A - Z Children Enrichment Academy

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: A - Z CHILDREN ENRICHMENT ACADEMY Facility ID: 42000202 Consultant: MARQUITTA HOLLOMAN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/5/2026 Number Present: 3 Completed Date: 5/5/2026 Age: From 1 To 2 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements. This facility currently operates with a Three Star license issued on November 30, 2022. The last sanitation inspection was completed on March 17, 2026, with a superior classification. The last satisfactory fire inspection was completed on November 3, 2025. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on June 4, 2025. Jacqueline Bennett, Owner/Operator was present and available to assist. Three (3) children, ranging in ages one (1) to tw0 (2) years were present. Children were observed in free choice play, and outdoor play. Staff interacted with children in a positive manner. You stated you do not provide transportation. I used the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Center Item Number Listing as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. Ten percent of staff records and ten percent of children’s records, and all program records were monitored. All staff, and children’s records were found to be in compliance. One (1) violation was documented for program record keeping and one (1) violation was documented for outdoor play area. Due to connectivity issues, a handwritten visit summary was reviewed and left with you at the conclusion of the visit. A computer generated visit summary will be emailed to you. The following violations of child care requirements were documented today. Violation Number Comment Rule 824 Outdoor play area was not enclosed by fence with a minimum height of 4 feet. The top of the fence, less than six feet, was not free from protrusions. The fence in the outdoor play area did not measure the required minimum height of 4 feet GS 110-91(6); .0605((i) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last drill was documented March 2026 .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Child Care Licensing Requirements are established to ensure a safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate environment for all child care facilities. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all licensing requirements that apply to your facility. 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. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with the applicable laws and rules; always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to ensure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the childcare laws and rules on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 19, 2026 I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is accurate documentation. If any information provided in the letter is not accurate, 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: Marquitta Holloman, Child Care Consultant PO Box 644 Murfreesboro, NC 27855 marquitta.holloman@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. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today's visit, this facility has maintained an 18-month compliance score of 92%. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE/ CONSULTATION PROGRAM RECORDS The facility’s shelter-in-place/lockdown drill was not practiced for April 2026. OUTDOOR PLAY AREA/FENCE The fencing in the outdoor play area did not measure the required minimum of four (4) feet. RESOURCES The Division of Child Development and Early Education's (DCDEE) website is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Visit this website for the most up-to-date child care forms, resources related to child care, and new child care rules/laws. QRIS/STAR RATED LICENSE In the visit conducted on 2/5/2026, we discussed the different pathway options for the new QRIS system. You decided to complete Pathway 2-Classroom and Instructional Quality Pathway. We completed an in-depth review of the forms and requirements specific to Pathway 2, on that date, and you were given the opportunity to ask questions. Today, we did a review of the forms and requirements, and discussed any questions and concerns you still have pertaining to Pathway 2. You stated you are working on the required documents, and they will be submitted soon. RECALLED ITEMS You can visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website at www.cpsc.gov for more information on recently recalled items. CONTACTS o Halifax-Warren Smart Start www.hwss.org (252) 537-5621 o I encourage you to contact Kathy Vick, Child Care Health Consultant, kvick@hwss.org or 252-537-5621, if additional assistance regarding applicable health and safety practices as is needed. If you have questions related to this visit or if I can be of additional assistance, I can be reached at 252-370-0207 or marquitta.holloman@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact Susan Fuller, Licensing Supervisor at 252-373-9809. 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: A - Z CHILDREN ENRICHMENT ACADEMY Facility ID: 42000202 Consultant: MARQUITTA HOLLOMAN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/5/2026 Number Present: 3 Completed Date: 5/5/2026 Age: From 1 To 2 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements. This facility currently operates with a Three Star license issued on November 30, 2022. The last sanitation inspection was completed on March 17, 2026, with a superior classification. The last satisfactory fire inspection was completed on November 3, 2025. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on June 4, 2025. Jacqueline Bennett, Owner/Operator was present and available to assist. Three (3) children, ranging in ages one (1) to tw0 (2) years were present. Children were observed in free choice play, and outdoor play. Staff interacted with children in a positive manner. You stated you do not provide transportation. I used the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Center Item Number Listing as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. Ten percent of staff records and ten percent of children’s records, and all program records were monitored. All staff, and children’s records were found to be in compliance. One (1) violation was documented for program record keeping and one (1) violation was documented for outdoor play area. Due to connectivity issues, a handwritten visit summary was reviewed and left with you at the conclusion of the visit. A computer generated visit summary will be emailed to you. The following violations of child care requirements were documented today. Violation Number Comment Rule 824 Outdoor play area was not enclosed by fence with a minimum height of 4 feet. The top of the fence, less than six feet, was not free from protrusions. The fence in the outdoor play area did not measure the required minimum height of 4 feet GS 110-91(6); .0605((i) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last drill was documented March 2026 .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Child Care Licensing Requirements are established to ensure a safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate environment for all child care facilities. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all licensing requirements that apply to your facility. 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. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with the applicable laws and rules; always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to ensure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the childcare laws and rules on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 19, 2026 I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is accurate documentation. If any information provided in the letter is not accurate, 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: Marquitta Holloman, Child Care Consultant PO Box 644 Murfreesboro, NC 27855 marquitta.holloman@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. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today's visit, this facility has maintained an 18-month compliance score of 92%. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE/ CONSULTATION PROGRAM RECORDS The facility’s shelter-in-place/lockdown drill was not practiced for April 2026. OUTDOOR PLAY AREA/FENCE The fencing in the outdoor play area did not measure the required minimum of four (4) feet. RESOURCES The Division of Child Development and Early Education's (DCDEE) website is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Visit this website for the most up-to-date child care forms, resources related to child care, and new child care rules/laws. QRIS/STAR RATED LICENSE In the visit conducted on 2/5/2026, we discussed the different pathway options for the new QRIS system. You decided to complete Pathway 2-Classroom and Instructional Quality Pathway. We completed an in-depth review of the forms and requirements specific to Pathway 2, on that date, and you were given the opportunity to ask questions. Today, we did a review of the forms and requirements, and discussed any questions and concerns you still have pertaining to Pathway 2. You stated you are working on the required documents, and they will be submitted soon. RECALLED ITEMS You can visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website at www.cpsc.gov for more information on recently recalled items. CONTACTS o Halifax-Warren Smart Start www.hwss.org (252) 537-5621 o I encourage you to contact Kathy Vick, Child Care Health Consultant, kvick@hwss.org or 252-537-5621, if additional assistance regarding applicable health and safety practices as is needed. If you have questions related to this visit or if I can be of additional assistance, I can be reached at 252-370-0207 or marquitta.holloman@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact Susan Fuller, Licensing Supervisor at 252-373-9809. 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 .0514 · Violation

Name of Operation: A - Z CHILDREN ENRICHMENT ACADEMY Facility ID: 42000202 Consultant: MARQUITTA HOLLOMAN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/4/2025 Number Present: 5 Completed Date: 6/4/2025 Age: From 0 To 3 Total Minutes: 170 Time In: 12:10 PM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements. This facility currently operates with a Three Star license issued on November 30, 2022. The last sanitation inspection was completed on March 19, 2025, with a superior classification. The last satisfactory fire inspection was completed on November 5, 2024. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on July 2, 2024. Jacqueline Bennett, Owner/Operator was present and available to assist. Five (5) children age ranging from zero (0) to three (3) years of age was present. Children were observed in free choice play, and outdoor play. Staff interacted with children in a positive manner. You stated you do not provide transportation. I used the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Center Item Number Listing as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. Ten percent of staff records and ten percent of children’s records, and all program records were monitored. All children’s records were found to be in compliance. One (1) violation was documented for staff record keeping and one (1) violation was documented for program record keeping. The following violations of child care requirements were documented today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Annual staff development plan and staff evaluations were not completed by staff. None were on record for review 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The facility’s Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPR) was not accessed annually and updated as needed as required in the rule. According to the facility's EPR record the last documented log in for the plan was March 4, 2022. .0607(e) Child Care Licensing Requirements are established to ensure a safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate environment for all child care facilities. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all licensing requirements that apply to your facility. 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. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with the applicable laws and rules; always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to ensure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the childcare laws and rules on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 18, 2025, 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 accurate documentation. If any information provided in the letter is not accurate, 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: Marquitta Holloman, Child Care Consultant PO Box 644 Murfreesboro, NC 27855 marquitta.holloman@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. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today's visit, this facility has maintained an 18-month compliance score of 95%. A copy of the most current compliance history score was printed and left with you at the conclusion of the visit. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE/ CONSULTATION STAFF RECORD KEEPING Annual staff development plan and staff evaluations were not completed by staff. These documents are to be completed yearly for each staff member. PROGRAM RECORDS The facility’s Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPR) was not accessed annually as required. The EPR plan should be accessed yearly and always have up to date information, including the child care consultant, and other important agency contacts. According to the EPR record the last documented log in for the plan was March 4, 2022. RESOURCES The Division of Child Development and Early Education's (DCDEE) website is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Visit this website for the most up-to-date child care forms, resources related to child care, and new child care rules/laws. STAR RATED LICENSE Hold harmless has been extended until the new QRIS is implemented (SB 425). Providers in Cohort 1 are not required to go any further with a rated license assessment unless they want to, and providers in Cohort 2 do not need to start their preparation year unless they want to. This should be the providers’ choice only. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at 1-800-859-0829 and someone will assist you. PATHWAYS TO THE PROFESSION The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) prioritizes increasing career pathways for future ECE teachers. However, after lengthy careful consideration DCDEE has reluctantly decided it will not bring back the Early Childhood Equivalency Exam due to concerns about academic integrity. We make this decision to ensure fair and equitable opportunity for all aspiring early childhood teachers, uphold minimum educational standards, and keep staff and children in licensed child care environments safe. Note, other Pathways to the Profession of Early Childhood Teacher still include: • EDU 119 – Introduction to Early Childhood Education: This 12-week course introduces the foundations of culturally responsive, equitable and inclusive early childhood education. Available at many N.C. Community Colleges with online, evening, or in-person options. Upon successful completion of EDU-119, the student earns the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential and qualifies to be a lead teacher in a child care center. • Test-Out Option for EDU 119: An early childhood professional who has gained knowledge through work and lived experience and/or professional development may be able to receive Credit for Prior Learning by taking a challenge exam for EDU119. Contact a local N.C. Community College for testing information. • EDU 3119 – Intro to Early Childhood Education: This new short-term (8-week) continuing education offering is designed to prepare students to work in a childcare facility. Students learn how to design developmentally appropriate and inclusive lesson plans and activities for young children in alignment with NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development and state regulations. At the end of the course, students will have obtained a qualifying letter which provides eligibility for employment in a N.C. child care facility. Contact a local N.C. Community College to see if this course is available near you. • Child Development Associate® Credential (CDA): DCDEE is still offering free memberships for a limited time to the ECE workforce to enroll in Teaching Strategies Quorum® online teacher education platform. Get support as a new teacher, or complete CDA Coursework and get guidance for portfolio development. Coursework is also available in Spanish on Quorum. Scholarships for CDA course materials are available through TEACH Early Childhood® North Carolina Scholarship Program. Remember lead teachers lacking the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential have six months to enroll in EDU 119 or a DCDEE-approved equivalent, plus up to 18 months to complete the course. RECALLED ITEMS You can visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website at www.cpsc.gov for more information on recently recalled items. CONTACTS o Halifax-Warren Smart Start www.hwss.org (252) 537-5621 o I encourage you to contact Kathy Vick, Child Care Health Consultant, kvick@hwss.org or 252-537-5621, if additional assistance regarding applicable health and safety practices as is needed. If you have questions related to this visit or if I can be of additional assistance, I can be reached at 252-370-0207 or marquitta.holloman@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact Susan Fuller, Licensing Supervisor at 252-373-9809. 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: A - Z CHILDREN ENRICHMENT ACADEMY Facility ID: 42000202 Consultant: MARQUITTA HOLLOMAN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/4/2025 Number Present: 5 Completed Date: 6/4/2025 Age: From 0 To 3 Total Minutes: 170 Time In: 12:10 PM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements. This facility currently operates with a Three Star license issued on November 30, 2022. The last sanitation inspection was completed on March 19, 2025, with a superior classification. The last satisfactory fire inspection was completed on November 5, 2024. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on July 2, 2024. Jacqueline Bennett, Owner/Operator was present and available to assist. Five (5) children age ranging from zero (0) to three (3) years of age was present. Children were observed in free choice play, and outdoor play. Staff interacted with children in a positive manner. You stated you do not provide transportation. I used the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Center Item Number Listing as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. Ten percent of staff records and ten percent of children’s records, and all program records were monitored. All children’s records were found to be in compliance. One (1) violation was documented for staff record keeping and one (1) violation was documented for program record keeping. The following violations of child care requirements were documented today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Annual staff development plan and staff evaluations were not completed by staff. None were on record for review 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The facility’s Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPR) was not accessed annually and updated as needed as required in the rule. According to the facility's EPR record the last documented log in for the plan was March 4, 2022. .0607(e) Child Care Licensing Requirements are established to ensure a safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate environment for all child care facilities. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all licensing requirements that apply to your facility. 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. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with the applicable laws and rules; always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to ensure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the childcare laws and rules on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 18, 2025, 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 accurate documentation. If any information provided in the letter is not accurate, 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: Marquitta Holloman, Child Care Consultant PO Box 644 Murfreesboro, NC 27855 marquitta.holloman@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. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today's visit, this facility has maintained an 18-month compliance score of 95%. A copy of the most current compliance history score was printed and left with you at the conclusion of the visit. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE/ CONSULTATION STAFF RECORD KEEPING Annual staff development plan and staff evaluations were not completed by staff. These documents are to be completed yearly for each staff member. PROGRAM RECORDS The facility’s Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPR) was not accessed annually as required. The EPR plan should be accessed yearly and always have up to date information, including the child care consultant, and other important agency contacts. According to the EPR record the last documented log in for the plan was March 4, 2022. RESOURCES The Division of Child Development and Early Education's (DCDEE) website is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Visit this website for the most up-to-date child care forms, resources related to child care, and new child care rules/laws. STAR RATED LICENSE Hold harmless has been extended until the new QRIS is implemented (SB 425). Providers in Cohort 1 are not required to go any further with a rated license assessment unless they want to, and providers in Cohort 2 do not need to start their preparation year unless they want to. This should be the providers’ choice only. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at 1-800-859-0829 and someone will assist you. PATHWAYS TO THE PROFESSION The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) prioritizes increasing career pathways for future ECE teachers. However, after lengthy careful consideration DCDEE has reluctantly decided it will not bring back the Early Childhood Equivalency Exam due to concerns about academic integrity. We make this decision to ensure fair and equitable opportunity for all aspiring early childhood teachers, uphold minimum educational standards, and keep staff and children in licensed child care environments safe. Note, other Pathways to the Profession of Early Childhood Teacher still include: • EDU 119 – Introduction to Early Childhood Education: This 12-week course introduces the foundations of culturally responsive, equitable and inclusive early childhood education. Available at many N.C. Community Colleges with online, evening, or in-person options. Upon successful completion of EDU-119, the student earns the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential and qualifies to be a lead teacher in a child care center. • Test-Out Option for EDU 119: An early childhood professional who has gained knowledge through work and lived experience and/or professional development may be able to receive Credit for Prior Learning by taking a challenge exam for EDU119. Contact a local N.C. Community College for testing information. • EDU 3119 – Intro to Early Childhood Education: This new short-term (8-week) continuing education offering is designed to prepare students to work in a childcare facility. Students learn how to design developmentally appropriate and inclusive lesson plans and activities for young children in alignment with NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development and state regulations. At the end of the course, students will have obtained a qualifying letter which provides eligibility for employment in a N.C. child care facility. Contact a local N.C. Community College to see if this course is available near you. • Child Development Associate® Credential (CDA): DCDEE is still offering free memberships for a limited time to the ECE workforce to enroll in Teaching Strategies Quorum® online teacher education platform. Get support as a new teacher, or complete CDA Coursework and get guidance for portfolio development. Coursework is also available in Spanish on Quorum. Scholarships for CDA course materials are available through TEACH Early Childhood® North Carolina Scholarship Program. Remember lead teachers lacking the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential have six months to enroll in EDU 119 or a DCDEE-approved equivalent, plus up to 18 months to complete the course. RECALLED ITEMS You can visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website at www.cpsc.gov for more information on recently recalled items. CONTACTS o Halifax-Warren Smart Start www.hwss.org (252) 537-5621 o I encourage you to contact Kathy Vick, Child Care Health Consultant, kvick@hwss.org or 252-537-5621, if additional assistance regarding applicable health and safety practices as is needed. If you have questions related to this visit or if I can be of additional assistance, I can be reached at 252-370-0207 or marquitta.holloman@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact Susan Fuller, Licensing Supervisor at 252-373-9809. 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: A - Z CHILDREN ENRICHMENT ACADEMY Facility ID: 42000202 Consultant: MARQUITTA HOLLOMAN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/4/2025 Number Present: 5 Completed Date: 6/4/2025 Age: From 0 To 3 Total Minutes: 170 Time In: 12:10 PM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements. This facility currently operates with a Three Star license issued on November 30, 2022. The last sanitation inspection was completed on March 19, 2025, with a superior classification. The last satisfactory fire inspection was completed on November 5, 2024. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on July 2, 2024. Jacqueline Bennett, Owner/Operator was present and available to assist. Five (5) children age ranging from zero (0) to three (3) years of age was present. Children were observed in free choice play, and outdoor play. Staff interacted with children in a positive manner. You stated you do not provide transportation. I used the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Center Item Number Listing as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. Ten percent of staff records and ten percent of children’s records, and all program records were monitored. All children’s records were found to be in compliance. One (1) violation was documented for staff record keeping and one (1) violation was documented for program record keeping. The following violations of child care requirements were documented today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Annual staff development plan and staff evaluations were not completed by staff. None were on record for review 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The facility’s Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPR) was not accessed annually and updated as needed as required in the rule. According to the facility's EPR record the last documented log in for the plan was March 4, 2022. .0607(e) Child Care Licensing Requirements are established to ensure a safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate environment for all child care facilities. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all licensing requirements that apply to your facility. 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. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with the applicable laws and rules; always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to ensure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the childcare laws and rules on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 18, 2025, 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 accurate documentation. If any information provided in the letter is not accurate, 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: Marquitta Holloman, Child Care Consultant PO Box 644 Murfreesboro, NC 27855 marquitta.holloman@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. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today's visit, this facility has maintained an 18-month compliance score of 95%. A copy of the most current compliance history score was printed and left with you at the conclusion of the visit. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE/ CONSULTATION STAFF RECORD KEEPING Annual staff development plan and staff evaluations were not completed by staff. These documents are to be completed yearly for each staff member. PROGRAM RECORDS The facility’s Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPR) was not accessed annually as required. The EPR plan should be accessed yearly and always have up to date information, including the child care consultant, and other important agency contacts. According to the EPR record the last documented log in for the plan was March 4, 2022. RESOURCES The Division of Child Development and Early Education's (DCDEE) website is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Visit this website for the most up-to-date child care forms, resources related to child care, and new child care rules/laws. STAR RATED LICENSE Hold harmless has been extended until the new QRIS is implemented (SB 425). Providers in Cohort 1 are not required to go any further with a rated license assessment unless they want to, and providers in Cohort 2 do not need to start their preparation year unless they want to. This should be the providers’ choice only. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at 1-800-859-0829 and someone will assist you. PATHWAYS TO THE PROFESSION The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) prioritizes increasing career pathways for future ECE teachers. However, after lengthy careful consideration DCDEE has reluctantly decided it will not bring back the Early Childhood Equivalency Exam due to concerns about academic integrity. We make this decision to ensure fair and equitable opportunity for all aspiring early childhood teachers, uphold minimum educational standards, and keep staff and children in licensed child care environments safe. Note, other Pathways to the Profession of Early Childhood Teacher still include: • EDU 119 – Introduction to Early Childhood Education: This 12-week course introduces the foundations of culturally responsive, equitable and inclusive early childhood education. Available at many N.C. Community Colleges with online, evening, or in-person options. Upon successful completion of EDU-119, the student earns the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential and qualifies to be a lead teacher in a child care center. • Test-Out Option for EDU 119: An early childhood professional who has gained knowledge through work and lived experience and/or professional development may be able to receive Credit for Prior Learning by taking a challenge exam for EDU119. Contact a local N.C. Community College for testing information. • EDU 3119 – Intro to Early Childhood Education: This new short-term (8-week) continuing education offering is designed to prepare students to work in a childcare facility. Students learn how to design developmentally appropriate and inclusive lesson plans and activities for young children in alignment with NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development and state regulations. At the end of the course, students will have obtained a qualifying letter which provides eligibility for employment in a N.C. child care facility. Contact a local N.C. Community College to see if this course is available near you. • Child Development Associate® Credential (CDA): DCDEE is still offering free memberships for a limited time to the ECE workforce to enroll in Teaching Strategies Quorum® online teacher education platform. Get support as a new teacher, or complete CDA Coursework and get guidance for portfolio development. Coursework is also available in Spanish on Quorum. Scholarships for CDA course materials are available through TEACH Early Childhood® North Carolina Scholarship Program. Remember lead teachers lacking the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential have six months to enroll in EDU 119 or a DCDEE-approved equivalent, plus up to 18 months to complete the course. RECALLED ITEMS You can visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website at www.cpsc.gov for more information on recently recalled items. CONTACTS o Halifax-Warren Smart Start www.hwss.org (252) 537-5621 o I encourage you to contact Kathy Vick, Child Care Health Consultant, kvick@hwss.org or 252-537-5621, if additional assistance regarding applicable health and safety practices as is needed. If you have questions related to this visit or if I can be of additional assistance, I can be reached at 252-370-0207 or marquitta.holloman@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact Susan Fuller, Licensing Supervisor at 252-373-9809. 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: A - Z CHILDREN ENRICHMENT ACADEMY Facility ID: 42000202 Consultant: MARQUITTA HOLLOMAN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/17/2024 Number Present: 2 Completed Date: 12/17/2024 Age: From 0 To 3 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 11:20 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements. This facility currently operates with a Three Star license issued on November 30, 2022. The last annual compliance visit was completed on July 11, 2023. The last sanitation inspection was completed on December 11, 2024, with a superior classification and fourteen demerits. The last satisfactory fire inspection was completed on November 5, 2024. Copies of the most recent sanitation and fire inspections were received during today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on July 2, 2024. Jacqueline Bennett, Owner/Operator was present and available to assist. Two (2) children age ranging from zero (0) to three (3) years of age was present. Children were observed in free choice play, and teacher directed activities. Staff interacted with children in a positive manner. You stated you do not provide transportation. The following requirements were monitored during today's visit: Staff/Child Ratio, Supervision, Specialized trainings, Storage of Hazardous Products, Storage of Medication, Adequate/Approved Space, General Safety, Staff Records, Program Records, and License Posted and Permit Restrictions. I used a checklist as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable childcare requirements pertinent to your program. A computer-generated visit summary was reviewed and left with you at the conclusion of the visit. The following violations of child care requirements 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 fire inspection was not submitted to DCDEE within one week of being completed. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 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. Sleep charts were not available for review for children under the age of 12 months. .0606(g) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training was not completed within 90 days of hire for W. Vassor .1102(g) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training was expired for 3 staff members, Jak. Bennett, Jac. Bennett, and P. Lockhart .1103(b) Child Care Licensing Requirements are established to ensure a safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate environment for all child care facilities. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all licensing requirements that apply to your facility. 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. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with the applicable laws and rules; always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to ensure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the childcare laws and rules on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before December 31, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is accurate documentation. If any information provided in the letter is not accurate, 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: Marquitta Holloman, Child Care Consultant PO Box 644 Murfreesboro, NC 27855 marquitta.holloman@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. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today's visit, this facility has maintained an 18-month compliance score of 99%. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE/ CONSULTATION MONTHLY INSPECTIONS The facility did not submit the annual fire inspection within the required five (5) days of the inspection being completed. However, the inspection was completed timely, and a copy of the inspection was received during today’s visit. PROGRAM RECORDS 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. SPECIAL TRAININGS Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training was not completed within the required 90 days of hire for staff member, W. Vassor. This training should have been completed by 9/24/2024. The Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Maltreatment training was expired for Jak. Bennett, Jacq. Bennett, and P. Lockhart. The training should be completed every 5 years before the expiration of the last completed training. The Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training can be accessed at www.preventchildabusenc.org. REMINDERS The facility’s EPR plan and EMC plan review for all staff will expire 1/2/2025. Please review the EPR plan and EMC plan with all staff and document the review, before the expiration of the last review. Emergency information and health questionnaires for all staff will need to be updated on or before 1/2/2025. The last documented Emergency information and health questionnaires on file are dated 1/2/2024. RESOURCES The Division of Child Development and Early Education's (DCDEE) website is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Visit this website for the most up-to-date child care forms, resources related to child care, and new child care rules/laws. STAR RATED LICENSE Hold harmless has been extended until the new QRIS is implemented (SB 425). Providers in Cohort 1 are not required to go any further with a rated license assessment unless they want to, and providers in Cohort 2 do not need to start their preparation year unless they want to. This should be the providers’ choice only. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at 1-800-859-0829 and someone will assist you. ANNUAL LICENSE FEES Keep an eye on your inbox for the 2024 annual license fee invoice. Invoices will be emailed to the facility addresses on file by November 30, 2024. Online payments will be due by December 31, 2024. In accordance with North Carolina General Statute § 110-90(1a), licensed child care facilities are assessed an annual license fee. The amount of your annual license fee is based on the licensed capacity printed on your license as of October 1, 2024, not the number of children enrolled at your facility. Payments must be submitted online only through the Division’s website using a Mastercard or Visa debit or credit card, or by e-check. Providers will need their Facility ID number and their 2024 Invoice number to complete the payment process. Failure to pay the license fee is a violation of NCGS § 110-90(1a) and can result in a revocation of your child care license. In addition, unpaid license fees will be assessed a 10% late fee and accrued interest as established by NCGS § 147-86.23. The Division of Child Development and Early Education remains available to assist you. For questions regarding license fees, visit the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on our website. For further assistance regarding your annual license fee, please email DCDEE_LF@dhhs.nc.gov. RECALLED ITEMS Red toolbox Recalls Stanley-Branded Jr. Kids Garden Sets: https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2024/Red-Toolbox-Recalls-Stanley-Branded-Jr-Kids-Garden-Sets-Due-to-Lead-Poisoning-Hazard-Violation-of-Federal-Ban-for-Lead-in-Paint-Sold-Exclusively-by-Costco-Wholesale?utm_campaign=recalls&utm_content=M1&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term=20240912 Intellio Toys, Bright Builder Fort Kits: https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2024/Intellio-Toys-Recalls-Bright-Builder-Fort-Kits-Due-to-Battery-Ingestion-Hazard-Violation-of-Federal-Regulations-for-Battery-Operated-Toys Shawshank LEDz Squeeze Plush Ball Monsters Toys and Easter Squeezable Toys: https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2024/Shawshank-LEDz-Recalls-Squeeze-Plush-Ball-Monsters-Toys-and-Easter-Squeezable-Toys-Due-to-Injury-Hazard-Sold-Exclusively-at-Ace-Hardware Mamibaby and Cosy Nation Baby Loungers: https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2024/Mamibaby-and-Cosy-Nation-Baby-Loungers-Recalled-Due-to-Suffocation-Risk-and-Fall-and-Entrapment-Hazards-Violation-of-Federal-Regulations-for-Infant-Sleep-Products-Sold-on-Amazon-com-by-MEIXIA-Shop-and-Softbless MJKSARE High Chairs: https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2024/MJKSARE-High-Chairs-Recalled-Due-to-Entrapment-and-Fall-Hazards-Violation-of-Federal-Regulation-for-High-Chairs-Imported-by-Worldwide-Windows-Sold-Exclusively-on-Amazon-com You can visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website at www.cpsc.gov for more information. CONTACTS o Halifax-Warren Smart Start www.hwss.org (252) 537-5621 o I encourage you to contact Kathy Vick, Child Care Health Consultant, kvick@hwss.org or 252-537-5621, if additional assistance regarding applicable health and safety practices as is needed. If you have questions related to this visit or if I can be of additional assistance, I can be reached at 252-370-0207 or marquitta.holloman@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact Susan Fuller, Licensing Supervisor at 252-373-9809. 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: A - Z CHILDREN ENRICHMENT ACADEMY Facility ID: 42000202 Consultant: MARQUITTA HOLLOMAN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/17/2024 Number Present: 2 Completed Date: 12/17/2024 Age: From 0 To 3 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 11:20 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements. This facility currently operates with a Three Star license issued on November 30, 2022. The last annual compliance visit was completed on July 11, 2023. The last sanitation inspection was completed on December 11, 2024, with a superior classification and fourteen demerits. The last satisfactory fire inspection was completed on November 5, 2024. Copies of the most recent sanitation and fire inspections were received during today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on July 2, 2024. Jacqueline Bennett, Owner/Operator was present and available to assist. Two (2) children age ranging from zero (0) to three (3) years of age was present. Children were observed in free choice play, and teacher directed activities. Staff interacted with children in a positive manner. You stated you do not provide transportation. The following requirements were monitored during today's visit: Staff/Child Ratio, Supervision, Specialized trainings, Storage of Hazardous Products, Storage of Medication, Adequate/Approved Space, General Safety, Staff Records, Program Records, and License Posted and Permit Restrictions. I used a checklist as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable childcare requirements pertinent to your program. A computer-generated visit summary was reviewed and left with you at the conclusion of the visit. The following violations of child care requirements 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 fire inspection was not submitted to DCDEE within one week of being completed. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 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. Sleep charts were not available for review for children under the age of 12 months. .0606(g) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training was not completed within 90 days of hire for W. Vassor .1102(g) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training was expired for 3 staff members, Jak. Bennett, Jac. Bennett, and P. Lockhart .1103(b) Child Care Licensing Requirements are established to ensure a safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate environment for all child care facilities. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all licensing requirements that apply to your facility. 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. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with the applicable laws and rules; always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to ensure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the childcare laws and rules on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before December 31, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is accurate documentation. If any information provided in the letter is not accurate, 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: Marquitta Holloman, Child Care Consultant PO Box 644 Murfreesboro, NC 27855 marquitta.holloman@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. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today's visit, this facility has maintained an 18-month compliance score of 99%. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE/ CONSULTATION MONTHLY INSPECTIONS The facility did not submit the annual fire inspection within the required five (5) days of the inspection being completed. However, the inspection was completed timely, and a copy of the inspection was received during today’s visit. PROGRAM RECORDS 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. SPECIAL TRAININGS Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training was not completed within the required 90 days of hire for staff member, W. Vassor. This training should have been completed by 9/24/2024. The Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Maltreatment training was expired for Jak. Bennett, Jacq. Bennett, and P. Lockhart. The training should be completed every 5 years before the expiration of the last completed training. The Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training can be accessed at www.preventchildabusenc.org. REMINDERS The facility’s EPR plan and EMC plan review for all staff will expire 1/2/2025. Please review the EPR plan and EMC plan with all staff and document the review, before the expiration of the last review. Emergency information and health questionnaires for all staff will need to be updated on or before 1/2/2025. The last documented Emergency information and health questionnaires on file are dated 1/2/2024. RESOURCES The Division of Child Development and Early Education's (DCDEE) website is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Visit this website for the most up-to-date child care forms, resources related to child care, and new child care rules/laws. STAR RATED LICENSE Hold harmless has been extended until the new QRIS is implemented (SB 425). Providers in Cohort 1 are not required to go any further with a rated license assessment unless they want to, and providers in Cohort 2 do not need to start their preparation year unless they want to. This should be the providers’ choice only. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at 1-800-859-0829 and someone will assist you. ANNUAL LICENSE FEES Keep an eye on your inbox for the 2024 annual license fee invoice. Invoices will be emailed to the facility addresses on file by November 30, 2024. Online payments will be due by December 31, 2024. In accordance with North Carolina General Statute § 110-90(1a), licensed child care facilities are assessed an annual license fee. The amount of your annual license fee is based on the licensed capacity printed on your license as of October 1, 2024, not the number of children enrolled at your facility. Payments must be submitted online only through the Division’s website using a Mastercard or Visa debit or credit card, or by e-check. Providers will need their Facility ID number and their 2024 Invoice number to complete the payment process. Failure to pay the license fee is a violation of NCGS § 110-90(1a) and can result in a revocation of your child care license. In addition, unpaid license fees will be assessed a 10% late fee and accrued interest as established by NCGS § 147-86.23. The Division of Child Development and Early Education remains available to assist you. For questions regarding license fees, visit the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on our website. For further assistance regarding your annual license fee, please email DCDEE_LF@dhhs.nc.gov. RECALLED ITEMS Red toolbox Recalls Stanley-Branded Jr. Kids Garden Sets: https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2024/Red-Toolbox-Recalls-Stanley-Branded-Jr-Kids-Garden-Sets-Due-to-Lead-Poisoning-Hazard-Violation-of-Federal-Ban-for-Lead-in-Paint-Sold-Exclusively-by-Costco-Wholesale?utm_campaign=recalls&utm_content=M1&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term=20240912 Intellio Toys, Bright Builder Fort Kits: https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2024/Intellio-Toys-Recalls-Bright-Builder-Fort-Kits-Due-to-Battery-Ingestion-Hazard-Violation-of-Federal-Regulations-for-Battery-Operated-Toys Shawshank LEDz Squeeze Plush Ball Monsters Toys and Easter Squeezable Toys: https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2024/Shawshank-LEDz-Recalls-Squeeze-Plush-Ball-Monsters-Toys-and-Easter-Squeezable-Toys-Due-to-Injury-Hazard-Sold-Exclusively-at-Ace-Hardware Mamibaby and Cosy Nation Baby Loungers: https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2024/Mamibaby-and-Cosy-Nation-Baby-Loungers-Recalled-Due-to-Suffocation-Risk-and-Fall-and-Entrapment-Hazards-Violation-of-Federal-Regulations-for-Infant-Sleep-Products-Sold-on-Amazon-com-by-MEIXIA-Shop-and-Softbless MJKSARE High Chairs: https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2024/MJKSARE-High-Chairs-Recalled-Due-to-Entrapment-and-Fall-Hazards-Violation-of-Federal-Regulation-for-High-Chairs-Imported-by-Worldwide-Windows-Sold-Exclusively-on-Amazon-com You can visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website at www.cpsc.gov for more information. CONTACTS o Halifax-Warren Smart Start www.hwss.org (252) 537-5621 o I encourage you to contact Kathy Vick, Child Care Health Consultant, kvick@hwss.org or 252-537-5621, if additional assistance regarding applicable health and safety practices as is needed. If you have questions related to this visit or if I can be of additional assistance, I can be reached at 252-370-0207 or marquitta.holloman@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact Susan Fuller, Licensing Supervisor at 252-373-9809. 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: A - Z CHILDREN ENRICHMENT ACADEMY Facility ID: 42000202 Consultant: MARQUITTA HOLLOMAN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/17/2024 Number Present: 2 Completed Date: 12/17/2024 Age: From 0 To 3 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 11:20 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements. This facility currently operates with a Three Star license issued on November 30, 2022. The last annual compliance visit was completed on July 11, 2023. The last sanitation inspection was completed on December 11, 2024, with a superior classification and fourteen demerits. The last satisfactory fire inspection was completed on November 5, 2024. Copies of the most recent sanitation and fire inspections were received during today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on July 2, 2024. Jacqueline Bennett, Owner/Operator was present and available to assist. Two (2) children age ranging from zero (0) to three (3) years of age was present. Children were observed in free choice play, and teacher directed activities. Staff interacted with children in a positive manner. You stated you do not provide transportation. The following requirements were monitored during today's visit: Staff/Child Ratio, Supervision, Specialized trainings, Storage of Hazardous Products, Storage of Medication, Adequate/Approved Space, General Safety, Staff Records, Program Records, and License Posted and Permit Restrictions. I used a checklist as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable childcare requirements pertinent to your program. A computer-generated visit summary was reviewed and left with you at the conclusion of the visit. The following violations of child care requirements 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 fire inspection was not submitted to DCDEE within one week of being completed. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 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. Sleep charts were not available for review for children under the age of 12 months. .0606(g) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training was not completed within 90 days of hire for W. Vassor .1102(g) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training was expired for 3 staff members, Jak. Bennett, Jac. Bennett, and P. Lockhart .1103(b) Child Care Licensing Requirements are established to ensure a safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate environment for all child care facilities. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all licensing requirements that apply to your facility. 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. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with the applicable laws and rules; always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to ensure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the childcare laws and rules on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before December 31, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is accurate documentation. If any information provided in the letter is not accurate, 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: Marquitta Holloman, Child Care Consultant PO Box 644 Murfreesboro, NC 27855 marquitta.holloman@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. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today's visit, this facility has maintained an 18-month compliance score of 99%. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE/ CONSULTATION MONTHLY INSPECTIONS The facility did not submit the annual fire inspection within the required five (5) days of the inspection being completed. However, the inspection was completed timely, and a copy of the inspection was received during today’s visit. PROGRAM RECORDS 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. SPECIAL TRAININGS Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training was not completed within the required 90 days of hire for staff member, W. Vassor. This training should have been completed by 9/24/2024. The Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Maltreatment training was expired for Jak. Bennett, Jacq. Bennett, and P. Lockhart. The training should be completed every 5 years before the expiration of the last completed training. The Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training can be accessed at www.preventchildabusenc.org. REMINDERS The facility’s EPR plan and EMC plan review for all staff will expire 1/2/2025. Please review the EPR plan and EMC plan with all staff and document the review, before the expiration of the last review. Emergency information and health questionnaires for all staff will need to be updated on or before 1/2/2025. The last documented Emergency information and health questionnaires on file are dated 1/2/2024. RESOURCES The Division of Child Development and Early Education's (DCDEE) website is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Visit this website for the most up-to-date child care forms, resources related to child care, and new child care rules/laws. STAR RATED LICENSE Hold harmless has been extended until the new QRIS is implemented (SB 425). Providers in Cohort 1 are not required to go any further with a rated license assessment unless they want to, and providers in Cohort 2 do not need to start their preparation year unless they want to. This should be the providers’ choice only. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at 1-800-859-0829 and someone will assist you. ANNUAL LICENSE FEES Keep an eye on your inbox for the 2024 annual license fee invoice. Invoices will be emailed to the facility addresses on file by November 30, 2024. Online payments will be due by December 31, 2024. In accordance with North Carolina General Statute § 110-90(1a), licensed child care facilities are assessed an annual license fee. The amount of your annual license fee is based on the licensed capacity printed on your license as of October 1, 2024, not the number of children enrolled at your facility. Payments must be submitted online only through the Division’s website using a Mastercard or Visa debit or credit card, or by e-check. Providers will need their Facility ID number and their 2024 Invoice number to complete the payment process. Failure to pay the license fee is a violation of NCGS § 110-90(1a) and can result in a revocation of your child care license. In addition, unpaid license fees will be assessed a 10% late fee and accrued interest as established by NCGS § 147-86.23. The Division of Child Development and Early Education remains available to assist you. For questions regarding license fees, visit the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on our website. For further assistance regarding your annual license fee, please email DCDEE_LF@dhhs.nc.gov. RECALLED ITEMS Red toolbox Recalls Stanley-Branded Jr. Kids Garden Sets: https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2024/Red-Toolbox-Recalls-Stanley-Branded-Jr-Kids-Garden-Sets-Due-to-Lead-Poisoning-Hazard-Violation-of-Federal-Ban-for-Lead-in-Paint-Sold-Exclusively-by-Costco-Wholesale?utm_campaign=recalls&utm_content=M1&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term=20240912 Intellio Toys, Bright Builder Fort Kits: https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2024/Intellio-Toys-Recalls-Bright-Builder-Fort-Kits-Due-to-Battery-Ingestion-Hazard-Violation-of-Federal-Regulations-for-Battery-Operated-Toys Shawshank LEDz Squeeze Plush Ball Monsters Toys and Easter Squeezable Toys: https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2024/Shawshank-LEDz-Recalls-Squeeze-Plush-Ball-Monsters-Toys-and-Easter-Squeezable-Toys-Due-to-Injury-Hazard-Sold-Exclusively-at-Ace-Hardware Mamibaby and Cosy Nation Baby Loungers: https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2024/Mamibaby-and-Cosy-Nation-Baby-Loungers-Recalled-Due-to-Suffocation-Risk-and-Fall-and-Entrapment-Hazards-Violation-of-Federal-Regulations-for-Infant-Sleep-Products-Sold-on-Amazon-com-by-MEIXIA-Shop-and-Softbless MJKSARE High Chairs: https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2024/MJKSARE-High-Chairs-Recalled-Due-to-Entrapment-and-Fall-Hazards-Violation-of-Federal-Regulation-for-High-Chairs-Imported-by-Worldwide-Windows-Sold-Exclusively-on-Amazon-com You can visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website at www.cpsc.gov for more information. CONTACTS o Halifax-Warren Smart Start www.hwss.org (252) 537-5621 o I encourage you to contact Kathy Vick, Child Care Health Consultant, kvick@hwss.org or 252-537-5621, if additional assistance regarding applicable health and safety practices as is needed. If you have questions related to this visit or if I can be of additional assistance, I can be reached at 252-370-0207 or marquitta.holloman@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact Susan Fuller, Licensing Supervisor at 252-373-9809. 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