Creative Kidz Academy

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: CREATIVE KIDZ ACADEMY Facility ID: 92001788 Consultant: BRIDGGETTE CAMPBELL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/30/2026 Number Present: 98 Completed Date: 6/30/2026 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 390 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 05:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with child care requirements for an annual compliance and rated license assessment. This facility currently operates with Three (3) Star License that was issued on 1-26-24. The last sanitation inspection was completed on 8-11-25 with an “Superior” classification. The last approved fire inspection was conducted on 11-18-25. The last annual compliance visit was on 12-10-25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and the corporation’s name, Creative Kidz Academy, Inc. was listed as “Current-Active.” Today’s visit was conducted with you, Shannon Fowler, assistant director. I monitored the nine (9) classrooms in use occupied by children for compliance with staff/child ratios, supervision, and staff interaction/discipline. The program was also monitored for health and safety requirements both indoors and outdoors using the annual compliance monitoring checklist. Children completed daily activities with adequate supervision and engagement from the caregivers. The children were observed interacting in activity centers, at the table making red and blue slime, and coloring 4th of July coloring sheets with makers. The children also completed toileting and handwashing routines as required. The program requirements, along with equipment and furnishings were observed. Compliance with staff records was documented by you. There have been three (3) new staff members hired since the last annual compliance visit. Children’s records were reviewed today. The children’s prescribed medications and diaper ointments kept on the premises were also monitored. This facility provides transportation services during the school year. However, the facility's Sprinter van was not available for observation during today's visit because it was not on the premises. The following violations of child care requirements were cited during today’s visit and must be corrected immediately. Technical assistance on how to maintain compliance was provided today. Violation Number Comment Rule 542 The written feeding plan was not modified as the child's needs changed. One child's feeding schedule posted in space #2 was not updated to reflect the child's current eating habits. 10 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 #4 permission to administer diaper ointment for one child expired March 2026. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) The following was discussed with you during today’s visit: • 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. • Technical Assistance was provided with the following suggestion that may be beneficial: Medication Authorization & Leftover Medications: Any medication on the premises must be labeled with the child’s name and/or have a prescription label, be accompanied by a current permission slip, filled out completely with the parent/guardian’s signature and date. Set a reminder to review/update medications in each classroom on a regular basis to ensure permission authorization has not expired. You must remember the “five rights” of medication use: the right child, the right medication, the right time, the right dose, and the right route—all of which are generally regarded as a standard for safe medication practices. You and the caregivers must know what medication the parent/guardian authorized to be administered and how the parent/guardian wants medication given. If documentation is required after the medication is administered, then documentation with the required information must be completed and kept on file for six months. Having clear, detailed procedures for obtaining administered medication protects children from mistakes that can affect their health. It was suggested to reiterate in your monthly newsletter to parents that medication must accompany a permission slip, and it was suggested all staff complete training on administering medications. Contact your Child Care Health Consultant, Krista Barbour, Nursing Supervisor krista.barbour@wake.gov Work Phone: 919-212-7572 Cell 919-795-7304, to schedule training on medications. Infant Feeding Schedule: Updating an infant's feeding schedule is vital to meet their rapid growth needs, prevent digestion issues, and avoid missed meals. It ensures the infant stays full and happy, being fed according to the parent’s instructions. It was suggested to monitor feeding schedules weekly to ensure that the feeding schedule reflects the infant’s current eating habits and have parents update feeding schedules immediately when eating habits change. • The last lead in water testing results were completed on 10-27-2023 and your asbestos and lead in paint from Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids were completed on 7-25-24. Remember to complete lead in water testing before October 2026, as this testing is required every three (3) years. • North Carolina has two education-based salary supplement programs (WAGE$ and STEP$) to help support the early care and education workforce. The Child Care WAGE$® Program provides education-based salary supplements to eligible educators working with children birth to age five. STEP$ (Supporting Teachers’ Earnings and Progress) is a new salary supplement program for lead teachers, teachers and family child care providers working forty (40) hours per week with children birth through age two. Eligibility for each program is different. Learn more about program requirements at WAGE$ -https://www.earlyyearsnc.org/program/wages/wage-eligibility STEP$ - https://www.earlyyearsnc.org/program/steps. • The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NC DHHS) is pleased to partner with Teaching Strategies to provide for FREE the Professional Development Teacher Membership (PDTM), which includes all CDA coursework to all educators employed by a licensed North Carolina childcare facility. This high-quality professional development coursework from the early childhood experts at Teaching Strategies is live and on-demand with over 400 hours of continuing education units (CEU) courses. The complimentary Professional Development Teacher Memberships (PDTM) will expire on August 20, 2026. Please be sure to finish any CDA or other coursework currently in progress, or that you and/or your staff plan to begin, before August 20, 2026. Download or print your course completion certificates and transcripts for your records. Sign up for FREE here: https://teachingstrategies.com/north-carolina-pdtm/ • Early Years has many live and on-demand trainings in the month of May from the Birth-Three Quality Initiative. Courses include Nurturing Little Minds, Applying NCFELD to Infant-Toddler Planning, and Building Relationships with Infants and Toddlers. Access the list of trainings here: https://files.constantcontact.com/0a3da4b4101/7cb97efe-7f96-4a41-82a8-9ea85efe62a3.pdf. • It is strongly recommended that staff complete the NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development training. The purpose of the North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development is to establish a framework that supports the healthy development and school readiness of children from birth to age 5. This framework is designed to guide early childhood caregivers in creating an environment that fosters learning and development. This 5-hour course provides a clear set of expectations and goals that caregivers can use to plan and implement their teaching practices for supporting children in their learning and development. You can look for upcoming trainings on the NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development training and visit YouTube where there are short videos on Foundations for Early Learning and Development training. • Free Adult Mental Health First Aid Training is being offered by UNC School of Social Work and the NCDHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education. Be prepared to support those around you by getting certified in Mental Health First Aid. Mental Health First Aid teaches the skills needed to recognize and respond to signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges, as well as how to provide someone with initial support until they are connected with appropriate professional help. In the free course, you learn risk factors and warning signs for mental health and addiction concerns, strategies to help someone in both crisis and non-crisis situations, and where to turn for help. Register here, https://ncmhfa.unc.edu/adult-mhfa-for-child-development-and-early-educators/. • Another training opportunity is through Early Learning Instruction for Teachers (eLift). Choose from over 