THE Childrens Center

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE CHILDRENS CENTER Facility ID: 64000016 Consultant: FELICIA FAISON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/17/2026 Number Present: 13 Completed Date: 3/17/2026 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 02:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit today was to monitor compliance with child care requirements applicable to an annual compliance visit. You, W. Hill, director, arrived shortly after the visit began and assisted. Currently, this center operates with a Five-Star license issued on February 23, 2018, earning seven (7) points in the Education Component, seven (7) points in the Program Component and one (1) Quality point. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on April 2, 2025. The last sanitation inspection was completed March 10, 2026 earning a Superior rating. The last fire inspection was completed March 9, 2026 and the facility was approved for day and nighttime care. Children were observed participating in free choice activity center play, teacher directed art and outdoor play. Observed interactions between teachers and children were nurturing in nature. FACILITY PROFILE This facility is owned by Nash County Public Schools. I reviewed contact information for the owner and the facility with you, W. Hill, and you verified the current information listed with DCDEE remains correct. The following violations of child care requirements were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. There were three (3) metal stakes protruding from the black plastic border on the playground. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. There were several uncovered outlets on a power stip by the playground door in space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. There was an unlocked top cabinet by the fridge in the kitchen that stored aerosol Febreeze and Wasp spray as well as Glass Plus cleaner. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. - There was no medication authorization form on-site for a child with Benadryl cream in space #2. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled 12/15/25 did not have the immunization report on file until 2/24/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. There was no shelter-in-place or lockdown drill completed for his academic year until January 2026. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance can be mailed or emailed to me and must be received by March 31, 2026. If mailing, you must submit two (2) signed and dated copies. My mailing and email addresses are noted at the bottom. The letter of compliance must detail how the violations were corrected. Please be aware that any written information you submit regarding the correction of the violation is legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all submitted information is accurate and truthful. If it is determined that submitted information was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today’s visit your compliance history was 90% over an eighteen (18) month period. CHILDREN RECORDS I reviewed ten percent of children’s records and a violation was documented. The child enrolled 12/15/25 has an immunization report on file dated 2/24/26. Child Care Rules required that children have immunization records on file prior to or thirty (30) days after enrollment. STAFF RECORDS I also reviewed ten percent, or more, of staff records no violations were documented. MEDICATION There was no medication authorization form for the over the counter (otc) Benadryl cream stored in space #2 for an enrolled child. All prescribed and otc medication must have a parent/guardian signed medication authorization form giving staff written authority and instructions on administering the items to any enrolled children. The child is indicated on the “Children’s Records” form. OUTDOOR PLAY AREAS AND EQUIPMENT While monitoring the outdoor play area I observed several metal spikes protruding form the top of the black plastic border. These metal spikes are there to secure the border in place. After some time they often begin to raise and protrude which could cause injury to a child. One of the stakes is several inches above the top of the border. Responsible must hammer these spikes in place so they are back flush with the top of the border. SAFETY & HEALTH I observed the power strip by the door to the outdoor play area in space #1 with several uncovered outlets. When the teacher was informed she covered the outlets. I also observed an unlocked cabinet by the refrigerate in the kitchen that stored aerosol containers of Febreeze and Wasp spray as well as Glass Plus cleaner. Once notified the teacher retrieved the key and locked the cabinet. Therefore, both violations were documented as corrected during the visit. There was no shelter-in-place or lockdown drill completed this academic year until January 2026. The program began in August 2025, and the first drill should take place within the first month of operation. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE & REMINDERS: We discussed technical assistance regarding monitoring the metal equipment on the outdoor play area for signs of chipping paint and/or rusting areas. Should staff see these signs of disrepair the equipment should be re-painted or removed. Remind staff that if parents fail to document the arrival and departure time of their children then staff must do so. The responsible adult, whether a parent/guardian or staff, must noted their signature or at least initials. The Clean Water for Carolina Kids program has expanded to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program. This is a legislatively mandated effort to address lead and asbestos hazards in North Carolina public schools, licensed child care centers, and licensed family child care homes. Participation allows facilities to meet all rule requirements for identified lead and asbestos hazards, as required by law. Rules 10A NCAC 41C .1001 through .1007 require all programs to be free of lead and asbestos hazards. I The program has been listed as “started enrollment” for the required lead paint and asbestos testing since April 2025. Responsible staff should either contact RTI or log into the website to ensure all the required information to complete testing has been submitted. The website is as follows: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all applicable laws and rules. The best way to do so is to periodically review the child care laws and rules. The current rule book dated July 1, 2025, is available at the DCDEE website https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. There are also modules reviewing the new Child Care Rules available on Moodle, which can be found on the Division website. I recommend you frequently click the “What’s New” tab to stay informed of all updates on the DCDEE website. Please feel free to contact me at (984) 867-7089 or email at Felicia.faison@dhhs.nc.gov for questions and assistance. If needed my mailing address is PO Box 61161, Raleigh NC 27661. 