Sunshine Scholars Academy

10A NCAC 09 .2809 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0626-364L Visit Date: 7/2/2026 Number Present: 64 Completed Date: 7/2/2026 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 331 Time In: 07:44 AM Time Out: 12:50 PM Time In: 03:20 PM Time Out: 03:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: There is a concern regarding staff/child ratios. There is a concern regarding incident reporting. There is a concern regarding supervision. T. Atilien, Administrator, arrived during the visit and assisted me with today’s visit. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers, personal care routines, and group time. Breakfast was observed and included waffles, peaches, and milk. Infants were being cared for according to individual needs. Preschoolers were sitting on the carpet while the staff member read them a book. Regarding the allegation that staff/child ratios were not being followed, I reviewed attendance records, arrival and departure times for each child and staff member, and interviewed staff regarding their schedules. I also monitored each classroom space and verified that staff/child ratios were in compliance during the visit. It was reported that if a classroom is at staff/child ratio, that parents are asked to wait for another staff member to enter the classroom before they can leave. I observed a parent waiting with their child until a second staff member entered space #2 to ensure that staff/child ratios were maintained. Upon reviewing staff work schedules and arrival and departure times for children in attendance for June 22, 2026, through June 26, 2026, staff/child ratios were maintained. Based on observations and findings, the allegation was unconfirmed. Regarding the allegation regarding incident reporting, I reviewed incident reports and the incident log. I also interviewed staff members about incident reporting procedures. I reviewed an incident report on file that occurred on June 24, 2026. It was reported to me that the child received medical attention after the incident, however the incident report was not sent to the child care consultant within seven calendar days. Based on the above information, the allegation was confirmed. Regarding the allegation that children were not adequately supervised, I observed all learning environments and interviewed staff members. I requested to review camera footage for the incident that occurred on June 24, 2026; however, the administrator was unable to access the cameras. I interviewed the Corporate Administrative Assistant, and it was reported to me that camera footage is recorded over on a loop every two days. It was reported to me that while a staff member was attending to a child climbing on the changing table, a child was bitten. The staff member immediately rendered assistance to the child by picking them up and called administration for additional assistance. I observed all classroom spaces and transitions and teachers were positioned to hear or see the children. Based on the above information, the allegation was unconfirmed. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 1245 For each child, there was not at least 30 sq. ft. inside space per the total licensed capacity and 100 sq. ft. outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time. The capacity for space #3 is nineteen (19) children per 30 square feet. In space #3, twenty (20) children, 5-11 years of age were in care with two staff members. 10A NCAC 09 .2809(a) 1911 An incident report was not completed and mailed to a Division representative within seven days after the incident when medical treatment was required. An incident report dated June 24, 2026, was not submitted to the child care consultant within seven days after the incident when medical treatment was required. .0802(f) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 7/16/26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Capacity: Intentional planning of the environment ensures a safe environment to prevent and reduce injuries and promotes all areas of a child's development. There shall be at least 30 square feet inside space per child per the total licensed capacity and 100 square feet outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time. The capacity for space #3 is nineteen (19) children per 30 square feet. In space #3, twenty (20) children, 5-11 years of age were in care with two staff members. It was reported to me that the air conditioning in the school-age classroom is not working and will require extensive work to be fixed so the school age classroom has been using space #4 since the children have been out of school for the summer. You stated that you were unaware that that capacity for the classroom was only nineteen and will ensure that the capacity is maintained. During the visit, you moved one child to another classroom so that the correct capacity was achieved. A copy of the space calculations for each space was emailed to you for your reference. Make daily observations to ensure that classroom capacities are maintained. Incident Reports: An incident report should be completed and logged each time a child is injured, regardless of whether medical care is needed. It is helpful to remember the “three B’s”: bumps, bruises, and blood, as a reminder of when to complete incident reports. The incident report should specify what happened to cause the injury and then by reviewed with the parent before the parent signs the report. If a child receives medical attention as a result of an incident occurring at the child care center, the incident form must be submitted to the child care consultant within seven calendar days. An incident report dated June 24, 2026, was not submitted to the child care consultant within seven days after the incident when medical treatment was required. You stated that you were unsure if the child received medical attention based on comments from the parents. We discussed asking parents if they took their child to the doctor when following up with them about an incident. Send the completed incident report to the child care consultant as soon as you receive information that they received medical attention. Additional Comments: A violation was documented for failure to maintain compliance with capacity requirements. Violations of this nature directly impact the safety of the children while in your care. In addition, these types of violations have the greatest negative impact on your compliance history. During the visit, we discussed that confirmed allegations may lead to an administrative action against your license. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to monitor compliance with child care requirements. Biting: During the visit we reviewed North Carolina Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center: https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. The NC Resource Center’s mission is to promote healthy and safe indoor and outdoor environments in early care and education settings through child care health consultation. We also reviewed the sample biting policy with information and resources including https://csefel.vanderbilt.edu/documents/biting-parenting_tool.pdf. You stated that you will be updating the facility’s biting policy and printed off the biting tool to share with staff members and parents. Communication: During the visit, we reviewed the Playground platform that the facility is using to document attendance and arrival and departure times. We discussed the importance of being able to know what classroom children are in attendance, the times that they are in the classroom space, and the staff members that are assigned to them. You stated that you will speak with representatives of the platform about how to transition children into different spaces and assign staff members. It is also important the staff members to communicate with each other, especially before assuming responsibility for the classroom and can document information to share with other staff members. We discussed transition strategies and the need for staff members to know age-appropriate strategies to aid in the transition between activities. The Healthy Social Behaviors (HSB) Project supports teachers to promote healthy social-emotional development and reduce the expulsion rate among young children in licensed child care centers across North Carolina. The team is made up of specialists with early childhood education backgrounds who are passionate about empowering teachers to develop learning environments and teaching practices that promote prosocial skills in young children. To speak to a Behavior Support Advisor, contact 1-888-600-1685 option 1. We discussed sharing this information with staff members and I emailed you a flyer with this information. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0626-364L Visit Date: 7/2/2026 Number Present: 64 Completed Date: 7/2/2026 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 331 Time In: 07:44 AM Time Out: 12:50 PM Time In: 03:20 PM Time Out: 03:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: There is a concern regarding staff/child ratios. There is a concern regarding incident reporting. There is a concern regarding supervision. T. Atilien, Administrator, arrived during the visit and assisted me with today’s visit. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers, personal care routines, and group time. Breakfast was observed and included waffles, peaches, and milk. Infants were being cared for according to individual needs. Preschoolers were sitting on the carpet while the staff member read them a book. Regarding the allegation that staff/child ratios were not being followed, I reviewed attendance records, arrival and departure times for each child and staff member, and interviewed staff regarding their schedules. I also monitored each classroom space and verified that staff/child ratios were in compliance during the visit. It was reported that if a classroom is at staff/child ratio, that parents are asked to wait for another staff member to enter the classroom before they can leave. I observed a parent waiting with their child until a second staff member entered space #2 to ensure that staff/child ratios were maintained. Upon reviewing staff work schedules and arrival and departure times for children in attendance for June 22, 2026, through June 26, 2026, staff/child ratios were maintained. Based on observations and findings, the allegation was unconfirmed. Regarding the allegation regarding incident reporting, I reviewed incident reports and the incident log. I also interviewed staff members about incident reporting procedures. I reviewed an incident report on file that occurred on June 24, 2026. It was reported to me that the child received medical attention after the incident, however the incident report was not sent to the child care consultant within seven calendar days. Based on the above information, the allegation was confirmed. Regarding the allegation that children were not adequately supervised, I observed all learning environments and interviewed staff members. I requested to review camera footage for the incident that occurred on June 24, 2026; however, the administrator was unable to access the cameras. I interviewed the Corporate Administrative Assistant, and it was reported to me that camera footage is recorded over on a loop every two days. It was reported to me that while a staff member was attending to a child climbing on the changing table, a child was bitten. The staff member immediately rendered assistance to the child by picking them up and called administration for additional assistance. I observed all classroom spaces and transitions and teachers were positioned to hear or see the children. Based on the above information, the allegation was unconfirmed. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 1245 For each child, there was not at least 30 sq. ft. inside space per the total licensed capacity and 100 sq. ft. outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time. The capacity for space #3 is nineteen (19) children per 30 square feet. In space #3, twenty (20) children, 5-11 years of age were in care with two staff members. 10A NCAC 09 .2809(a) 1911 An incident report was not completed and mailed to a Division representative within seven days after the incident when medical treatment was required. An incident report dated June 24, 2026, was not submitted to the child care consultant within seven days after the incident when medical treatment was required. .0802(f) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 7/16/26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Capacity: Intentional planning of the environment ensures a safe environment to prevent and reduce injuries and promotes all areas of a child's development. There shall be at least 30 square feet inside space per child per the total licensed capacity and 100 square feet outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time. The capacity for space #3 is nineteen (19) children per 30 square feet. In space #3, twenty (20) children, 5-11 years of age were in care with two staff members. It was reported to me that the air conditioning in the school-age classroom is not working and will require extensive work to be fixed so the school age classroom has been using space #4 since the children have been out of school for the summer. You stated that you were unaware that that capacity for the classroom was only nineteen and will ensure that the capacity is maintained. During the visit, you moved one child to another classroom so that the correct capacity was achieved. A copy of the space calculations for each space was emailed to you for your reference. Make daily observations to ensure that classroom capacities are maintained. Incident Reports: An incident report should be completed and logged each time a child is injured, regardless of whether medical care is needed. It is helpful to remember the “three B’s”: bumps, bruises, and blood, as a reminder of when to complete incident reports. The incident report should specify what happened to cause the injury and then by reviewed with the parent before the parent signs the report. If a child receives medical attention as a result of an incident occurring at the child care center, the incident form must be submitted to the child care consultant within seven calendar days. An incident report dated June 24, 2026, was not submitted to the child care consultant within seven days after the incident when medical treatment was required. You stated that you were unsure if the child received medical attention based on comments from the parents. We discussed asking parents if they took their child to the doctor when following up with them about an incident. Send the completed incident report to the child care consultant as soon as you receive information that they received medical attention. Additional Comments: A violation was documented for failure to maintain compliance with capacity requirements. Violations of this nature directly impact the safety of the children while in your care. In addition, these types of violations have the greatest negative impact on your compliance history. During the visit, we discussed that confirmed allegations may lead to an administrative action against your license. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to monitor compliance with child care requirements. Biting: During the visit we reviewed North Carolina Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center: https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. The NC Resource Center’s mission is to promote healthy and safe indoor and outdoor environments in early care and education settings through child care health consultation. We also reviewed the sample biting policy with information and resources including https://csefel.vanderbilt.edu/documents/biting-parenting_tool.pdf. You stated that you will be updating the facility’s biting policy and printed off the biting tool to share with staff members and parents. Communication: During the visit, we reviewed the Playground platform that the facility is using to document attendance and arrival and departure times. We discussed the importance of being able to know what classroom children are in attendance, the times that they are in the classroom space, and the staff members that are assigned to them. You stated that you will speak with representatives of the platform about how to transition children into different spaces and assign staff members. It is also important the staff members to communicate with each other, especially before assuming responsibility for the classroom and can document information to share with other staff members. We discussed transition strategies and the need for staff members to know age-appropriate strategies to aid in the transition between activities. The Healthy Social Behaviors (HSB) Project supports teachers to promote healthy social-emotional development and reduce the expulsion rate among young children in licensed child care centers across North Carolina. The team is made up of specialists with early childhood education backgrounds who are passionate about empowering teachers to develop learning environments and teaching practices that promote prosocial skills in young children. To speak to a Behavior Support Advisor, contact 1-888-600-1685 option 1. We discussed sharing this information with staff members and I emailed you a flyer with this information. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0713 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/1/2026 Number Present: 57 Completed Date: 6/1/2026 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 167 Time In: 10:03 AM Time Out: 12:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to verify correction of violations documented during my May 27, 2026, Annual Compliance visit. T. Atilien, Administrator, was not present for today’s visit but I reviewed the visit over the telephone with her during the visit. Upon arrival, toddlers were observed in the outdoor space playing on stationary equipment. Preschoolers were in the outdoor space creating a summer safety craft and painting on construction paper with sunscreen. School age children were playing soccer in the outdoor space. Lunch was observed and included sloppy joe sandwiches, sweet potato fries, fruit cocktail, and milk. The following violations documented during the 5/27/26 visit were monitored for compliance during this visit and verified as corrected: 1876- A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. This is a violation of a requirement in .1803(a)(9). Today, all indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Staff members were observed redirecting children with positive language. When preschoolers transitioned to the indoor space, the staff member guided children through the handwashing process with positive reinforcement. 887- Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. This is a violation of a requirement in .0606(g). Upon arrival, an infant was sleeping in a crib, and the visual sleep checks had been completed. All infant sleep checks were monitored and had been completed since the May 27, 2026, visit. As stated in the 5/27/26 visit summary, all violations must be corrected immediately and a compliance letter verifying this must be received by the established due date 6/10/26. At the time of today’s visit, a compliance letter had not been received. Today, I verified the correction of two violations. Please be reminded that an administrative action could be recommended for your facility. You will be notified of any action taken. The following violation was documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 318 Children between 12 and 24 months of age were grouped with children 3 years of age or older. On the toddler playground, space #2 and space #3 were combined so that fifteen (15) children, 1-3 years of age were in care with two staff members. 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 6/15/26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Staff/Child Ratio: Research has verified that staff-child ratios and group sizes are important quality indicators. Staff-child ratio refers to the maximum number of children who may be supervised by one staff member. NC Child Care Rules also define how children can be combined in groups. Infants and children one year of age can be grouped together. Children one year of age and children two years of age can be grouped together, however children one year of age cannot be grouped with children three years of age. In the toddler playground, space #2 and space #3 were combined so that fifteen (15) children, 1-3 years of age were in care with two staff members. The ratio for one year old children is 1:6. I discussed the staff/child ratios for one-year-old children with the staff members and how one-year-old children cannot be grouped with children three years of age. You stated that space #3 usually has two-year-old children. We discussed that the toddler classrooms should communicate before going outside to ensure that one-year-olds are not grouped with three-year-olds. Review staff/child ratios and how children can be combined in classrooms with your staff during your next staff meeting. Additional Comments: A violation was documented for failure to maintain compliance with staff/child ratio requirements. Violations of this nature directly impact the safety of the children while in your care. In addition, these types of violations have the greatest negative impact on your compliance history. Repeated violations of this nature during consecutive visits may lead to an administrative action against your license. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to monitor compliance with child care requirements. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this Visit Summary was emailed to you. Please respond that it has been received. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/1/2026 Number Present: 57 Completed Date: 6/1/2026 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 167 Time In: 10:03 AM Time Out: 12:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to verify correction of violations documented during my May 27, 2026, Annual Compliance visit. T. Atilien, Administrator, was not present for today’s visit but I reviewed the visit over the telephone with her during the visit. Upon arrival, toddlers were observed in the outdoor space playing on stationary equipment. Preschoolers were in the outdoor space creating a summer safety craft and painting on construction paper with sunscreen. School age children were playing soccer in the outdoor space. Lunch was observed and included sloppy joe sandwiches, sweet potato fries, fruit cocktail, and milk. The following violations documented during the 5/27/26 visit were monitored for compliance during this visit and verified as corrected: 1876- A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. This is a violation of a requirement in .1803(a)(9). Today, all indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Staff members were observed redirecting children with positive language. When preschoolers transitioned to the indoor space, the staff member guided children through the handwashing process with positive reinforcement. 887- Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. This is a violation of a requirement in .0606(g). Upon arrival, an infant was sleeping in a crib, and the visual sleep checks had been completed. All infant sleep checks were monitored and had been completed since the May 27, 2026, visit. As stated in the 5/27/26 visit summary, all violations must be corrected immediately and a compliance letter verifying this must be received by the established due date 6/10/26. At the time of today’s visit, a compliance letter had not been received. Today, I verified the correction of two violations. Please be reminded that an administrative action could be recommended for your facility. You will be notified of any action taken. The following violation was documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 318 Children between 12 and 24 months of age were grouped with children 3 years of age or older. On the toddler playground, space #2 and space #3 were combined so that fifteen (15) children, 1-3 years of age were in care with two staff members. 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 6/15/26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Staff/Child Ratio: Research has verified that staff-child ratios and group sizes are important quality indicators. Staff-child ratio refers to the maximum number of children who may be supervised by one staff member. NC Child Care Rules also define how children can be combined in groups. Infants and children one year of age can be grouped together. Children one year of age and children two years of age can be grouped together, however children one year of age cannot be grouped with children three years of age. In the toddler playground, space #2 and space #3 were combined so that fifteen (15) children, 1-3 years of age were in care with two staff members. The ratio for one year old children is 1:6. I discussed the staff/child ratios for one-year-old children with the staff members and how one-year-old children cannot be grouped with children three years of age. You stated that space #3 usually has two-year-old children. We discussed that the toddler classrooms should communicate before going outside to ensure that one-year-olds are not grouped with three-year-olds. Review staff/child ratios and how children can be combined in classrooms with your staff during your next staff meeting. Additional Comments: A violation was documented for failure to maintain compliance with staff/child ratio requirements. Violations of this nature directly impact the safety of the children while in your care. In addition, these types of violations have the greatest negative impact on your compliance history. Repeated violations of this nature during consecutive visits may lead to an administrative action against your license. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to monitor compliance with child care requirements. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this Visit Summary was emailed to you. Please respond that it has been received. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/27/2026 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 5/27/2026 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 525 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 05:25 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. T. Atilien, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 3/18/22, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for having a staff benefits package and infrastructure of parental involvement. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 6/18/25. The sanitation inspection was completed 5/1/26 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on 3/3/26 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty four percent as of 5/22/26. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 5/22/26 and Sunshine Scholars Academy, LLC was listed as current- active. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers, routines, and transitions. Infants were being cared for according to their individual needs, including being bottle fed and playing on the carpet. Children in space #2 were observed eating breakfast that consisted of grits, applesauce, and milk. Toddlers in space #3 were observed having group time in the outdoor space by singing songs and counting. Preschoolers created fire truck crafts. School age children were observed in the outdoor space climbing on stationary equipment. The outdoor space was observed to have a basketball goal, monkey bars, stationary vehicles, tunnels, and riding toys for the children to engage in gross motor activities. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken alfredo, broccoli, oranges, whole wheat bread, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. A fire inspection was completed on 2/10/25 and the current fire inspection was completed on 3/3/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. An activity plan was not posted in space #1. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) One infant in space #1 did not have a feeding plan on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the toddler outdoor space, there were exposed spikes around the stationary vehicles and tunnels. There was a fenced area around the water meter on the toddler outdoor space that was bent causing entrapment and was filled with broken toys and trash. The gate leading from the toddler outdoor space to the preschool outdoor space had broken pickets and sharp edges. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. In space #5, an Epi-Pen was on file that did not have written permission on file from the parent. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file and did not have written permission from the parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file that expired 12/31/25. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, written permission for a Ventolin HFA inhaler expired 12/23/26. .0803(12) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space #1, one infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 4/27/26 and another infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 5/6/26. .0606(g) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have certification of First Aid until 11/15/26. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have documentation of CPR until 11/15/26. .1102(d) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 2/17/25 did not have a medical report on file. GS110-91(1) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. A child enrolled in space #2 did not have a medical action plan on file for asthma. In space #6, a medical action plan for asthma expired 5/16/26. .0801(b) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. In space #6, children transitioned from the outdoor space to the classroom and lined up to wash their hands. The staff member repeated the statement “if you can’t listen, you can’t do the fire truck activity” several times, “your job is taken away because you are not listening, and “if you do that, you are going to the tent”. .1803(a)(9) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 6/10/26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Discipline: Providing positive guidance through nurturing and responsive relationships and supportive environments to promote children's self-control, teach responsibility and help children make thoughtful choices. The more effective caregivers are at encouraging appropriate behavior, the less time and effort caregivers have to spend correcting children's behavior. In space #6, children transitioned from the outdoor space to the classroom and lined up to wash their hands. The staff member repeated the statement “if you can’t listen, you can’t do the fire truck activity” several times, “your job is taken away because you are not listening, and “if you do that, you are going to the tent”. We discussed that staff members should use positive reinforcement and model appropriate handwashing procedures for the children rather than threatening them. You stated that it was the staff member’s first day working alone and immediately spoke with the staff member about using positive guidance and ideas about transitions. We discussed allowing the new staff member to work with the lead teacher for mentoring. Make daily classroom observations to ensure that positive discipline practices are being followed. A violation was documented for failure to maintain compliance with discipline requirements. During the visit, we discussed that repeated violations of this nature during consecutive visits may lead to an administrative action against your license. A follow up visit will be conducted in the near future to monitor compliance with child care requirements. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge, and careful attention to detail. All medications for children present at the center must have a current, completed medication permission form even if there is a Medical Action Plan. Medication permission forms are valid for a defined length of time and must be updated, if needed. A child enrolled in space #2 did not have a medical action plan on file for asthma. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file that expired 12/31/25 and did not have written permission from the parent. In space #5, an Epi-Pen was on file that did not have written permission on file from the parent. In space #6, a medical action plan for asthma expired 5/16/26 and written permission for a Ventolin HFA inhaler expired 12/23/26. You stated that you thought medication had been reviewed recently. We discussed creating a medication chart for each classroom that has the expiration dates of each medication, medication permission form, and medical action plan as a visual that can be reviewed frequently. Add a reminder in your digital calendar to check medications and medication forms each month. First Aid and CPR: First Aid and CPR are required within three months of hire and then every two years. This ensures the staff are skilled at up-to-date techniques for first aid or other lifesaving skills. It also provides a refresher so that you are confident to act in a medical emergency. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have documentation of CPR and First Aid until 11/15/26. You stated that you thought she had taken an early class and are scheduling new staff members to take CPR and First Aid during orientation. You also stated that your digital calendar has been updated with staff members training information and expiration dates. Review your digital calendar weekly to ensure that all trainings are taken on time and before they expire. Children’s Records: Children's records consist of various documentation such as a child's medical and immunization history, emergency medical care information and parental permission to participate in specific activities. This information is the basis for meeting each child's physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs. When enrolling children into the facility, a medical report is needed within 30 days of enrollment. A child enrolled on 2/17/25 did not have a medical report on file. Use the Children’s File Checklist to document the child’s date of enrollment and the dates of all the documentation on the list to ensure that you have the necessary documents when they are due. Place a reminder in your digital calendar to obtain medical reports and immunization records before 30 days have passed. Fire inspection: Facility safeguarding is not achieved by one agency carrying out a single regulatory program. Total safeguarding is achieved through a multiplicity of regulatory programs and agencies including sanitation and fire inspectors. Fire inspections should be completed annually and within 12 months of the previous inspection. A fire inspection was completed on 2/10/25 and the current fire inspection was completed on 3/3/26. You stated that there were some corrections that needed to occur before the inspection was completed which caused the inspection to occur after 12 months. We discussed adding a reminder in your calendar to request a fire inspection around 3 months in advance so that you are able to have the system tested and schedule an inspection before 12 months has passed. The fire inspection was completed on a fire inspection form for Centers Located in a Residence with a Capacity of 12 or 15 and Family Child Care Homes with a Capacity of 9 or 10 Required to Meet Group R-4 Occupancy. During the visit, a fire inspector came to the facility and completed the fire inspection form for Adult Day Care and Child Care. Review inspections forms thoroughly before you file them to ensure that they are accurate and complete. Infant Needs: Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important in determining compliance with the child care rules and to ensure the health and safety of each child. Infant sleep charts allow teachers to document visually checking sleeping infants every 15 minutes. They note the infant’s sleep position, skin color, breathing, level of sleep, and body temperature. I found that one infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 4/27/26 and another infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 5/6/26. You stated that nap times are documented in the app that the center uses but we discussed that documentation must be completed every 15 minutes. We discussed reviewing the safe sleep policies that were put in place with the administrative action with the infant room staff members. I reminded the staff members to use the timers that are posted above the cribs to sound and remind them to document on the charts. Complete daily classroom observations to ensure that safe sleep checks are being completed every 15 minutes when children are sleeping. All children under 15 months of age must have a signed feeding schedule/plan on file. One infant in space #1 did not have a feeding plan on file. You stated that the parent is also a staff member and the parent completed a feeding plan during the visit to correct the violation. Review infant feeding plans each month to ensure that they are up to date. Outdoor Environment: The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Children are able to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use. On the toddler outdoor space, there were exposed spikes around the stationary vehicles and tunnels. There was a fenced area around the water meter on the toddler outdoor space that was bent causing entrapment and was filled with broken toys and trash. The gate leading from the toddler outdoor space to the preschool outdoor space had broken pickets and sharp edges. During the visit, the spikes were hammered into the ground, the fenced area was fixed, and all the trash was removed, and the broken gate was removed to correct the violation. We discussed assigning one staff member to check playgrounds daily and complete a thorough monthly inspection. Activity plans: Activity plans help teachers to plan for and implement daily activities for children. They provide information to families on activities taking place during their children’s day. Planning for a week of activities helps teachers to obtain and prepare the materials and equipment needed to successfully carry out the activities on the plan. An activity plan was not posted in space #1. You stated that you had not had a chance to make space for the curriculum activity cards for each child. During the visit, the lesson plan was posted for review. Check classrooms each Friday afternoon to ensure that lesson plans are posted for the upcoming week. Resources: As a licensed child care facility, it is your responsibility to be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and to teach your staff the rules to ensure your center remains in compliance. The following resources are available to you: 1. DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov – current laws and rules regarding child care facilities in North Carolina, “What’s New” tab, Items Number Listing which you can use as a checklist for your program. 