100 courses available on-demand, live/virtual, and in-person with flexible payment options, including individual memberships, group memberships, and single courses from $5! Early Learning Academies, Training for High School CTE programs, Pre-Apprenticeships, and Apprenticeship NC are also available. For more information, visit the Southwestern Child Development Commission Website or email darby.karen@swcdcinc.org or elift@swcdcinc.org. • QRIS LICENSURE PATHWAY EVALUATION: An application for an Assessment for a Rated License for Centers Pathway #2 - Classroom and Instructional Quality has been received for this facility. Currently the facility has a 3 Star License. During today's assessment the following applies: RATIOS & SPACE: This facility abides by enhanced space requirements. EDUCATION STANDARDS: You identified eight (8) lead teachers and nine (9) other educators on the Staff Information and Education Worksheet to be evaluated. At least fifty percent of lead teachers and at least fifty percent of the other educators meet the individual education standards at the four (4) star level, however you stated that due to the facility’s enrollment you can not implement the enhanced ratios at this time, resulting in meeting 3 star standards. FAMILY & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT FOUNDATIONAL PRACTICES: You will ensure that the facility implements the identified foundational practices, including the two (2) additional options identified from each category of engagement required to meet family and community engagement standards at the three (3) star level. The completed Family and Community Engagement Standards form was received today. Remember you must maintain proof of your identified foundational practices in your QRIS notebook for review. CONTINOUS QUALITY IMPROVEMENT (CQI) PLAN: You will ensure a Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) plan is completed annually that addresses programmatic goals for the facility and is maintained on file (in your QRIS notebook). Also, you will ensure that you and all other staff members with caregiving responsibilities will complete an individual CQI plan annually. You and all other staff members are required to complete a Professional Development Plan (PD) within one year and annually thereafter that is appropriate for ages of children in care. You understand that you will maintain the CQI and PD in the personnel files at the facility. During today’s visit a completed Facility CQI Plan that addresses programmatic goals for the center was received. APPROVED CURRICULUM and FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT: The facility currently uses the approved curriculum, Lillio. An approved formative assessment is not required at the 3 star level. QUALITY INITATIVES RECOGNITION: A completed Quality Initiative Recognition form identifying all of the quality initiatives was received today. The quality initiatives identified were reviewed and determined to be met. COMPLIANCE HISTORY: This facility’s 18-month compliance history is above 75%. Based on today’s QRIS Licensure Pathway Evaluation, it appears that you have achieved Five (5) Stars. Paperwork will be submitted for the issuance of a new Five (5) Star License. When you receive your new license, please post it alongside your quality initiatives. • Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website for child care updates at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time and cooperation. If you have any further questions or concerns, please contact me. Bridggette Campbell 2201 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-2200 bridggette.campbell@dhhs.nc.gov (919) 819-9357 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: CREATIVE KIDZ ACADEMY Facility ID: 92001788 Consultant: BRIDGGETTE CAMPBELL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/30/2026 Number Present: 98 Completed Date: 6/30/2026 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 390 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 05:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with child care requirements for an annual compliance and rated license assessment. This facility currently operates with Three (3) Star License that was issued on 1-26-24. The last sanitation inspection was completed on 8-11-25 with an “Superior” classification. The last approved fire inspection was conducted on 11-18-25. The last annual compliance visit was on 12-10-25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and the corporation’s name, Creative Kidz Academy, Inc. was listed as “Current-Active.” Today’s visit was conducted with you, Shannon Fowler, assistant director. I monitored the nine (9) classrooms in use occupied by children for compliance with staff/child ratios, supervision, and staff interaction/discipline. The program was also monitored for health and safety requirements both indoors and outdoors using the annual compliance monitoring checklist. Children completed daily activities with adequate supervision and engagement from the caregivers. The children were observed interacting in activity centers, at the table making red and blue slime, and coloring 4th of July coloring sheets with makers. The children also completed toileting and handwashing routines as required. The program requirements, along with equipment and furnishings were observed. Compliance with staff records was documented by you. There have been three (3) new staff members hired since the last annual compliance visit. Children’s records were reviewed today. The children’s prescribed medications and diaper ointments kept on the premises were also monitored. This facility provides transportation services during the school year. However, the facility's Sprinter van was not available for observation during today's visit because it was not on the premises. The following violations of child care requirements were cited during today’s visit and must be corrected immediately. Technical assistance on how to maintain compliance was provided today. Violation Number Comment Rule 542 The written feeding plan was not modified as the child's needs changed. One child's feeding schedule posted in space #2 was not updated to reflect the child's current eating habits. 10 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 #4 permission to administer diaper ointment for one child expired March 2026. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) The following was discussed with you during today’s visit: • 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. • Technical Assistance was provided with the following suggestion that may be beneficial: Medication Authorization & Leftover Medications: Any medication on the premises must be labeled with the child’s name and/or have a prescription label, be accompanied by a current permission slip, filled out completely with the parent/guardian’s signature and date. Set a reminder to review/update medications in each classroom on a regular basis to ensure permission authorization has not expired. You must remember the “five rights” of medication use: the right child, the right medication, the right time, the right dose, and the right route—all of which are generally regarded as a standard for safe medication practices. You and the caregivers must know what medication the parent/guardian authorized to be administered and how the parent/guardian wants medication given. If documentation is required after the medication is administered, then documentation with the required information must be completed and kept on file for six months. Having clear, detailed procedures for obtaining administered medication protects children from mistakes that can affect their health. It was suggested to reiterate in your monthly newsletter to parents that medication must accompany a permission slip, and it was suggested all staff complete training on administering medications. Contact your Child Care Health Consultant, Krista Barbour, Nursing Supervisor krista.barbour@wake.gov Work Phone: 919-212-7572 Cell 919-795-7304, to schedule training on medications. Infant Feeding Schedule: Updating an infant's feeding schedule is vital to meet their rapid growth needs, prevent digestion issues, and avoid missed meals. It ensures the infant stays full and happy, being fed according to the parent’s instructions. It was suggested to monitor feeding schedules weekly to ensure that the feeding schedule reflects the infant’s current eating habits and have parents update feeding schedules immediately when eating habits change. • The last lead in water testing results were completed on 10-27-2023 and your asbestos and lead in paint from Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids were completed on 7-25-24. Remember to complete lead in water testing before October 2026, as this testing is required every three (3) years. • North Carolina has two education-based salary supplement programs (WAGE$ and STEP$) to help support the