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 .0302 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE CHILDRENS CENTER Facility ID: 64000016 Consultant: FELICIA FAISON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/17/2026 Number Present: 13 Completed Date: 3/17/2026 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 02:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit today was to monitor compliance with child care requirements applicable to an annual compliance visit. You, W. Hill, director, arrived shortly after the visit began and assisted. Currently, this center operates with a Five-Star license issued on February 23, 2018, earning seven (7) points in the Education Component, seven (7) points in the Program Component and one (1) Quality point. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on April 2, 2025. The last sanitation inspection was completed March 10, 2026 earning a Superior rating. The last fire inspection was completed March 9, 2026 and the facility was approved for day and nighttime care. Children were observed participating in free choice activity center play, teacher directed art and outdoor play. Observed interactions between teachers and children were nurturing in nature. FACILITY PROFILE This facility is owned by Nash County Public Schools. I reviewed contact information for the owner and the facility with you, W. Hill, and you verified the current information listed with DCDEE remains correct. The following violations of child care requirements were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. There were three (3) metal stakes protruding from the black plastic border on the playground. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. There were several uncovered outlets on a power stip by the playground door in space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. There was an unlocked top cabinet by the fridge in the kitchen that stored aerosol Febreeze and Wasp spray as well as Glass Plus cleaner. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. - There was no medication authorization form on-site for a child with Benadryl cream in space #2. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled 12/15/25 did not have the immunization report on file until 2/24/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. There was no shelter-in-place or lockdown drill completed for his academic year until January 2026. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance can be mailed or emailed to me and must be received by March 31, 2026. If mailing, you must submit two (2) signed and dated copies. My mailing and email addresses are noted at the bottom. The letter of compliance must detail how the violations were corrected. Please be aware that any written information you submit regarding the correction of the violation is legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all submitted information is accurate and truthful. If it is determined that submitted information was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today’s visit your compliance history was 90% over an eighteen (18) month period. CHILDREN RECORDS I reviewed ten percent of children’s records and a violation was documented. The child enrolled 12/15/25 has an immunization report on file dated 2/24/26. Child Care Rules required that children have immunization records on file prior to or thirty (30) days after enrollment. STAFF RECORDS I also reviewed ten percent, or more, of staff records no violations were documented. MEDICATION There was no medication authorization form for the over the counter (otc) Benadryl cream stored in space #2 for an enrolled child. All prescribed and otc medication must have a parent/guardian signed medication authorization form giving staff written authority and instructions on administering the items to any enrolled children. The child is indicated on the “Children’s Records” form. OUTDOOR PLAY AREAS AND EQUIPMENT While monitoring the outdoor play area I observed several metal spikes protruding form the top of the black plastic border. These metal spikes are there to secure the border in place. After some time they often begin to raise and protrude which could cause injury to a child. One of the stakes is several inches above the top of the border. Responsible must hammer these spikes in place so they are back flush with the top of the border. SAFETY & HEALTH I observed the power strip by the door to the outdoor play area in space #1 with several uncovered outlets. When the teacher was informed she covered the outlets. I also observed an unlocked cabinet by the refrigerate in the kitchen that stored aerosol containers of Febreeze and Wasp spray as well as Glass Plus cleaner. Once notified the teacher retrieved the key and locked the cabinet. Therefore, both violations were documented as corrected during the visit. There was no shelter-in-place or lockdown drill completed this academic year until January 2026. The program began in August 2025, and the first drill should take place within the first month of operation. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE & REMINDERS: We discussed technical assistance regarding monitoring the metal equipment on the outdoor play area for signs of chipping paint and/or rusting areas. Should staff see these signs of disrepair the equipment should be re-painted or removed. Remind staff that if parents fail to document the arrival and departure time of their children then staff must do so. The responsible adult, whether a parent/guardian or staff, must noted their signature or at least initials. The Clean Water for Carolina Kids program has expanded to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program. This is a legislatively mandated effort to address lead and asbestos hazards in North Carolina public schools, licensed child care centers, and licensed family child care homes. Participation allows facilities to meet all rule requirements for identified lead and asbestos hazards, as required by law. Rules 10A NCAC 41C .1001 through .1007 require all programs to be free of lead and asbestos hazards. I The program has been listed as “started enrollment” for the required lead paint and asbestos testing since April 2025. Responsible staff should either contact RTI or log into the website to ensure all the required information to complete testing has been submitted. The website is as follows: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all applicable laws and rules. The best way to do so is to periodically review the child care laws and rules. The current rule book dated July 1, 2025, is available at the DCDEE website https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. There are also modules reviewing the new Child Care Rules available on Moodle, which can be found on the Division website. I recommend you frequently click the “What’s New” tab to stay informed of all updates on the DCDEE website. Please feel free to contact me at (984) 867-7089 or email at Felicia.faison@dhhs.nc.gov for questions and assistance. If needed my mailing address is PO Box 61161, Raleigh NC 27661. 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 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE CHILDRENS CENTER Facility ID: 64000016 Consultant: FELICIA FAISON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/17/2026 Number Present: 13 Completed Date: 3/17/2026 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 02:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit today was to monitor compliance with child care requirements applicable to an annual compliance visit. You, W. Hill, director, arrived shortly after the visit began and assisted. Currently, this center operates with a Five-Star license issued on February 23, 2018, earning seven (7) points in the Education Component, seven (7) points in the Program Component and one (1) Quality point. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on April 2, 2025. The last sanitation inspection was completed March 10, 2026 earning a Superior rating. The last fire inspection was completed March 9, 2026 and the facility was approved for day and nighttime care. Children were observed participating in free choice activity center play, teacher directed art and outdoor play. Observed interactions between teachers and children were nurturing in nature. FACILITY PROFILE This facility is owned by Nash County Public Schools. I reviewed contact information for the owner and the facility with you, W. Hill, and you verified the current information listed with DCDEE remains correct. The following violations of child care requirements were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. There were three (3) metal stakes protruding from the black plastic border on the playground. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. There were several uncovered outlets on a power stip by the playground door in space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. There was an unlocked top cabinet by the fridge in the kitchen that stored aerosol Febreeze and Wasp spray as well as Glass Plus cleaner. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. - There was no medication authorization form on-site for a child with Benadryl cream in space #2. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled 12/15/25 did not have the immunization report on file until 2/24/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. There was no shelter-in-place or lockdown drill completed for his academic year until January 2026. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance can be mailed or emailed to me and must be received by March 31, 2026. If mailing, you must submit two (2) signed and dated copies. My mailing and email addresses are noted at the bottom. The letter of compliance must detail how the violations were corrected. Please be aware that any written information you submit regarding the correction of the violation is legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all submitted information is accurate and truthful. If it is determined that submitted information was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today’s visit your compliance history was 90% over an eighteen (18) month period. CHILDREN RECORDS I reviewed ten percent of children’s records and a violation was documented. The child enrolled 12/15/25 has an immunization report on file dated 2/24/26. Child Care Rules required that children have immunization records on file prior to or thirty (30) days after enrollment. STAFF RECORDS I also reviewed ten percent, or more, of staff records no violations were documented. MEDICATION There was no medication authorization form for the over the counter (otc) Benadryl cream stored in space #2 for an enrolled child. All prescribed and otc medication must have a parent/guardian signed medication authorization form giving staff written authority and instructions on administering the items to any enrolled children. The child is indicated on the “Children’s Records” form. OUTDOOR PLAY AREAS AND EQUIPMENT While monitoring the outdoor play area I observed several metal spikes protruding form the top of the black plastic border. These metal spikes are there to secure the border in place. After some time they often begin to raise and protrude which could cause injury to a child. One of the stakes is several inches above the top of the border. Responsible must hammer these spikes in place so they are back flush with the top of the border. SAFETY & HEALTH I observed the power strip by the door to the outdoor play area in space #1 with several uncovered outlets. When the teacher was informed she covered the outlets. I also observed an unlocked cabinet by the refrigerate in the kitchen that stored aerosol containers of Febreeze and Wasp spray as well as Glass Plus cleaner. Once notified the teacher retrieved the key and locked the cabinet. Therefore, both violations were documented as corrected during the visit. There was no shelter-in-place or lockdown drill completed this academic year until January 2026. The program began in August 2025, and the first drill should take place within the first month of operation. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE & REMINDERS: We discussed technical assistance regarding monitoring the metal equipment on the outdoor play area for signs of chipping paint and/or rusting areas. Should staff see these signs of disrepair the equipment should be re-painted or removed. Remind staff that if parents fail to document the arrival and departure time of their children then staff must do so. The responsible adult, whether a parent/guardian or staff, must noted their signature or at least initials. The Clean Water for Carolina Kids program has expanded to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program. This is a legislatively mandated effort to address lead and asbestos hazards in North Carolina public schools, licensed child care centers, and licensed family child care homes. Participation allows facilities to meet all rule requirements for identified lead and asbestos hazards, as required by law. Rules 10A NCAC 41C .1001 through .1007 require all programs to be free of lead and asbestos hazards. I The program has been listed as “started enrollment” for the required lead paint and asbestos testing since April 2025. Responsible staff should either contact RTI or log into the website to ensure all the required information to complete testing has been submitted. The website is as follows: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all applicable laws and rules. The best way to do so is to periodically review the child care laws and rules. The current rule book dated July 1, 2025, is available at the DCDEE website https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. There are also modules reviewing the new Child Care Rules available on Moodle, which can be found on the Division website. I recommend you frequently click the “What’s New” tab to stay informed of all updates on the DCDEE website. Please feel free to contact me at (984) 867-7089 or email at Felicia.faison@dhhs.nc.gov for questions and assistance. If needed my mailing address is PO Box 61161, Raleigh NC 27661. 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. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE CHILDRENS CENTER Facility ID: 64000016 Consultant: FELICIA FAISON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/17/2026 Number Present: 13 Completed Date: 3/17/2026 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 02:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit today was to monitor compliance with child care requirements applicable to an annual compliance visit. You, W. Hill, director, arrived shortly after the visit began and assisted. Currently, this center operates with a Five-Star license issued on February 23, 2018, earning seven (7) points in the Education Component, seven (7) points in the Program Component and one (1) Quality point. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on April 2, 2025. The last sanitation inspection was completed March 10, 2026 earning a Superior rating. The last fire inspection was completed March 9, 2026 and the facility was approved for day and nighttime care. Children were observed participating in free choice activity center play, teacher directed art and outdoor play. Observed interactions between teachers and children were nurturing in nature. FACILITY PROFILE This facility is owned by Nash County Public Schools. I reviewed contact information for the owner and the facility with you, W. Hill, and you verified the current information listed with DCDEE remains correct. The following violations of child care requirements were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. There were three (3) metal stakes protruding from the black plastic border on the playground. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. There were several uncovered outlets on a power stip by the playground door in space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. There was an unlocked top cabinet by the fridge in the kitchen that stored aerosol Febreeze and Wasp spray as well as Glass Plus cleaner. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. - There was no medication authorization form on-site for a child with Benadryl cream in space #2. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled 12/15/25 did not have the immunization report on file until 2/24/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. There was no shelter-in-place or lockdown drill completed for his academic year until January 2026. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance can be mailed or emailed to me and must be received by March 31, 2026. If mailing, you must submit two (2) signed and dated copies. My mailing and email addresses are noted at the bottom. The letter of compliance must detail how the violations were corrected. Please be aware that any written information you submit regarding the correction of the violation is legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all submitted information is accurate and truthful. If it is determined that submitted information was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today’s visit your compliance history was 90% over an eighteen (18) month period. CHILDREN RECORDS I reviewed ten percent of children’s records and a violation was documented. The child enrolled 12/15/25 has an immunization report on file dated 2/24/26. Child Care Rules required that children have immunization records on file prior to or thirty (30) days after enrollment. STAFF RECORDS I also reviewed ten percent, or more, of staff records no violations were documented. MEDICATION There was no medication authorization form for the over the counter (otc) Benadryl cream stored in space #2 for an enrolled child. All prescribed and otc medication must have a parent/guardian signed medication authorization form giving staff written authority and instructions on administering the items to any enrolled children. The child is indicated on the “Children’s Records” form. OUTDOOR PLAY AREAS AND EQUIPMENT While monitoring the outdoor play area I observed several metal spikes protruding form the top of the black plastic border. These metal spikes are there to secure the border in place. After some time they often begin to raise and protrude which could cause injury to a child. One of the stakes is several inches above the top of the border. Responsible must hammer these spikes in place so they are back flush with the top of the border. SAFETY & HEALTH I observed the power strip by the door to the outdoor play area in space #1 with several uncovered outlets. When the teacher was informed she covered the outlets. I also observed an unlocked cabinet by the refrigerate in the kitchen that stored aerosol containers of Febreeze and Wasp spray as well as Glass Plus cleaner. Once notified the teacher retrieved the key and locked the cabinet. Therefore, both violations were documented as corrected during the visit. There was no shelter-in-place or lockdown drill completed this academic year until January 2026. The program began in August 2025, and the first drill should take place within the first month of operation. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE & REMINDERS: We discussed technical assistance regarding monitoring the metal equipment on the outdoor play area for signs of chipping paint and/or rusting areas. Should staff see these signs of disrepair the equipment should be re-painted or removed. Remind staff that if parents fail to document the arrival and departure time of their children then staff must do so. The responsible adult, whether a parent/guardian or staff, must noted their signature or at least initials. The Clean Water for Carolina Kids program has expanded to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program. This is a legislatively mandated effort to address lead and asbestos hazards in North Carolina public schools, licensed child care centers, and licensed family child care homes. Participation allows facilities to meet all rule requirements for identified lead and asbestos hazards, as required by law. Rules 10A NCAC 41C .1001 through .1007 require all programs to be free of lead and asbestos hazards. I The program has been listed as “started enrollment” for the required lead paint and asbestos testing since April 2025. Responsible staff should either contact RTI or log into the website to ensure all the required information to complete testing has been submitted. The website is as follows: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all applicable laws and rules. The best way to do so is to periodically review the child care laws and rules. The current rule book dated July 1, 2025, is available at the DCDEE website https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. There are also modules reviewing the new Child Care Rules available on Moodle, which can be found on the Division website. I recommend you frequently click the “What’s New” tab to stay informed of all updates on the DCDEE website. Please feel free to contact me at (984) 867-7089 or email at Felicia.faison@dhhs.nc.gov for questions and assistance. If needed my mailing address is PO Box 61161, Raleigh NC 27661. 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

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE CHILDRENS CENTER Facility ID: 64000016 Consultant: FELICIA FAISON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/10/2025 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 12/10/2025 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 115 Time In: 02:05 PM Time Out: 04:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit today was to complete a routine unannounced visit and discuss the program’s transition to the new QRIS rated license process. W. Hill, administrator, was present and assisted with the visit. Currently, this center operates with a Five-Star license issued on February 23, 2018, earning five (5) points in the Education Component, seven (7) points in the Program Component and one (1) Quality point. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on April 2, 2025. The following violations of child care requirements were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plan posted in space #2 was dated for December 1st through 5th. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. December attendance was not documented in space #1. GS 110-91(9) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance can be mailed or emailed to me and must be received by December 24 2025. If mailing, you must submit two (2) signed and dated copies. My mailing and email addresses are noted at the bottom. The letter of compliance must detail how the violations were corrected. Please be aware that any written information you submit regarding the correction of the violation is legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all submitted information is accurate and truthful. If it is determined that submitted information was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. INTERACTIONS & OBSERVATIONS I observed a posted schedule and activity plan in each classroom. The activity plan posted in space #2 was not current. There were a variety of age-appropriate toys and materials for the children to play with, to stimulate developmental domains and complete their activity plans. Upon my arrival around 2pm the children were waking from napping, putting cots away and washing hands to have their snack. Snack consisted of mixed fruit, crackers and water. The children then transitioned to outdoor play after group time at the carpet in space #1 where E. Warrick read a book to them. The schedule was followed as posted and the children appeared familiar and comfortable with the activities with no problems transitioning. QRIS RATED LICENSE TRANSITION You attended the QRIS: Pathway to the Stars meeting that was conducted during the month of September in Nash County. You have reviewed most of the