programs. After reviewing the three pathway options to achieve a star license, the Cherokee County Schools NC Pre-K programs have chosen the classroom and instructional quality pathway. Please reach out with your questions as needed and be prepared to submit a rated license application in 2026. An ERS request will be submitted at the time of the rated license application to complete ECERS-3 assessment as required by NC Pre-K requirements. This assessment will not be part of the rated license process, but is required to meet NC Pre-K requirements. If you elect to change and/or alter any previously approved spaces used by children as indicated on the approved indoor and outdoor floor plan, you will need to contact me within thirty (30) days prior to the change. Failure to notify a DCDEE representative may result in a violation of child care requirements. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) states “Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division. As child care providers, you are a vital part in the prevention and intervention of child maltreatment! You may see potential indicators of maltreatment in the children under your care. Some children may even be more likely to disclose maltreatment to a child care provider than to a family member. It is required that all providers are aware of maltreatment indicators and to report any suspicions of maltreatment. Follow child care rules related to child maltreatment training: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(g) and 10A NCAC 09 .1703(a)(5) states the child care administrator, operator, and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submit an official transcript (if applicable) and apply for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3222 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in noncompliance with or failure to meet the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within six months. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within six months, the operator shall notify the Division. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any monitoring visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and want to be a resource for you. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.530-2424 or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@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: RANGER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRE-K Facility ID: 20000074 Consultant: BRIDGET OWEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/19/2026 Number Present: 14 Completed Date: 2/19/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 216 Time In: 09:39 AM Time Out: 01:15 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 compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and a signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site for you. Brandy Raper Administrator/Principal was on-site and available to answer and ask questions. Tasha Williamson, NC Pre-K Teacher, assisted with the visit and was available to answer and ask questions. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today to include: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-six (96%) percentage as of 02/10/2026. The ownership of the child care facility is by Cherokee County Public Schools. Permit type – Five Star Center License, issued on 04/25/2016 Special Services/Restrictions –NCPK approved and approved for transportation. Daytime care only. Meets enhanced space and reduced ratios. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 03/05/2025 The last fire drill was practiced on 1/12/2026 The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on11/14/2025 The last playground inspection was documented on 2/5/2026 The last fire inspection was approved on 09/29/2025 The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 12/03/2025 with zero (0) demerits for a Superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum Lead water testing was completed on 5/2/2024 without hazards. Lead paint and asbestos testing have not been completed. Upon my arrival, I introduced my presence to Ms. Williamson, Lead Teacher. There is one (1) class of eighteen (18) children enrolled 4 to 5 years of age with two (2) staff. The children were engaged in free play, appeared happy and content in their environment. Staff were up moving around and interacting with children. For lunch the children had chicken alfredo, garlic bread stick, Caesar salad, grape tomatoes with ranch, orange, and milk. There are no known allergies. No medication onsite. There are two (2) teaching staff. One (1) existing staff file was monitored; there are no new employees. There are eighteen (18) children enrolled, and two (2) children’s files were monitored. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing (DCDEE-0357) as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. For specific rule references, refer to Chapter 110 General Statues Child Care Facilities, Chapter nine (9) Child Care Rule (10A NCAC 09) and Section 2800 Sanitation of Child Care Center (15A NCAC 18A) for additional information. Updated copies of these rules can be located on our website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ The program does provide transportation. The program uses public school buses. There was a public school off-site records verification form on file for transportation records. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC PK monitoring tool was completed on 12/03/2025 and reviewed today. Two (2) children’s files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 07:20 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 115 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not posted in a prominent place in the center. The Summary of the law was not posted in a prominent place identifying the entire NC Summary of the Law. Only a portion of the summary of Law was posted. G.S. 110-102 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. On 2/4/26 (15 children), 2/5/26 (15 children), 2/11/26 (15 children), 2/12/26 (16 children), 2/13/26 (14 children), 2/17/26 (16 children), 2/18/26 (14 children), and 2/20/26 (16 children), were not signed out with a documented time of departure. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plan that was posted was dated February 2-6, 2026. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Alcohol Cleansing Wipes were in the gloves/thermometer drawer that was not locked or above five feet. .2820(b) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item # 115: Only one side of the Summary of Law was posted. This was corrected during the visit.The administrator was reminded that the Summary of Law must be posted in its entirety and visible to parents and staff at all times. During the visit, the missing page was posted to ensure compliance. Item # 125: Arrival and departure times must be consistently maintained. On 2/4/26 (15 children), 2/5/26 (15 children), 2/11/26 (15 children), 2/12/26 (16 children), 2/13/26 (14 children), 2/17/26 (16 children), 2/18/26 (14 children), and 2/20/26 (16 children), children were not signed out with a documented time of departure. The administrator was reminded that a complete and accurate sign-in/sign-out record, including the child’s time of arrival and departure, must be documented daily for each child. Technical assistance was provided on implementing procedures to ensure departure times are recorded at the time the child leaves the facility. Suggestions included assigning a staff member to monitor the sign-out process during peak pick-up times, placing a reminder sign near the sign-out sheet or electronic kiosk, and conducting a daily review of attendance records to verify completeness before closing. In your compliance letter, please state how you will prevent this violation from recurring. The facility must ensure that all children are signed in upon arrival and signed out at departure each day, including accurate documentation of arrival and departure times. Staff should review the daily sign-in/out sheet in real time to verify that each child’s name and time of arrival and departure are recorded completely and accurately. A designated staff member should be responsible for monitoring the sign-in/out process to ensure no child arrives or leaves without a documented time. At the end of each day, staff should reconcile attendance records to confirm that all children have recorded arrival and departure times. Ongoing monitoring and staff training on attendance procedures should be implemented to maintain consistent compliance Hazardous Materials Item # 840: Alcohol Cleansing Wipes were in the gloves/thermometer drawer that was not locked or above five feet. This was corrected during the visit. Ms. Williamson moved them to cabinet that was above five feet. Current Activity Plan Item # 428 To achieve compliance for the activity plans, current activity plans must be completed and posted. The current activity plan was posted during the visit. This was corrected during the visit. Achieving Compliance: 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. 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. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Name and position of individual submitting compliance statement • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 03/05/2026 Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) to: bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Bridget Owen Po Box 114 Rosman, NC 28772 Please call me at 828-530-2424, or email bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development 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. Consultation is provided as follows: The following staff need to update their DCDEE WORKS accounts. B. Raper needs to upload her Principal License and apply for the DPI EC Administrator position. T. Williamson needs to upload her B-K License to meet NC Pre-K requirements. As discussed, all staff members, including the bus driver, must be linked to the facility’s ABCMS. D.M. is listed on the staff training worksheet and has a current Criminal Background Check (CBC) qualification letter; however, D.M. is not currently linked in ABCMS. The expectation is that D.M.’s CBC be linked to the facility’s ABCMS immediately to ensure compliance. New and terminated staff notification requirement: As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. We discussed that the lead water testing is current and should be renewed every three years. The next lead water testing should be completed before 5/2/2027. Additionally, lead paint and asbestos testing need to be completed immediately. I have included the website here to begin this process: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Lead Paint and Asbestos Testing: In April 2023, North Carolina enacted final rules 10A NCAC 41C .1001-1007 requiring all public schools and child care facilities to: Test for lead in drinking/cooking water (.1005 and .2816), Identify lead-based paint hazards (.1004), Identify asbestos hazards (.1003), Mitigate or restrict access to any identified hazards. Testing was required to be completed by May 31, 2025. Rated License Consultation: Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, and Bridget Owen, Child Care Consultant, met with Thomas Graham, Administrator, on 01/05/2026 to provide technical assistance regarding new child care rules in the SECTION .3200 - STANDARDS FOR TWO THROUGH FIVE STAR RATED LICENSES for all Cherokee County Schools NC Pre-K Programs. After reviewing the three pathway options to achieve a star license, the Cherokee County Schools NC Pre-K programs have chosen the classroom and instructional quality pathway. Please reach out with your questions as needed and be prepared to submit a rated license application in 2026. An ERS request will be submitted at the time of the rated license application to complete ECERS-3 assessment as required by NC Pre-K requirements. This assessment will not be part of the rated license process, but is required to meet NC Pre-K requirements. If you elect to change and/or alter any previously approved spaces used by children as indicated on the approved indoor and outdoor floor plan, you will need to contact me within thirty (30) days prior to the change. Failure to notify a DCDEE representative may result in a violation of child care requirements. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) states “Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division. As child care providers, you are a vital part in the prevention and intervention of child maltreatment! You may see potential indicators of maltreatment in the children under your care. Some children may even be more likely to disclose maltreatment to a child care provider than to a family member. It is required that all providers are aware of maltreatment indicators and to report any suspicions of maltreatment. Follow child care rules related to child maltreatment training: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(g) and 10A NCAC 09 .1703(a)(5) states the child care administrator, operator, and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submit an official transcript (if applicable) and apply for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3222 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in noncompliance with or failure to meet the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within six months. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within six months, the operator shall notify the Division. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any monitoring visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and want to be a resource for you. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at bridget.owen@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.530-2424 or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at bonnie.mathis@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.