early care and education workforce. The Child Care WAGE$® Program provides education-based salary supplements to eligible educators working with children birth to age five. STEP$ (Supporting Teachers’ Earnings and Progress) is a new salary supplement program for lead teachers, teachers and family child care providers working forty (40) hours per week with children birth through age two. Eligibility for each program is different. Learn more about program requirements at WAGE$ -https://www.earlyyearsnc.org/program/wages/wage-eligibility STEP$ - https://www.earlyyearsnc.org/program/steps. • The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NC DHHS) is pleased to partner with Teaching Strategies to provide for FREE the Professional Development Teacher Membership (PDTM), which includes all CDA coursework to all educators employed by a licensed North Carolina childcare facility. This high-quality professional development coursework from the early childhood experts at Teaching Strategies is live and on-demand with over 400 hours of continuing education units (CEU) courses. The complimentary Professional Development Teacher Memberships (PDTM) will expire on August 20, 2026. Please be sure to finish any CDA or other coursework currently in progress, or that you and/or your staff plan to begin, before August 20, 2026. Download or print your course completion certificates and transcripts for your records. Sign up for FREE here: https://teachingstrategies.com/north-carolina-pdtm/ • Early Years has many live and on-demand trainings in the month of May from the Birth-Three Quality Initiative. Courses include Nurturing Little Minds, Applying NCFELD to Infant-Toddler Planning, and Building Relationships with Infants and Toddlers. Access the list of trainings here: https://files.constantcontact.com/0a3da4b4101/7cb97efe-7f96-4a41-82a8-9ea85efe62a3.pdf. • It is strongly recommended that staff complete the NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development training. The purpose of the North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development is to establish a framework that supports the healthy development and school readiness of children from birth to age 5. This framework is designed to guide early childhood caregivers in creating an environment that fosters learning and development. This 5-hour course provides a clear set of expectations and goals that caregivers can use to plan and implement their teaching practices for supporting children in their learning and development. You can look for upcoming trainings on the NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development training and visit YouTube where there are short videos on Foundations for Early Learning and Development training. • Free Adult Mental Health First Aid Training is being offered by UNC School of Social Work and the NCDHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education. Be prepared to support those around you by getting certified in Mental Health First Aid. Mental Health First Aid teaches the skills needed to recognize and respond to signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges, as well as how to provide someone with initial support until they are connected with appropriate professional help. In the free course, you learn risk factors and warning signs for mental health and addiction concerns, strategies to help someone in both crisis and non-crisis situations, and where to turn for help. Register here, https://ncmhfa.unc.edu/adult-mhfa-for-child-development-and-early-educators/. • Another training opportunity is through Early Learning Instruction for Teachers (eLift). Choose from over 100 courses available on-demand, live/virtual, and in-person with flexible payment options, including individual memberships, group memberships, and single courses from $5! Early Learning Academies, Training for High School CTE programs, Pre-Apprenticeships, and Apprenticeship NC are also available. For more information, visit the Southwestern Child Development Commission Website or email darby.karen@swcdcinc.org or elift@swcdcinc.org. • QRIS LICENSURE PATHWAY EVALUATION: An application for an Assessment for a Rated License for Centers Pathway #2 - Classroom and Instructional Quality has been received for this facility. Currently the facility has a 3 Star License. During today's assessment the following applies: RATIOS & SPACE: This facility abides by enhanced space requirements. EDUCATION STANDARDS: You identified eight (8) lead teachers and nine (9) other educators on the Staff Information and Education Worksheet to be evaluated. At least fifty percent of lead teachers and at least fifty percent of the other educators meet the individual education standards at the four (4) star level, however you stated that due to the facility’s enrollment you can not implement the enhanced ratios at this time, resulting in meeting 3 star standards. FAMILY & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT FOUNDATIONAL PRACTICES: You will ensure that the facility implements the identified foundational practices, including the two (2) additional options identified from each category of engagement required to meet family and community engagement standards at the three (3) star level. The completed Family and Community Engagement Standards form was received today. Remember you must maintain proof of your identified foundational practices in your QRIS notebook for review. CONTINOUS QUALITY IMPROVEMENT (CQI) PLAN: You will ensure a Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) plan is completed annually that addresses programmatic goals for the facility and is maintained on file (in your QRIS notebook). Also, you will ensure that you and all other staff members with caregiving responsibilities will complete an individual CQI plan annually. You and all other staff members are required to complete a Professional Development Plan (PD) within one year and annually thereafter that is appropriate for ages of children in care. You understand that you will maintain the CQI and PD in the personnel files at the facility. During today’s visit a completed Facility CQI Plan that addresses programmatic goals for the center was received. APPROVED CURRICULUM and FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT: The facility currently uses the approved curriculum, Lillio. An approved formative assessment is not required at the 3 star level. QUALITY INITATIVES RECOGNITION: A completed Quality Initiative Recognition form identifying all of the quality initiatives was received today. The quality initiatives identified were reviewed and determined to be met. COMPLIANCE HISTORY: This facility’s 18-month compliance history is above 75%. Based on today’s QRIS Licensure Pathway Evaluation, it appears that you have achieved Five (5) Stars. Paperwork will be submitted for the issuance of a new Five (5) Star License. When you receive your new license, please post it alongside your quality initiatives. • Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website for child care updates at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time and cooperation. If you have any further questions or concerns, please contact me. Bridggette Campbell 2201 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-2200 bridggette.campbell@dhhs.nc.gov (919) 819-9357 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: CREATIVE KIDZ ACADEMY Facility ID: 92001788 Consultant: BRIDGGETTE CAMPBELL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/12/2025 Number Present: 76 Completed Date: 12/12/2025 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 360 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 05:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Announced The purpose of today’s announced visit was to follow-up on the annual compliance and rated license assessment visit conducted on 12-10-25. Today’s visit was conducted with you, Christina Lewis, owner/director. I monitored the nine (9) classrooms in use for compliance with staff/child ratios, supervision, and staff interaction/discipline. The children were observed interacting in activity centers, at the tables with play dough and manipulatives, and the caregivers were observed reading books to the children. Compliance with staff records was documented by you. New staff records, along with children’s records were reviewed today. This facility provides transportation and transportation requirements were monitored. The following violation of child care requirements was cited during today’s visit and must be corrected immediately. Technical assistance on how to maintain compliance was provided today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Documentation in three (3) employees' files did not reflect that six (6) hours of required training was completed within the first six (6) weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) The above violation must be corrected immediately and a letter must