information on your own. You informed me that you currently plan to choose pathway #1 to maintain a five (5) star rating. We reviewed the capacity, family/community engagement, CQI plan, Curriculum and formative assessment, and education requirements for a five (5) star license. I showed you the NCRLAP website and where to find information on the outreach assessments and self-study guidance/forms. We also reviewed the DCDEE website, under the “QRIS Modernization” tab to find the handouts detailing the Pathways and all requirements. I showed you where to find the details related to coaching and mentoring in section .3205 (e)(11). I also left copies of the requirements for a 2-5 star rated license under Pathways #1 and #2. We have a tentative plan to submit the application for a rated license assessment in May of 2026. This will give you time to finalize your decision and decide on what family/community engagement and CQI standards you will choose and implement. Please contact me if you have any additional questions or need clarification. The form documenting the program’s transition plan was completed and signed today. A copy was left with you. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: I strongly recommend that you visit the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project’s website at ncrlap.org. There are a variety of videos and infographics with information about ECERS-3 and details on information on completing the required self-assessment and the outreach assessment they offer. I encourage you to reach out to Down East Partnership for Children for assistance in preparing for technical assistance related to preparing for the environment rating scales and self-study. Staff should continue to review the sign in/out form after children are dropped off or picked up to ensure parents are noting the time. Monitor the metal stakes securing the black border around the playground. Over time these may rise and need to be fixed by making them flush with the border top to avoid a tripping or entanglement hazard. Please feel free to contact me at (984) 867-7089 or email at Felicia.faison@dhhs.nc.gov for questions and assistance. If needed my mailing address is PO Box 61161, Raleigh NC 27661. 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 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE CHILDRENS CENTER Facility ID: 64000016 Consultant: FELICIA FAISON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/2/2025 Number Present: 12 Completed Date: 4/2/2025 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit today was to monitor compliance with child care requirements applicable to an annual compliance visit. You, W. Hill, director, arrived shortly after the visit began and assisted. Currently, this center operates with a Five-Star license issued on February 23, 2018, earning seven (7) points in the Education Component, seven (7) points in the Program Component and one (1) Quality point. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on April 24, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was completed March 19, 2025 earning a Superior rating. The last fire inspection was completed January 16, 2025 and the facility was approved for care on first shift only. Children were observed participating in free choice activity center play, teacher directed art and outdoor play. Observed interactions between teachers and children were nurturing in nature. FACILITY PROFILE This facility is owned Nash County Public Schools. I reviewed contact information for the owner and the facility with you, W. Hill, and you verified the current information listed with DCDEE remains correct. The following violations of child care requirements were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. There was no medication authorization form on-site for a child with albuterol in space #2. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. The CPR training completed by the staff person hired on 9/3/20 does not indicate that pediatric CPR was included. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. The First Aid training completed by the staff hired on 9/3/20 does not indicate that pediatric First Aid (FA) was included. The staff hired on 8/19/24 completed a Basic Life Support training that did not indicate FA was included. .1102(d) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. There is no documentation that staff reviewed the EPR plan for 2024. .0607(f) 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. Staff hired on 8/19/24 did not complete this required training until 1/17/25. .1102(g) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance can be mailed or emailed to me and must be received by April 16, 2025. If mailing, you must submit two (2) signed and dated copies. My mailing and email addresses are noted at the bottom. The letter of compliance must detail how the violations were corrected. Please be aware that any written information you submit regarding the correction of the violation is legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all submitted information is accurate and truthful. If it is determined that submitted information was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today’s visit your compliance history was 91% over an eighteen (18) month period. CHILDREN RECORDS I reviewed ten percent of children’s records. They were found to be in compliance with Child Care Rules. STAFF RECORDS I also monitored ten percent, or more, of staff records and four (4) violations were documented. There was no documentation that staff reviewed the center’s EPR plan for 2024. It is required that staff review this plan yearly to ensure they are familiar with procedures to keep children and themselves safe in case of a major emergency. The staff hired 8/19/24 did not complete the required Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment until 1/17/25. This is outside of the required ninety (90) day timeframe. Staff hired 9/3/20 completed a Heartsaver for K-12 CPR and First aid training but it did not note that the optional pediatric modules were completed. Staff working at the center must completed the pediatric CPR and FA as they care for children younger than school age. You stated these modules were