2. Raise NC Newsletter – weekly newsletter emailed to facility email including relevant information from the Division, training opportunities, grants, and more. You can sign up to receive Raise NC on the What’s New tab. 3. NC Health & Safety Resource Center publishes a quarterly newsletter which provides topical information on a variety of health and safety topics. If you are not receiving these emails and newsletters, then please go to https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/resources/nc-child-care-health-and-safety-e-news/ and click on ‘Newsletter Signup’ to join their mailing list. The North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP), www.ncrlap.org, has resources to help you and your staff prepare for the third editions of the Environment Rating Scales (ECERS-3 and ITERS-3). Visit the website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, self-assessments and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. At this time the SACERS-U will continue to be the program assessment tool for school-age programs and classrooms. Southwestern Child Development Commission, www.swcdcinc.org, Child Care Resources Inc., https://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/ and Early Years, https://www.earlyyearsnc.org/ offer DCDEE approved, on-line, self-paced and virtual real-time training and CEUs. SWCDC also offers affordable annual packages allowing you to take as many courses as you need or want for one price. The T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® North Carolina Scholarship Program provides educational scholarships to early care professionals and those who perform specialized functions in the early care system. https://www.childcareservices.org/programs/teach-north-carolina/ Additional Comments: Staff Education and Works: Assist staff with getting education posted in Works to count for your upcoming QRIS rated license reassessment. QRIS (Quality Rating Improvement System) Technical Assistance: All information on the QRIS rated license assessments and documents will be posted at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRISModernization and will also be provided through emails and Raise NC newsletters. Your QRIS assessment application is due by September 2026. You have decided to follow Pathway #2: Classroom & Instructional Quality Pathway and are implementing approved curriculums and formative assessments. We discussed scheduling a technical assistance visit to discuss all requirements of the pathway, and you stated that you will submit the rated license assessment application by September 2026. North Carolina General Statute 14-208 requires sex offenders to register with the North Carolina Department of Justice. The law states that a sex offender shall not knowingly reside within 1,000 feet of the property on which any public or nonpublic school or child care center is located. This does not apply to child care centers that are located on or within 1,000 feet of property of an institution of higher education where the registrant is a student or is employed. All licensed child care centers must register to receive e-mail notification when a registered sex offender moves within a one-mile radius of the center. (§14-208.19) To register for the e-mail notification, go to http://sexoffender.ncsbi.gov. If you have any questions, please contact your local sheriff's department. NCID: Did you know that if you do not login on any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you every 6 months to login and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. Outdoor Learning Environments Work Plan: Bring nature to children by naturalizing childcare centers and family child care homes, schools, residential neighborhoods, parks and greenways, community centers, cultural facilities, botanical gardens, museums and other nonformal education institutions. Today, we discussed adding soft furnishings with books and art materials under the trees and adding a science center with plants, a rain gauge, and thermometer. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/27/2026 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 5/27/2026 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 525 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 05:25 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. T. Atilien, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 3/18/22, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for having a staff benefits package and infrastructure of parental involvement. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 6/18/25. The sanitation inspection was completed 5/1/26 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on 3/3/26 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty four percent as of 5/22/26. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 5/22/26 and Sunshine Scholars Academy, LLC was listed as current- active. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers, routines, and transitions. Infants were being cared for according to their individual needs, including being bottle fed and playing on the carpet. Children in space #2 were observed eating breakfast that consisted of grits, applesauce, and milk. Toddlers in space #3 were observed having group time in the outdoor space by singing songs and counting. Preschoolers created fire truck crafts. School age children were observed in the outdoor space climbing on stationary equipment. The outdoor space was observed to have a basketball goal, monkey bars, stationary vehicles, tunnels, and riding toys for the children to engage in gross motor activities. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken alfredo, broccoli, oranges, whole wheat bread, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. A fire inspection was completed on 2/10/25 and the current fire inspection was completed on 3/3/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. An activity plan was not posted in space #1. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) One infant in space #1 did not have a feeding plan on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the toddler outdoor space, there were exposed spikes around the stationary vehicles and tunnels. There was a fenced area around the water meter on the toddler outdoor space that was bent causing entrapment and was filled with broken toys and trash. The gate leading from the toddler outdoor space to the preschool outdoor space had broken pickets and sharp edges. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. In space #5, an Epi-Pen was on file that did not have written permission on file from the parent. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file and did not have written permission from the parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file that expired 12/31/25. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, written permission for a Ventolin HFA inhaler expired 12/23/26. .0803(12) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space #1, one infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 4/27/26 and another infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 5/6/26. .0606(g) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have certification of First Aid until 11/15/26. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have documentation of CPR until 11/15/26. .1102(d) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 2/17/25 did not have a medical report on file. GS110-91(1) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. A child enrolled in space #2 did not have a medical action plan on file for asthma. In space #6, a medical action plan for asthma expired 5/16/26. .0801(b) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. In space #6, children transitioned from the outdoor space to the classroom and lined up to wash their hands. The staff member repeated the statement “if you can’t listen, you can’t do the fire truck activity” several times, “your job is taken away because you are not listening, and “if you do that, you are going to the tent”. .1803(a)(9) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 6/10/26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Discipline: Providing positive guidance through nurturing and responsive relationships and supportive environments to promote children's self-control, teach responsibility and help children make thoughtful choices. The more effective caregivers are at encouraging appropriate behavior, the less time and effort caregivers have to spend correcting children's behavior. In space #6, children transitioned from the outdoor space to the classroom and lined up to wash their hands. The staff member repeated the statement “if you can’t listen, you can’t do the fire truck activity” several times, “your job is taken away because you are not listening, and “if you do that, you are going to the tent”. We discussed that staff members should use positive reinforcement and model appropriate handwashing procedures for the children rather than threatening them. You stated that it was the staff member’s first day working alone and immediately spoke with the staff member about using positive guidance and ideas about transitions. We discussed allowing the new staff member to work with the lead teacher for mentoring. Make daily classroom observations to ensure that positive discipline practices are being followed. A violation was documented for failure to maintain compliance with discipline requirements. During the visit, we discussed that repeated violations of this nature during consecutive visits may lead to an administrative action against your license. A follow up visit will be conducted in the near future to monitor compliance with child care requirements. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge, and careful attention to detail. All medications for children present at the center must have a current, completed medication permission form even if there is a Medical Action Plan. Medication permission forms are valid for a defined length of time and must be updated, if needed. A child enrolled in space #2 did not have a medical action plan on file for asthma. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file that expired 12/31/25 and did not have written permission from the parent. In space #5, an Epi-Pen was on file that did not have written permission on file from the parent. In space #6, a medical action plan for asthma expired 5/16/26 and written permission for a Ventolin HFA inhaler expired 12/23/26. You stated that you thought medication had been reviewed recently. We discussed creating a medication chart for each classroom that has the expiration dates of each medication, medication permission form, and medical action plan as a visual that can be reviewed frequently. Add a reminder in your digital calendar to check medications and medication forms each month. First Aid and CPR: First Aid and CPR are required within three months of hire and then every two years. This ensures the staff are skilled at up-to-date techniques for first aid or other lifesaving skills. It also provides a refresher so that you are confident to act in a medical emergency. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have documentation of CPR and First Aid until 11/15/26. You stated that you thought she had taken an early class and are scheduling new staff members to take CPR and First Aid during orientation. You also stated that your digital calendar has been updated with staff members training information and expiration dates. Review your digital calendar weekly to ensure that all trainings are taken on time and before they expire. Children’s Records: Children's records consist of various documentation such as a child's medical and immunization history, emergency medical care information and parental permission to participate in specific activities. This information is the basis for meeting each child's physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs. When enrolling children into the facility, a medical report is needed within 30 days of enrollment. A child enrolled on 2/17/25 did not have a medical report on file. Use the Children’s File Checklist to document the child’s date of enrollment and the dates of all the documentation on the list to ensure that you have the necessary documents when they are due. Place a reminder in your digital calendar to obtain medical reports and immunization records before 30 days have passed. Fire inspection: Facility safeguarding is not achieved by one agency carrying out a single regulatory program. Total safeguarding is achieved through a multiplicity of regulatory programs and agencies including sanitation and fire inspectors. Fire inspections should be completed annually and within 12 months of the previous inspection. A fire inspection was completed on 2/10/25 and the current fire inspection was completed on 3/3/26. You stated that there were some corrections that needed to occur before the inspection was completed which caused the inspection to occur after 12 months. We discussed adding a reminder in your calendar to request a fire inspection around 3 months in advance so that you are able to have the system tested and schedule an inspection before 12 months has passed. The fire inspection was completed on a fire inspection form for Centers Located in a Residence with a Capacity of 12 or 15 and Family Child Care Homes with a Capacity of 9 or 10 Required to Meet Group R-4 Occupancy. During the visit, a fire inspector came to the facility and completed the fire inspection form for Adult Day Care and Child Care. Review inspections forms thoroughly before you file them to ensure that they are accurate and complete. Infant Needs: Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important in determining compliance with the child care rules and to ensure the health and safety of each child. Infant sleep charts allow teachers to document visually checking sleeping infants every 15 minutes. They note the infant’s sleep position, skin color, breathing, level of sleep, and body temperature. I found that one infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 4/27/26 and another infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 5/6/26. You stated that nap times are documented in the app that the center uses but we discussed that documentation must be completed every 15 minutes. We discussed reviewing the safe sleep policies that were put in place with the administrative action with the infant room staff members. I reminded the staff members to use the timers that are posted above the cribs to sound and remind them to document on the charts. Complete daily classroom observations to ensure that safe sleep checks are being completed every 15 minutes when children are sleeping. All children under 15 months of age must have a signed feeding schedule/plan on file. One infant in space #1 did not have a feeding plan on file. You stated that the parent is also a staff member and the parent completed a feeding plan during the visit to correct the violation. Review infant feeding plans each month to ensure that they are up to date. Outdoor Environment: The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Children are able to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use. On the toddler outdoor space, there were exposed spikes around the stationary vehicles and tunnels. There was a fenced area around the water meter on the toddler outdoor space that was bent causing entrapment and was filled with broken toys and trash. The gate leading from the toddler outdoor space to the preschool outdoor space had broken pickets and sharp edges. During the visit, the spikes were hammered into the ground, the fenced area was fixed, and all the trash was removed, and the broken gate was removed to correct the violation. We discussed assigning one staff member to check playgrounds daily and complete a thorough monthly inspection. Activity plans: Activity plans help teachers to plan for and implement daily activities for children. They provide information to families on activities taking place during their children’s day. Planning for a week of activities helps teachers to obtain and prepare the materials and equipment needed to successfully carry out the activities on the plan. An activity plan was not posted in space #1. You stated that you had not had a chance to make space for the curriculum activity cards for each child. During the visit, the lesson plan was posted for review. Check classrooms each Friday afternoon to ensure that lesson plans are posted for the upcoming week. Resources: As a licensed child care facility, it is your responsibility to be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and to teach your staff the rules to ensure your center remains in compliance. The following resources are available to you: 1. DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov – current laws and rules regarding child care facilities in North Carolina, “What’s New” tab, Items Number Listing which you can use as a checklist for your program. 2. Raise NC Newsletter – weekly newsletter emailed to facility email including relevant information from the Division, training opportunities, grants, and more. You can sign up to receive Raise NC on the What’s New tab. 3. NC Health & Safety Resource Center publishes a quarterly newsletter which provides topical information on a variety of health and safety topics. If you are not receiving these emails and newsletters, then please go to https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/resources/nc-child-care-health-and-safety-e-news/ and click on ‘Newsletter Signup’ to join their mailing list. The North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP), www.ncrlap.org, has resources to help you and your staff prepare for the third editions of the Environment Rating Scales (ECERS-3 and ITERS-3). Visit the website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, self-assessments and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. At this time the SACERS-U will continue to be the program assessment tool for school-age programs and classrooms. Southwestern Child Development Commission, www.swcdcinc.org, Child Care Resources Inc., https://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/ and Early Years, https://www.earlyyearsnc.org/ offer DCDEE approved, on-line, self-paced and virtual real-time training and CEUs. SWCDC also offers affordable annual packages allowing you to take as many courses as you need or want for one price. The T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® North Carolina Scholarship Program provides educational scholarships to early care professionals and those who perform specialized functions in the early care system. https://www.childcareservices.org/programs/teach-north-carolina/ Additional Comments: Staff Education and Works: Assist staff with getting education posted in Works to count for your upcoming QRIS rated license reassessment. QRIS (Quality Rating Improvement System) Technical Assistance: All information on the QRIS rated license assessments and documents will be posted at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRISModernization and will also be provided through emails and Raise NC newsletters. Your QRIS assessment application is due by September 2026. You have decided to follow Pathway #2: Classroom & Instructional Quality Pathway and are implementing approved curriculums and formative assessments. We discussed scheduling a technical assistance visit to discuss all requirements of the pathway, and you stated that you will submit the rated license assessment application by September 2026. North Carolina General Statute 14-208 requires sex offenders to register with the North Carolina Department of Justice. The law states that a sex offender shall not knowingly reside within 1,000 feet of the property on which any public or nonpublic school or child care center is located. This does not apply to child care centers that are located on or within 1,000 feet of property of an institution of higher education where the registrant is a student or is employed. All licensed child care centers must register to receive e-mail notification when a registered sex offender moves within a one-mile radius of the center. (§14-208.19) To register for the e-mail notification, go to http://sexoffender.ncsbi.gov. If you have any questions, please contact your local sheriff's department. NCID: Did you know that if you do not login on any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you every 6 months to login and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. Outdoor Learning Environments Work Plan: Bring nature to children by naturalizing childcare centers and family child care homes, schools, residential neighborhoods, parks and greenways, community centers, cultural facilities, botanical gardens, museums and other nonformal education institutions. Today, we discussed adding soft furnishings with books and art materials under the trees and adding a science center with plants, a rain gauge, and thermometer. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0902 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/27/2026 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 5/27/2026 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 525 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 05:25 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. T. Atilien, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 3/18/22, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for having a staff benefits package and infrastructure of parental involvement. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 6/18/25. The sanitation inspection was completed 5/1/26 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on 3/3/26 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty four percent as of 5/22/26. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 5/22/26 and Sunshine Scholars Academy, LLC was listed as current- active. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers, routines, and transitions. Infants were being cared for according to their individual needs, including being bottle fed and playing on the carpet. Children in space #2 were observed eating breakfast that consisted of grits, applesauce, and milk. Toddlers in space #3 were observed having group time in the outdoor space by singing songs and counting. Preschoolers created fire truck crafts. School age children were observed in the outdoor space climbing on stationary equipment. The outdoor space was observed to have a basketball goal, monkey bars, stationary vehicles, tunnels, and riding toys for the children to engage in gross motor activities. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken alfredo, broccoli, oranges, whole wheat bread, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. A fire inspection was completed on 2/10/25 and the current fire inspection was completed on 3/3/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. An activity plan was not posted in space #1. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) One infant in space #1 did not have a feeding plan on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the toddler outdoor space, there were exposed spikes around the stationary vehicles and tunnels. There was a fenced area around the water meter on the toddler outdoor space that was bent causing entrapment and was filled with broken toys and trash. The gate leading from the toddler outdoor space to the preschool outdoor space had broken pickets and sharp edges. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. In space #5, an Epi-Pen was on file that did not have written permission on file from the parent. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file and did not have written permission from the parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file that expired 12/31/25. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, written permission for a Ventolin HFA inhaler expired 12/23/26. .0803(12) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space #1, one infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 4/27/26 and another infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 5/6/26. .0606(g) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have certification of First Aid until 11/15/26. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have documentation of CPR until 11/15/26. .1102(d) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 2/17/25 did not have a medical report on file. GS110-91(1) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. A child enrolled in space #2 did not have a medical action plan on file for asthma. In space #6, a medical action plan for asthma expired 5/16/26. .0801(b) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. In space #6, children transitioned from the outdoor space to the classroom and lined up to wash their hands. The staff member repeated the statement “if you can’t listen, you can’t do the fire truck activity” several times, “your job is taken away because you are not listening, and “if you do that, you are going to the tent”. .1803(a)(9) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 6/10/26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Discipline: Providing positive guidance through nurturing and responsive relationships and supportive environments to promote children's self-control, teach responsibility and help children make thoughtful choices. The more effective caregivers are at encouraging appropriate behavior, the less time and effort caregivers have to spend correcting children's behavior. In space #6, children transitioned from the outdoor space to the classroom and lined up to wash their hands. The staff member repeated the statement “if you can’t listen, you can’t do the fire truck activity” several times, “your job is taken away because you are not listening, and “if you do that, you are going to the tent”. We discussed that staff members should use positive reinforcement and model appropriate handwashing procedures for the children rather than threatening them. You stated that it was the staff member’s first day working alone and immediately spoke with the staff member about using positive guidance and ideas about transitions. We discussed allowing the new staff member to work with the lead teacher for mentoring. Make daily classroom observations to ensure that positive discipline practices are being followed. A violation was documented for failure to maintain compliance with discipline requirements. During the visit, we discussed that repeated violations of this nature during consecutive visits may lead to an administrative action against your license. A follow up visit will be conducted in the near future to monitor compliance with child care requirements. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge, and careful attention to detail. All medications for children present at the center must have a current, completed medication permission form even if there is a Medical Action Plan. Medication permission forms are valid for a defined length of time and must be updated, if needed. A child enrolled in space #2 did not have a medical action plan on file for asthma. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file that expired 12/31/25 and did not have written permission from the parent. In space #5, an Epi-Pen was on file that did not have written permission on file from the parent. In space #6, a medical action plan for asthma expired 5/16/26 and written permission for a Ventolin HFA inhaler expired 12/23/26. You stated that you thought medication had been reviewed recently. We discussed creating a medication chart for each classroom that has the expiration dates of each medication, medication permission form, and medical action plan as a visual that can be reviewed frequently. Add a reminder in your digital calendar to check medications and medication forms each month. First Aid and CPR: First Aid and CPR are required within three months of hire and then every two years. This ensures the staff are skilled at up-to-date techniques for first aid or other lifesaving skills. It also provides a refresher so that you are confident to act in a medical emergency. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have documentation of CPR and First Aid until 11/15/26. You stated that you thought she had taken an early class and are scheduling new staff members to take CPR and First Aid during orientation. You also stated that your digital calendar has been updated with staff members training information and expiration dates. Review your digital calendar weekly to ensure that all trainings are taken on time and before they expire. Children’s Records: Children's records consist of various documentation such as a child's medical and immunization history, emergency medical care information and parental permission to participate in specific activities. This information is the basis for meeting each child's physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs. When enrolling children into the facility, a medical report is needed within 30 days of enrollment. A child enrolled on 2/17/25 did not have a medical report on file. Use the Children’s File Checklist to document the child’s date of enrollment and the dates of all the documentation on the list to ensure that you have the necessary documents when they are due. Place a reminder in your digital calendar to obtain medical reports and immunization records before 30 days have passed. Fire inspection: Facility safeguarding is not achieved by one agency carrying out a single regulatory program. Total safeguarding is achieved through a multiplicity of regulatory programs and agencies including sanitation and fire inspectors. Fire inspections should be completed annually and within 12 months of the previous inspection. A fire inspection was completed on 2/10/25 and the current fire inspection was completed on 3/3/26. You stated that there were some corrections that needed to occur before the inspection was completed which caused the inspection to occur after 12 months. We discussed adding a reminder in your calendar to request a fire inspection around 3 months in advance so that you are able to have the system tested and schedule an inspection before 12 months has passed. The fire inspection was completed on a fire inspection form for Centers Located in a Residence with a Capacity of 12 or 15 and Family Child Care Homes with a Capacity of 9 or 10 Required to Meet Group R-4 Occupancy. During the visit, a fire inspector came to the facility and completed the fire inspection form for Adult Day Care and Child Care. Review inspections forms thoroughly before you file them to ensure that they are accurate and complete. Infant Needs: Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important in determining compliance with the child care rules and to ensure the health and safety of each child. Infant sleep charts allow teachers to document visually checking sleeping infants every 15 minutes. They note the infant’s sleep position, skin color, breathing, level of sleep, and body temperature. I found that one infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 4/27/26 and another infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 5/6/26. You stated that nap times are documented in the app that the center uses but we discussed that documentation must be completed every 15 minutes. We discussed reviewing the safe sleep policies that were put in place with the administrative action with the infant room staff members. I reminded the staff members to use the timers that are posted above the cribs to sound and remind them to document on the charts. Complete daily classroom observations to ensure that safe sleep checks are being completed every 15 minutes when children are sleeping. All children under 15 months of age must have a signed feeding schedule/plan on file. One infant in space #1 did not have a feeding plan on file. You stated that the parent is also a staff member and the parent completed a feeding plan during the visit to correct the violation. Review infant feeding plans each month to ensure that they are up to date. Outdoor Environment: The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Children are able to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use. On the toddler outdoor space, there were exposed spikes around the stationary vehicles and tunnels. There was a fenced area around the water meter on the toddler outdoor space that was bent causing entrapment and was filled with broken toys and trash. The gate leading from the toddler outdoor space to the preschool outdoor space had broken pickets and sharp edges. During the visit, the spikes were hammered into the ground, the fenced area was fixed, and all the trash was removed, and the broken gate was removed to correct the violation. We discussed assigning one staff member to check playgrounds daily and complete a thorough monthly inspection. Activity plans: Activity plans help teachers to plan for and implement daily activities for children. They provide information to families on activities taking place during their children’s day. Planning for a week of activities helps teachers to obtain and prepare the materials and equipment needed to successfully carry out the activities on the plan. An activity plan was not posted in space #1. You stated that you had not had a chance to make space for the curriculum activity cards for each child. During the visit, the lesson plan was posted for review. Check classrooms each Friday afternoon to ensure that lesson plans are posted for the upcoming week. Resources: As a licensed child care facility, it is your responsibility to be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and to teach your staff the rules to ensure your center remains in compliance. The following resources are available to you: 1. DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov – current laws and rules regarding child care facilities in North Carolina, “What’s New” tab, Items Number Listing which you can use as a checklist for your program. 2. Raise NC Newsletter – weekly newsletter emailed to facility email including relevant information from the Division, training opportunities, grants, and more. You can sign up to receive Raise NC on the What’s New tab. 3. NC Health & Safety Resource Center publishes a quarterly newsletter which provides topical information on a variety of health and safety topics. If you are not receiving these emails and newsletters, then please go to https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/resources/nc-child-care-health-and-safety-e-news/ and click on ‘Newsletter Signup’ to join their mailing list. The North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP), www.ncrlap.org, has resources to help you and your staff prepare for the third editions of the Environment Rating Scales (ECERS-3 and ITERS-3). Visit the website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, self-assessments and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. At this time the SACERS-U will continue to be the program assessment tool for school-age programs and classrooms. Southwestern Child Development Commission, www.swcdcinc.org, Child Care Resources Inc., https://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/ and Early Years, https://www.earlyyearsnc.org/ offer DCDEE approved, on-line, self-paced and virtual real-time training and CEUs. SWCDC also offers affordable annual packages allowing you to take as many courses as you need or want for one price. The T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® North Carolina Scholarship Program provides educational scholarships to early care professionals and those who perform specialized functions in the early care system. https://www.childcareservices.org/programs/teach-north-carolina/ Additional Comments: Staff Education and Works: Assist staff with getting education posted in Works to count for your upcoming QRIS rated license reassessment. QRIS (Quality Rating Improvement System) Technical Assistance: All information on the QRIS rated license assessments and documents will be posted at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRISModernization and will also be provided through emails and Raise NC newsletters. Your QRIS assessment application is due by September 2026. You have decided to follow Pathway #2: Classroom & Instructional Quality Pathway and are implementing approved curriculums and formative assessments. We discussed scheduling a technical assistance visit to discuss all requirements of the pathway, and you stated that you will submit the rated license assessment application by September 2026. North Carolina General Statute 14-208 requires sex offenders to register with the North Carolina Department of Justice. The law states that a sex offender shall not knowingly reside within 1,000 feet of the property on which any public or nonpublic school or child care center is located. This does not apply to child care centers that are located on or within 1,000 feet of property of an institution of higher education where the registrant is a student or is employed. All licensed child care centers must register to receive e-mail notification when a registered sex offender moves within a one-mile radius of the center. (§14-208.19) To register for the e-mail notification, go to http://sexoffender.ncsbi.gov. If you have any questions, please contact your local sheriff's department. NCID: Did you know that if you do not login on any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you every 6 months to login and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. Outdoor Learning Environments Work Plan: Bring nature to children by naturalizing childcare centers and family child care homes, schools, residential neighborhoods, parks and greenways, community centers, cultural facilities, botanical gardens, museums and other nonformal education institutions. Today, we discussed adding soft furnishings with books and art materials under the trees and adding a science center with plants, a rain gauge, and thermometer. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/27/2026 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 5/27/2026 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 525 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 05:25 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. T. Atilien, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 3/18/22, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for having a staff benefits package and infrastructure of parental involvement. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 6/18/25. The sanitation inspection was completed 5/1/26 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on 3/3/26 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty four percent as of 5/22/26. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 5/22/26 and Sunshine Scholars Academy, LLC was listed as current- active. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers, routines, and transitions. Infants were being cared for according to their individual needs, including being bottle fed and playing on the carpet. Children in space #2 were observed eating breakfast that consisted of grits, applesauce, and milk. Toddlers in space #3 were observed having group time in the outdoor space by singing songs and counting. Preschoolers created fire truck crafts. School age children were observed in the outdoor space climbing on stationary equipment. The outdoor space was observed to have a basketball goal, monkey bars, stationary vehicles, tunnels, and riding toys for the children to engage in gross motor activities. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken alfredo, broccoli, oranges, whole wheat bread, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. A fire inspection was completed on 2/10/25 and the current fire inspection was completed on 3/3/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. An activity plan was not posted in space #1. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) One infant in space #1 did not have a feeding plan on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the toddler outdoor space, there were exposed spikes around the stationary vehicles and tunnels. There was a fenced area around the water meter on the toddler outdoor space that was bent causing entrapment and was filled with broken toys and trash. The gate leading from the toddler outdoor space to the preschool outdoor space had broken pickets and sharp edges. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. In space #5, an Epi-Pen was on file that did not have written permission on file from the parent. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file and did not have written permission from the parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file that expired 12/31/25. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, written permission for a Ventolin HFA inhaler expired 12/23/26. .0803(12) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space #1, one infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 4/27/26 and another infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 5/6/26. .0606(g) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have certification of First Aid until 11/15/26. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have documentation of CPR until 11/15/26. .1102(d) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 2/17/25 did not have a medical report on file. GS110-91(1) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. A child enrolled in space #2 did not have a medical action plan on file for asthma. In space #6, a medical action plan for asthma expired 5/16/26. .0801(b) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. In space #6, children transitioned from the outdoor space to the classroom and lined up to wash their hands. The staff member repeated the statement “if you can’t listen, you can’t do the fire truck activity” several times, “your job is taken away because you are not listening, and “if you do that, you are going to the tent”. .1803(a)(9) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 6/10/26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Discipline: Providing positive guidance through nurturing and responsive relationships and supportive environments to promote children's self-control, teach responsibility and help children make thoughtful choices. The more effective caregivers are at encouraging appropriate behavior, the less time and effort caregivers have to spend correcting children's behavior. In space #6, children transitioned from the outdoor space to the classroom and lined up to wash their hands. The staff member repeated the statement “if you can’t listen, you can’t do the fire truck activity” several times, “your job is taken away because you are not listening, and “if you do that, you are going to the tent”. We discussed that staff members should use positive reinforcement and model appropriate handwashing procedures for the children rather than threatening them. You stated that it was the staff member’s first day working alone and immediately spoke with the staff member about using positive guidance and ideas about transitions. We discussed allowing the new staff member to work with the lead teacher for mentoring. Make daily classroom observations to ensure that positive discipline practices are being followed. A violation was documented for failure to maintain compliance with discipline requirements. During the visit, we discussed that repeated violations of this nature during consecutive visits may lead to an administrative action against your license. A follow up visit will be conducted in the near future to monitor compliance with child care requirements. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge, and careful attention to detail. All medications for children present at the center must have a current, completed medication permission form even if there is a Medical Action Plan. Medication permission forms are valid for a defined length of time and must be updated, if needed. A child enrolled in space #2 did not have a medical action plan on file for asthma. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file that expired 12/31/25 and did not have written permission from the parent. In space #5, an Epi-Pen was on file that did not have written permission on file from the parent. In space #6, a medical action plan for asthma expired 5/16/26 and written permission for a Ventolin HFA inhaler expired 12/23/26. You stated that you thought medication had been reviewed recently. We discussed creating a medication chart for each classroom that has the expiration dates of each medication, medication permission form, and medical action plan as a visual that can be reviewed frequently. Add a reminder in your digital calendar to check medications and medication forms each month. First Aid and CPR: First Aid and CPR are required within three months of hire and then every two years. This ensures the staff are skilled at up-to-date techniques for first aid or other lifesaving skills. It also provides a refresher so that you are confident to act in a medical emergency. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have documentation of CPR and First Aid until 11/15/26. You stated that you thought she had taken an early class and are scheduling new staff members to take CPR and First Aid during orientation. You also stated that your digital calendar has been updated with staff members training information and expiration dates. Review your digital calendar weekly to ensure that all trainings are taken on time and before they expire. Children’s Records: Children's records consist of various documentation such as a child's medical and immunization history, emergency medical care information and parental permission to participate in specific activities. This information is the basis for meeting each child's physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs. When enrolling children into the facility, a medical report is needed within 30 days of enrollment. A child enrolled on 2/17/25 did not have a medical report on file. Use the Children’s File Checklist to document the child’s date of enrollment and the dates of all the documentation on the list to ensure that you have the necessary documents when they are due. Place a reminder in your digital calendar to obtain medical reports and immunization records before 30 days have passed. Fire inspection: Facility safeguarding is not achieved by one agency carrying out a single regulatory program. Total safeguarding is achieved through a multiplicity of regulatory programs and agencies including sanitation and fire inspectors. Fire inspections should be completed annually and within 12 months of the previous inspection. A fire inspection was completed on 2/10/25 and the current fire inspection was completed on 3/3/26. You stated that there were some corrections that needed to occur before the inspection was completed which caused the inspection to occur after 12 months. We discussed adding a reminder in your calendar to request a fire inspection around 3 months in advance so that you are able to have the system tested and schedule an inspection before 12 months has passed. The fire inspection was completed on a fire inspection form for Centers Located in a Residence with a Capacity of 12 or 15 and Family Child Care Homes with a Capacity of 9 or 10 Required to Meet Group R-4 Occupancy. During the visit, a fire inspector came to the facility and completed the fire inspection form for Adult Day Care and Child Care. Review inspections forms thoroughly before you file them to ensure that they are accurate and complete. Infant Needs: Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important in determining compliance with the child care rules and to ensure the health and safety of each child. Infant sleep charts allow teachers to document visually checking sleeping infants every 15 minutes. They note the infant’s sleep position, skin color, breathing, level of sleep, and body temperature. I found that one infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 4/27/26 and another infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 5/6/26. You stated that nap times are documented in the app that the center uses but we discussed that documentation must be completed every 15 minutes. We discussed reviewing the safe sleep policies that were put in place with the administrative action with the infant room staff members. I reminded the staff members to use the timers that are posted above the cribs to sound and remind them to document on the charts. Complete daily classroom observations to ensure that safe sleep checks are being completed every 15 minutes when children are sleeping. All children under 15 months of age must have a signed feeding schedule/plan on file. One infant in space #1 did not have a feeding plan on file. You stated that the parent is also a staff member and the parent completed a feeding plan during the visit to correct the violation. Review infant feeding plans each month to ensure that they are up to date. Outdoor Environment: The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Children are able to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use. On the toddler outdoor space, there were exposed spikes around the stationary vehicles and tunnels. There was a fenced area around the water meter on the toddler outdoor space that was bent causing entrapment and was filled with broken toys and trash. The gate leading from the toddler outdoor space to the preschool outdoor space had broken pickets and sharp edges. During the visit, the spikes were hammered into the ground, the fenced area was fixed, and all the trash was removed, and the broken gate was removed to correct the violation. We discussed assigning one staff member to check playgrounds daily and complete a thorough monthly inspection. Activity plans: Activity plans help teachers to plan for and implement daily activities for children. They provide information to families on activities taking place during their children’s day. Planning for a week of activities helps teachers to obtain and prepare the materials and equipment needed to successfully carry out the activities on the plan. An activity plan was not posted in space #1. You stated that you had not had a chance to make space for the curriculum activity cards for each child. During the visit, the lesson plan was posted for review. Check classrooms each Friday afternoon to ensure that lesson plans are posted for the upcoming week. Resources: As a licensed child care facility, it is your responsibility to be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and to teach your staff the rules to ensure your center remains in compliance. The following resources are available to you: 1. DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov – current laws and rules regarding child care facilities in North Carolina, “What’s New” tab, Items Number Listing which you can use as a checklist for your program. 2. Raise NC Newsletter – weekly newsletter emailed to facility email including relevant information from the Division, training opportunities, grants, and more. You can sign up to receive Raise NC on the What’s New tab. 3. NC Health & Safety Resource Center publishes a quarterly newsletter which provides topical information on a variety of health and safety topics. If you are not receiving these emails and newsletters, then please go to https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/resources/nc-child-care-health-and-safety-e-news/ and click on ‘Newsletter Signup’ to join their mailing list. The North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP), www.ncrlap.org, has resources to help you and your staff prepare for the third editions of the Environment Rating Scales (ECERS-3 and ITERS-3). Visit the website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, self-assessments and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. At this time the SACERS-U will continue to be the program assessment tool for school-age programs and classrooms. Southwestern Child Development Commission, www.swcdcinc.org, Child Care Resources Inc., https://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/ and Early Years, https://www.earlyyearsnc.org/ offer DCDEE approved, on-line, self-paced and virtual real-time training and CEUs. SWCDC also offers affordable annual packages allowing you to take as many courses as you need or want for one price. The T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® North Carolina Scholarship Program provides educational scholarships to early care professionals and those who perform specialized functions in the early care system. https://www.childcareservices.org/programs/teach-north-carolina/ Additional Comments: Staff Education and Works: Assist staff with getting education posted in Works to count for your upcoming QRIS rated license reassessment. QRIS (Quality Rating Improvement System) Technical Assistance: All information on the QRIS rated license assessments and documents will be posted at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRISModernization and will also be provided through emails and Raise NC newsletters. Your QRIS assessment application is due by September 2026. You have decided to follow Pathway #2: Classroom & Instructional Quality Pathway and are implementing approved curriculums and formative assessments. We discussed scheduling a technical assistance visit to discuss all requirements of the pathway, and you stated that you will submit the rated license assessment application by September 2026. North Carolina General Statute 14-208 requires sex offenders to register with the North Carolina Department of Justice. The law states that a sex offender shall not knowingly reside within 1,000 feet of the property on which any public or nonpublic school or child care center is located. This does not apply to child care centers that are located on or within 1,000 feet of property of an institution of higher education where the registrant is a student or is employed. All licensed child care centers must register to receive e-mail notification when a registered sex offender moves within a one-mile radius of the center. (§14-208.19) To register for the e-mail notification, go to http://sexoffender.ncsbi.gov. If you have any questions, please contact your local sheriff's department. NCID: Did you know that if you do not login on any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you every 6 months to login and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. Outdoor Learning Environments Work Plan: Bring nature to children by naturalizing childcare centers and family child care homes, schools, residential neighborhoods, parks and greenways, community centers, cultural facilities, botanical gardens, museums and other nonformal education institutions. Today, we discussed adding soft furnishings with books and art materials under the trees and adding a science center with plants, a rain gauge, and thermometer. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/27/2026 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 5/27/2026 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 525 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 05:25 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. T. Atilien, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 3/18/22, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for having a staff benefits package and infrastructure of parental involvement. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 6/18/25. The sanitation inspection was completed 5/1/26 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on 3/3/26 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty four percent as of 5/22/26. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 5/22/26 and Sunshine Scholars Academy, LLC was listed as current- active. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers, routines, and transitions. Infants were being cared for according to their individual needs, including being bottle fed and playing on the carpet. Children in space #2 were observed eating breakfast that consisted of grits, applesauce, and milk. Toddlers in space #3 were observed having group time in the outdoor space by singing songs and counting. Preschoolers created fire truck crafts. School age children were observed in the outdoor space climbing on stationary equipment. The outdoor space was observed to have a basketball goal, monkey bars, stationary vehicles, tunnels, and riding toys for the children to engage in gross motor activities. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken alfredo, broccoli, oranges, whole wheat bread, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. A fire inspection was completed on 2/10/25 and the current fire inspection was completed on 3/3/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. An activity plan was not posted in space #1. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) One infant in space #1 did not have a feeding plan on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the toddler outdoor space, there were exposed spikes around the stationary vehicles and tunnels. There was a fenced area around the water meter on the toddler outdoor space that was bent causing entrapment and was filled with broken toys and trash. The gate leading from the toddler outdoor space to the preschool outdoor space had broken pickets and sharp edges. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. In space #5, an Epi-Pen was on file that did not have written permission on file from the parent. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file and did not have written permission from the parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file that expired 12/31/25. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, written permission for a Ventolin HFA inhaler expired 12/23/26. .0803(12) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space #1, one infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 4/27/26 and another infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 5/6/26. .0606(g) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have certification of First Aid until 11/15/26. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have documentation of CPR until 11/15/26. .1102(d) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 2/17/25 did not have a medical report on file. GS110-91(1) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. A child enrolled in space #2 did not have a medical action plan on file for asthma. In space #6, a medical action plan for asthma expired 5/16/26. .0801(b) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. In space #6, children transitioned from the outdoor space to the classroom and lined up to wash their hands. The staff member repeated the statement “if you can’t listen, you can’t do the fire truck activity” several times, “your job is taken away because you are not listening, and “if you do that, you are going to the tent”. .1803(a)(9) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 6/10/26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Discipline: Providing positive guidance through nurturing and responsive relationships and supportive environments to promote children's self-control, teach responsibility and help children make thoughtful choices. The more effective caregivers are at encouraging appropriate behavior, the less time and effort caregivers have to spend correcting children's behavior. In space #6, children transitioned from the outdoor space to the classroom and lined up to wash their hands. The staff member repeated the statement “if you can’t listen, you can’t do the fire truck activity” several times, “your job is taken away because you are not listening, and “if you do that, you are going to the tent”. We discussed that staff members should use positive reinforcement and model appropriate handwashing procedures for the children rather than threatening them. You stated that it was the staff member’s first day working alone and immediately spoke with the staff member about using positive guidance and ideas about transitions. We discussed allowing the new staff member to work with the lead teacher for mentoring. Make daily classroom observations to ensure that positive discipline practices are being followed. A violation was documented for failure to maintain compliance with discipline requirements. During the visit, we discussed that repeated violations of this nature during consecutive visits may lead to an administrative action against your license. A follow up visit will be conducted in the near future to monitor compliance with child care requirements. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge, and careful attention to detail. All medications for children present at the center must have a current, completed medication permission form even if there is a Medical Action Plan. Medication permission forms are valid for a defined length of time and must be updated, if needed. A child enrolled in space #2 did not have a medical action plan on file for asthma. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file that expired 12/31/25 and did not have written permission from the parent. In space #5, an Epi-Pen was on file that did not have written permission on file from the parent. In space #6, a medical action plan for asthma expired 5/16/26 and written permission for a Ventolin HFA inhaler expired 12/23/26. You stated that you thought medication had been reviewed recently. We discussed creating a medication chart for each classroom that has the expiration dates of each medication, medication permission form, and medical action plan as a visual that can be reviewed frequently. Add a reminder in your digital calendar to check medications and medication forms each month. First Aid and CPR: First Aid and CPR are required within three months of hire and then every two years. This ensures the staff are skilled at up-to-date techniques for first aid or other lifesaving skills. It also provides a refresher so that you are confident to act in a medical emergency. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have documentation of CPR and First Aid until 11/15/26. You stated that you thought she had taken an early class and are scheduling new staff members to take CPR and First Aid during orientation. You also stated that your digital calendar has been updated with staff members training information and expiration dates. Review your digital calendar weekly to ensure that all trainings are taken on time and before they expire. Children’s Records: Children's records consist of various documentation such as a child's medical and immunization history, emergency medical care information and parental permission to participate in specific activities. This information is the basis for meeting each child's physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs. When enrolling children into the facility, a medical report is needed within 30 days of enrollment. A child enrolled on 2/17/25 did not have a medical report on file. Use the Children’s File Checklist to document the child’s date of enrollment and the dates of all the documentation on the list to ensure that you have the necessary documents when they are due. Place a reminder in your digital calendar to obtain medical reports and immunization records before 30 days have passed. Fire inspection: Facility safeguarding is not achieved by one agency carrying out a single regulatory program. Total safeguarding is achieved through a multiplicity of regulatory programs and agencies including sanitation and fire inspectors. Fire inspections should be completed annually and within 12 months of the previous inspection. A fire inspection was completed on 2/10/25 and the current fire inspection was completed on 3/3/26. You stated that there were some corrections that needed to occur before the inspection was completed which caused the inspection to occur after 12 months. We discussed adding a reminder in your calendar to request a fire inspection around 3 months in advance so that you are able to have the system tested and schedule an inspection before 12 months has passed. The fire inspection was completed on a fire inspection form for Centers Located in a Residence with a Capacity of 12 or 15 and Family Child Care Homes with a Capacity of 9 or 10 Required to Meet Group R-4 Occupancy. During the visit, a fire inspector came to the facility and completed the fire inspection form for Adult Day Care and Child Care. Review inspections forms thoroughly before you file them to ensure that they are accurate and complete. Infant Needs: Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important in determining compliance with the child care rules and to ensure the health and safety of each child. Infant sleep charts allow teachers to document visually checking sleeping infants every 15 minutes. They note the infant’s sleep position, skin color, breathing, level of sleep, and body temperature. I found that one infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 4/27/26 and another infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 5/6/26. You stated that nap times are documented in the app that the center uses but we discussed that documentation must be completed every 15 minutes. We discussed reviewing the safe sleep policies that were put in place with the administrative action with the infant room staff members. I reminded the staff members to use the timers that are posted above the cribs to sound and remind them to document on the charts. Complete daily classroom observations to ensure that safe sleep checks are being completed every 15 minutes when children are sleeping. All children under 15 months of age must have a signed feeding schedule/plan on file. One infant in space #1 did not have a feeding plan on file. You stated that the parent is also a staff member and the parent completed a feeding plan during the visit to correct the violation. Review infant feeding plans each month to ensure that they are up to date. Outdoor Environment: The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Children are able to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use. On the toddler outdoor space, there were exposed spikes around the stationary vehicles and tunnels. There was a fenced area around the water meter on the toddler outdoor space that was bent causing entrapment and was filled with broken toys and trash. The gate leading from the toddler outdoor space to the preschool outdoor space had broken pickets and sharp edges. During the visit, the spikes were hammered into the ground, the fenced area was fixed, and all the trash was removed, and the broken gate was removed to correct the violation. We discussed assigning one staff member to check playgrounds daily and complete a thorough monthly inspection. Activity plans: Activity plans help teachers to plan for and implement daily activities for children. They provide information to families on activities taking place during their children’s day. Planning for a week of activities helps teachers to obtain and prepare the materials and equipment needed to successfully carry out the activities on the plan. An activity plan was not posted in space #1. You stated that you had not had a chance to make space for the curriculum activity cards for each child. During the visit, the lesson plan was posted for review. Check classrooms each Friday afternoon to ensure that lesson plans are posted for the upcoming week. Resources: As a licensed child care facility, it is your responsibility to be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and to teach your staff the rules to ensure your center remains in compliance. The following resources are available to you: 1. DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov – current laws and rules regarding child care facilities in North Carolina, “What’s New” tab, Items Number Listing which you can use as a checklist for your program. 2. Raise NC Newsletter – weekly newsletter emailed to facility email including relevant information from the Division, training opportunities, grants, and more. You can sign up to receive Raise NC on the What’s New tab. 3. NC Health & Safety Resource Center publishes a quarterly newsletter which provides topical information on a variety of health and safety topics. If you are not receiving these emails and newsletters, then please go to https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/resources/nc-child-care-health-and-safety-e-news/ and click on ‘Newsletter Signup’ to join their mailing list. The North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP), www.ncrlap.org, has resources to help you and your staff prepare for the third editions of the Environment Rating Scales (ECERS-3 and ITERS-3). Visit the website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, self-assessments and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. At this time the SACERS-U will continue to be the program assessment tool for school-age programs and classrooms. Southwestern Child Development Commission, www.swcdcinc.org, Child Care Resources Inc., https://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/ and Early Years, https://www.earlyyearsnc.org/ offer DCDEE approved, on-line, self-paced and virtual real-time training and CEUs. SWCDC also offers affordable annual packages allowing you to take as many courses as you need or want for one price. The T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® North Carolina Scholarship Program provides educational scholarships to early care professionals and those who perform specialized functions in the early care system. https://www.childcareservices.org/programs/teach-north-carolina/ Additional Comments: Staff Education and Works: Assist staff with getting education posted in Works to count for your upcoming QRIS rated license reassessment. QRIS (Quality Rating Improvement System) Technical Assistance: All information on the QRIS rated license assessments and documents will be posted at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRISModernization and will also be provided through emails and Raise NC newsletters. Your QRIS assessment application is due by September 2026. You have decided to follow Pathway #2: Classroom & Instructional Quality Pathway and are implementing approved curriculums and formative assessments. We discussed scheduling a technical assistance visit to discuss all requirements of the pathway, and you stated that you will submit the rated license assessment application by September 2026. North Carolina General Statute 14-208 requires sex offenders to register with the North Carolina Department of Justice. The law states that a sex offender shall not knowingly reside within 1,000 feet of the property on which any public or nonpublic school or child care center is located. This does not apply to child care centers that are located on or within 1,000 feet of property of an institution of higher education where the registrant is a student or is employed. All licensed child care centers must register to receive e-mail notification when a registered sex offender moves within a one-mile radius of the center. (§14-208.19) To register for the e-mail notification, go to http://sexoffender.ncsbi.gov. If you have any questions, please contact your local sheriff's department. NCID: Did you know that if you do not login on any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you every 6 months to login and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. Outdoor Learning Environments Work Plan: Bring nature to children by naturalizing childcare centers and family child care homes, schools, residential neighborhoods, parks and greenways, community centers, cultural facilities, botanical gardens, museums and other nonformal education institutions. Today, we discussed adding soft furnishings with books and art materials under the trees and adding a science center with plants, a rain gauge, and thermometer. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/27/2026 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 5/27/2026 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 525 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 05:25 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. T. Atilien, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 3/18/22, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for having a staff benefits package and infrastructure of parental involvement. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 6/18/25. The sanitation inspection was completed 5/1/26 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on 3/3/26 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty four percent as of 5/22/26. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 5/22/26 and Sunshine Scholars Academy, LLC was listed as current- active. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers, routines, and transitions. Infants were being cared for according to their individual needs, including being bottle fed and playing on the carpet. Children in space #2 were observed eating breakfast that consisted of grits, applesauce, and milk. Toddlers in space #3 were observed having group time in the outdoor space by singing songs and counting. Preschoolers created fire truck crafts. School age children were observed in the outdoor space climbing on stationary equipment. The outdoor space was observed to have a basketball goal, monkey bars, stationary vehicles, tunnels, and riding toys for the children to engage in gross motor activities. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken alfredo, broccoli, oranges, whole wheat bread, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. A fire inspection was completed on 2/10/25 and the current fire inspection was completed on 3/3/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. An activity plan was not posted in space #1. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) One infant in space #1 did not have a feeding plan on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the toddler outdoor space, there were exposed spikes around the stationary vehicles and tunnels. There was a fenced area around the water meter on the toddler outdoor space that was bent causing entrapment and was filled with broken toys and trash. The gate leading from the toddler outdoor space to the preschool outdoor space had broken pickets and sharp edges. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. In space #5, an Epi-Pen was on file that did not have written permission on file from the parent. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file and did not have written permission from the parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file that expired 12/31/25. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, written permission for a Ventolin HFA inhaler expired 12/23/26. .0803(12) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space #1, one infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 4/27/26 and another infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 5/6/26. .0606(g) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have certification of First Aid until 11/15/26. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have documentation of CPR until 11/15/26. .1102(d) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 2/17/25 did not have a medical report on file. GS110-91(1) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. A child enrolled in space #2 did not have a medical action plan on file for asthma. In space #6, a medical action plan for asthma expired 5/16/26. .0801(b) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. In space #6, children transitioned from the outdoor space to the classroom and lined up to wash their hands. The staff member repeated the statement “if you can’t listen, you can’t do the fire truck activity” several times, “your job is taken away because you are not listening, and “if you do that, you are going to the tent”. .1803(a)(9) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 6/10/26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Discipline: Providing positive guidance through nurturing and responsive relationships and supportive environments to promote children's self-control, teach responsibility and help children make thoughtful choices. The more effective caregivers are at encouraging appropriate behavior, the less time and effort caregivers have to spend correcting children's behavior. In space #6, children transitioned from the outdoor space to the classroom and lined up to wash their hands. The staff member repeated the statement “if you can’t listen, you can’t do the fire truck activity” several times, “your job is taken away because you are not listening, and “if you do that, you are going to the tent”. We discussed that staff members should use positive reinforcement and model appropriate handwashing procedures for the children rather than threatening them. You stated that it was the staff member’s first day working alone and immediately spoke with the staff member about using positive guidance and ideas about transitions. We discussed allowing the new staff member to work with the lead teacher for mentoring. Make daily classroom observations to ensure that positive discipline practices are being followed. A violation was documented for failure to maintain compliance with discipline requirements. During the visit, we discussed that repeated violations of this nature during consecutive visits may lead to an administrative action against your license. A follow up visit will be conducted in the near future to monitor compliance with child care requirements. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge, and careful attention to detail. All medications for children present at the center must have a current, completed medication permission form even if there is a Medical Action Plan. Medication permission forms are valid for a defined length of time and must be updated, if needed. A child enrolled in space #2 did not have a medical action plan on file for asthma. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file that expired 12/31/25 and did not have written permission from the parent. In space #5, an Epi-Pen was on file that did not have written permission on file from the parent. In space #6, a medical action plan for asthma expired 5/16/26 and written permission for a Ventolin HFA inhaler expired 12/23/26. You stated that you thought medication had been reviewed recently. We discussed creating a medication chart for each classroom that has the expiration dates of each medication, medication permission form, and medical action plan as a visual that can be reviewed frequently. Add a reminder in your digital calendar to check medications and medication forms each month. First Aid and CPR: First Aid and CPR are required within three months of hire and then every two years. This ensures the staff are skilled at up-to-date techniques for first aid or other lifesaving skills. It also provides a refresher so that you are confident to act in a medical emergency. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have documentation of CPR and First Aid until 11/15/26. You stated that you thought she had taken an early class and are scheduling new staff members to take CPR and First Aid during orientation. You also stated that your digital calendar has been updated with staff members training information and expiration dates. Review your digital calendar weekly to ensure that all trainings are taken on time and before they expire. Children’s Records: Children's records consist of various documentation such as a child's medical and immunization history, emergency medical care information and parental permission to participate in specific activities. This information is the basis for meeting each child's physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs. When enrolling children into the facility, a medical report is needed within 30 days of enrollment. A child enrolled on 2/17/25 did not have a medical report on file. Use the Children’s File Checklist to document the child’s date of enrollment and the dates of all the documentation on the list to ensure that you have the necessary documents when they are due. Place a reminder in your digital calendar to obtain medical reports and immunization records before 30 days have passed. Fire inspection: Facility safeguarding is not achieved by one agency carrying out a single regulatory program. Total safeguarding is achieved through a multiplicity of regulatory programs and agencies including sanitation and fire inspectors. Fire inspections should be completed annually and within 12 months of the previous inspection. A fire inspection was completed on 2/10/25 and the current fire inspection was completed on 3/3/26. You stated that there were some corrections that needed to occur before the inspection was completed which caused the inspection to occur after 12 months. We discussed adding a reminder in your calendar to request a fire inspection around 3 months in advance so that you are able to have the system tested and schedule an inspection before 12 months has passed. The fire inspection was completed on a fire inspection form for Centers Located in a Residence with a Capacity of 12 or 15 and Family Child Care Homes with a Capacity of 9 or 10 Required to Meet Group R-4 Occupancy. During the visit, a fire inspector came to the facility and completed the fire inspection form for Adult Day Care and Child Care. Review inspections forms thoroughly before you file them to ensure that they are accurate and complete. Infant Needs: Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important in determining compliance with the child care rules and to ensure the health and safety of each child. Infant sleep charts allow teachers to document visually checking sleeping infants every 15 minutes. They note the infant’s sleep position, skin color, breathing, level of sleep, and body temperature. I found that one infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 4/27/26 and another infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 5/6/26. You stated that nap times are documented in the app that the center uses but we discussed that documentation must be completed every 15 minutes. We discussed reviewing the safe sleep policies that were put in place with the administrative action with the infant room staff members. I reminded the staff members to use the timers that are posted above the cribs to sound and remind them to document on the charts. Complete daily classroom observations to ensure that safe sleep checks are being completed every 15 minutes when children are sleeping. All children under 15 months of age must have a signed feeding schedule/plan on file. One infant in space #1 did not have a feeding plan on file. You stated that the parent is also a staff member and the parent completed a feeding plan during the visit to correct the violation. Review infant feeding plans each month to ensure that they are up to date. Outdoor Environment: The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Children are able to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use. On the toddler outdoor space, there were exposed spikes around the stationary vehicles and tunnels. There was a fenced area around the water meter on the toddler outdoor space that was bent causing entrapment and was filled with broken toys and trash. The gate leading from the toddler outdoor space to the preschool outdoor space had broken pickets and sharp edges. During the visit, the spikes were hammered into the ground, the fenced area was fixed, and all the trash was removed, and the broken gate was removed to correct the violation. We discussed assigning one staff member to check playgrounds daily and complete a thorough monthly inspection. Activity plans: Activity plans help teachers to plan for and implement daily activities for children. They provide information to families on activities taking place during their children’s day. Planning for a week of activities helps teachers to obtain and prepare the materials and equipment needed to successfully carry out the activities on the plan. An activity plan was not posted in space #1. You stated that you had not had a chance to make space for the curriculum activity cards for each child. During the visit, the lesson plan was posted for review. Check classrooms each Friday afternoon to ensure that lesson plans are posted for the upcoming week. Resources: As a licensed child care facility, it is your responsibility to be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and to teach your staff the rules to ensure your center remains in compliance. The following resources are available to you: 1. DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov – current laws and rules regarding child care facilities in North Carolina, “What’s New” tab, Items Number Listing which you can use as a checklist for your program. 2. Raise NC Newsletter – weekly newsletter emailed to facility email including relevant information from the Division, training opportunities, grants, and more. You can sign up to receive Raise NC on the What’s New tab. 3. NC Health & Safety Resource Center publishes a quarterly newsletter which provides topical information on a variety of health and safety topics. If you are not receiving these emails and newsletters, then please go to https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/resources/nc-child-care-health-and-safety-e-news/ and click on ‘Newsletter Signup’ to join their mailing list. The North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP), www.ncrlap.org, has resources to help you and your staff prepare for the third editions of the Environment Rating Scales (ECERS-3 and ITERS-3). Visit the website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, self-assessments and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. At this time the SACERS-U will continue to be the program assessment tool for school-age programs and classrooms. Southwestern Child Development Commission, www.swcdcinc.org, Child Care Resources Inc., https://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/ and Early Years, https://www.earlyyearsnc.org/ offer DCDEE approved, on-line, self-paced and virtual real-time training and CEUs. SWCDC also offers affordable annual packages allowing you to take as many courses as you need or want for one price. The T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® North Carolina Scholarship Program provides educational scholarships to early care professionals and those who perform specialized functions in the early care system. https://www.childcareservices.org/programs/teach-north-carolina/ Additional Comments: Staff Education and Works: Assist staff with getting education posted in Works to count for your upcoming QRIS rated license reassessment. QRIS (Quality Rating Improvement System) Technical Assistance: All information on the QRIS rated license assessments and documents will be posted at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRISModernization and will also be provided through emails and Raise NC newsletters. Your QRIS assessment application is due by September 2026. You have decided to follow Pathway #2: Classroom & Instructional Quality Pathway and are implementing approved curriculums and formative assessments. We discussed scheduling a technical assistance visit to discuss all requirements of the pathway, and you stated that you will submit the rated license assessment application by September 2026. North Carolina General Statute 14-208 requires sex offenders to register with the North Carolina Department of Justice. The law states that a sex offender shall not knowingly reside within 1,000 feet of the property on which any public or nonpublic school or child care center is located. This does not apply to child care centers that are located on or within 1,000 feet of property of an institution of higher education where the registrant is a student or is employed. All licensed child care centers must register to receive e-mail notification when a registered sex offender moves within a one-mile radius of the center. (§14-208.19) To register for the e-mail notification, go to http://sexoffender.ncsbi.gov. If you have any questions, please contact your local sheriff's department. NCID: Did you know that if you do not login on any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you every 6 months to login and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. Outdoor Learning Environments Work Plan: Bring nature to children by naturalizing childcare centers and family child care homes, schools, residential neighborhoods, parks and greenways, community centers, cultural facilities, botanical gardens, museums and other nonformal education institutions. Today, we discussed adding soft furnishings with books and art materials under the trees and adding a science center with plants, a rain gauge, and thermometer. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/27/2026 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 5/27/2026 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 525 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 05:25 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. T. Atilien, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 3/18/22, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for having a staff benefits package and infrastructure of parental involvement. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 6/18/25. The sanitation inspection was completed 5/1/26 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on 3/3/26 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty four percent as of 5/22/26. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 5/22/26 and Sunshine Scholars Academy, LLC was listed as current- active. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers, routines, and transitions. Infants were being cared for according to their individual needs, including being bottle fed and playing on the carpet. Children in space #2 were observed eating breakfast that consisted of grits, applesauce, and milk. Toddlers in space #3 were observed having group time in the outdoor space by singing songs and counting. Preschoolers created fire truck crafts. School age children were observed in the outdoor space climbing on stationary equipment. The outdoor space was observed to have a basketball goal, monkey bars, stationary vehicles, tunnels, and riding toys for the children to engage in gross motor activities. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken alfredo, broccoli, oranges, whole wheat bread, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. A fire inspection was completed on 2/10/25 and the current fire inspection was completed on 3/3/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. An activity plan was not posted in space #1. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) One infant in space #1 did not have a feeding plan on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the toddler outdoor space, there were exposed spikes around the stationary vehicles and tunnels. There was a fenced area around the water meter on the toddler outdoor space that was bent causing entrapment and was filled with broken toys and trash. The gate leading from the toddler outdoor space to the preschool outdoor space had broken pickets and sharp edges. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. In space #5, an Epi-Pen was on file that did not have written permission on file from the parent. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file and did not have written permission from the parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file that expired 12/31/25. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, written permission for a Ventolin HFA inhaler expired 12/23/26. .0803(12) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space #1, one infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 4/27/26 and another infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 5/6/26. .0606(g) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have certification of First Aid until 11/15/26. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have documentation of CPR until 11/15/26. .1102(d) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 2/17/25 did not have a medical report on file. GS110-91(1) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. A child enrolled in space #2 did not have a medical action plan on file for asthma. In space #6, a medical action plan for asthma expired 5/16/26. .0801(b) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. In space #6, children transitioned from the outdoor space to the classroom and lined up to wash their hands. The staff member repeated the statement “if you can’t listen, you can’t do the fire truck activity” several times, “your job is taken away because you are not listening, and “if you do that, you are going to the tent”. .1803(a)(9) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 6/10/26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Discipline: Providing positive guidance through nurturing and responsive relationships and supportive environments to promote children's self-control, teach responsibility and help children make thoughtful choices. The more effective caregivers are at encouraging appropriate behavior, the less time and effort caregivers have to spend correcting children's behavior. In space #6, children transitioned from the outdoor space to the classroom and lined up to wash their hands. The staff member repeated the statement “if you can’t listen, you can’t do the fire truck activity” several times, “your job is taken away because you are not listening, and “if you do that, you are going to the tent”. We discussed that staff members should use positive reinforcement and model appropriate handwashing procedures for the children rather than threatening them. You stated that it was the staff member’s first day working alone and immediately spoke with the staff member about using positive guidance and ideas about transitions. We discussed allowing the new staff member to work with the lead teacher for mentoring. Make daily classroom observations to ensure that positive discipline practices are being followed. A violation was documented for failure to maintain compliance with discipline requirements. During the visit, we discussed that repeated violations of this nature during consecutive visits may lead to an administrative action against your license. A follow up visit will be conducted in the near future to monitor compliance with child care requirements. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge, and careful attention to detail. All medications for children present at the center must have a current, completed medication permission form even if there is a Medical Action Plan. Medication permission forms are valid for a defined length of time and must be updated, if needed. A child enrolled in space #2 did not have a medical action plan on file for asthma. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file that expired 12/31/25 and did not have written permission from the parent. In space #5, an Epi-Pen was on file that did not have written permission on file from the parent. In space #6, a medical action plan for asthma expired 5/16/26 and written permission for a Ventolin HFA inhaler expired 12/23/26. You stated that you thought medication had been reviewed recently. We discussed creating a medication chart for each classroom that has the expiration dates of each medication, medication permission form, and medical action plan as a visual that can be reviewed frequently. Add a reminder in your digital calendar to check medications and medication forms each month. First Aid and CPR: First Aid and CPR are required within three months of hire and then every two years. This ensures the staff are skilled at up-to-date techniques for first aid or other lifesaving skills. It also provides a refresher so that you are confident to act in a medical emergency. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have documentation of CPR and First Aid until 11/15/26. You stated that you thought she had taken an early class and are scheduling new staff members to take CPR and First Aid during orientation. You also stated that your digital calendar has been updated with staff members training information and expiration dates. Review your digital calendar weekly to ensure that all trainings are taken on time and before they expire. Children’s Records: Children's records consist of various documentation such as a child's medical and immunization history, emergency medical care information and parental permission to participate in specific activities. This information is the basis for meeting each child's physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs. When enrolling children into the facility, a medical report is needed within 30 days of enrollment. A child enrolled on 2/17/25 did not have a medical report on file. Use the Children’s File Checklist to document the child’s date of enrollment and the dates of all the documentation on the list to ensure that you have the necessary documents when they are due. Place a reminder in your digital calendar to obtain medical reports and immunization records before 30 days have passed. Fire inspection: Facility safeguarding is not achieved by one agency carrying out a single regulatory program. Total safeguarding is achieved through a multiplicity of regulatory programs and agencies including sanitation and fire inspectors. Fire inspections should be completed annually and within 12 months of the previous inspection. A fire inspection was completed on 2/10/25 and the current fire inspection was completed on 3/3/26. You stated that there were some corrections that needed to occur before the inspection was completed which caused the inspection to occur after 12 months. We discussed adding a reminder in your calendar to request a fire inspection around 3 months in advance so that you are able to have the system tested and schedule an inspection before 12 months has passed. The fire inspection was completed on a fire inspection form for Centers Located in a Residence with a Capacity of 12 or 15 and Family Child Care Homes with a Capacity of 9 or 10 Required to Meet Group R-4 Occupancy. During the visit, a fire inspector came to the facility and completed the fire inspection form for Adult Day Care and Child Care. Review inspections forms thoroughly before you file them to ensure that they are accurate and complete. Infant Needs: Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important in determining compliance with the child care rules and to ensure the health and safety of each child. Infant sleep charts allow teachers to document visually checking sleeping infants every 15 minutes. They note the infant’s sleep position, skin color, breathing, level of sleep, and body temperature. I found that one infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 4/27/26 and another infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 5/6/26. You stated that nap times are documented in the app that the center uses but we discussed that documentation must be completed every 15 minutes. We discussed reviewing the safe sleep policies that were put in place with the administrative action with the infant room staff members. I reminded the staff members to use the timers that are posted above the cribs to sound and remind them to document on the charts. Complete daily classroom observations to ensure that safe sleep checks are being completed every 15 minutes when children are sleeping. All children under 15 months of age must have a signed feeding schedule/plan on file. One infant in space #1 did not have a feeding plan on file. You stated that the parent is also a staff member and the parent completed a feeding plan during the visit to correct the violation. Review infant feeding plans each month to ensure that they are up to date. Outdoor Environment: The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Children are able to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use. On the toddler outdoor space, there were exposed spikes around the stationary vehicles and tunnels. There was a fenced area around the water meter on the toddler outdoor space that was bent causing entrapment and was filled with broken toys and trash. The gate leading from the toddler outdoor space to the preschool outdoor space had broken pickets and sharp edges. During the visit, the spikes were hammered into the ground, the fenced area was fixed, and all the trash was removed, and the broken gate was removed to correct the violation. We discussed assigning one staff member to check playgrounds daily and complete a thorough monthly inspection. Activity plans: Activity plans help teachers to plan for and implement daily activities for children. They provide information to families on activities taking place during their children’s day. Planning for a week of activities helps teachers to obtain and prepare the materials and equipment needed to successfully carry out the activities on the plan. An activity plan was not posted in space #1. You stated that you had not had a chance to make space for the curriculum activity cards for each child. During the visit, the lesson plan was posted for review. Check classrooms each Friday afternoon to ensure that lesson plans are posted for the upcoming week. Resources: As a licensed child care facility, it is your responsibility to be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and to teach your staff the rules to ensure your center remains in compliance. The following resources are available to you: 1. DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov – current laws and rules regarding child care facilities in North Carolina, “What’s New” tab, Items Number Listing which you can use as a checklist for your program. 2. Raise NC Newsletter – weekly newsletter emailed to facility email including relevant information from the Division, training opportunities, grants, and more. You can sign up to receive Raise NC on the What’s New tab. 3. NC Health & Safety Resource Center publishes a quarterly newsletter which provides topical information on a variety of health and safety topics. If you are not receiving these emails and newsletters, then please go to https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/resources/nc-child-care-health-and-safety-e-news/ and click on ‘Newsletter Signup’ to join their mailing list. The North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP), www.ncrlap.org, has resources to help you and your staff prepare for the third editions of the Environment Rating Scales (ECERS-3 and ITERS-3). Visit the website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, self-assessments and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. At this time the SACERS-U will continue to be the program assessment tool for school-age programs and classrooms. Southwestern Child Development Commission, www.swcdcinc.org, Child Care Resources Inc., https://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/ and Early Years, https://www.earlyyearsnc.org/ offer DCDEE approved, on-line, self-paced and virtual real-time training and CEUs. SWCDC also offers affordable annual packages allowing you to take as many courses as you need or want for one price. The T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® North Carolina Scholarship Program provides educational scholarships to early care professionals and those who perform specialized functions in the early care system. https://www.childcareservices.org/programs/teach-north-carolina/ Additional Comments: Staff Education and Works: Assist staff with getting education posted in Works to count for your upcoming QRIS rated license reassessment. QRIS (Quality Rating Improvement System) Technical Assistance: All information on the QRIS rated license assessments and documents will be posted at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRISModernization and will also be provided through emails and Raise NC newsletters. Your QRIS assessment application is due by September 2026. You have decided to follow Pathway #2: Classroom & Instructional Quality Pathway and are implementing approved curriculums and formative assessments. We discussed scheduling a technical assistance visit to discuss all requirements of the pathway, and you stated that you will submit the rated license assessment application by September 2026. North Carolina General Statute 14-208 requires sex offenders to register with the North Carolina Department of Justice. The law states that a sex offender shall not knowingly reside within 1,000 feet of the property on which any public or nonpublic school or child care center is located. This does not apply to child care centers that are located on or within 1,000 feet of property of an institution of higher education where the registrant is a student or is employed. All licensed child care centers must register to receive e-mail notification when a registered sex offender moves within a one-mile radius of the center. (§14-208.19) To register for the e-mail notification, go to http://sexoffender.ncsbi.gov. If you have any questions, please contact your local sheriff's department. NCID: Did you know that if you do not login on any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you every 6 months to login and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. Outdoor Learning Environments Work Plan: Bring nature to children by naturalizing childcare centers and family child care homes, schools, residential neighborhoods, parks and greenways, community centers, cultural facilities, botanical gardens, museums and other nonformal education institutions. Today, we discussed adding soft furnishings with books and art materials under the trees and adding a science center with plants, a rain gauge, and thermometer. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/27/2026 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 5/27/2026 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 525 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 05:25 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. T. Atilien, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 3/18/22, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for having a staff benefits package and infrastructure of parental involvement. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 6/18/25. The sanitation inspection was completed 5/1/26 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on 3/3/26 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty four percent as of 5/22/26. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 5/22/26 and Sunshine Scholars Academy, LLC was listed as current- active. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers, routines, and transitions. Infants were being cared for according to their individual needs, including being bottle fed and playing on the carpet. Children in space #2 were observed eating breakfast that consisted of grits, applesauce, and milk. Toddlers in space #3 were observed having group time in the outdoor space by singing songs and counting. Preschoolers created fire truck crafts. School age children were observed in the outdoor space climbing on stationary equipment. The outdoor space was observed to have a basketball goal, monkey bars, stationary vehicles, tunnels, and riding toys for the children to engage in gross motor activities. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken alfredo, broccoli, oranges, whole wheat bread, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. A fire inspection was completed on 2/10/25 and the current fire inspection was completed on 3/3/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. An activity plan was not posted in space #1. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) One infant in space #1 did not have a feeding plan on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the toddler outdoor space, there were exposed spikes around the stationary vehicles and tunnels. There was a fenced area around the water meter on the toddler outdoor space that was bent causing entrapment and was filled with broken toys and trash. The gate leading from the toddler outdoor space to the preschool outdoor space had broken pickets and sharp edges. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. In space #5, an Epi-Pen was on file that did not have written permission on file from the parent. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file and did not have written permission from the parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file that expired 12/31/25. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, written permission for a Ventolin HFA inhaler expired 12/23/26. .0803(12) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space #1, one infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 4/27/26 and another infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 5/6/26. .0606(g) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have certification of First Aid until 11/15/26. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have documentation of CPR until 11/15/26. .1102(d) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 2/17/25 did not have a medical report on file. GS110-91(1) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. A child enrolled in space #2 did not have a medical action plan on file for asthma. In space #6, a medical action plan for asthma expired 5/16/26. .0801(b) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. In space #6, children transitioned from the outdoor space to the classroom and lined up to wash their hands. The staff member repeated the statement “if you can’t listen, you can’t do the fire truck activity” several times, “your job is taken away because you are not listening, and “if you do that, you are going to the tent”. .1803(a)(9) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 6/10/26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Discipline: Providing positive guidance through nurturing and responsive relationships and supportive environments to promote children's self-control, teach responsibility and help children make thoughtful choices. The more effective caregivers are at encouraging appropriate behavior, the less time and effort caregivers have to spend correcting children's behavior. In space #6, children transitioned from the outdoor space to the classroom and lined up to wash their hands. The staff member repeated the statement “if you can’t listen, you can’t do the fire truck activity” several times, “your job is taken away because you are not listening, and “if you do that, you are going to the tent”. We discussed that staff members should use positive reinforcement and model appropriate handwashing procedures for the children rather than threatening them. You stated that it was the staff member’s first day working alone and immediately spoke with the staff member about using positive guidance and ideas about transitions. We discussed allowing the new staff member to work with the lead teacher for mentoring. Make daily classroom observations to ensure that positive discipline practices are being followed. A violation was documented for failure to maintain compliance with discipline requirements. During the visit, we discussed that repeated violations of this nature during consecutive visits may lead to an administrative action against your license. A follow up visit will be conducted in the near future to monitor compliance with child care requirements. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge, and careful attention to detail. All medications for children present at the center must have a current, completed medication permission form even if there is a Medical Action Plan. Medication permission forms are valid for a defined length of time and must be updated, if needed. A child enrolled in space #2 did not have a medical action plan on file for asthma. In space #3, an Epi-Pen was on file that expired 12/31/25 and did not have written permission from the parent. In space #5, an Epi-Pen was on file that did not have written permission on file from the parent. In space #6, a medical action plan for asthma expired 5/16/26 and written permission for a Ventolin HFA inhaler expired 12/23/26. You stated that you thought medication had been reviewed recently. We discussed creating a medication chart for each classroom that has the expiration dates of each medication, medication permission form, and medical action plan as a visual that can be reviewed frequently. Add a reminder in your digital calendar to check medications and medication forms each month. First Aid and CPR: First Aid and CPR are required within three months of hire and then every two years. This ensures the staff are skilled at up-to-date techniques for first aid or other lifesaving skills. It also provides a refresher so that you are confident to act in a medical emergency. A staff member hired on 6/2/25 did not have documentation of CPR and First Aid until 11/15/26. You stated that you thought she had taken an early class and are scheduling new staff members to take CPR and First Aid during orientation. You also stated that your digital calendar has been updated with staff members training information and expiration dates. Review your digital calendar weekly to ensure that all trainings are taken on time and before they expire. Children’s Records: Children's records consist of various documentation such as a child's medical and immunization history, emergency medical care information and parental permission to participate in specific activities. This information is the basis for meeting each child's physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs. When enrolling children into the facility, a medical report is needed within 30 days of enrollment. A child enrolled on 2/17/25 did not have a medical report on file. Use the Children’s File Checklist to document the child’s date of enrollment and the dates of all the documentation on the list to ensure that you have the necessary documents when they are due. Place a reminder in your digital calendar to obtain medical reports and immunization records before 30 days have passed. Fire inspection: Facility safeguarding is not achieved by one agency carrying out a single regulatory program. Total safeguarding is achieved through a multiplicity of regulatory programs and agencies including sanitation and fire inspectors. Fire inspections should be completed annually and within 12 months of the previous inspection. A fire inspection was completed on 2/10/25 and the current fire inspection was completed on 3/3/26. You stated that there were some corrections that needed to occur before the inspection was completed which caused the inspection to occur after 12 months. We discussed adding a reminder in your calendar to request a fire inspection around 3 months in advance so that you are able to have the system tested and schedule an inspection before 12 months has passed. The fire inspection was completed on a fire inspection form for Centers Located in a Residence with a Capacity of 12 or 15 and Family Child Care Homes with a Capacity of 9 or 10 Required to Meet Group R-4 Occupancy. During the visit, a fire inspector came to the facility and completed the fire inspection form for Adult Day Care and Child Care. Review inspections forms thoroughly before you file them to ensure that they are accurate and complete. Infant Needs: Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important in determining compliance with the child care rules and to ensure the health and safety of each child. Infant sleep charts allow teachers to document visually checking sleeping infants every 15 minutes. They note the infant’s sleep position, skin color, breathing, level of sleep, and body temperature. I found that one infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 4/27/26 and another infant’s sleep chart had not been maintained since 5/6/26. You stated that nap times are documented in the app that the center uses but we discussed that documentation must be completed every 15 minutes. We discussed reviewing the safe sleep policies that were put in place with the administrative action with the infant room staff members. I reminded the staff members to use the timers that are posted above the cribs to sound and remind them to document on the charts. Complete daily classroom observations to ensure that safe sleep checks are being completed every 15 minutes when children are sleeping. All children under 15 months of age must have a signed feeding schedule/plan on file. One infant in space #1 did not have a feeding plan on file. You stated that the parent is also a staff member and the parent completed a feeding plan during the visit to correct the violation. Review infant feeding plans each month to ensure that they are up to date. Outdoor Environment: The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Children are able to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use. On the toddler outdoor space, there were exposed spikes around the stationary vehicles and tunnels. There was a fenced area around the water meter on the toddler outdoor space that was bent causing entrapment and was filled with broken toys and trash. The gate leading from the toddler outdoor space to the preschool outdoor space had broken pickets and sharp edges. During the visit, the spikes were hammered into the ground, the fenced area was fixed, and all the trash was removed, and the broken gate was removed to correct the violation. We discussed assigning one staff member to check playgrounds daily and complete a thorough monthly inspection. Activity plans: Activity plans help teachers to plan for and implement daily activities for children. They provide information to families on activities taking place during their children’s day. Planning for a week of activities helps teachers to obtain and prepare the materials and equipment needed to successfully carry out the activities on the plan. An activity plan was not posted in space #1. You stated that you had not had a chance to make space for the curriculum activity cards for each child. During the visit, the lesson plan was posted for review. Check classrooms each Friday afternoon to ensure that lesson plans are posted for the upcoming week. Resources: As a licensed child care facility, it is your responsibility to be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and to teach your staff the rules to ensure your center remains in compliance. The following resources are available to you: 1. DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov – current laws and rules regarding child care facilities in North Carolina, “What’s New” tab, Items Number Listing which you can use as a checklist for your program. 2. Raise NC Newsletter – weekly newsletter emailed to facility email including relevant information from the Division, training opportunities, grants, and more. You can sign up to receive Raise NC on the What’s New tab. 3. NC Health & Safety Resource Center publishes a quarterly newsletter which provides topical information on a variety of health and safety topics. If you are not receiving these emails and newsletters, then please go to https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/resources/nc-child-care-health-and-safety-e-news/ and click on ‘Newsletter Signup’ to join their mailing list. The North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP), www.ncrlap.org, has resources to help you and your staff prepare for the third editions of the Environment Rating Scales (ECERS-3 and ITERS-3). Visit the website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, self-assessments and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. At this time the SACERS-U will continue to be the program assessment tool for school-age programs and classrooms. Southwestern Child Development Commission, www.swcdcinc.org, Child Care Resources Inc., https://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/ and Early Years, https://www.earlyyearsnc.org/ offer DCDEE approved, on-line, self-paced and virtual real-time training and CEUs. SWCDC also offers affordable annual packages allowing you to take as many courses as you need or want for one price. The T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® North Carolina Scholarship Program provides educational scholarships to early care professionals and those who perform specialized functions in the early care system. https://www.childcareservices.org/programs/teach-north-carolina/ Additional Comments: Staff Education and Works: Assist staff with getting education posted in Works to count for your upcoming QRIS rated license reassessment. QRIS (Quality Rating Improvement System) Technical Assistance: All information on the QRIS rated license assessments and documents will be posted at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRISModernization and will also be provided through emails and Raise NC newsletters. Your QRIS assessment application is due by September 2026. You have decided to follow Pathway #2: Classroom & Instructional Quality Pathway and are implementing approved curriculums and formative assessments. We discussed scheduling a technical assistance visit to discuss all requirements of the pathway, and you stated that you will submit the rated license assessment application by September 2026. North Carolina General Statute 14-208 requires sex offenders to register with the North Carolina Department of Justice. The law states that a sex offender shall not knowingly reside within 1,000 feet of the property on which any public or nonpublic school or child care center is located. This does not apply to child care centers that are located on or within 1,000 feet of property of an institution of higher education where the registrant is a student or is employed. All licensed child care centers must register to receive e-mail notification when a registered sex offender moves within a one-mile radius of the center. (§14-208.19) To register for the e-mail notification, go to http://sexoffender.ncsbi.gov. If you have any questions, please contact your local sheriff's department. NCID: Did you know that if you do not login on any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you every 6 months to login and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. Outdoor Learning Environments Work Plan: Bring nature to children by naturalizing childcare centers and family child care homes, schools, residential neighborhoods, parks and greenways, community centers, cultural facilities, botanical gardens, museums and other nonformal education institutions. Today, we discussed adding soft furnishings with books and art materials under the trees and adding a science center with plants, a rain gauge, and thermometer. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/15/2025 Number Present: 52 Completed Date: 12/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 293 Time In: 10:07 AM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an administrative action follow-up visit, including the Corrective Action Plan included in the Written Warning issued by the DCDEE to this facility on December 5, 2025. T. Atilien, Administrator, and H. Steagall, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I reviewed the Administrative Action- Written Warning, Cover Letter, and Corrective Action Plan posted inside the entry door on a parent board directly in front, visible to staff and parents. I received a preservice form for the new administrator H. Steagall during the visit. Upon arrival, children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers and personal care routines. Infants were being cared for according to individual needs. Toddlers were creating snowmen and gingerbread men crafts. Preschoolers were creating a grinch craft that used the children’s name. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken nuggets, apples, mixed vegetables, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) Two (2) infants did not have feeding plans on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. In space #3, a container of Benadryl was on file without written permission. In space #7b, a Ventolin inhaler was on file without written permission. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. In space #5, a Ventolin inhaler was on file that expired 9/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, a bottle of Children’s Allergy Relief had written permission that expired 11/26/25. .0803(12) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space #2, thirteen children, 1-2 years of age, were in care with two staff members. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1835 The medical action plan was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. In space #3, a medical action plan was dated 10/10/25. .0801(b) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 12/29/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Administrative Action: During today's visit, I monitored progress towards completion of the stipulations outlined in the Corrective Action Plan and items in .2201(j) monitored. Stipulation #1: Maintaining compliance with NC Child Care Requirements. Six violations were documented today. Stipulation #2: Within one (1) week after this notice is received, the administrators, shall contact the Child Care Health Consultant of Craven and Pamlico Counties, to schedule a training titled “Stay Healthy, Stay Clean” that will address handwashing, diapering, toileting, and sanitation in child care. Today, you contacted the Child Care Health Consultant to schedule the training and reported that it will be held in January. Send me the specific date when you confirm the training date. Stipulation #3: Within two (2) weeks after the training in Item #2, the administrator shall develop a written plan for routine observations and evaluations of each staff member to ensure compliance with staff/child ratios and sanitation requirements. This stipulation is pending the completion of the training. Stipulation #4: The written plan shall be submitted to me for review. This stipulation is pending the completion of the training. Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Staff/Child Ratio: Smaller group sizes and larger numbers of staff to children are related to positive outcomes for children and promote direct, warm, social interactions between caregivers and children. In space #2, thirteen children, 1-2 years of age, were in care with two staff members. You stated that a staff member checks the attendance of each classroom at 9AM and the staff members reported that the classroom was in ratio. We discussed that staff members need to communicate that assistance is needed before allowing parents to drop off a child that will leave the classroom over ratio. You are currently writing the number of children in attendance on the door as a visual but will need to double check that the number written is correct. Use the written plan in the administrative action to describe the process of maintaining staff child ratio according to the youngest child in attendance. You stated that you will discussing staff/child ratio during the weekly staff meeting. Ensure that all staff members have access to a walkie talkie so that they can request assistance when needed. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. In space #3, a container of Benadryl was on file without written permission. In space #6, a bottle of Children’s Allergy Relief had written permission that expired 11/26/25. In space #7b, a Ventolin inhaler was on file without written permission. We discussed that the classrooms that are using a medication chart that documents the expiration dates of the medication and forms on file, had current medication and forms. In space #5, a Ventolin inhaler was on file that expired 9/24. We discussed that a current inhaler was on file and that it is important to send medication home when new medication is received. In space #3, a medical action plan was dated 10/10/25. We discussed that medical action plans are valid for one year. Add medication charts to each classroom space and check medications and medication forms monthly to ensure that they are current. Feeding Schedules: Growth and development during infancy require that nourishing, wholesome, and developmentally appropriate food be provided, using safe approaches to feeding. All children under 15 months of age must have a signed feeding schedule/plan on file. The infant feeding plans should be developed with each infant’s parents/guardians and, when appropriate, in collaboration with the child’s primary care provider. Two infants did not have feeding plans on file. You stated that the infants started today and thought that you would be able to print them out with the children’s applications. We discussed that all children’s paperwork should be printed and complete before the child’s first day so that it is available to review for completeness during the parent orientation. The staff member in the classroom did have a conversation with the parent about the frequency of feedings, but we discussed the importance of having the documentation of the feeding schedule on file so that all staff members can review the feeding plan. You stated that this is the usual process of enrolling new children but there was a lapse during the transition of having a new administrator. Use the child's file checklist to ensure that all documents are on file when needed. Additional Comments: www.NCRLAP.org: provides many resources including videos and worksheets. Check out the Handwashing and Basic Health Considerations video. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0902 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/15/2025 Number Present: 52 Completed Date: 12/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 293 Time In: 10:07 AM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an administrative action follow-up visit, including the Corrective Action Plan included in the Written Warning issued by the DCDEE to this facility on December 5, 2025. T. Atilien, Administrator, and H. Steagall, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I reviewed the Administrative Action- Written Warning, Cover Letter, and Corrective Action Plan posted inside the entry door on a parent board directly in front, visible to staff and parents. I received a preservice form for the new administrator H. Steagall during the visit. Upon arrival, children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers and personal care routines. Infants were being cared for according to individual needs. Toddlers were creating snowmen and gingerbread men crafts. Preschoolers were creating a grinch craft that used the children’s name. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken nuggets, apples, mixed vegetables, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) Two (2) infants did not have feeding plans on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. In space #3, a container of Benadryl was on file without written permission. In space #7b, a Ventolin inhaler was on file without written permission. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. In space #5, a Ventolin inhaler was on file that expired 9/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, a bottle of Children’s Allergy Relief had written permission that expired 11/26/25. .0803(12) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space #2, thirteen children, 1-2 years of age, were in care with two staff members. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1835 The medical action plan was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. In space #3, a medical action plan was dated 10/10/25. .0801(b) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 12/29/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Administrative Action: During today's visit, I monitored progress towards completion of the stipulations outlined in the Corrective Action Plan and items in .2201(j) monitored. Stipulation #1: Maintaining compliance with NC Child Care Requirements. Six violations were documented today. Stipulation #2: Within one (1) week after this notice is received, the administrators, shall contact the Child Care Health Consultant of Craven and Pamlico Counties, to schedule a training titled “Stay Healthy, Stay Clean” that will address handwashing, diapering, toileting, and sanitation in child care. Today, you contacted the Child Care Health Consultant to schedule the training and reported that it will be held in January. Send me the specific date when you confirm the training date. Stipulation #3: Within two (2) weeks after the training in Item #2, the administrator shall develop a written plan for routine observations and evaluations of each staff member to ensure compliance with staff/child ratios and sanitation requirements. This stipulation is pending the completion of the training. Stipulation #4: The written plan shall be submitted to me for review. This stipulation is pending the completion of the training. Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Staff/Child Ratio: Smaller group sizes and larger numbers of staff to children are related to positive outcomes for children and promote direct, warm, social interactions between caregivers and children. In space #2, thirteen children, 1-2 years of age, were in care with two staff members. You stated that a staff member checks the attendance of each classroom at 9AM and the staff members reported that the classroom was in ratio. We discussed that staff members need to communicate that assistance is needed before allowing parents to drop off a child that will leave the classroom over ratio. You are currently writing the number of children in attendance on the door as a visual but will need to double check that the number written is correct. Use the written plan in the administrative action to describe the process of maintaining staff child ratio according to the youngest child in attendance. You stated that you will discussing staff/child ratio during the weekly staff meeting. Ensure that all staff members have access to a walkie talkie so that they can request assistance when needed. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. In space #3, a container of Benadryl was on file without written permission. In space #6, a bottle of Children’s Allergy Relief had written permission that expired 11/26/25. In space #7b, a Ventolin inhaler was on file without written permission. We discussed that the classrooms that are using a medication chart that documents the expiration dates of the medication and forms on file, had current medication and forms. In space #5, a Ventolin inhaler was on file that expired 9/24. We discussed that a current inhaler was on file and that it is important to send medication home when new medication is received. In space #3, a medical action plan was dated 10/10/25. We discussed that medical action plans are valid for one year. Add medication charts to each classroom space and check medications and medication forms monthly to ensure that they are current. Feeding Schedules: Growth and development during infancy require that nourishing, wholesome, and developmentally appropriate food be provided, using safe approaches to feeding. All children under 15 months of age must have a signed feeding schedule/plan on file. The infant feeding plans should be developed with each infant’s parents/guardians and, when appropriate, in collaboration with the child’s primary care provider. Two infants did not have feeding plans on file. You stated that the infants started today and thought that you would be able to print them out with the children’s applications. We discussed that all children’s paperwork should be printed and complete before the child’s first day so that it is available to review for completeness during the parent orientation. The staff member in the classroom did have a conversation with the parent about the frequency of feedings, but we discussed the importance of having the documentation of the feeding schedule on file so that all staff members can review the feeding plan. You stated that this is the usual process of enrolling new children but there was a lapse during the transition of having a new administrator. Use the child's file checklist to ensure that all documents are on file when needed. Additional Comments: www.NCRLAP.org: provides many resources including videos and worksheets. Check out the Handwashing and Basic Health Considerations video. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/15/2025 Number Present: 52 Completed Date: 12/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 293 Time In: 10:07 AM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an administrative action follow-up visit, including the Corrective Action Plan included in the Written Warning issued by the DCDEE to this facility on December 5, 2025. T. Atilien, Administrator, and H. Steagall, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I reviewed the Administrative Action- Written Warning, Cover Letter, and Corrective Action Plan posted inside the entry door on a parent board directly in front, visible to staff and parents. I received a preservice form for the new administrator H. Steagall during the visit. Upon arrival, children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers and personal care routines. Infants were being cared for according to individual needs. Toddlers were creating snowmen and gingerbread men crafts. Preschoolers were creating a grinch craft that used the children’s name. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken nuggets, apples, mixed vegetables, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) Two (2) infants did not have feeding plans on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. In space #3, a container of Benadryl was on file without written permission. In space #7b, a Ventolin inhaler was on file without written permission. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. In space #5, a Ventolin inhaler was on file that expired 9/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, a bottle of Children’s Allergy Relief had written permission that expired 11/26/25. .0803(12) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space #2, thirteen children, 1-2 years of age, were in care with two staff members. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1835 The medical action plan was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. In space #3, a medical action plan was dated 10/10/25. .0801(b) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 12/29/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Administrative Action: During today's visit, I monitored progress towards completion of the stipulations outlined in the Corrective Action Plan and items in .2201(j) monitored. Stipulation #1: Maintaining compliance with NC Child Care Requirements. Six violations were documented today. Stipulation #2: Within one (1) week after this notice is received, the administrators, shall contact the Child Care Health Consultant of Craven and Pamlico Counties, to schedule a training titled “Stay Healthy, Stay Clean” that will address handwashing, diapering, toileting, and sanitation in child care. Today, you contacted the Child Care Health Consultant to schedule the training and reported that it will be held in January. Send me the specific date when you confirm the training date. Stipulation #3: Within two (2) weeks after the training in Item #2, the administrator shall develop a written plan for routine observations and evaluations of each staff member to ensure compliance with staff/child ratios and sanitation requirements. This stipulation is pending the completion of the training. Stipulation #4: The written plan shall be submitted to me for review. This stipulation is pending the completion of the training. Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Staff/Child Ratio: Smaller group sizes and larger numbers of staff to children are related to positive outcomes for children and promote direct, warm, social interactions between caregivers and children. In space #2, thirteen children, 1-2 years of age, were in care with two staff members. You stated that a staff member checks the attendance of each classroom at 9AM and the staff members reported that the classroom was in ratio. We discussed that staff members need to communicate that assistance is needed before allowing parents to drop off a child that will leave the classroom over ratio. You are currently writing the number of children in attendance on the door as a visual but will need to double check that the number written is correct. Use the written plan in the administrative action to describe the process of maintaining staff child ratio according to the youngest child in attendance. You stated that you will discussing staff/child ratio during the weekly staff meeting. Ensure that all staff members have access to a walkie talkie so that they can request assistance when needed. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. In space #3, a container of Benadryl was on file without written permission. In space #6, a bottle of Children’s Allergy Relief had written permission that expired 11/26/25. In space #7b, a Ventolin inhaler was on file without written permission. We discussed that the classrooms that are using a medication chart that documents the expiration dates of the medication and forms on file, had current medication and forms. In space #5, a Ventolin inhaler was on file that expired 9/24. We discussed that a current inhaler was on file and that it is important to send medication home when new medication is received. In space #3, a medical action plan was dated 10/10/25. We discussed that medical action plans are valid for one year. Add medication charts to each classroom space and check medications and medication forms monthly to ensure that they are current. Feeding Schedules: Growth and development during infancy require that nourishing, wholesome, and developmentally appropriate food be provided, using safe approaches to feeding. All children under 15 months of age must have a signed feeding schedule/plan on file. The infant feeding plans should be developed with each infant’s parents/guardians and, when appropriate, in collaboration with the child’s primary care provider. Two infants did not have feeding plans on file. You stated that the infants started today and thought that you would be able to print them out with the children’s applications. We discussed that all children’s paperwork should be printed and complete before the child’s first day so that it is available to review for completeness during the parent orientation. The staff member in the classroom did have a conversation with the parent about the frequency of feedings, but we discussed the importance of having the documentation of the feeding schedule on file so that all staff members can review the feeding plan. You stated that this is the usual process of enrolling new children but there was a lapse during the transition of having a new administrator. Use the child's file checklist to ensure that all documents are on file when needed. Additional Comments: www.NCRLAP.org: provides many resources including videos and worksheets. Check out the Handwashing and Basic Health Considerations video. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .2818 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/15/2025 Number Present: 52 Completed Date: 12/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 293 Time In: 10:07 AM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an administrative action follow-up visit, including the Corrective Action Plan included in the Written Warning issued by the DCDEE to this facility on December 5, 2025. T. Atilien, Administrator, and H. Steagall, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I reviewed the Administrative Action- Written Warning, Cover Letter, and Corrective Action Plan posted inside the entry door on a parent board directly in front, visible to staff and parents. I received a preservice form for the new administrator H. Steagall during the visit. Upon arrival, children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers and personal care routines. Infants were being cared for according to individual needs. Toddlers were creating snowmen and gingerbread men crafts. Preschoolers were creating a grinch craft that used the children’s name. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken nuggets, apples, mixed vegetables, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) Two (2) infants did not have feeding plans on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. In space #3, a container of Benadryl was on file without written permission. In space #7b, a Ventolin inhaler was on file without written permission. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. In space #5, a Ventolin inhaler was on file that expired 9/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, a bottle of Children’s Allergy Relief had written permission that expired 11/26/25. .0803(12) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space #2, thirteen children, 1-2 years of age, were in care with two staff members. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1835 The medical action plan was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. In space #3, a medical action plan was dated 10/10/25. .0801(b) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 12/29/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Administrative Action: During today's visit, I monitored progress towards completion of the stipulations outlined in the Corrective Action Plan and items in .2201(j) monitored. Stipulation #1: Maintaining compliance with NC Child Care Requirements. Six violations were documented today. Stipulation #2: Within one (1) week after this notice is received, the administrators, shall contact the Child Care Health Consultant of Craven and Pamlico Counties, to schedule a training titled “Stay Healthy, Stay Clean” that will address handwashing, diapering, toileting, and sanitation in child care. Today, you contacted the Child Care Health Consultant to schedule the training and reported that it will be held in January. Send me the specific date when you confirm the training date. Stipulation #3: Within two (2) weeks after the training in Item #2, the administrator shall develop a written plan for routine observations and evaluations of each staff member to ensure compliance with staff/child ratios and sanitation requirements. This stipulation is pending the completion of the training. Stipulation #4: The written plan shall be submitted to me for review. This stipulation is pending the completion of the training. Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Staff/Child Ratio: Smaller group sizes and larger numbers of staff to children are related to positive outcomes for children and promote direct, warm, social interactions between caregivers and children. In space #2, thirteen children, 1-2 years of age, were in care with two staff members. You stated that a staff member checks the attendance of each classroom at 9AM and the staff members reported that the classroom was in ratio. We discussed that staff members need to communicate that assistance is needed before allowing parents to drop off a child that will leave the classroom over ratio. You are currently writing the number of children in attendance on the door as a visual but will need to double check that the number written is correct. Use the written plan in the administrative action to describe the process of maintaining staff child ratio according to the youngest child in attendance. You stated that you will discussing staff/child ratio during the weekly staff meeting. Ensure that all staff members have access to a walkie talkie so that they can request assistance when needed. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. In space #3, a container of Benadryl was on file without written permission. In space #6, a bottle of Children’s Allergy Relief had written permission that expired 11/26/25. In space #7b, a Ventolin inhaler was on file without written permission. We discussed that the classrooms that are using a medication chart that documents the expiration dates of the medication and forms on file, had current medication and forms. In space #5, a Ventolin inhaler was on file that expired 9/24. We discussed that a current inhaler was on file and that it is important to send medication home when new medication is received. In space #3, a medical action plan was dated 10/10/25. We discussed that medical action plans are valid for one year. Add medication charts to each classroom space and check medications and medication forms monthly to ensure that they are current. Feeding Schedules: Growth and development during infancy require that nourishing, wholesome, and developmentally appropriate food be provided, using safe approaches to feeding. All children under 15 months of age must have a signed feeding schedule/plan on file. The infant feeding plans should be developed with each infant’s parents/guardians and, when appropriate, in collaboration with the child’s primary care provider. Two infants did not have feeding plans on file. You stated that the infants started today and thought that you would be able to print them out with the children’s applications. We discussed that all children’s paperwork should be printed and complete before the child’s first day so that it is available to review for completeness during the parent orientation. The staff member in the classroom did have a conversation with the parent about the frequency of feedings, but we discussed the importance of having the documentation of the feeding schedule on file so that all staff members can review the feeding plan. You stated that this is the usual process of enrolling new children but there was a lapse during the transition of having a new administrator. Use the child's file checklist to ensure that all documents are on file when needed. Additional Comments: www.NCRLAP.org: provides many resources including videos and worksheets. Check out the Handwashing and Basic Health Considerations video. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/15/2025 Number Present: 52 Completed Date: 12/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 293 Time In: 10:07 AM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an administrative action follow-up visit, including the Corrective Action Plan included in the Written Warning issued by the DCDEE to this facility on December 5, 2025. T. Atilien, Administrator, and H. Steagall, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. I reviewed the Administrative Action- Written Warning, Cover Letter, and Corrective Action Plan posted inside the entry door on a parent board directly in front, visible to staff and parents. I received a preservice form for the new administrator H. Steagall during the visit. Upon arrival, children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers and personal care routines. Infants were being cared for according to individual needs. Toddlers were creating snowmen and gingerbread men crafts. Preschoolers were creating a grinch craft that used the children’s name. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken nuggets, apples, mixed vegetables, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) Two (2) infants did not have feeding plans on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. In space #3, a container of Benadryl was on file without written permission. In space #7b, a Ventolin inhaler was on file without written permission. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. In space #5, a Ventolin inhaler was on file that expired 9/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, a bottle of Children’s Allergy Relief had written permission that expired 11/26/25. .0803(12) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space #2, thirteen children, 1-2 years of age, were in care with two staff members. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1835 The medical action plan was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. In space #3, a medical action plan was dated 10/10/25. .0801(b) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 12/29/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Administrative Action: During today's visit, I monitored progress towards completion of the stipulations outlined in the Corrective Action Plan and items in .2201(j) monitored. Stipulation #1: Maintaining compliance with NC Child Care Requirements. Six violations were documented today. Stipulation #2: Within one (1) week after this notice is received, the administrators, shall contact the Child Care Health Consultant of Craven and Pamlico Counties, to schedule a training titled “Stay Healthy, Stay Clean” that will address handwashing, diapering, toileting, and sanitation in child care. Today, you contacted the Child Care Health Consultant to schedule the training and reported that it will be held in January. Send me the specific date when you confirm the training date. Stipulation #3: Within two (2) weeks after the training in Item #2, the administrator shall develop a written plan for routine observations and evaluations of each staff member to ensure compliance with staff/child ratios and sanitation requirements. This stipulation is pending the completion of the training. Stipulation #4: The written plan shall be submitted to me for review. This stipulation is pending the completion of the training. Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Staff/Child Ratio: Smaller group sizes and larger numbers of staff to children are related to positive outcomes for children and promote direct, warm, social interactions between caregivers and children. In space #2, thirteen children, 1-2 years of age, were in care with two staff members. You stated that a staff member checks the attendance of each classroom at 9AM and the staff members reported that the classroom was in ratio. We discussed that staff members need to communicate that assistance is needed before allowing parents to drop off a child that will leave the classroom over ratio. You are currently writing the number of children in attendance on the door as a visual but will need to double check that the number written is correct. Use the written plan in the administrative action to describe the process of maintaining staff child ratio according to the youngest child in attendance. You stated that you will discussing staff/child ratio during the weekly staff meeting. Ensure that all staff members have access to a walkie talkie so that they can request assistance when needed. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. In space #3, a container of Benadryl was on file without written permission. In space #6, a bottle of Children’s Allergy Relief had written permission that expired 11/26/25. In space #7b, a Ventolin inhaler was on file without written permission. We discussed that the classrooms that are using a medication chart that documents the expiration dates of the medication and forms on file, had current medication and forms. In space #5, a Ventolin inhaler was on file that expired 9/24. We discussed that a current inhaler was on file and that it is important to send medication home when new medication is received. In space #3, a medical action plan was dated 10/10/25. We discussed that medical action plans are valid for one year. Add medication charts to each classroom space and check medications and medication forms monthly to ensure that they are current. Feeding Schedules: Growth and development during infancy require that nourishing, wholesome, and developmentally appropriate food be provided, using safe approaches to feeding. All children under 15 months of age must have a signed feeding schedule/plan on file. The infant feeding plans should be developed with each infant’s parents/guardians and, when appropriate, in collaboration with the child’s primary care provider. Two infants did not have feeding plans on file. You stated that the infants started today and thought that you would be able to print them out with the children’s applications. We discussed that all children’s paperwork should be printed and complete before the child’s first day so that it is available to review for completeness during the parent orientation. The staff member in the classroom did have a conversation with the parent about the frequency of feedings, but we discussed the importance of having the documentation of the feeding schedule on file so that all staff members can review the feeding plan. You stated that this is the usual process of enrolling new children but there was a lapse during the transition of having a new administrator. Use the child's file checklist to ensure that all documents are on file when needed. Additional Comments: www.NCRLAP.org: provides many resources including videos and worksheets. Check out the Handwashing and Basic Health Considerations video. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .2818 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1025-182L Visit Date: 11/5/2025 Number Present: 49 Completed Date: 11/5/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 155 Time In: 08:00 AM Time Out: 10:35 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to verify correction of violations documented during my October 27, 2025, Complaint visit. S. Brown, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. Upon arrival, children arrived to the center and were engaged in free play in activity centers before breakfast. Breakfast was observed and consisted of pancakes, pears, and milk. After breakfast, toddlers completed personal care routines before transitioning to the outdoor space. The following violations documented during the 10/27/25 visit were monitored for compliance during this visit and verified as corrected: 1756- Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. This is a violation of a requirement in 10A NCAC 09 .2818. Today, all classroom spaces were monitored and ratios were in compliance. It was reported that staff schedules have been adjusted so that staff members are coming in 15-20 minutes earlier to ensure that ratios are met. 608- Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, before and after water activity play, after outside play, and after handling animals or animal cages. This is a violation of a requirement in 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c). Today, appropriate handwashing was observed when children arrived to the center and before eating breakfast. 9995- A violation was found for which there is no item number. This is a violation of a requirement in 15A NCAC 18A .2831(b). Today, I did not observe evidence of pests. I observed an invoice from East Line Pest Management from October 2, 2025 stating that the indoor and outdoors areas were treated. It was also reported to me that Five Star Maid cleans the classrooms and bathrooms on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday and the kitchen on Saturday. 9996- A violation was found for which there is no item number. This is a violation of a requirement in 15A NCAC 18A .2818(c). Today, I observed multi use sinks being cleaned and disinfected with each change of use. The following violations were not corrected and documented as repeated violations from the 10/27/25 visit: 533- Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. This is a violation of a requirement in 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d). Today, in space #6, water bottles brought in from home were not sent home yesterday and were not labeled with a date. 616- Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. This is a violation of a requirement in .2822(a)(1-4). Today, in space #3, the table was not disinfected before breakfast. As stated in the 10/27/25 visit summary, all violations must be corrected immediately and a compliance letter verifying this must be received by the established due date 11/10/25. At the time of today’s visit, a compliance letter had not been received. Today, I verified the correction of four of the six violations. Please be reminded that an administrative action could be recommended for your facility. You will be notified of any action taken. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. Today, in space #6, water bottles brought in from home were not sent home yesterday and were not labeled with a date. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. Today, in space #3, the table was not disinfected before breakfast. .2822(a)(1-4) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 11/19/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Sanitation: Multi-service articles, including highchair feeding trays, shall be washed, rinsed and sanitized after each use according to sanitation rules and regulations. This includes tables and other surfaces used when serving meals. In space #6, tables were not disinfected before breakfast. We discussed that if children sit at the table before they wash their hands, the tables will need to be cleaned and sanitized again before the children eat at the table. We also discussed that it may be helpful if the cook alerts the classroom when a meal is about to be brought so that one staff member can assist with handwashing while the other staff member cleans the tables and engages the children so that the table will be ready for the children to sit at immediately after washing their hands. In space #6, water bottles brought from home were not sent yesterday and remained in the children’s cubbies without being labeled with a date. You stated that the center has cups and pitchers of water available for the children to have access to water throughout the day and have sent home water bottles in the other classrooms. Ensure that classrooms are being checked every morning and if water bottles are being brought in, they are labeled and dated with the child’s name and date. Make classroom observations to ensure that handwashing and table cleaning procedures are completed correctly and model proper procedures. Additional Comments: North Carolina Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center: https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/ The NC Resource Center’s mission is to promote healthy and safe indoor and outdoor environments in early care and education settings through child care health consultation. This website contains many helpful resources including the Communicable Diseases and Exclusion Chart. Children's Environmental Health: https://ehs.dph.ncdhhs.gov/hhccehb/cehu/ccs/children.htm This website has the newest sanitation rules, presentations, and frequently asked questions and answers. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this Visit Summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1025-182L Visit Date: 11/5/2025 Number Present: 49 Completed Date: 11/5/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 155 Time In: 08:00 AM Time Out: 10:35 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to verify correction of violations documented during my October 27, 2025, Complaint visit. S. Brown, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. Upon arrival, children arrived to the center and were engaged in free play in activity centers before breakfast. Breakfast was observed and consisted of pancakes, pears, and milk. After breakfast, toddlers completed personal care routines before transitioning to the outdoor space. The following violations documented during the 10/27/25 visit were monitored for compliance during this visit and verified as corrected: 1756- Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. This is a violation of a requirement in 10A NCAC 09 .2818. Today, all classroom spaces were monitored and ratios were in compliance. It was reported that staff schedules have been adjusted so that staff members are coming in 15-20 minutes earlier to ensure that ratios are met. 608- Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, before and after water activity play, after outside play, and after handling animals or animal cages. This is a violation of a requirement in 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c). Today, appropriate handwashing was observed when children arrived to the center and before eating breakfast. 9995- A violation was found for which there is no item number. This is a violation of a requirement in 15A NCAC 18A .2831(b). Today, I did not observe evidence of pests. I observed an invoice from East Line Pest Management from October 2, 2025 stating that the indoor and outdoors areas were treated. It was also reported to me that Five Star Maid cleans the classrooms and bathrooms on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday and the kitchen on Saturday. 9996- A violation was found for which there is no item number. This is a violation of a requirement in 15A NCAC 18A .2818(c). Today, I observed multi use sinks being cleaned and disinfected with each change of use. The following violations were not corrected and documented as repeated violations from the 10/27/25 visit: 533- Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. This is a violation of a requirement in 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d). Today, in space #6, water bottles brought in from home were not sent home yesterday and were not labeled with a date. 616- Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. This is a violation of a requirement in .2822(a)(1-4). Today, in space #3, the table was not disinfected before breakfast. As stated in the 10/27/25 visit summary, all violations must be corrected immediately and a compliance letter verifying this must be received by the established due date 11/10/25. At the time of today’s visit, a compliance letter had not been received. Today, I verified the correction of four of the six violations. Please be reminded that an administrative action could be recommended for your facility. You will be notified of any action taken. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. Today, in space #6, water bottles brought in from home were not sent home yesterday and were not labeled with a date. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. Today, in space #3, the table was not disinfected before breakfast. .2822(a)(1-4) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 11/19/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Sanitation: Multi-service articles, including highchair feeding trays, shall be washed, rinsed and sanitized after each use according to sanitation rules and regulations. This includes tables and other surfaces used when serving meals. In space #6, tables were not disinfected before breakfast. We discussed that if children sit at the table before they wash their hands, the tables will need to be cleaned and sanitized again before the children eat at the table. We also discussed that it may be helpful if the cook alerts the classroom when a meal is about to be brought so that one staff member can assist with handwashing while the other staff member cleans the tables and engages the children so that the table will be ready for the children to sit at immediately after washing their hands. In space #6, water bottles brought from home were not sent yesterday and remained in the children’s cubbies without being labeled with a date. You stated that the center has cups and pitchers of water available for the children to have access to water throughout the day and have sent home water bottles in the other classrooms. Ensure that classrooms are being checked every morning and if water bottles are being brought in, they are labeled and dated with the child’s name and date. Make classroom observations to ensure that handwashing and table cleaning procedures are completed correctly and model proper procedures. Additional Comments: North Carolina Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center: https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/ The NC Resource Center’s mission is to promote healthy and safe indoor and outdoor environments in early care and education settings through child care health consultation. This website contains many helpful resources including the Communicable Diseases and Exclusion Chart. Children's Environmental Health: https://ehs.dph.ncdhhs.gov/hhccehb/cehu/ccs/children.htm This website has the newest sanitation rules, presentations, and frequently asked questions and answers. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this Visit Summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .2818 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1025-182L Visit Date: 10/27/2025 Number Present: 37 Completed Date: 10/27/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 115 Time In: 08:05 AM Time Out: 10:00 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: There is a concern that staff/child ratios were not being followed. There is a concern that sanitation requirements were not in compliance. S. Brown, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. Upon arrival, children arrived to the center and were engaged in free play in activity centers before breakfast. Breakfast was observed and consisted of kix cereal, bananas, and milk. Regarding the allegation that staff/child ratios were not being followed, I interviewed staff regarding their schedules and monitored each classroom space. Between 8:15AM and 8:30AM, there were twenty-three (23) children, 3-4 years of age, in care with two staff members in space #6. Based on observations, the allegation was confirmed. Regarding the allegation that sanitation requirements were not in compliance, I made classroom observations, reviewed the previous sanitation inspection report, and interviewed administration and staff members. Based on information provided from the sanitation inspection from September 30, 2025, live roaches were observed in the outlet in space #6. It was reported to me that bugs have been observed in the center. I monitored handwashing and sanitation procedures and found that there were lapses in handwashing and sanitation procedures. Based on the above information and collateral reports, the allegation is confirmed. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. In space #3, nine (9) water bottles were stored in a container on a shelf and were not labeled with the date. One of the water bottles was not labeled with a child’s name. In space #7b, six (6) water bottles were in a container on a shelf from last week. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 608 Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, before and after water activity play, after outside play, and after handling animals or animal cages. . In space #6, children did not wash their hands upon arriving to the center and entering the classroom. In space #5, all children did not wash their hands before breakfast. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. In space #5, the tables were not cleaned and sanitized before breakfast. .2822(a)(1-4) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Between 8:15AM and 8:30AM, there were twenty-three (23) children, 3-4 years of age, in care with two staff members in space #6. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Based on information provided from the sanitation inspection from September 30, 2025, live roaches were observed in the outlet in space #6. This is a violation of a requirement in 15A NCAC 18A .2831(b). 9996 A violation was found for which there is no item number. In space #2, the sink was not disinfected between uses. This is a violation of a requirement in 15A NCAC 18A .2818(c). Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 11/10/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Staff Child Ratio: A staff-to-child ratio is a measure of the number of children for whom each child care provider is responsible. Because younger children need more direct one-on-one interaction, response, and supervision, staff-to-child ratios are lower for younger children than for older ones. Ratio and group size are two factors that are critical to a child’s health, safety, and development. Ratios and group sizes help ensure that a child gets enough one-on-one attention from an adult who is available to take care of each child’s unique needs. This responsive caregiving is extremely important to a child ’s social and emotional development, physical well-being, and overall learning. Between 8:15AM and 8:30AM, there were twenty-three (23) children, 3-4 years of age, in care with two staff members in space #6. We discussed that classrooms are going over ratio between 8AM-8:30AM. You stated that you will have two staff members come in earlier so that ratio can be maintained. Review children’s times of arrival and departure so that staff schedules are created to ensure ratios are maintained at all times. Pest Prevention: Facilities should prevent pest infestations by ensuring sanitary conditions. This can be done by eliminating pest breeding areas, filling in cracks and crevices; holes in walls, floors, ceilings and water leads; repairing water damage; and removing clutter and rubbish on the premises. Roaches may cause health hazards like food poisoning and infections. Based on information provided from the sanitation inspection from September 30, 2025, live roaches were observed in the outlet in space #6. It was reported that bugs have been observed in the classrooms. You stated that pest control visits the center monthly and a cleaning company has begun cleaning classrooms three times a week. Check learning environments daily to ensure that bugs are not evident and contact the pest company immediately if evidence is found. Handwashing: According to Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Clean hands save lives. Handwashing is like a "doit-yourself" vaccine—it involves five simple and effective steps (Wet, Lather, Scrub, Rinse, Dry) you can take to reduce the spread of diarrheal and respiratory illness so you can stay healthy. Regular handwashing, particularly before and after certain activities, is one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick, and prevent the spread of germs to others. It's quick, it's simple, and it can keep us all from getting sick. Handwashing is a win for everyone, except the germs. In space #6, children did not wash their hands upon arriving to the center and entering the classroom. In space #5, all children did not wash their hands before breakfast. You stated that handwashing procedures are discussed constantly and will be sending out a memo reminding about handwashing procedures today. Ensure that all staff understand the importance of hand washing and when it is necessary to wash hands by making daily observations. Sanitation: Young children sneeze, cough, drool, use diapers and are just learning to use the toilet. They hug, kiss, and touch everything and put objects in their mouths. Illnesses may be spread in a variety of ways, such as by coughing, sneezing, direct skin-to-skin contact, or touching a contaminated object or surface. Tables must be cleaned and sanitized before children sit down to eat. In space #5, the tables were not cleaned and sanitized before breakfast. Multi-use sinks shall be cleaned and disinfected with each change of use. In space #2, the sink was not disinfected between uses. We discussed that since there is only one sink in the classroom, it must be disinfected between using it for diapering and general handwashing. Water bottles that are brought to the child care center from home, the water bottles shall be labeled with the name of the child to whom the water bottle belongs, individually stored in the child's cubby, and sent home with the child at the end of the day. In space #3, nine (9) water bottles were stored in a container on a shelf and were not labeled with the date. One of the water bottles was not labeled with a child’s name. In space #7b, six (6) water bottles were in a container on a shelf from last week. We discussed that the water bottles must also be labeled with the date to ensure that they are from the current day and stored in the child’s cubbies. You stated that the center may consider providing water and cups. Provide classrooms with masking tape to label water bottles when they are brought in. Make daily observations of staff members. During your observations of staff, give feedback to teachers on how they complete sanitation procedures and model when needed. Discuss sanitation guidelines at the next staff meeting. A violation was documented for failure to maintain compliance with staff child ratio requirements. Violations of this nature directly impact the safety of the children while in your care. In addition, these types of violations have the greatest negative impact on your compliance history. During the visit, we discussed that confirmed allegations may lead to an administrative action against your license. A follow-up visit may be conducted in the near future to monitor compliance with child care requirements. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1025-182L Visit Date: 10/27/2025 Number Present: 37 Completed Date: 10/27/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 115 Time In: 08:05 AM Time Out: 10:00 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: There is a concern that staff/child ratios were not being followed. There is a concern that sanitation requirements were not in compliance. S. Brown, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. Upon arrival, children arrived to the center and were engaged in free play in activity centers before breakfast. Breakfast was observed and consisted of kix cereal, bananas, and milk. Regarding the allegation that staff/child ratios were not being followed, I interviewed staff regarding their schedules and monitored each classroom space. Between 8:15AM and 8:30AM, there were twenty-three (23) children, 3-4 years of age, in care with two staff members in space #6. Based on observations, the allegation was confirmed. Regarding the allegation that sanitation requirements were not in compliance, I made classroom observations, reviewed the previous sanitation inspection report, and interviewed administration and staff members. Based on information provided from the sanitation inspection from September 30, 2025, live roaches were observed in the outlet in space #6. It was reported to me that bugs have been observed in the center. I monitored handwashing and sanitation procedures and found that there were lapses in handwashing and sanitation procedures. Based on the above information and collateral reports, the allegation is confirmed. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. In space #3, nine (9) water bottles were stored in a container on a shelf and were not labeled with the date. One of the water bottles was not labeled with a child’s name. In space #7b, six (6) water bottles were in a container on a shelf from last week. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 608 Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, before and after water activity play, after outside play, and after handling animals or animal cages. . In space #6, children did not wash their hands upon arriving to the center and entering the classroom. In space #5, all children did not wash their hands before breakfast. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. In space #5, the tables were not cleaned and sanitized before breakfast. .2822(a)(1-4) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Between 8:15AM and 8:30AM, there were twenty-three (23) children, 3-4 years of age, in care with two staff members in space #6. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Based on information provided from the sanitation inspection from September 30, 2025, live roaches were observed in the outlet in space #6. This is a violation of a requirement in 15A NCAC 18A .2831(b). 9996 A violation was found for which there is no item number. In space #2, the sink was not disinfected between uses. This is a violation of a requirement in 15A NCAC 18A .2818(c). Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 11/10/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Staff Child Ratio: A staff-to-child ratio is a measure of the number of children for whom each child care provider is responsible. Because younger children need more direct one-on-one interaction, response, and supervision, staff-to-child ratios are lower for younger children than for older ones. Ratio and group size are two factors that are critical to a child’s health, safety, and development. Ratios and group sizes help ensure that a child gets enough one-on-one attention from an adult who is available to take care of each child’s unique needs. This responsive caregiving is extremely important to a child ’s social and emotional development, physical well-being, and overall learning. Between 8:15AM and 8:30AM, there were twenty-three (23) children, 3-4 years of age, in care with two staff members in space #6. We discussed that classrooms are going over ratio between 8AM-8:30AM. You stated that you will have two staff members come in earlier so that ratio can be maintained. Review children’s times of arrival and departure so that staff schedules are created to ensure ratios are maintained at all times. Pest Prevention: Facilities should prevent pest infestations by ensuring sanitary conditions. This can be done by eliminating pest breeding areas, filling in cracks and crevices; holes in walls, floors, ceilings and water leads; repairing water damage; and removing clutter and rubbish on the premises. Roaches may cause health hazards like food poisoning and infections. Based on information provided from the sanitation inspection from September 30, 2025, live roaches were observed in the outlet in space #6. It was reported that bugs have been observed in the classrooms. You stated that pest control visits the center monthly and a cleaning company has begun cleaning classrooms three times a week. Check learning environments daily to ensure that bugs are not evident and contact the pest company immediately if evidence is found. Handwashing: According to Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Clean hands save lives. Handwashing is like a "doit-yourself" vaccine—it involves five simple and effective steps (Wet, Lather, Scrub, Rinse, Dry) you can take to reduce the spread of diarrheal and respiratory illness so you can stay healthy. Regular handwashing, particularly before and after certain activities, is one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick, and prevent the spread of germs to others. It's quick, it's simple, and it can keep us all from getting sick. Handwashing is a win for everyone, except the germs. In space #6, children did not wash their hands upon arriving to the center and entering the classroom. In space #5, all children did not wash their hands before breakfast. You stated that handwashing procedures are discussed constantly and will be sending out a memo reminding about handwashing procedures today. Ensure that all staff understand the importance of hand washing and when it is necessary to wash hands by making daily observations. Sanitation: Young children sneeze, cough, drool, use diapers and are just learning to use the toilet. They hug, kiss, and touch everything and put objects in their mouths. Illnesses may be spread in a variety of ways, such as by coughing, sneezing, direct skin-to-skin contact, or touching a contaminated object or surface. Tables must be cleaned and sanitized before children sit down to eat. In space #5, the tables were not cleaned and sanitized before breakfast. Multi-use sinks shall be cleaned and disinfected with each change of use. In space #2, the sink was not disinfected between uses. We discussed that since there is only one sink in the classroom, it must be disinfected between using it for diapering and general handwashing. Water bottles that are brought to the child care center from home, the water bottles shall be labeled with the name of the child to whom the water bottle belongs, individually stored in the child's cubby, and sent home with the child at the end of the day. In space #3, nine (9) water bottles were stored in a container on a shelf and were not labeled with the date. One of the water bottles was not labeled with a child’s name. In space #7b, six (6) water bottles were in a container on a shelf from last week. We discussed that the water bottles must also be labeled with the date to ensure that they are from the current day and stored in the child’s cubbies. You stated that the center may consider providing water and cups. Provide classrooms with masking tape to label water bottles when they are brought in. Make daily observations of staff members. During your observations of staff, give feedback to teachers on how they complete sanitation procedures and model when needed. Discuss sanitation guidelines at the next staff meeting. A violation was documented for failure to maintain compliance with staff child ratio requirements. Violations of this nature directly impact the safety of the children while in your care. In addition, these types of violations have the greatest negative impact on your compliance history. During the visit, we discussed that confirmed allegations may lead to an administrative action against your license. A follow-up visit may be conducted in the near future to monitor compliance with child care requirements. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/18/2025 Number Present: 74 Completed Date: 6/18/2025 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 415 Time In: 08:35 AM Time Out: 03:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. T. Atilien, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 3/18/22, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for having a staff benefits package and infrastructure of parental involvement. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 7/11/24. The sanitation inspection was completed 5/8/25 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on 2/10/25. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-two percent as of 6/10/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 6/10/25 and Sunshine Scholars Academy, LLC was listed as current- active. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers, routines, and transitions. Upon arrival, children were completing personal care routines before sitting at the table for a breakfast that consisted of pancakes, peaches, and milk. Children under twelve months old received care according to individual needs including tummy time and bottle feeding. Toddlers, preschoolers, and school age children engaged in water play activities outside with sprinklers. The outdoor space was observed to have a basketball goal, monkey bars, stationary vehicles, tunnels, and riding toys for the children to engage in gross motor activities. Lunch was observed and consisted of turkey and cheese sandwiches, green beans, pineapples, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. In space #4, a tube of Aquaphor expired 8/24 and an Albuterol inhaler expired 9/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In space #2, a tube of Nystatin was on file with written permission on the over-the-counter form for topical ointments. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #2, a tube of Desitin and a tube of A&D were on file for children that were no longer enrolled in the facility. .0803(12) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). The administrator had a five-year criminal qualifying letter that expired on June 8, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. The administrator had a five-year criminal qualifying letter on file that expired on June 8, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1880 Prescribed medication was not administered according to the prescription, using the amount and frequency of dosage specified on the label. In space #2, a prescription bottle of Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream had a prescription stating that it should be used for two (2) weeks and the medication permission started on 9/30/24. .0803(2)(d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 7/2/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Criminal Background Check: Intentional planning for completing criminal background checks before they expire five years from the date on the letter will eliminate a lapse in criminal background checks. Paper work can be sent in up to six months before the expiration date in order to obtain a new letter. The administrator, T. Atilien, had a five-year criminal qualifying letter that expired on June 8, 2025. Submission of the required forms to complete a criminal background check has not occurred to date. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by July 2, 2025, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, the employee cannot be at the facility any longer until they receive their qualification letter. You completed the application today and you stated that you will go get your fingerprints completed. A tracking system should be put into place to help you remind staff to submit paperwork before a qualification letter expires. We discussed adding dates in a digital calendar to send reminders before certificates expire. Repeated violations regarding background checks could warrant an administrative action. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge, and careful attention to detail. All medications for children present at the center must have a current, completed medication permission form even if there is a Medical Action Plan. Medication permission forms are valid for a defined length of time and must be updated, if needed. In space #2, a tube of Nystatin was on file with written permission on the over-the-counter form for topical ointments. In space #2, a prescription bottle of Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream had a prescription stating that it should be used for two (2) weeks and the medication permission started on 9/30/24. We discussed that prescription creams must be stored in locked storage with written permission on the long Medication Administration Permission Form that is valid for the length of the prescription. In space #2, a tube of Desitin and a tube of A&D were on file for children that were no longer enrolled in the facility. In space #4, a tube of Aquaphor expired 8/24 and an Albuterol inhaler expired 9/24. We discussed having one person in charge of checking medication and their forms to ensure that that are current and completed correctly. I shared a medication flyer and sample completed medication forms with you during the visit. Ensure that medication is being sent home within 72 hours after completion of treatment or being discarded by checking the learning environments daily. Additional Comments: ABCMS Portal: You have completed the Provider Portal training and have completed a new application with your provider code to connect your application. Get fingerprints immediately to complete your application. Connect applications for all staff members. NCID: Did you know that if you do not login on any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you every 6 months to login and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. Natural Learning Initiative: https://naturalearning.org/resources/ Resources are created, often in collaboration with the Natural Learning Initiative’s interdisciplinary partners, to support technical assistance, professional development, and generally to promote the importance of the natural environment in the daily experience of all children. Please use and share. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/18/2025 Number Present: 74 Completed Date: 6/18/2025 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 415 Time In: 08:35 AM Time Out: 03:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. T. Atilien, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 3/18/22, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for having a staff benefits package and infrastructure of parental involvement. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 7/11/24. The sanitation inspection was completed 5/8/25 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on 2/10/25. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-two percent as of 6/10/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 6/10/25 and Sunshine Scholars Academy, LLC was listed as current- active. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers, routines, and transitions. Upon arrival, children were completing personal care routines before sitting at the table for a breakfast that consisted of pancakes, peaches, and milk. Children under twelve months old received care according to individual needs including tummy time and bottle feeding. Toddlers, preschoolers, and school age children engaged in water play activities outside with sprinklers. The outdoor space was observed to have a basketball goal, monkey bars, stationary vehicles, tunnels, and riding toys for the children to engage in gross motor activities. Lunch was observed and consisted of turkey and cheese sandwiches, green beans, pineapples, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. In space #4, a tube of Aquaphor expired 8/24 and an Albuterol inhaler expired 9/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In space #2, a tube of Nystatin was on file with written permission on the over-the-counter form for topical ointments. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #2, a tube of Desitin and a tube of A&D were on file for children that were no longer enrolled in the facility. .0803(12) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). The administrator had a five-year criminal qualifying letter that expired on June 8, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. The administrator had a five-year criminal qualifying letter on file that expired on June 8, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1880 Prescribed medication was not administered according to the prescription, using the amount and frequency of dosage specified on the label. In space #2, a prescription bottle of Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream had a prescription stating that it should be used for two (2) weeks and the medication permission started on 9/30/24. .0803(2)(d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 7/2/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Criminal Background Check: Intentional planning for completing criminal background checks before they expire five years from the date on the letter will eliminate a lapse in criminal background checks. Paper work can be sent in up to six months before the expiration date in order to obtain a new letter. The administrator, T. Atilien, had a five-year criminal qualifying letter that expired on June 8, 2025. Submission of the required forms to complete a criminal background check has not occurred to date. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by July 2, 2025, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, the employee cannot be at the facility any longer until they receive their qualification letter. You completed the application today and you stated that you will go get your fingerprints completed. A tracking system should be put into place to help you remind staff to submit paperwork before a qualification letter expires. We discussed adding dates in a digital calendar to send reminders before certificates expire. Repeated violations regarding background checks could warrant an administrative action. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge, and careful attention to detail. All medications for children present at the center must have a current, completed medication permission form even if there is a Medical Action Plan. Medication permission forms are valid for a defined length of time and must be updated, if needed. In space #2, a tube of Nystatin was on file with written permission on the over-the-counter form for topical ointments. In space #2, a prescription bottle of Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream had a prescription stating that it should be used for two (2) weeks and the medication permission started on 9/30/24. We discussed that prescription creams must be stored in locked storage with written permission on the long Medication Administration Permission Form that is valid for the length of the prescription. In space #2, a tube of Desitin and a tube of A&D were on file for children that were no longer enrolled in the facility. In space #4, a tube of Aquaphor expired 8/24 and an Albuterol inhaler expired 9/24. We discussed having one person in charge of checking medication and their forms to ensure that that are current and completed correctly. I shared a medication flyer and sample completed medication forms with you during the visit. Ensure that medication is being sent home within 72 hours after completion of treatment or being discarded by checking the learning environments daily. Additional Comments: ABCMS Portal: You have completed the Provider Portal training and have completed a new application with your provider code to connect your application. Get fingerprints immediately to complete your application. Connect applications for all staff members. NCID: Did you know that if you do not login on any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you every 6 months to login and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. Natural Learning Initiative: https://naturalearning.org/resources/ Resources are created, often in collaboration with the Natural Learning Initiative’s interdisciplinary partners, to support technical assistance, professional development, and generally to promote the importance of the natural environment in the daily experience of all children. Please use and share. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/18/2025 Number Present: 74 Completed Date: 6/18/2025 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 415 Time In: 08:35 AM Time Out: 03:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. T. Atilien, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 3/18/22, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for having a staff benefits package and infrastructure of parental involvement. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 7/11/24. The sanitation inspection was completed 5/8/25 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on 2/10/25. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-two percent as of 6/10/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 6/10/25 and Sunshine Scholars Academy, LLC was listed as current- active. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers, routines, and transitions. Upon arrival, children were completing personal care routines before sitting at the table for a breakfast that consisted of pancakes, peaches, and milk. Children under twelve months old received care according to individual needs including tummy time and bottle feeding. Toddlers, preschoolers, and school age children engaged in water play activities outside with sprinklers. The outdoor space was observed to have a basketball goal, monkey bars, stationary vehicles, tunnels, and riding toys for the children to engage in gross motor activities. Lunch was observed and consisted of turkey and cheese sandwiches, green beans, pineapples, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. In space #4, a tube of Aquaphor expired 8/24 and an Albuterol inhaler expired 9/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In space #2, a tube of Nystatin was on file with written permission on the over-the-counter form for topical ointments. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #2, a tube of Desitin and a tube of A&D were on file for children that were no longer enrolled in the facility. .0803(12) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). The administrator had a five-year criminal qualifying letter that expired on June 8, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. The administrator had a five-year criminal qualifying letter on file that expired on June 8, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1880 Prescribed medication was not administered according to the prescription, using the amount and frequency of dosage specified on the label. In space #2, a prescription bottle of Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream had a prescription stating that it should be used for two (2) weeks and the medication permission started on 9/30/24. .0803(2)(d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 7/2/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Criminal Background Check: Intentional planning for completing criminal background checks before they expire five years from the date on the letter will eliminate a lapse in criminal background checks. Paper work can be sent in up to six months before the expiration date in order to obtain a new letter. The administrator, T. Atilien, had a five-year criminal qualifying letter that expired on June 8, 2025. Submission of the required forms to complete a criminal background check has not occurred to date. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by July 2, 2025, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, the employee cannot be at the facility any longer until they receive their qualification letter. You completed the application today and you stated that you will go get your fingerprints completed. A tracking system should be put into place to help you remind staff to submit paperwork before a qualification letter expires. We discussed adding dates in a digital calendar to send reminders before certificates expire. Repeated violations regarding background checks could warrant an administrative action. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge, and careful attention to detail. All medications for children present at the center must have a current, completed medication permission form even if there is a Medical Action Plan. Medication permission forms are valid for a defined length of time and must be updated, if needed. In space #2, a tube of Nystatin was on file with written permission on the over-the-counter form for topical ointments. In space #2, a prescription bottle of Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream had a prescription stating that it should be used for two (2) weeks and the medication permission started on 9/30/24. We discussed that prescription creams must be stored in locked storage with written permission on the long Medication Administration Permission Form that is valid for the length of the prescription. In space #2, a tube of Desitin and a tube of A&D were on file for children that were no longer enrolled in the facility. In space #4, a tube of Aquaphor expired 8/24 and an Albuterol inhaler expired 9/24. We discussed having one person in charge of checking medication and their forms to ensure that that are current and completed correctly. I shared a medication flyer and sample completed medication forms with you during the visit. Ensure that medication is being sent home within 72 hours after completion of treatment or being discarded by checking the learning environments daily. Additional Comments: ABCMS Portal: You have completed the Provider Portal training and have completed a new application with your provider code to connect your application. Get fingerprints immediately to complete your application. Connect applications for all staff members. NCID: Did you know that if you do not login on any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you every 6 months to login and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. Natural Learning Initiative: https://naturalearning.org/resources/ Resources are created, often in collaboration with the Natural Learning Initiative’s interdisciplinary partners, to support technical assistance, professional development, and generally to promote the importance of the natural environment in the daily experience of all children. Please use and share. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/18/2025 Number Present: 74 Completed Date: 6/18/2025 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 415 Time In: 08:35 AM Time Out: 03:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. T. Atilien, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 3/18/22, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for having a staff benefits package and infrastructure of parental involvement. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 7/11/24. The sanitation inspection was completed 5/8/25 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on 2/10/25. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-two percent as of 6/10/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 6/10/25 and Sunshine Scholars Academy, LLC was listed as current- active. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers, routines, and transitions. Upon arrival, children were completing personal care routines before sitting at the table for a breakfast that consisted of pancakes, peaches, and milk. Children under twelve months old received care according to individual needs including tummy time and bottle feeding. Toddlers, preschoolers, and school age children engaged in water play activities outside with sprinklers. The outdoor space was observed to have a basketball goal, monkey bars, stationary vehicles, tunnels, and riding toys for the children to engage in gross motor activities. Lunch was observed and consisted of turkey and cheese sandwiches, green beans, pineapples, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. In space #4, a tube of Aquaphor expired 8/24 and an Albuterol inhaler expired 9/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In space #2, a tube of Nystatin was on file with written permission on the over-the-counter form for topical ointments. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #2, a tube of Desitin and a tube of A&D were on file for children that were no longer enrolled in the facility. .0803(12) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). The administrator had a five-year criminal qualifying letter that expired on June 8, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. The administrator had a five-year criminal qualifying letter on file that expired on June 8, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1880 Prescribed medication was not administered according to the prescription, using the amount and frequency of dosage specified on the label. In space #2, a prescription bottle of Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream had a prescription stating that it should be used for two (2) weeks and the medication permission started on 9/30/24. .0803(2)(d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 7/2/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Criminal Background Check: Intentional planning for completing criminal background checks before they expire five years from the date on the letter will eliminate a lapse in criminal background checks. Paper work can be sent in up to six months before the expiration date in order to obtain a new letter. The administrator, T. Atilien, had a five-year criminal qualifying letter that expired on June 8, 2025. Submission of the required forms to complete a criminal background check has not occurred to date. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by July 2, 2025, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, the employee cannot be at the facility any longer until they receive their qualification letter. You completed the application today and you stated that you will go get your fingerprints completed. A tracking system should be put into place to help you remind staff to submit paperwork before a qualification letter expires. We discussed adding dates in a digital calendar to send reminders before certificates expire. Repeated violations regarding background checks could warrant an administrative action. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge, and careful attention to detail. All medications for children present at the center must have a current, completed medication permission form even if there is a Medical Action Plan. Medication permission forms are valid for a defined length of time and must be updated, if needed. In space #2, a tube of Nystatin was on file with written permission on the over-the-counter form for topical ointments. In space #2, a prescription bottle of Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream had a prescription stating that it should be used for two (2) weeks and the medication permission started on 9/30/24. We discussed that prescription creams must be stored in locked storage with written permission on the long Medication Administration Permission Form that is valid for the length of the prescription. In space #2, a tube of Desitin and a tube of A&D were on file for children that were no longer enrolled in the facility. In space #4, a tube of Aquaphor expired 8/24 and an Albuterol inhaler expired 9/24. We discussed having one person in charge of checking medication and their forms to ensure that that are current and completed correctly. I shared a medication flyer and sample completed medication forms with you during the visit. Ensure that medication is being sent home within 72 hours after completion of treatment or being discarded by checking the learning environments daily. Additional Comments: ABCMS Portal: You have completed the Provider Portal training and have completed a new application with your provider code to connect your application. Get fingerprints immediately to complete your application. Connect applications for all staff members. NCID: Did you know that if you do not login on any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you every 6 months to login and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. Natural Learning Initiative: https://naturalearning.org/resources/ Resources are created, often in collaboration with the Natural Learning Initiative’s interdisciplinary partners, to support technical assistance, professional development, and generally to promote the importance of the natural environment in the daily experience of all children. Please use and share. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/5/2025 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 2/5/2025 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 346 Time In: 10:14 AM Time Out: 04:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. T. Atilien, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 3/18/22, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for having a staff benefits package and infrastructure of parental involvement. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 7/11/24. The sanitation inspection was completed on 11/21/24 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 12/22/23. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety percent as of 1/28/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 1/28/25 and Sunshine Scholars Academy, LLC was listed as current- active. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Children throughout the facility were participating in free play in activity areas, transitions, and personal care routines. Toddlers were observed in the outdoor space kicking balls and sitting on the stationary rocker. Infants were observed playing on the carpet and napping in cribs. In outdoor space #2, preschoolers were riding bikes and building with large blocks under the shade structure. The outdoor spaces were observed to have monkey bars, basketball hoop, riding toys, and balls for the children to engage in gross motor activities. Lunch was observed and included shredded chicken and lettuce on flour tortillas, rice, green beans, oranges, and milk. The following violation(s) were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection was dated 12/22/23. A current fire inspection was not available. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. There were twelve (12) children from space #4, 1-2 years of age, in care with two staff members in outdoor space #1. One of the staff members assigned to space #4 walked inside to throw away a piece of trash. .1801(a)(1-5) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. A child enrolled in space #3 had an Epi Pen on file with written permission from the parent that expired 1/29/25. .0803(12) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. Kiara Lockhart hired on 12/16/24 had a criminal qualifying letter dated 1/10/25 on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space #1, six (6) infants were in care with one staff member. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The administrator had not completed the ABCMS provider portal training. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. The back door to the kitchen was propped open with a trash can while children were playing in the outdoor space directly outside of the kitchen. This is a violation of a requirement in 15A NCAC 18A .2820 (e). Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 2/19/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Violations: Staff Child Ratio: A staff-to-child ratio is a measure of the number of children for whom each child care provider is responsible. Because younger children need more direct one-on-one interaction, response, and supervision, staff-to-child ratios are lower for younger children than for older ones. Ratio and group size are two factors that are critical to a child’s health, safety, and development. Ratios and group sizes help ensure that a child gets enough one-on-one attention from an adult who is available to take care of each child’s unique needs. This responsive caregiving is extremely important to a child’s social and emotional development, physical well-being, and overall learning. In space #1, six (6) infants were in care with one staff member. The staff member reported that a child had just arrived from a doctor’s appointment and had called for assistance. Several minutes later, a staff member came into the infant room to assist. I discussed with the staff member that if a child arrives and it will cause them to be over ratio, to immediately call for assistance and ask the parent to stay until the assistance arrives. You stated that second staff member assigned to the room was on lunch break and since the child came in late that it was caused the issue. You addressed the staff member to immediately use the walkie talkie when assistance is needed and ensure that the message is received because you did not hear her call for assistance. Ensure that all staff members understand to call for assistance immediately before accepting a child that will place them over ratio. Supervision: Adequate supervision of children is essential to keep children safe from accidents and injuries. Staff must remain with the children assigned to them at all times. Leaving a child or a group of children alone is unacceptable. Younger children need closer supervision to remain safe. Active supervision requires focused attention and intentional observation of children at all times. Caregivers/teachers position themselves so that they can observe all the children: watching, counting, and listening at all times. Supervision is directly tied to safety and the prevention of injury and maintaining quality child care for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged children. There were twelve (12) children from space #4, 1-2 years of age, in care with two staff members in outdoor space #1. One of the staff members assigned to space #4 walked inside to throw away a piece of trash. I discussed with the staff members the importance of remaining in the outdoor space at all times with the children and to throw the trash away in the trash can located in the outdoor space or to put a trash bag in the emergency bag that is brought outside with them. You stated that you addressed the staff member that left the outdoor space and reiterated that they should not leave the outdoor space to throw away trash. You stated that each classroom has a walkie talkie with a charger. Ensure that all staff members have a walkie talkie each day and understand to call for assistance before leaving the classroom. Criminal Background Checks: Criminal Background Checks ensure that staff have not committed any crimes which could potentially make them unsafe to be around children and other staff. Because Abuse and Neglect registries are also checked, it helps to ensure that children are protected from physical, mental, and sexual abuse. Performing diligent background screenings also protects the child care facility against future legal challenges. All owners of licensed child care facilities and employees working in a licensed child care center are required to submit a Criminal Background Check (CBC) and receive their Qualifying Letter prior to their first day of employment and complete a five-year requalification (on-line application and fingerprints) so that the new Qualifying Letter is on file before the expiration date listed on their current Qualifying Letter. Multiple instances of failing to complete Criminal Background Checks may result in an Administrative Action. Kiara Lockhart, hired on 12/16/24, had a criminal qualifying letter dated 1/10/25 on file. You stated that the company has a staff member that receives employment documents and thought that the new hire had a qualifying letter prior to hire. We discussed that it is important to double check onboarding documents to ensure that they are on file when required. Once a staff member is hired, use the current Staff and Training Worksheet to help you verify that all required forms are on file. Placing each form in the same order as the worksheet makes it even quicker and easier to review files and update the worksheet. 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. You completed the ABCMS provider training during the visit and you stated that you will begin connecting applicants with the instructions that I sent you once you have access to the portal. Access to Kitchen: The presence of children in the kitchen increases the risk of contamination of food and the risk of injury to children from burns. Use of kitchen appliances and cooking techniques may require more skill than can be expected for children’s developmental level. The most common burn in young children is scalding from hot liquids tipped over in the kitchen. The back door to the kitchen was propped open with a trash can while children were playing in the outdoor space directly outside of the kitchen. I discussed with the staff members in the outdoor space and the cook the importance of keeping the door closed while children are present in the outdoor space because they could easily walk into the kitchen and be hurt. The cook stated that it was hot in the kitchen and usually shuts the door when the children are outside. The door was shut when it was brought to the staff members’ attention. Keep the kitchen doors shut and always locked so that children do not have access to the kitchen. Fire Inspection: Facility safeguarding is not achieved by one agency carrying out a single regulatory program. Total safeguarding is achieved through a multiplicity of regulatory programs and agencies including sanitation and fire inspectors. Fire inspections should be completed annually and within 12 months of the previous inspection. The last fire inspection was dated 12/22/23. A current fire inspection was not available. You showed me documentation that a fire inspection was completed on 1/16/25 with items that need to be corrected to complete the inspection. We discussed setting a reminder in your calendar to request a fire inspection three months in advance so that they can schedule an inspection before 12 months has passed. Send me a copy of the fire inspection with your correction letter. Medication: Medicines can be crucial to the health and wellness of children. They can also be very dangerous if the wrong type or wrong amount is given to the wrong person or at the wrong time. A medical action plan is required for children that need emergency medication, the form needs to be completed by the parent or a health care professional. All medications for children present at the center must have a current, completed medication permission form even if there is a Medical Action Plan. Medication permission forms are valid for a defined length of time and must be updated, if needed. A child enrolled in space #3 had an Epi Pen on file with written permission from the parent that expired 1/29/25. You stated that you had recently went through and checked medications during the monthly check and sent a message to the parent to sign a new form. During the visit, you received a new permission form for the Epi-Pen from the parent to correct the violation. We discussed creating a medication chart with the expiration dates of all medication with the expiration date of the permission forms so that it is easier to monitor each month. Additional Comments: Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids: Due to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, the deadline for enrolling in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids testing for lead in water, lead paint, and asbestos has been extended to May 31, 2025. If you have not completed the online enrollment, online training, and initial survey, complete this for your facility as soon as possible. Funding is available for licensed facilities that need lead paint or asbestos mitigation. Enroll today athttps://www.cleanwaterforcarolinakids.org/enroll. If you have enrolled for only one or two of the program sections, log back in to complete surveys for the remaining section(s) to comply with the rule requirements. Natural Learning Initiative: https://naturalearning.org/resources/ Resources are created, often in collaboration with the Natural Learning Initiative’s interdisciplinary partners, to support technical assistance, professional development, and generally to promote the importance of the natural environment in the daily experience of all children. Please use and share. We discussed the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project: NCRLAP’s mission is to promote the quality of child care by consistently and reliably assessing environments for the North Carolina Star Rated License. We collaborate with professionals in the early childhood education field to foster the development and learning of young children. The website ncrlap.org offers resources, trainings, videos, worksheets, and getting ready for ITERS-3 and ECERS-3. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .2818 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/5/2025 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 2/5/2025 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 346 Time In: 10:14 AM Time Out: 04:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. T. Atilien, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 3/18/22, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for having a staff benefits package and infrastructure of parental involvement. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 7/11/24. The sanitation inspection was completed on 11/21/24 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 12/22/23. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety percent as of 1/28/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 1/28/25 and Sunshine Scholars Academy, LLC was listed as current- active. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Children throughout the facility were participating in free play in activity areas, transitions, and personal care routines. Toddlers were observed in the outdoor space kicking balls and sitting on the stationary rocker. Infants were observed playing on the carpet and napping in cribs. In outdoor space #2, preschoolers were riding bikes and building with large blocks under the shade structure. The outdoor spaces were observed to have monkey bars, basketball hoop, riding toys, and balls for the children to engage in gross motor activities. Lunch was observed and included shredded chicken and lettuce on flour tortillas, rice, green beans, oranges, and milk. The following violation(s) were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection was dated 12/22/23. A current fire inspection was not available. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. There were twelve (12) children from space #4, 1-2 years of age, in care with two staff members in outdoor space #1. One of the staff members assigned to space #4 walked inside to throw away a piece of trash. .1801(a)(1-5) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. A child enrolled in space #3 had an Epi Pen on file with written permission from the parent that expired 1/29/25. .0803(12) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. Kiara Lockhart hired on 12/16/24 had a criminal qualifying letter dated 1/10/25 on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space #1, six (6) infants were in care with one staff member. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The administrator had not completed the ABCMS provider portal training. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. The back door to the kitchen was propped open with a trash can while children were playing in the outdoor space directly outside of the kitchen. This is a violation of a requirement in 15A NCAC 18A .2820 (e). Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 2/19/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Violations: Staff Child Ratio: A staff-to-child ratio is a measure of the number of children for whom each child care provider is responsible. Because younger children need more direct one-on-one interaction, response, and supervision, staff-to-child ratios are lower for younger children than for older ones. Ratio and group size are two factors that are critical to a child’s health, safety, and development. Ratios and group sizes help ensure that a child gets enough one-on-one attention from an adult who is available to take care of each child’s unique needs. This responsive caregiving is extremely important to a child’s social and emotional development, physical well-being, and overall learning. In space #1, six (6) infants were in care with one staff member. The staff member reported that a child had just arrived from a doctor’s appointment and had called for assistance. Several minutes later, a staff member came into the infant room to assist. I discussed with the staff member that if a child arrives and it will cause them to be over ratio, to immediately call for assistance and ask the parent to stay until the assistance arrives. You stated that second staff member assigned to the room was on lunch break and since the child came in late that it was caused the issue. You addressed the staff member to immediately use the walkie talkie when assistance is needed and ensure that the message is received because you did not hear her call for assistance. Ensure that all staff members understand to call for assistance immediately before accepting a child that will place them over ratio. Supervision: Adequate supervision of children is essential to keep children safe from accidents and injuries. Staff must remain with the children assigned to them at all times. Leaving a child or a group of children alone is unacceptable. Younger children need closer supervision to remain safe. Active supervision requires focused attention and intentional observation of children at all times. Caregivers/teachers position themselves so that they can observe all the children: watching, counting, and listening at all times. Supervision is directly tied to safety and the prevention of injury and maintaining quality child care for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged children. There were twelve (12) children from space #4, 1-2 years of age, in care with two staff members in outdoor space #1. One of the staff members assigned to space #4 walked inside to throw away a piece of trash. I discussed with the staff members the importance of remaining in the outdoor space at all times with the children and to throw the trash away in the trash can located in the outdoor space or to put a trash bag in the emergency bag that is brought outside with them. You stated that you addressed the staff member that left the outdoor space and reiterated that they should not leave the outdoor space to throw away trash. You stated that each classroom has a walkie talkie with a charger. Ensure that all staff members have a walkie talkie each day and understand to call for assistance before leaving the classroom. Criminal Background Checks: Criminal Background Checks ensure that staff have not committed any crimes which could potentially make them unsafe to be around children and other staff. Because Abuse and Neglect registries are also checked, it helps to ensure that children are protected from physical, mental, and sexual abuse. Performing diligent background screenings also protects the child care facility against future legal challenges. All owners of licensed child care facilities and employees working in a licensed child care center are required to submit a Criminal Background Check (CBC) and receive their Qualifying Letter prior to their first day of employment and complete a five-year requalification (on-line application and fingerprints) so that the new Qualifying Letter is on file before the expiration date listed on their current Qualifying Letter. Multiple instances of failing to complete Criminal Background Checks may result in an Administrative Action. Kiara Lockhart, hired on 12/16/24, had a criminal qualifying letter dated 1/10/25 on file. You stated that the company has a staff member that receives employment documents and thought that the new hire had a qualifying letter prior to hire. We discussed that it is important to double check onboarding documents to ensure that they are on file when required. Once a staff member is hired, use the current Staff and Training Worksheet to help you verify that all required forms are on file. Placing each form in the same order as the worksheet makes it even quicker and easier to review files and update the worksheet. 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. You completed the ABCMS provider training during the visit and you stated that you will begin connecting applicants with the instructions that I sent you once you have access to the portal. Access to Kitchen: The presence of children in the kitchen increases the risk of contamination of food and the risk of injury to children from burns. Use of kitchen appliances and cooking techniques may require more skill than can be expected for children’s developmental level. The most common burn in young children is scalding from hot liquids tipped over in the kitchen. The back door to the kitchen was propped open with a trash can while children were playing in the outdoor space directly outside of the kitchen. I discussed with the staff members in the outdoor space and the cook the importance of keeping the door closed while children are present in the outdoor space because they could easily walk into the kitchen and be hurt. The cook stated that it was hot in the kitchen and usually shuts the door when the children are outside. The door was shut when it was brought to the staff members’ attention. Keep the kitchen doors shut and always locked so that children do not have access to the kitchen. Fire Inspection: Facility safeguarding is not achieved by one agency carrying out a single regulatory program. Total safeguarding is achieved through a multiplicity of regulatory programs and agencies including sanitation and fire inspectors. Fire inspections should be completed annually and within 12 months of the previous inspection. The last fire inspection was dated 12/22/23. A current fire inspection was not available. You showed me documentation that a fire inspection was completed on 1/16/25 with items that need to be corrected to complete the inspection. We discussed setting a reminder in your calendar to request a fire inspection three months in advance so that they can schedule an inspection before 12 months has passed. Send me a copy of the fire inspection with your correction letter. Medication: Medicines can be crucial to the health and wellness of children. They can also be very dangerous if the wrong type or wrong amount is given to the wrong person or at the wrong time. A medical action plan is required for children that need emergency medication, the form needs to be completed by the parent or a health care professional. All medications for children present at the center must have a current, completed medication permission form even if there is a Medical Action Plan. Medication permission forms are valid for a defined length of time and must be updated, if needed. A child enrolled in space #3 had an Epi Pen on file with written permission from the parent that expired 1/29/25. You stated that you had recently went through and checked medications during the monthly check and sent a message to the parent to sign a new form. During the visit, you received a new permission form for the Epi-Pen from the parent to correct the violation. We discussed creating a medication chart with the expiration dates of all medication with the expiration date of the permission forms so that it is easier to monitor each month. Additional Comments: Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids: Due to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, the deadline for enrolling in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids testing for lead in water, lead paint, and asbestos has been extended to May 31, 2025. If you have not completed the online enrollment, online training, and initial survey, complete this for your facility as soon as possible. Funding is available for licensed facilities that need lead paint or asbestos mitigation. Enroll today athttps://www.cleanwaterforcarolinakids.org/enroll. If you have enrolled for only one or two of the program sections, log back in to complete surveys for the remaining section(s) to comply with the rule requirements. Natural Learning Initiative: https://naturalearning.org/resources/ Resources are created, often in collaboration with the Natural Learning Initiative’s interdisciplinary partners, to support technical assistance, professional development, and generally to promote the importance of the natural environment in the daily experience of all children. Please use and share. We discussed the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project: NCRLAP’s mission is to promote the quality of child care by consistently and reliably assessing environments for the North Carolina Star Rated License. We collaborate with professionals in the early childhood education field to foster the development and learning of young children. The website ncrlap.org offers resources, trainings, videos, worksheets, and getting ready for ITERS-3 and ECERS-3. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/5/2025 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 2/5/2025 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 346 Time In: 10:14 AM Time Out: 04:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. T. Atilien, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 3/18/22, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for having a staff benefits package and infrastructure of parental involvement. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 7/11/24. The sanitation inspection was completed on 11/21/24 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 12/22/23. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety percent as of 1/28/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 1/28/25 and Sunshine Scholars Academy, LLC was listed as current- active. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Children throughout the facility were participating in free play in activity areas, transitions, and personal care routines. Toddlers were observed in the outdoor space kicking balls and sitting on the stationary rocker. Infants were observed playing on the carpet and napping in cribs. In outdoor space #2, preschoolers were riding bikes and building with large blocks under the shade structure. The outdoor spaces were observed to have monkey bars, basketball hoop, riding toys, and balls for the children to engage in gross motor activities. Lunch was observed and included shredded chicken and lettuce on flour tortillas, rice, green beans, oranges, and milk. The following violation(s) were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection was dated 12/22/23. A current fire inspection was not available. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. There were twelve (12) children from space #4, 1-2 years of age, in care with two staff members in outdoor space #1. One of the staff members assigned to space #4 walked inside to throw away a piece of trash. .1801(a)(1-5) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. A child enrolled in space #3 had an Epi Pen on file with written permission from the parent that expired 1/29/25. .0803(12) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. Kiara Lockhart hired on 12/16/24 had a criminal qualifying letter dated 1/10/25 on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space #1, six (6) infants were in care with one staff member. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The administrator had not completed the ABCMS provider portal training. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. The back door to the kitchen was propped open with a trash can while children were playing in the outdoor space directly outside of the kitchen. This is a violation of a requirement in 15A NCAC 18A .2820 (e). Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 2/19/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Violations: Staff Child Ratio: A staff-to-child ratio is a measure of the number of children for whom each child care provider is responsible. Because younger children need more direct one-on-one interaction, response, and supervision, staff-to-child ratios are lower for younger children than for older ones. Ratio and group size are two factors that are critical to a child’s health, safety, and development. Ratios and group sizes help ensure that a child gets enough one-on-one attention from an adult who is available to take care of each child’s unique needs. This responsive caregiving is extremely important to a child’s social and emotional development, physical well-being, and overall learning. In space #1, six (6) infants were in care with one staff member. The staff member reported that a child had just arrived from a doctor’s appointment and had called for assistance. Several minutes later, a staff member came into the infant room to assist. I discussed with the staff member that if a child arrives and it will cause them to be over ratio, to immediately call for assistance and ask the parent to stay until the assistance arrives. You stated that second staff member assigned to the room was on lunch break and since the child came in late that it was caused the issue. You addressed the staff member to immediately use the walkie talkie when assistance is needed and ensure that the message is received because you did not hear her call for assistance. Ensure that all staff members understand to call for assistance immediately before accepting a child that will place them over ratio. Supervision: Adequate supervision of children is essential to keep children safe from accidents and injuries. Staff must remain with the children assigned to them at all times. Leaving a child or a group of children alone is unacceptable. Younger children need closer supervision to remain safe. Active supervision requires focused attention and intentional observation of children at all times. Caregivers/teachers position themselves so that they can observe all the children: watching, counting, and listening at all times. Supervision is directly tied to safety and the prevention of injury and maintaining quality child care for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged children. There were twelve (12) children from space #4, 1-2 years of age, in care with two staff members in outdoor space #1. One of the staff members assigned to space #4 walked inside to throw away a piece of trash. I discussed with the staff members the importance of remaining in the outdoor space at all times with the children and to throw the trash away in the trash can located in the outdoor space or to put a trash bag in the emergency bag that is brought outside with them. You stated that you addressed the staff member that left the outdoor space and reiterated that they should not leave the outdoor space to throw away trash. You stated that each classroom has a walkie talkie with a charger. Ensure that all staff members have a walkie talkie each day and understand to call for assistance before leaving the classroom. Criminal Background Checks: Criminal Background Checks ensure that staff have not committed any crimes which could potentially make them unsafe to be around children and other staff. Because Abuse and Neglect registries are also checked, it helps to ensure that children are protected from physical, mental, and sexual abuse. Performing diligent background screenings also protects the child care facility against future legal challenges. All owners of licensed child care facilities and employees working in a licensed child care center are required to submit a Criminal Background Check (CBC) and receive their Qualifying Letter prior to their first day of employment and complete a five-year requalification (on-line application and fingerprints) so that the new Qualifying Letter is on file before the expiration date listed on their current Qualifying Letter. Multiple instances of failing to complete Criminal Background Checks may result in an Administrative Action. Kiara Lockhart, hired on 12/16/24, had a criminal qualifying letter dated 1/10/25 on file. You stated that the company has a staff member that receives employment documents and thought that the new hire had a qualifying letter prior to hire. We discussed that it is important to double check onboarding documents to ensure that they are on file when required. Once a staff member is hired, use the current Staff and Training Worksheet to help you verify that all required forms are on file. Placing each form in the same order as the worksheet makes it even quicker and easier to review files and update the worksheet. 