be sent to me no later than 12-24-25 stating how the item was corrected and a plan to maintain compliance with the requirements. My mailing address is: PO Box 865, Knightdale, NC 27545-0865 or a correction letter can be emailed to: bridggette.campbell@dhhs.nc.gov. The following were discussed with you during today’s visit: • 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. • Technical Assistance was provided with the following suggestions that may be beneficial: Orientation: Completing the required six (6) hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment ensures new staff are fully trained in critical safety procedures before working with children. This includes reviewing emergency preparedness and response plans, prevention of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma, prevention and control of infectious diseases, and procedures for recognizing and reporting child abuse and neglect. Starting a new job can be overwhelming, especially in a high-responsibility role like childcare. A well-structured, timely orientation helps ease first-day jitters by providing clear expectations, providing necessary information, tools, and job-specific training early on, new employees become productive members of the team faster. Ultimately, timely and comprehensive orientation provides a strong foundation that benefits everyone: the staff, the children in care, and the families who entrust the center with their child's well-being. It was suggested to calculate the hours needed for training in the first five orientation topics to equate to six or more of the required hours. Write these hours in on the orientation form and make copies to use with new employees to ensure the correct number of hours are being provided. • Lead in water results were completed on 10-27-2023, and lead in paint from Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids was completed on 7-25-2024. Results for asbestos testing was completed on 8-25-24. You will need to complete lead in water testing again by 10-27-26, as the testing is required every 3 years. • You have linked your staff in the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS), DCDEE’s criminal background check system. • Free Adult Mental Health First Aid Training is being offered by UNC School of Social Work and the NCDHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education. Be prepared to support those around you by getting certified in Mental Health First Aid. Mental Health First Aid teaches the skills needed to recognize and respond to signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges, as well as how to provide someone with initial support until they are connected with appropriate professional help. In the free course, you learn risk factors and warning signs for mental health and addiction concerns, strategies to help someone in both crisis and noncrisis situations, and where to turn for help. Register here, https://ncmhfa.unc.edu/adult-mhfa-for-child-development-and-early-educators/. • The NC Institute for Child Development Professionals (NCICDP) began offering on-demand online trainings for Early Childhood professionals. Some sessions are developed originally as online trainings and others are live webinar events that were recorded and then adapted to an online on-demand format. Currently the NCICDP is offering these two trainings, Salary Scale Toolkit Level 1 Training and Professional Burnout in ECE: You Can’t Give to Others What You Don’t Have. Visit the online trainings at https://www.ncicdp.org/on-demand-trainings/. If there are any issues or questions about the Institute trainings, please reach out to Ashley Allen at ashleya@ncicdp.org and/or Erin Speer Smith at erins@ncicdp.org. • Did you know that if you do not login on to any of the 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. It is strongly suggested to 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. • The NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center is a valuable resource where you can find skills-based training and technical assistance from your Child Care Health Consultant on specific medications or health conditions, as well as the new poster on Stand-Up Changing Procedures. Sign up for their quarterly newsletter and find updated resources at www.healthychildcare.unc.edu or 800-367-2229, choose option 1, then 2. • During today’s visit you submitted the new Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS) rated license application. The Classroom and Instructional Quality Pathway #2 was the pathway option chosen. We thoroughly reviewed the requirements of this pathway and how the criteria are incorporated at each star level. The following criteria were verified/received during today’s visit: - Ratios/Space: Enhanced Ratios and Enhanced Space requirements are being met. - Education Standards: The education in the WORKS system was reviewed for the majority of the staff. There are several staff that will be finishing early childhood coursework next week and their transcripts will need to be submitted through the National Student Clearinghouse. Once all education standards can be verified in the WORKS system, the star level education standards will be determined. Based upon education observed in the WORKS system today and the observed unofficial transcripts that will be submitted, education standards at 50% appear to be at 4 stars for lead teachers and other educators. - Family and Community Engagement Foundation Practices: The Family and Community Engagement Standards for Child Care Centers Form was received, and documentation showed the required Communication Options marked, Engagement and Leadership Options marked, and the required Educational Opportunity Options marked at the 4 Star Rated License level. - Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plan for Facility: The CQI for the facility was received today identifying the programmatic goals. You understand that the CQI process builds over time, using established goals to support caregivers and the childcare facility in achieving and sustaining continual improvements. You also understand that documentation of support and steps taken by you to complete the programmatic goal must be completed within 12 months for an annual review documenting the establishment of a new goal if the established goal is achieved or changed. Remember that this CQI must be on file at the center. - Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI)/ Professional Development (PD) Plan for Individuals: The completed CQI/PD for individuals employed at the facility were observed today. The CQI/PD is used to identify areas of growth and determine a path toward enhanced teaching, learning and practices to achieve better outcomes for children, staff and your program. The CQI process builds over time, using established goals to support individuals and child care facilities in achieving and sustaining continual improvements. The administrator and other staff members are required to complete a CQI/PD plan within one year and annually thereafter that is appropriate for ages of children in care. You understand that the CQ/PDI for individuals must be on file for review in the personnel files and updated annually. - Curriculum for ages served: Currently you are using the approved Lillio Learning Curriculum. You understand that ongoing formative assessments must be completed by all classroom staff to gather information about each child's growth and skill development, and how each child processes information and solves problems during the learning process. You stated that child assessments would be shared with families every June and December and that there will be coaching/training options for you and lead teachers. Once the education of the staff members finishing coursework this semester is updated in WORKS, and the violation cited today is confirmed corrected, please contact me. Education will be verified in WORKS and your new Star Rated License will be processed. You were also encouraged to review the 4 pages of the Quality Initiatives Recognition Form provided for you today and acknowledge any applicable quality initiatives. The quality initiatives you chose will be reviewed and verified and will be submitted with your permit paperwork for the issuance of a new Star Rated License. Your new star rated license will be mailed to you along with a listing of the recognition of quality initiatives that you can post with your new license. • Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website for child care updates at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time and cooperation. If you have any further questions or concerns, please contact me. Bridggette Campbell 2201 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-2200 bridggette.campbell@dhhs.nc.gov (919) 819-9357 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: CREATIVE KIDZ ACADEMY Facility ID: 92001788 Consultant: BRIDGGETTE