completed. The staff person hired 8/19/24 completed a Basic Life Support CPR training but did not indicate that first aid training was included. She also completed a Heartsaver for K-12 CPR and First aid training on 2/15/25 but also does not indicate the pediatric modules were completed. Should the trainers’ re-issue these cards and note the modules were completed on the original training dates this violation may be removed. I left a copy of the DCDEE form detailing what American Heart Association courses meet the requirements for CPR and First Aid in a licensed program. MEDICATION There is an albuterol inhaler in space #2 for an enrolled child with asthma. While there is a medical action plan there is no medication authorization form on-site for the child. You informed me that the parents insist that the child does not need the medication but submitted this information and the inhaler anyway. The medication may be returned to the parents if they do not want to complete the authorization form we reviewed today. However, they should know that should the child have a reaction staff will not be able to render assistance with medication ENVIRONMENTAL RATING SCALES You were reminded that the hold harmless state has been extended. Therefore, programs that were in cohorts 1 and 2 do not have to proceed with the Environmental Rating Scale assessments (ERS). ERS is voluntary at this time, and you will be notified when this changes. As of February 1, 2025 all the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3, also known as the "3s", will be used for all assessments. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the revised editions. I encourage you to go to the North Carolina Rated License Project (NCRLAP) website for more information at: https://ncrlap.org/. There are a variety of webinars and infographics available with detailed information on the changes with the 3s. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE & REMINDERS: We discussed technical assistance regarding continuing to have staff or maintenance rake/till the wood mulch often to redistribute it beneath the swings and also due to it becoming compacted. The Clean Water for Carolina Kids program has expanded to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program. This is a legislatively mandated effort to address lead and asbestos hazards in North Carolina public schools, licensed child care centers, and licensed family child care homes. Participation allows facilities to meet all rule requirements for identified lead and asbestos hazards, as required by law. Rules 10A NCAC 41C .1001 through .1007 require all programs to be free of lead and asbestos hazards. RTI is coordinating all the lead in water, paint and asbestos testing and remediation. Currently operating child care facilities are required to test for asbestos and lead paint once unless the consultant notes a concern during a visit and refers the program to environmental health. All existing licensed programs must complete the application summary for their program regarding lead paint and asbestos by May 31, 2025. Your facility tested on October 24, 2024 and is not due to re-test until 2027. The website states that this program has started enrollment for the required lead paint and asbestos testing. I recommend logging into the website to ensure that you have submitted all the required information to complete testing (https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/). Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all applicable laws and rules. The best way to do so is to periodically review the child care laws and rules. The current rule book dated November 1, 2025, is available at the DCDEE website https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. There are also modules reviewing the new Child Care Rules available on Moodle, which can be found on the Division website. I recommend you frequently click the “What’s New” tab to stay informed of all updates on the DCDEE website. Please feel free to contact me at (984) 867-7089 or email at Felicia.faison@dhhs.nc.gov for questions and assistance. If needed my mailing address is PO Box 61161, Raleigh NC 27661. 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 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE CHILDRENS CENTER Facility ID: 64000016 Consultant: FELICIA FAISON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/29/2023 Number Present: 15 Completed Date: 11/29/2023 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 190 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit today was to monitor compliance with child care requirements applicable to an annual compliance visit. You, W. Hill, Coordinator, arrived shortly after the visit began and assisted. Currently, this center operates with a Five-Star license issued on February 23, 2018, earning seven (7) points in the Education Component, seven (7) points in the Program Component and one (1) Quality point. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on May 18, 2023. The last sanitation inspection was completed September 27, 2023 earning a Superior rating. The last fire inspection was completed January 31, 2023 and the facility was approved for care on first shift only. Children were observed participating in group time, activity center play and outdoor play. Interactions observed between teachers and children were nurturing in nature. The following violations of child care requirements were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. I observed two (2) uncovered outlets in space #2 and one (1) in the unlocked storage room. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. Staff hired 9/8/23 has their health questionnaire stored in their personnel file. .0701(d) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance can be mailed or emailed to me and must be received by December 13, 2023. If mailing, you must submit two (2) signed and dated copies. My mailing and email addresses are noted at the bottom. The letter of compliance must detail how the violations were corrected. Please be aware any written information you submit regarding the correction of the violation is legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all submitted information is accurate and truthful. If it is determined that submitted information was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. STAFF/CHILD INTERACTION OBSERVATIONS & TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE I observed a current activity plan and schedule posted in each space which were being followed. Upon arrival I observed both groups of children, fifteen (15) total participating in circle time in space #1. Keep in mind the staff/child ratio and room capacity requirements. These requirements were in compliance today, however if all children were in attendance they would not be. Circle time consisted of a veteran volunteer, with a therapy dog, reading a book to the children. Afterward the children were given the chance to pet the dog and shake his paw. They were fully engaged in the story and visiting the dog. Afterward one (1) group played in activity centers in space #1 and the group in space #2 went to the playground. Group #2 engaged in gross motor play as they played together, ran, climbed, and rode tricycles. Outdoor play is not only an opportunity for learning in a different environment; it also provides many health benefits. Playing together outdoors also helps them work on their social/emotional skills as they work together. Children in space #1 also took turns completing an art project with their teacher to make “magic” wands. Offering a wide range of activities like cooking, dramatic play, art, music, crafts, games, quiet time, and outdoor play allow children to explore new interests and relationships. Often art projects involve cutting, writing/coloring, painting, or pasting which helps develop fine motor skills as well. STAFF RECORDS One (1) new staff member has been hired since the compliance visit conducted in May. This record was monitored today and one violation was documented. The staff person hired 9/8/23 has their health questionnaire (HQ) stored in their personnel record. All medical information including the medical report, TB screening/test, and HQ must be stored separately from personnel information due to HIPAA law. We discussed starting a medical file for this information or a communal notebook, please use a way that works for your program. GENERAL SAFETY ITEMS I observed two (2) uncovered outlets in space #2. One (1) near the television and the other near a shelf in the block center. When told the teacher placed outlet covers and you moved the shelf in blocks to make the outlet inaccessible. There is one (1) uncovered outlet in the shared storage room between the two (2) spaces. This storage area is left unlocked, and the doors open as it is used as passage between the classrooms. These must be covered when not in use to ensure children do not use them properly which could result in injury. We discussed ensuring that staff that arrives first in the morning check the outlets that are often used by maintenance staff when they clean the rooms. You informed me that making signs to replace covers and asking has not worked so far. You covered all outlets prior to the end of the visit, so this was corrected during the visit. ENVIRONMENTAL RATING SCALES You were reminded that this facility is in cohort one related to resuming the environmental rating scales (ERS). This means that the preparation year for your facility began July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024. The assessment year begins July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025, and the program must complete the ERS process during that year. Please visit the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) website for informational webinars related to the current process and infographics with information on activities to complete during the preparation year (ncrlap.org). Ensure that all new and current staff have submitted all education to DCDEE WORKS for evaluation prior to completing the ERS. You may also complete an ERS assessment prior to your reassessment year and only use the scores if they are acceptable to you. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE & REMINDERS Technical assistance provided to new staff regarding documentation of arrival and departure times on the sign/in out sheets. If parents forget to document an arrival or departure time staff should document this information and initial. Documentation of arrival and departure times are required to be done as they occur and are important in case the program must confirm when a child arrived or left the premises. The date should be noted on each sheet to confirm when the information was documented. Technical assistance also discussed the use of student interns. Please be reminded that the staff/child ratio and group sizes must be maintained at all times. If a teacher needs to leave the room to get something they should either take the number of children needed to keep adequate ratios or ask a student intern to get it. The NC Commission for Public Health adopted and approved the amended rule regarding lead water testing effective October 1, 2019. The rule requires all licensed child care centers to test all drinking water faucets and food preparation sinks for lead contamination once every three years. If a child care center finds elevated concentrations of lead in the center’s water, they will be required to take immediate action. If your center was tested in 2020 you are due to re-test this year. I recommend you go to cleanwaterforcarolinakids.org regarding the second round of testing. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all applicable laws and rules. The best way to do so is to periodically review the child care laws and rules. The current rule book dated July 1, 2023, is available at the DCDEE website https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. There are also modules reviewing the new Child Care Rules available on Moodle, which can be found on the Division website. I recommend you frequently click the “What’s New” tab to stay informed of all updates on the DCDEE website. Please feel free to contact me at (984) 867-7089 or email at Felicia.faison@dhhs.nc.gov for questions and assistance. If needed my mailing address is PO Box 61161, Raleigh NC 27661. 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