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. You completed the ABCMS provider training during the visit and you stated that you will begin connecting applicants with the instructions that I sent you once you have access to the portal. Access to Kitchen: The presence of children in the kitchen increases the risk of contamination of food and the risk of injury to children from burns. Use of kitchen appliances and cooking techniques may require more skill than can be expected for children’s developmental level. The most common burn in young children is scalding from hot liquids tipped over in the kitchen. The back door to the kitchen was propped open with a trash can while children were playing in the outdoor space directly outside of the kitchen. I discussed with the staff members in the outdoor space and the cook the importance of keeping the door closed while children are present in the outdoor space because they could easily walk into the kitchen and be hurt. The cook stated that it was hot in the kitchen and usually shuts the door when the children are outside. The door was shut when it was brought to the staff members’ attention. Keep the kitchen doors shut and always locked so that children do not have access to the kitchen. Fire Inspection: Facility safeguarding is not achieved by one agency carrying out a single regulatory program. Total safeguarding is achieved through a multiplicity of regulatory programs and agencies including sanitation and fire inspectors. Fire inspections should be completed annually and within 12 months of the previous inspection. The last fire inspection was dated 12/22/23. A current fire inspection was not available. You showed me documentation that a fire inspection was completed on 1/16/25 with items that need to be corrected to complete the inspection. We discussed setting a reminder in your calendar to request a fire inspection three months in advance so that they can schedule an inspection before 12 months has passed. Send me a copy of the fire inspection with your correction letter. Medication: Medicines can be crucial to the health and wellness of children. They can also be very dangerous if the wrong type or wrong amount is given to the wrong person or at the wrong time. A medical action plan is required for children that need emergency medication, the form needs to be completed by the parent or a health care professional. All medications for children present at the center must have a current, completed medication permission form even if there is a Medical Action Plan. Medication permission forms are valid for a defined length of time and must be updated, if needed. A child enrolled in space #3 had an Epi Pen on file with written permission from the parent that expired 1/29/25. You stated that you had recently went through and checked medications during the monthly check and sent a message to the parent to sign a new form. During the visit, you received a new permission form for the Epi-Pen from the parent to correct the violation. We discussed creating a medication chart with the expiration dates of all medication with the expiration date of the permission forms so that it is easier to monitor each month. Additional Comments: Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids: Due to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, the deadline for enrolling in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids testing for lead in water, lead paint, and asbestos has been extended to May 31, 2025. If you have not completed the online enrollment, online training, and initial survey, complete this for your facility as soon as possible. Funding is available for licensed facilities that need lead paint or asbestos mitigation. Enroll today athttps://www.cleanwaterforcarolinakids.org/enroll. If you have enrolled for only one or two of the program sections, log back in to complete surveys for the remaining section(s) to comply with the rule requirements. Natural Learning Initiative: https://naturalearning.org/resources/ Resources are created, often in collaboration with the Natural Learning Initiative’s interdisciplinary partners, to support technical assistance, professional development, and generally to promote the importance of the natural environment in the daily experience of all children. Please use and share. We discussed the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project: NCRLAP’s mission is to promote the quality of child care by consistently and reliably assessing environments for the North Carolina Star Rated License. We collaborate with professionals in the early childhood education field to foster the development and learning of young children. The website ncrlap.org offers resources, trainings, videos, worksheets, and getting ready for ITERS-3 and ECERS-3. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/5/2025 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 2/5/2025 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 346 Time In: 10:14 AM Time Out: 04:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. T. Atilien, Administrator, assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 3/18/22, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for having a staff benefits package and infrastructure of parental involvement. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 7/11/24. The sanitation inspection was completed on 11/21/24 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 12/22/23. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety percent as of 1/28/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 1/28/25 and Sunshine Scholars Academy, LLC was listed as current- active. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Children throughout the facility were participating in free play in activity areas, transitions, and personal care routines. Toddlers were observed in the outdoor space kicking balls and sitting on the stationary rocker. Infants were observed playing on the carpet and napping in cribs. In outdoor space #2, preschoolers were riding bikes and building with large blocks under the shade structure. The outdoor spaces were observed to have monkey bars, basketball hoop, riding toys, and balls for the children to engage in gross motor activities. Lunch was observed and included shredded chicken and lettuce on flour tortillas, rice, green beans, oranges, and milk. The following violation(s) were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection was dated 12/22/23. A current fire inspection was not available. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. There were twelve (12) children from space #4, 1-2 years of age, in care with two staff members in outdoor space #1. One of the staff members assigned to space #4 walked inside to throw away a piece of trash. .1801(a)(1-5) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. A child enrolled in space #3 had an Epi Pen on file with written permission from the parent that expired 1/29/25. .0803(12) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. Kiara Lockhart hired on 12/16/24 had a criminal qualifying letter dated 1/10/25 on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space #1, six (6) infants were in care with one staff member. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The administrator had not completed the ABCMS provider portal training. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. The back door to the kitchen was propped open with a trash can while children were playing in the outdoor space directly outside of the kitchen. This is a violation of a requirement in 15A NCAC 18A .2820 (e). Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 2/19/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Violations: Staff Child Ratio: A staff-to-child ratio is a measure of the number of children for whom each child care provider is responsible. Because younger children need more direct one-on-one interaction, response, and supervision, staff-to-child ratios are lower for younger children than for older ones. Ratio and group size are two factors that are critical to a child’s health, safety, and development. Ratios and group sizes help ensure that a child gets enough one-on-one attention from an adult who is available to take care of each child’s unique needs. This responsive caregiving is extremely important to a child’s social and emotional development, physical well-being, and overall learning. In space #1, six (6) infants were in care with one staff member. The staff member reported that a child had just arrived from a doctor’s appointment and had called for assistance. Several minutes later, a staff member came into the infant room to assist. I discussed with the staff member that if a child arrives and it will cause them to be over ratio, to immediately call for assistance and ask the parent to stay until the assistance arrives. You stated that second staff member assigned to the room was on lunch break and since the child came in late that it was caused the issue. You addressed the staff member to immediately use the walkie talkie when assistance is needed and ensure that the message is received because you did not hear her call for assistance. Ensure that all staff members understand to call for assistance immediately before accepting a child that will place them over ratio. Supervision: Adequate supervision of children is essential to keep children safe from accidents and injuries. Staff must remain with the children assigned to them at all times. Leaving a child or a group of children alone is unacceptable. Younger children need closer supervision to remain safe. Active supervision requires focused attention and intentional observation of children at all times. Caregivers/teachers position themselves so that they can observe all the children: watching, counting, and listening at all times. Supervision is directly tied to safety and the prevention of injury and maintaining quality child care for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged children. There were twelve (12) children from space #4, 1-2 years of age, in care with two staff members in outdoor space #1. One of the staff members assigned to space #4 walked inside to throw away a piece of trash. I discussed with the staff members the importance of remaining in the outdoor space at all times with the children and to throw the trash away in the trash can located in the outdoor space or to put a trash bag in the emergency bag that is brought outside with them. You stated that you addressed the staff member that left the outdoor space and reiterated that they should not leave the outdoor space to throw away trash. You stated that each classroom has a walkie talkie with a charger. Ensure that all staff members have a walkie talkie each day and understand to call for assistance before leaving the classroom. Criminal Background Checks: Criminal Background Checks ensure that staff have not committed any crimes which could potentially make them unsafe to be around children and other staff. Because Abuse and Neglect registries are also checked, it helps to ensure that children are protected from physical, mental, and sexual abuse. Performing diligent background screenings also protects the child care facility against future legal challenges. All owners of licensed child care facilities and employees working in a licensed child care center are required to submit a Criminal Background Check (CBC) and receive their Qualifying Letter prior to their first day of employment and complete a five-year requalification (on-line application and fingerprints) so that the new Qualifying Letter is on file before the expiration date listed on their current Qualifying Letter. Multiple instances of failing to complete Criminal Background Checks may result in an Administrative Action. Kiara Lockhart, hired on 12/16/24, had a criminal qualifying letter dated 1/10/25 on file. You stated that the company has a staff member that receives employment documents and thought that the new hire had a qualifying letter prior to hire. We discussed that it is important to double check onboarding documents to ensure that they are on file when required. Once a staff member is hired, use the current Staff and Training Worksheet to help you verify that all required forms are on file. Placing each form in the same order as the worksheet makes it even quicker and easier to review files and update the worksheet. 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. You completed the ABCMS provider training during the visit and you stated that you will begin connecting applicants with the instructions that I sent you once you have access to the portal. Access to Kitchen: The presence of children in the kitchen increases the risk of contamination of food and the risk of injury to children from burns. Use of kitchen appliances and cooking techniques may require more skill than can be expected for children’s developmental level. The most common burn in young children is scalding from hot liquids tipped over in the kitchen. The back door to the kitchen was propped open with a trash can while children were playing in the outdoor space directly outside of the kitchen. I discussed with the staff members in the outdoor space and the cook the importance of keeping the door closed while children are present in the outdoor space because they could easily walk into the kitchen and be hurt. The cook stated that it was hot in the kitchen and usually shuts the door when the children are outside. The door was shut when it was brought to the staff members’ attention. Keep the kitchen doors shut and always locked so that children do not have access to the kitchen. Fire Inspection: Facility safeguarding is not achieved by one agency carrying out a single regulatory program. Total safeguarding is achieved through a multiplicity of regulatory programs and agencies including sanitation and fire inspectors. Fire inspections should be completed annually and within 12 months of the previous inspection. The last fire inspection was dated 12/22/23. A current fire inspection was not available. You showed me documentation that a fire inspection was completed on 1/16/25 with items that need to be corrected to complete the inspection. We discussed setting a reminder in your calendar to request a fire inspection three months in advance so that they can schedule an inspection before 12 months has passed. Send me a copy of the fire inspection with your correction letter. Medication: Medicines can be crucial to the health and wellness of children. They can also be very dangerous if the wrong type or wrong amount is given to the wrong person or at the wrong time. A medical action plan is required for children that need emergency medication, the form needs to be completed by the parent or a health care professional. All medications for children present at the center must have a current, completed medication permission form even if there is a Medical Action Plan. Medication permission forms are valid for a defined length of time and must be updated, if needed. A child enrolled in space #3 had an Epi Pen on file with written permission from the parent that expired 1/29/25. You stated that you had recently went through and checked medications during the monthly check and sent a message to the parent to sign a new form. During the visit, you received a new permission form for the Epi-Pen from the parent to correct the violation. We discussed creating a medication chart with the expiration dates of all medication with the expiration date of the permission forms so that it is easier to monitor each month. Additional Comments: Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids: Due to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, the deadline for enrolling in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids testing for lead in water, lead paint, and asbestos has been extended to May 31, 2025. If you have not completed the online enrollment, online training, and initial survey, complete this for your facility as soon as possible. Funding is available for licensed facilities that need lead paint or asbestos mitigation. Enroll today athttps://www.cleanwaterforcarolinakids.org/enroll. If you have enrolled for only one or two of the program sections, log back in to complete surveys for the remaining section(s) to comply with the rule requirements. Natural Learning Initiative: https://naturalearning.org/resources/ Resources are created, often in collaboration with the Natural Learning Initiative’s interdisciplinary partners, to support technical assistance, professional development, and generally to promote the importance of the natural environment in the daily experience of all children. Please use and share. We discussed the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project: NCRLAP’s mission is to promote the quality of child care by consistently and reliably assessing environments for the North Carolina Star Rated License. We collaborate with professionals in the early childhood education field to foster the development and learning of young children. The website ncrlap.org offers resources, trainings, videos, worksheets, and getting ready for ITERS-3 and ECERS-3. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/11/2024 Number Present: 45 Completed Date: 7/11/2024 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 455 Time In: 08:55 AM Time Out: 04:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. T. Atilien, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 3/18/22, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for having a staff benefits package and infrastructure of parental involvement. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 8/3/23. The sanitation inspection was completed 6/28/24 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 12/22/23 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty six percent as of 7/9/24. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 7/9/24 and Sunshine Scholars Academy, LLC was listed as current- active. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers, routines, and transitions. Toddlers were observed looking at books on the carpet. Preschoolers in space #6 were building with blocks and cooking in the dramatic play center. School age children were reading and playing checkers. Children under twelve months old received care according to individual needs including tummy time and bottle feeding. The outdoor space was observed to have a basketball goal, monkey bars, stationary vehicles, tunnels, and riding toys for the children to engage in gross motor activities. Lunch was observed and consisted of turkey and cheese sandwiches, green beans, pineapples, and milk. The following violation(s) were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 444 A schedule of off premise activities were not posted in each participating classroom to be viewed by parents and/or copy of the schedule was not given to parents. A schedule of off-premise activities was not posted for the field trip to the Aurora Fossil Museum. .1005(b)(5) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. One (1) infant feeding plan in space #1 was not signed by the parent. .0902(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In outdoor space #1, the pots and pans hanging on the fence were rusted with sharp edges and the kitchen set had standing water in the sink. In outdoor space #2, there was an old stove covered with a tarp with a rusted piece of metal approximately three feet long. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. In space #6, an Epi-Pen was on file without a prescription labeled container. .0803(2)(a) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. L. Berry hired 3/14/23, did not receive the required twenty (20) annual on-going training hours by 3/14/24. R. Tripp hired 2/28/22 did not receive eight (8) on-going training hours by 9/1/23. .1103(a) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. A staff member began working in the infant room on 5/6/24 and did not receive SIDS training. .1102(f) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. Mulch beneath the monkey bars on the school age outdoor space was a depth of three inches rather than the required six inches. Mulch beneath the large tree stump in the toddler outdoor space was a depth of three inches rather than the required six inches. .0605(k)(1-4) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. A staff member hired on 3/6/23 did not complete Health and Safety training. .1102(a) 1914 The person identified as the person or alternate person responsible for carrying out the emergency medical care plan was not on the premises at all times and/or did not accompany children for off premise activities. The emergency medical care plan was not updated to reflect current staff employed in the facility. .0802(b)(1-2) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 7/25/24, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Infant Needs: Completing ITS/SIDS training at hire and every three years provides staff with the most current information and required practices to protect infants from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and other accidents that may occur while sleeping. Administrators and all staff working in the infant room (Lead Teachers, Teachers, Floaters, Substitutes and uncompensated employees counting in staff/child ratio) are required to complete Infant Toddler Safe Sleep/ SIDS Reduction Training within two months of employment and recertify every three years; however, if an infant is present, there must always be a staff member with safe sleep training in the room. A staff member began working in the infant room on 5/6/24 and did not receive SIDS training. We discussed that anyone that could work with infants needs SIDS training upon hire. You stated that this staff member is going to take the training in August along with other staff members that could work in the infant room. Growth and development during infancy require that nourishing, wholesome, and developmentally appropriate food be provided, using safe approaches to feeding. All children under 15 months of age must have a signed feeding schedule/plan on file. One (1) infant feeding plan in space #1 was not signed by the parent. We discussed that infant feeding plans should be developed with each infant’s parents/guardians. When the caregiver receives a feeding plan, it should be analyzed and signed to ensure that it is complete and signed by the parent. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge, and careful attention to detail. All medications for children present at the center must have a current, completed medication permission form even if there is a Medical Action Plan. Medication permission forms are valid for a defined length of time and must be updated, if needed. In space #6, an Epi-Pen was on file without a prescription labeled container. You stated that the emergency bag was left outside, and all the contents were soaked with rain water which destroyed the box. I observed the bag’s contents were still wet. During the visit you contacted the child’s parent and requested a new Epi-Pen to be brought in. Outdoor Environment: The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Children can play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy, and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste, and their sense of motion. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily, and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use. Mulch beneath the monkey bars on the school age outdoor space was a depth of three inches rather than the required six inches. Mulch beneath the large tree stump in the toddler outdoor space was a depth of three inches rather than the required six inches. In the June playground inspection, it was notated that the mulch needed to be fluffed. We discussed that mulch needs to be fluffed each month and assessed to ensure that it is the required depth. Add mulch under both the stump and monkey bars. In outdoor space #1, the pots and pans hanging on the fence were rusted with sharp edges and the kitchen set had standing water in the sink. In outdoor space #2, there was an old stove covered with a tarp with a rusted piece of metal approximately three feet long. We discussed replacing the pots and pans on the music wall and finding a way for the water to drain in the sink due to it being attached to the fence. You stated that the stove was replaced in the kitchen and had not been moved yet but it will be removed. Staff Records: The health and safety of children requires that information regarding each staff working with the children be kept and available when needed. Staff records consist of various documentation such as employment application, medical report, TB test results, Annual Health Questionnaire, emergency contact information, receipt of policies, CBC qualification letter, professional development plan, documentation of orientation, on-going training hours, and health and safety trainings. A staff member hired on 3/6/23 has not completed Health and Safety training. L. Berry hired 3/14/23, did not receive the required twenty (20) annual on-going training hours by 3/14/24. R. Tripp hired 2/28/22 did not receive eight (8) on-going training hours by 9/1/23. Record keeping is one of the most time-consuming tasks associated with administering a child care program. It is an important part of licensure. We discussed the importance of ensuring that the staff and training worksheet is being updated frequently to ensure that trainings are being completed by the required date. Emergency Medical Care Plan: Your program’s Emergency Medical Care plan was created to assist you with following a plan in the event of an emergency and who is responsible for each task list. You must update the plan whenever changes occur in your program. Your facilities emergency medical care plan must be reviewed with staff annually or when changes occur. Upon review of the emergency medical care plan, it was found that it needs to be updated with current staff and what they will be responsible for. You stated that the employee listed that was no longer employed left last week. You update your plan during today’s visit to correct the violation. Transportation Safety: Transporting children in child care is a high-risk activity. You and the parents of children enrolled in your care need to be aware that transporting children requires careful planning and proactive, protective measures to ensure the safety of children and all passengers. Any time children are transported there is the potential for problems to occur. Careful planning reduces the risk of harm or injury to children and reduces the liability for child care operators. A schedule of off-premise activities must be posted in each participating classroom to be viewed by parents and/or a copy of the schedule must be given to parents. A schedule of off-premise activities was not posted for the field trip to the Aurora Fossil Museum. During today’s visit, children enrolled in space #6 and #7 went on a field trip to the fossil museum. You stated that you had not had the opportunity to post the schedule this morning and created one and posted it during the visit to correct the violation. Create the off-premise schedules for field trips in advance so that they can be posted the night before the activity occurs. Additional Comments: Screen Time: Excessive media use has been associated with lags in achievement of knowledge and skills, as well as negative impacts on sleep, weight, and social/emotional health. Screen time, for children three years and older, should be used to stimulate a developmental domain; limited to 30 minutes a day and documented on a cumulative log or the activity plan that is available for review and is prohibited for children under three years of age. Tablets are being used throughout the center to document in the Procare app and for music. We discussed that these screens must remain out of sight of the children when being used for music and not for screen time. Southwestern Child Development Commission https://www.swcdcinc.org/ offers a variety of online courses and trainings, including BSAC. We discussed this site being a resource for completing on-going training hours, BSAC, and orientation. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SUNSHINE SCHOLARS ACADEMY Facility ID: 25000597 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/11/2024 Number Present: 45 Completed Date: 7/11/2024 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 455 Time In: 08:55 AM Time Out: 04:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. T. Atilien, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 3/18/22, earning 7 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for having a staff benefits package and infrastructure of parental involvement. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 8/3/23. The sanitation inspection was completed 6/28/24 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 12/22/23 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty six percent as of 7/9/24. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 7/9/24 and Sunshine Scholars Academy, LLC was listed as current- active. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers, routines, and transitions. Toddlers were observed looking at books on the carpet. Preschoolers in space #6 were building with blocks and cooking in the dramatic play center. School age children were reading and playing checkers. Children under twelve months old received care according to individual needs including tummy time and bottle feeding. The outdoor space was observed to have a basketball goal, monkey bars, stationary vehicles, tunnels, and riding toys for the children to engage in gross motor activities. Lunch was observed and consisted of turkey and cheese sandwiches, green beans, pineapples, and milk. The following violation(s) were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 444 A schedule of off premise activities were not posted in each participating classroom to be viewed by parents and/or copy of the schedule was not given to parents. A schedule of off-premise activities was not posted for the field trip to the Aurora Fossil Museum. .1005(b)(5) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. One (1) infant feeding plan in space #1 was not signed by the parent. .0902(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In outdoor space #1, the pots and pans hanging on the fence were rusted with sharp edges and the kitchen set had standing water in the sink. In outdoor space #2, there was an old stove covered with a tarp with a rusted piece of metal approximately three feet long. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. In space #6, an Epi-Pen was on file without a prescription labeled container. .0803(2)(a) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. L. Berry hired 3/14/23, did not receive the required twenty (20) annual on-going training hours by 3/14/24. R. Tripp hired 2/28/22 did not receive eight (8) on-going training hours by 9/1/23. .1103(a) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. A staff member began working in the infant room on 5/6/24 and did not receive SIDS training. .1102(f) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. Mulch beneath the monkey bars on the school age outdoor space was a depth of three inches rather than the required six inches. Mulch beneath the large tree stump in the toddler outdoor space was a depth of three inches rather than the required six inches. .0605(k)(1-4) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. A staff member hired on 3/6/23 did not complete Health and Safety training. .1102(a) 1914 The person identified as the person or alternate person responsible for carrying out the emergency medical care plan was not on the premises at all times and/or did not accompany children for off premise activities. The emergency medical care plan was not updated to reflect current staff employed in the facility. .0802(b)(1-2) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 7/25/24, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance with Documented Violations: Infant Needs: Completing ITS/SIDS training at hire and every three years provides staff with the most current information and required practices to protect infants from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and other accidents that may occur while sleeping. Administrators and all staff working in the infant room (Lead Teachers, Teachers, Floaters, Substitutes and uncompensated employees counting in staff/child ratio) are required to complete Infant Toddler Safe Sleep/ SIDS Reduction Training within two months of employment and recertify every three years; however, if an infant is present, there must always be a staff member with safe sleep training in the room. A staff member began working in the infant room on 5/6/24 and did not receive SIDS training. We discussed that anyone that could work with infants needs SIDS training upon hire. You stated that this staff member is going to take the training in August along with other staff members that could work in the infant room. Growth and development during infancy require that nourishing, wholesome, and developmentally appropriate food be provided, using safe approaches to feeding. All children under 15 months of age must have a signed feeding schedule/plan on file. One (1) infant feeding plan in space #1 was not signed by the parent. We discussed that infant feeding plans should be developed with each infant’s parents/guardians. When the caregiver receives a feeding plan, it should be analyzed and signed to ensure that it is complete and signed by the parent. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge, and careful attention to detail. All medications for children present at the center must have a current, completed medication permission form even if there is a Medical Action Plan. Medication permission forms are valid for a defined length of time and must be updated, if needed. In space #6, an Epi-Pen was on file without a prescription labeled container. You stated that the emergency bag was left outside, and all the contents were soaked with rain water which destroyed the box. I observed the bag’s contents were still wet. During the visit you contacted the child’s parent and requested a new Epi-Pen to be brought in. Outdoor Environment: The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Children can play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy, and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste, and their sense of motion. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily, and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use. Mulch beneath the monkey bars on the school age outdoor space was a depth of three inches rather than the required six inches. Mulch beneath the large tree stump in the toddler outdoor space was a depth of three inches rather than the required six inches. In the June playground inspection, it was notated that the mulch needed to be fluffed. We discussed that mulch needs to be fluffed each month and assessed to ensure that it is the required depth. Add mulch under both the stump and monkey bars. In outdoor space #1, the pots and pans hanging on the fence were rusted with sharp edges and the kitchen set had standing water in the sink. In outdoor space #2, there was an old stove covered with a tarp with a rusted piece of metal approximately three feet long. We discussed replacing the pots and pans on the music wall and finding a way for the water to drain in the sink due to it being attached to the fence. You stated that the stove was replaced in the kitchen and had not been moved yet but it will be removed. Staff Records: The health and safety of children requires that information regarding each staff working with the children be kept and available when needed. Staff records consist of various documentation such as employment application, medical report, TB test results, Annual Health Questionnaire, emergency contact information, receipt of policies, CBC qualification letter, professional development plan, documentation of orientation, on-going training hours, and health and safety trainings. A staff member hired on 3/6/23 has not completed Health and Safety training. L. Berry hired 3/14/23, did not receive the required twenty (20) annual on-going training hours by 3/14/24. R. Tripp hired 2/28/22 did not receive eight (8) on-going training hours by 9/1/23. Record keeping is one of the most time-consuming tasks associated with administering a child care program. It is an important part of licensure. We discussed the importance of ensuring that the staff and training worksheet is being updated frequently to ensure that trainings are being completed by the required date. Emergency Medical Care Plan: Your program’s Emergency Medical Care plan was created to assist you with following a plan in the event of an emergency and who is responsible for each task list. You must update the plan whenever changes occur in your program. Your facilities emergency medical care plan must be reviewed with staff annually or when changes occur. Upon review of the emergency medical care plan, it was found that it needs to be updated with current staff and what they will be responsible for. You stated that the employee listed that was no longer employed left last week. You update your plan during today’s visit to correct the violation. Transportation Safety: Transporting children in child care is a high-risk activity. You and the parents of children enrolled in your care need to be aware that transporting children requires careful planning and proactive, protective measures to ensure the safety of children and all passengers. Any time children are transported there is the potential for problems to occur. Careful planning reduces the risk of harm or injury to children and reduces the liability for child care operators. A schedule of off-premise activities must be posted in each participating classroom to be viewed by parents and/or a copy of the schedule must be given to parents. A schedule of off-premise activities was not posted for the field trip to the Aurora Fossil Museum. During today’s visit, children enrolled in space #6 and #7 went on a field trip to the fossil museum. You stated that you had not had the opportunity to post the schedule this morning and created one and posted it during the visit to correct the violation. Create the off-premise schedules for field trips in advance so that they can be posted the night before the activity occurs. Additional Comments: Screen Time: Excessive media use has been associated with lags in achievement of knowledge and skills, as well as negative impacts on sleep, weight, and social/emotional health. Screen time, for children three years and older, should be used to stimulate a developmental domain; limited to 30 minutes a day and documented on a cumulative log or the activity plan that is available for review and is prohibited for children under three years of age. Tablets are being used throughout the center to document in the Procare app and for music. We discussed that these screens must remain out of sight of the children when being used for music and not for screen time. Southwestern Child Development Commission https://www.swcdcinc.org/ offers a variety of online courses and trainings, including BSAC. We discussed this site being a resource for completing on-going training hours, BSAC, and orientation. Craven Smart Start is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on childcare issues. Their phone number is (252) 636- 3198 or check out their website at www.cravensmartstart.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times