CAMPBELL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/20/2025 Number Present: 81 Completed Date: 6/20/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with child care requirements for a routine unannounced assessment. This facility currently operates with a Three (3) Star License that was issued on 1-26-24. Today’s visit was conducted with you, Cynthia Okuwa, director. Upon arrival to the facility, I was greeted by you. You accompanied me as we did a walk-through of the six (6) classrooms in use, occupied by children. Compliance with capacity, supervision, discipline, attendance, program requirements, storage of hazardous substances, CPR & First Aid, permit restrictions, the required postings, and staff record documentation was monitored as a partial assessment of applicable child care requirements. Medications and permission to administer medications were observed and monitored. During the visit, the children were observed interacting in activity centers, playing “Ring Around the Rosie,” having free art coloring at the table, and outside on the playground running about. A partial assessment of child care requirements was monitored during today’s visit. The following violation was cited and must be corrected immediately. Violation Number Comment Rule 811 Potentially hazardous items including but not limited to power tools, nails, chemicals, propane stoves, lawn mowers, gasoline, or kerosene were not stored in locked areas, removed from the premises, or made inaccessible to children. In space #4, in the unlocked closet was hand sanitizer, Pine Sol, Aleve Pain Reliever, Clorox Bathroom Disinfectant, and Curel Lotion was located in a child's cubbie, unlocked. In space #5 in the unlocked closet was Febreze, 2 aerosol cans of Lysol Disinfectant, 6 containers of Clorox Wipes, 2 containers of Pine Sol, and Clorox Bathroom Disinfectant. .0604(a) The above violation must be corrected immediately and a letter must be sent to me no later than 7-4-25 stating how the item was corrected and a plan to maintain compliance with the requirements. My mailing address is: 2201 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-2200 or a correction letter can be emailed to: bridggette.campbell@dhhs.nc.gov. The following were discussed with you during today’s visit: • 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. • Technical Assistance was provided with the following suggestions that may be beneficial: Storage of Hazardous Substances: It is important to have hazardous items/chemicals/medications locked because children are more vulnerable to exposures of hazardous materials due to their developing bodies and behavior. Their smaller size means even small amounts of toxic substances can have serious effects. Young children explore with all their senses, including touch and taste — they may accidentally ingest or spill chemicals. Locking up chemicals helps prevent accidents and ensures a safe, regulated environment, which is crucial for compliance with health and safety standards. It is strongly recommended you have a staff meeting and provide training to ensure all staff are trained and knowledgeable about hazardous items/chemicals/medication safety, including proper use, storage, and emergency procedures. • A fire drill and emergency drill must be completed and documented before 6-30-2025. • The rocking chair in space #4 has to potential to rock on a child's hand/fingers. Consider removing the chair or making it so the chair does not rock. • The NC Institute for Child Development Professionals (NCICDP) began offering on-demand online trainings for Early Childhood professionals. Some sessions are developed originally as online trainings and others are live webinar events that were recorded and then adapted to an online on-demand format. Currently the NCICDP is offering these two trainings, Salary Scale Toolkit Level 1 Training and Professional Burnout in ECE: You Can’t Give to Others What You Don’t Have. Visit the online trainings at https://www.ncicdp.org/on-demand-trainings/. If there are any issues or questions about the Institute trainings, please reach out to Ashley Allen at ashleya@ncicdp.org and/or Erin Speer Smith at erins@ncicdp.org. • While the QRIS Modernization rules are not yet in effect, the Division must prepare now for the gradual transition to the new requirements. Resources, forms, and training will be provided to support the transition to the new pathways to earn your Two- through Five-Star Rated License. To assist us in that process we would love to hear from you! We’re asking providers, directors and administrators to please complete a brief survey (https://northchealth.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3rxLoX0PcJUR5Qy) so we’ll know how we can best prepare to serve you during this transition • Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website for child care updates at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time and cooperation. If you have any further questions or concerns, please contact me. Bridggette Campbell 2201 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-2200 bridggette.campbell@dhhs.nc.gov (919) 819-9357 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 110-105 · Violation

Name of Operation: CREATIVE KIDZ ACADEMY Facility ID: 92001788 Consultant: PAMELIA CARMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0525-312A Visit Date: 5/29/2025 Number Present: 84 Completed Date: 5/29/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 85 Time In: 11:40 AM Time Out: 01:05 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Chris Cortez, assistant, accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Christy Lewis, owner/director, Shannon Fowler, assistant and additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 904 A child was handled in a rough way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking. A staff member bit a child on the arm leaving teeth imprints on the child. .1803(a)(1) 1810 There was a substantiation of child maltreatment. On August 12, 2025, the Division substantiated child maltreatment regarding a child sustaining a physical injury. GS 110-105.6(a) You may contact me Pamelia Carmon, Investigations Consultant at 919-280-2252, or pamelia.carmon@dhhs.nc.gov or Sheronda Harris, Investigations Supervisor at Sheronda.harris@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: CREATIVE KIDZ ACADEMY Facility ID: 92001788 Consultant: BRIDGGETTE CAMPBELL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/12/2024 Number Present: 81 Completed Date: 12/12/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 05:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with child care requirements for an annual compliance assessment. This facility currently operates with a Three (3) Star License that was issued on 6-8-23. The last sanitation inspection was completed on 7-18-24 with an “Superior” classification. The last approved fire inspection was conducted on 11-19-24. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and this facility’s corporation’s name, Creative Kidz Academy, Inc. was listed as “Current-Active.” Today’s visit was conducted with you, Christina Lewis, owner/director. I monitored the nine (9) classrooms in use for compliance with staff/child ratios, supervision, and staff interaction/discipline. The program was also monitored for health and safety requirements both indoors and outdoors using the annual compliance monitoring checklist. Children completed daily activities with adequate supervision and engagement from the caregivers. The children were observed interacting in activity centers, running about outside on the playground, at the table coloring with markers, and in circle time learning about the solar system. Lunch was observed being served and the children completed handwashing and toileting routines before naptime, where the children rested on cots with linens. The program requirements, along with equipment and furnishings were observed. Compliance with staff records was documented by you. New staff records, along with children’s records were reviewed today. Medications observed on the premises were monitored. This facility provides transportation and transportation requirements were monitored. The following violations of child care requirements were cited during today’s visit and must be corrected immediately. Technical assistance on how to maintain compliance was provided. Violation Number Comment Rule 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Several diaper creams located in space #4 was not returned to the parent after the course of treatment. .0803(12) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. The medical report on file for one staff member hired on 11-19-24 was dated 12-15-22, which was more than 12 months old. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. The TB Test on file for one staff member hired on 11-19-24 was dated 12-15-22, which was more than 12 months old. .0701(a) The above violations must be corrected immediately and a letter must be sent to me no later than 12-26-24 stating how the items were corrected and a plan to maintain compliance with the requirements. My mailing address is: PO Box 865, Knightdale, NC 27545-0865 or a correction letter can be emailed to: bridggette.campbell@dhhs.nc.gov. The following were discussed with you during today’s visit: • 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. • Technical Assistance was provided with the following suggestions that may be beneficial: Left Over Medication: Leftover medications should be disposed of because they pose a risk of accidental ingestion by children, which can be dangerous to their health, and proper disposal helps prevent potential misuse or access to medications by unauthorized individuals, protecting the safety of all children in the facility. It was suggested to set a reminder alarm in your phone/calendar email that once medication has been administered for the course of treatment, to send it home on that date. If the parent does not take the medication, it should be disposed of properly. Staff Medical Information: Federal law also requires that an employer keep all medical information confidential and in separate medical files. Any staff medical statements, any proof of tuberculosis test or screening, and any completed health questionnaires must be included in a staff member's medical file, which must be maintained separately from that staff member's individual personnel file. The most current health forms can be accessed on the DCDEE website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Provider-Documents-and-Forms. It was suggested to not let any new hire come into the facility to begin work without their completed staff medical report completed within the past 12 months and their negative TB test results or TB screening completed within the past 12 months. • The diaper creams were observed in zip lock bags and the permission slips were folded and crumpled. It was suggested to place the permission slips in protective sleeves in a binder or small photo album for ease of review. • Hold harmless has been extended until the new QRIS (Star Rated License System) rules are implemented (SB 425). • Keep an eye on your inbox for the 2024 annual license fee invoice. Invoices will be emailed to the facility address on file by 11-30-24. Online payments will be due by December 31, 2024. For help with the annual license fee, contact DCDEE_LF@dhhs.nc.gov. • Complete the Annual Immunization Report by 1-15-25. The reporting period for child care immunizations is now open. Reporting for 2024-2025 has been extended due to Hurricane Helene. Children have a grace period from requirements until 11-30-24, and reports will be accepted until 1-15-25. Send any questions regarding child care immunization reporting to immunization.reports@dhhs.nc.gov. • Please link your staff asap in the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS), the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. • Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website for child care updates at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time and cooperation. If you have any further questions or concerns, please contact me. Bridggette Campbell PO BOX 865, Knightdale, NC 27545-0865 bridggette.campbell@dhhs.nc.gov (919) 819-9357 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: CREATIVE KIDZ ACADEMY Facility ID: 92001788 Consultant: BRIDGGETTE CAMPBELL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/12/2024 Number Present: 81 Completed Date: 12/12/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 05:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with child care requirements for an annual compliance assessment. This facility currently operates with a Three (3) Star License that was issued on 6-8-23. The last sanitation inspection was completed on 7-18-24 with an “Superior” classification. The last approved fire inspection was conducted on 11-19-24. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and this facility’s corporation’s name, Creative Kidz Academy, Inc. was listed as “Current-Active.” Today’s visit was conducted with you, Christina Lewis, owner/director. I monitored the nine (9) classrooms in use for compliance with staff/child ratios, supervision, and staff interaction/discipline. The program was also monitored for health and safety requirements both indoors and outdoors using the annual compliance monitoring checklist. Children completed daily activities with adequate supervision and engagement from the caregivers. The children were observed interacting in activity centers, running about outside on the playground, at the table coloring with markers, and in circle time learning about the solar system. Lunch was observed being served and the children completed handwashing and toileting routines before naptime, where the children rested on cots with linens. The program requirements, along with equipment and furnishings were observed. Compliance with staff records was documented by you. New staff records, along with children’s records were reviewed today. Medications observed on the premises were monitored. This facility provides transportation and transportation requirements were monitored. The following violations of child care requirements were cited during today’s visit and must be corrected immediately. Technical assistance on how to maintain compliance was provided. Violation Number Comment Rule 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Several diaper creams located in space #4 was not returned to the parent after the course of treatment. .0803(12) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. The medical report on file for one staff member hired on 11-19-24 was dated 12-15-22, which was more than 12 months old. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. The TB Test on file for one staff member hired on 11-19-24 was dated 12-15-22, which was more than 12 months old. .0701(a) The above violations must be corrected immediately and a letter must be sent to me no later than 12-26-24 stating how the items were corrected and a plan to maintain compliance with the requirements. My mailing address is: PO Box 865, Knightdale, NC 27545-0865 or a correction letter can be emailed to: bridggette.campbell@dhhs.nc.gov. The following were discussed with you during today’s visit: • 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. • Technical Assistance was provided with the following suggestions that may be beneficial: Left Over Medication: Leftover medications should be disposed of because they pose a risk of accidental ingestion by children, which can be dangerous to their health, and proper disposal helps prevent potential misuse or access to medications by unauthorized individuals, protecting the safety of all children in the facility. It was suggested to set a reminder alarm in your phone/calendar email that once medication has been administered for the course of treatment, to send it home on that date. If the parent does not take the medication, it should be disposed of properly. Staff Medical Information: Federal law also requires that an employer keep all medical information confidential and in separate medical files. Any staff medical statements, any proof of tuberculosis test or screening, and any completed health questionnaires must be included in a staff member's medical file, which must be maintained separately from that staff member's individual personnel file. The most current health forms can be accessed on the DCDEE website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Provider-Documents-and-Forms. It was suggested to not let any new hire come into the facility to begin work without their completed staff medical report completed within the past 12 months and their negative TB test results or TB screening completed within the past 12 months. • The diaper creams were observed in zip lock bags and the permission slips were folded and crumpled. It was suggested to place the permission slips in protective sleeves in a binder or small photo album for ease of review. • Hold harmless has been extended until the new QRIS (Star Rated License System) rules are implemented (SB 425). • Keep an eye on your inbox for the 2024 annual license fee invoice. Invoices will be emailed to the facility address on file by 11-30-24. Online payments will be due by December 31, 2024. For help with the annual license fee, contact DCDEE_LF@dhhs.nc.gov. • Complete the Annual Immunization Report by 1-15-25. The reporting period for child care immunizations is now open. Reporting for 2024-2025 has been extended due to Hurricane Helene. Children have a grace period from requirements until 11-30-24, and reports will be accepted until 1-15-25. Send any questions regarding child care immunization reporting to immunization.reports@dhhs.nc.gov. • Please link your staff asap in the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS), the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. • Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website for child care updates at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time and cooperation. If you have any further questions or concerns, please contact me. Bridggette Campbell PO BOX 865, Knightdale, NC 27545-0865 bridggette.campbell@dhhs.nc.gov (919) 819-9357 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: CREATIVE KIDZ ACADEMY Facility ID: 92001788 Consultant: PAMELIA CARMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1124-052A Visit Date: 11/7/2024 Number Present: 90 Completed Date: 11/7/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 185 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 01:35 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Christy Lewis, owner accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. Lewis and additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. A staff member walked out of a classroom leaving one staff member alone with nine infants. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) You may contact me Pamelia Carmon, Investigations Consultant at 919-280-2252, or pamelia.carmon@dhhs.nc.gov or Sheronda Harris, Investigations Supervisor at Sheronda.harris@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: CREATIVE KIDZ ACADEMY Facility ID: 92001788 Consultant: BRIDGGETTE CAMPBELL Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0424-397L Visit Date: 4/29/2024 Number Present: 98 Completed Date: 4/29/2024 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 140 Time In: 03:00 PM Time Out: 05:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to investigate allegations of noncompliance with child care requirements. Today’s visit was conducted with you, Shannon Fowler, assistant director. This facility currently operates with a Three (3) Star License that was issued on 1-26-24. Upon arrival to the facility, I was greeted by you and the complaint allegations regarding supervision, staff records/orientation, and staff criminal background checks were shared with you. Staff members were also interviewed. In regards to supervision, it was alleged that an unsupervised toddler was found crawling down the hallway of the facility. You and a staff member corroborated that when a parent left out of space #2, they did not close the door and a toddler followed the parent, crawling out of the classroom and into the hallway. The two caregivers in space #2 were unaware that the toddler had left the classroom. All children were adequately supervised during today’s visit. Based on my conversation with staff, the allegation concerning supervision is substantiated. See violation below. In regards to the allegation concerning staff records/orientation and staff criminal background checks, it was alleged that there is a caregiver employed since February without a criminal background check or qualifying letter and that this caregiver was not trained, just “thrown” into the classroom. You stated that the caregiver did not have a qualifying letter on file. When the caregiver’s staff file was reviewed there was no documentation of receipt of the required sixteen hours of orientation. Based on my observations and conversation with you, the allegations concerning staff records/orientation and staff criminal background checks are substantiated. See violations below. The following violations of child care requirements were cited and must be corrected immediately. Technical assistance on how to maintain compliance was provided. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. Two caregivers in space #2 were unaware, as an unsupervised toddler crawled out of the classroom and down the hallway. .1801(a)(1-5) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. A staff member hired in February 2024 did not complete a criminal background check and did not have a qualifying letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. A staff member hired in February 2024 did not have documentation on file of receipt of the required sixteen hours of orientation. .1101(a) The above violations must be corrected immediately and a corrective action letter must be sent to me no later than 5-13-24 describing accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected and a plan to prevent future violations. 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. My mailing address is: PO Box 865, Knightdale, NC 27545-0865 or a corrective action letter can be emailed to: bridggette.campbell@dhhs.nc.gov. The following were discussed with you during today’s visit: • A follow-up visit will be made in the near future to monitor for compliance. • Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. • Technical Assistance was provided with the following suggestions that may be beneficial: • Please have a mandatory staff meeting to reiterate to the staff the importance of maintaining compliance with all child care requirements for the safety of the children. • Supervision: Supervision was discussed in detail, along with examples of inadequate supervision. A handout titled “Active Supervision at-a-Glance - SIX STRATEGIES TO KEEP CHILDREN SAFE was provided today as a resource. Children shall be adequately supervised at all times. Adequate supervision shall mean that staff interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor areas and are able to always hear and see the children, except when emergencies necessitate that direct supervision is impossible for brief periods of time. Effective supervision is integral to creating environments that are safe and responsive to the needs of all children. It also helps to protect children from hazards or harm that may arise from their play and daily routines. Effective supervision also allows educators to engage in meaningful interactions with children. • Orientation: Staff qualifications and training requirements are essential for adults who interact with and teach children. These requirements protect children in childcare facilities by ensuring these facilities provide a physically safe and healthy environment where the developmental needs of children are being met and where children are cared for by qualified staff. Each staff person shall receive 16 hours of orientation within the first 6 weeks of employment. Six of the hours are required to be completed within the first two weeks of employment. When documenting orientation, please ensure that all required information is entered on the DCDEE orientation form that can be found on the DCDEE website, under the provider – provider documents/forms tab. • Criminal Background Checks (CBC): Criminal Background Checks are completed to protect the children from abuse and reduce liability risks. The CBC process must be completed before a person can begin work; therefore, a Qualification Letter must be on file prior to employment. Any employee in a licensed child care facility must have a background check completed through the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). A CBC must be completed every five years. An expiration date is listed on each Qualification Letter. Submissions can be made six months before the expiration date. Operators will need to be proactive and make staffing decisions and arrangements in advance to avoid non-compliance with this and other DCDEE staffing requirements. Having applicants submit a copy of their Qualification Letter along with their resume and application can facilitate a shorter selection and hiring process. Criminal background checks must be completed online. To complete online criminal background check applications, go to www.ncchildcare.nc.gov/general/dhhscrc.asp. The $27.00 payment is a part of the online criminal background check application process. Fingerprints must be completed through LIVESCAN at your local county sheriff’s office. If you have any questions regarding the criminal background check process, dial 1-800-859-0829 and ask for the criminal background unit. • Administrators/Owner Duties: We also discussed record keeping is one of the most time-consuming tasks associated with administering a child care program. It is an important part of licensure. Having a staff file on each staff member and reviewing these staff files often to ensure the program maintains accurate licensing records is a must. Organization and completeness of records is important to ensure easy access to information in emergency situations. We discussed making sure that you develop a record keeping system for staff and children’s records that promotes organization and efficiency. Administrative staff must allow time to review all necessary documentation prior to employment of staff to ensure accuracy. As an administrator, it is your responsibility to review all employment documentation and verify that required documents are received within the specified time frame. Using a checklist to check and date receipt of documents will help you track employment documents. A staff file checklist is available on the DCDEE website under the Provider tab and provider documents links. Please refer to the Staff and Training Worksheets to continue to keep all staff members current with their upcoming due dates for CPR/First Aid training, child maltreatment training, and health and safety training requirements. • Please visit DCDEE’s website for child care updates at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Contact me if you have questions or concerns: Bridggette Campbell PO Box 865, Knightdale, NC 27545-0865 bridggette.campbell@dhhs.nc.gov (919) 819-9357 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: CREATIVE KIDZ ACADEMY Facility ID: 92001788 Consultant: BRIDGGETTE CAMPBELL Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0424-397L Visit Date: 4/29/2024 Number Present: 98 Completed Date: 4/29/2024 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 140 Time In: 03:00 PM Time Out: 05:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to investigate allegations of noncompliance with child care requirements. Today’s visit was conducted with you, Shannon Fowler, assistant director. This facility currently operates with a Three (3) Star License that was issued on 1-26-24. Upon arrival to the facility, I was greeted by you and the complaint allegations regarding supervision, staff records/orientation, and staff criminal background checks were shared with you. Staff members were also interviewed. In regards to supervision, it was alleged that an unsupervised toddler was found crawling down the hallway of the facility. You and a staff member corroborated that when a parent left out of space #2, they did not close the door and a toddler followed the parent, crawling out of the classroom and into the hallway. The two caregivers in space #2 were unaware that the toddler had left the classroom. All children were adequately supervised during today’s visit. Based on my conversation with staff, the allegation concerning supervision is substantiated. See violation below. In regards to the allegation concerning staff records/orientation and staff criminal background checks, it was alleged that there is a caregiver employed since February without a criminal background check or qualifying letter and that this caregiver was not trained, just “thrown” into the classroom. You stated that the caregiver did not have a qualifying letter on file. When the caregiver’s staff file was reviewed there was no documentation of receipt of the required sixteen hours of orientation. Based on my observations and conversation with you, the allegations concerning staff records/orientation and staff criminal background checks are substantiated. See violations below. The following violations of child care requirements were cited and must be corrected immediately. Technical assistance on how to maintain compliance was provided. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. Two caregivers in space #2 were unaware, as an unsupervised toddler crawled out of the classroom and down the hallway. .1801(a)(1-5) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. A staff member hired in February 2024 did not complete a criminal background check and did not have a qualifying letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. A staff member hired in February 2024 did not have documentation on file of receipt of the required sixteen hours of orientation. .1101(a) The above violations must be corrected immediately and a corrective action letter must be sent to me no later than 5-13-24 describing accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected and a plan to prevent future violations. 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. My mailing address is: PO Box 865, Knightdale, NC 27545-0865 or a corrective action letter can be emailed to: bridggette.campbell@dhhs.nc.gov. The following were discussed with you during today’s visit: • A follow-up visit will be made in the near future to monitor for compliance. • Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. • Technical Assistance was provided with the following suggestions that may be beneficial: • Please have a mandatory staff meeting to reiterate to the staff the importance of maintaining compliance with all child care requirements for the safety of the children. • Supervision: Supervision was discussed in detail, along with examples of inadequate supervision. A handout titled “Active Supervision at-a-Glance - SIX STRATEGIES TO KEEP CHILDREN SAFE was provided today as a resource. Children shall be adequately supervised at all times. Adequate supervision shall mean that staff interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor areas and are able to always hear and see the children, except when emergencies necessitate that direct supervision is impossible for brief periods of time. Effective supervision is integral to creating environments that are safe and responsive to the needs of all children. It also helps to protect children from hazards or harm that may arise from their play and daily routines. Effective supervision also allows educators to engage in meaningful interactions with children. • Orientation: Staff qualifications and training requirements are essential for adults who interact with and teach children. These requirements protect children in childcare facilities by ensuring these facilities provide a physically safe and healthy environment where the developmental needs of children are being met and where children are cared for by qualified staff. Each staff person shall receive 16 hours of orientation within the first 6 weeks of employment. Six of the hours are required to be completed within the first two weeks of employment. When documenting orientation, please ensure that all required information is entered on the DCDEE orientation form that can be found on the DCDEE website, under the provider – provider documents/forms tab. • Criminal Background Checks (CBC): Criminal Background Checks are completed to protect the children from abuse and reduce liability risks. The CBC process must be completed before a person can begin work; therefore, a Qualification Letter must be on file prior to employment. Any employee in a licensed child care facility must have a background check completed through the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). A CBC must be completed every five years. An expiration date is listed on each Qualification Letter. Submissions can be made six months before the expiration date. Operators will need to be proactive and make staffing decisions and arrangements in advance to avoid non-compliance with this and other DCDEE staffing requirements. Having applicants submit a copy of their Qualification Letter along with their resume and application can facilitate a shorter selection and hiring process. Criminal background checks must be completed online. To complete online criminal background check applications, go to www.ncchildcare.nc.gov/general/dhhscrc.asp. The $27.00 payment is a part of the online criminal background check application process. Fingerprints must be completed through LIVESCAN at your local county sheriff’s office. If you have any questions regarding the criminal background check process, dial 1-800-859-0829 and ask for the criminal background unit. • Administrators/Owner Duties: We also discussed record keeping is one of the most time-consuming tasks associated with administering a child care program. It is an important part of licensure. Having a staff file on each staff member and reviewing these staff files often to ensure the program maintains accurate licensing records is a must. Organization and completeness of records is important to ensure easy access to information in emergency situations. We discussed making sure that you develop a record keeping system for staff and children’s records that promotes organization and efficiency. Administrative staff must allow time to review all necessary documentation prior to employment of staff to ensure accuracy. As an administrator, it is your responsibility to review all employment documentation and verify that required documents are received within the specified time frame. Using a checklist to check and date receipt of documents will help you track employment documents. A staff file checklist is available on the DCDEE website under the Provider tab and provider documents links. Please refer to the Staff and Training Worksheets to continue to keep all staff members current with their upcoming due dates for CPR/First Aid training, child maltreatment training, and health and safety training requirements. • Please visit DCDEE’s website for child care updates at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Contact me if you have questions or concerns: Bridggette Campbell PO Box 865, Knightdale, NC 27545-0865 bridggette.campbell@dhhs.nc.gov (919) 819-9357 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