10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: CIRCLE OF FRIENDS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 12000074 Consultant: KRISTEN R. MAUNEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/16/2025 Number Present: 41 Completed Date: 10/16/2025 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 01:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements, including health and safety. The visit was conducted with you, LaTina Johnson, Administrator. You provided me with applicable program, staff, and children’s records for review. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed before the visit and Blue Ridge Community Action, Incorporated was current/active as of October 16, 2025. This program currently operates with a Five star rated license effective April 25, 2019. The program’s compliance history was 92 percent prior to today’s visit. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today, including NC Pre-K requirements. Children and staff were observed during free play activities indoors, gross motor activities outdoors, story time, handwashing routines, lunch and nap time. All staff were listed on the ABCMS Provider Portal roster for this facility. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 5, 2025. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 2 demerits noted on the grade card. The analysis date for the most recent lead water test was July 19, 2023. Lead testing must be completed every three years. You may review your facilities results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. This website also indicated “enrollment started” for required asbestos and lead-based paint testing. I suggested that you or the individual responsible contact RTI to request an update on this facilities enrollment with required asbestos and lead based paint testing. These tests must be completed by December 31, 2025. The most recent fire inspection for your facility was conducted on November 7, 2024. I suggested that you contact your local fire inspector and request a fire inspection for your facility. The most recent monthly fire drill was conducted on September 22, 2025, at 10:05am. The most recent quarterly lockdown/shelter-in-place drill was conducted on July 25, 2025, at 10:00am. The next quarterly emergency drill is due by October 25, 2025. The facilities EPR Plan was reviewed on August 13, 2025. You stated you have reviewed changes to the plan with staff but you have not updated the plan online yet. I requested that you update the plan online and print a copy for review during your next monitoring visit. The most recent monthly playground inspection was completed on June 15, 2025, by Barry Ragsdale. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the Visit Summary left with you at the conclusion of this visit. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. In outdoor space #2, a yellow plastic object representing a bee on the side of the portable tree climber was cracked with sharp edges accessible to children. .0601(c) 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. In space #1, one electrical outlet not in use was uncovered and accessible to children on the wall beside a filing cabinet. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The most recent monthly playground inspection report on file for review was completed on June 15, 2025. .0605(q) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). The criminal background qualification for one staff member, Donitia Shatley, employed on 9/23/2014, expired on 8/9/2025. The criminal background recheck was not completed until 9/30/2025. This staff member’s current qualification letter was on file for review. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1767 The health assessment did not include a vision screening. One child initially enrolled on 8/26/2024 and enrolled in NC Pre-K on 8/25/2025 did not have a completed vision screening on file for review. The health assessment on file for this child indicated "n/a" for the vision screening. .3005 (a)(3) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the violation item number, statement of compliance, date of the visit and license ID number in the letter. I must receive your compliance statement by October 30, 2025. Please send your letter to Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If you state in your violation correction letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Criminal Background Check- Criminal background rechecks must be completed prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter. I suggested that you have staff begin the criminal background recheck process at least 6 months prior to the expiration date. I suggested that you create a chart with all staff members criminal background check qualification dates to assist you with ensuring criminal background rechecks are completed prior to the expiration. Playground equipment- When conducting your monthly playground inspections, I reminded you to check all equipment to ensure broken equipment and hazards are not accessible to children. I suggested that you instruct staff to inform administrative staff when a piece of equipment is broken or damaged, and remove the equipment, if able, from the play area so that the broken equipment is not accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT (c) Equipment and furnishings shall be sturdy, stable, and free of hazards that may injure children including sharp edges, lead based or peeling paint, rust, loose nails, splinters, protrusions (excluding nuts and bolts on sides of fences), and pinch and crush points. Electrical outlets- Staff members covered the electrical outlet with a safety plug during the visit. I suggested that you monitor all spaces used by children throughout the day to ensure all electrical outlets not in use are covered with a safety plug. Check all electrical outlets at the beginning of the day. Playground inspections- Playground inspections must be completed and documented monthly. I suggested that the designated individual conduct a playground inspection on the same day you complete the monthly fire drill to ensure both are completed each month. I also suggested adding reminder alerts on your computer or phone to complete these inspections each month. NC Pre-K vision screening- I suggested that you thoroughly review children’s files, specifically NC Pre-K children’s files, prior to enrollment to ensure that each child’s applicable medical documentation is on file within 30 days of enrollment. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3005 states: (a) A health assessment shall be on file at the NC Pre-K site within 30 days after a child enters the NC Pre-K program and the assessment may be no more than 12 months old at the time of program entry. The health assessment shall include the following: (1) physical examination; (2) updated immunizations; (3) vision screening; (4) hearing screening; and (5) dental screening. (b) Site-level administrators shall review all health assessment results at the time of the child's entry into the program to determine whether the assessment includes specific instructions for identified health needs that may require physical or occupational or other therapies to support the child's development and learning goals. Consultation: We discussed the following during the visit: -I suggested that you or the individual responsible contact RTI to request an update on this facilities enrollment with required asbestos and lead based paint testing. These tests must be completed by December 31, 2025. -Staff who do not have current CPR and First Aid certification cannot open, close, be alone at the facility caring for children, transport children, or be listed on the Emergency Medical Care Plan to respond to medical emergencies. -Activity plans must include activities for each activity area in your classroom. 10A NCAC 09 .0508(g) The activity plan shall: (1) identify activities that allow children to choose to participate with the whole group, part of the group, or independent of the group; (2) reflect that the children have four different activities daily, at least one of which is outdoors, if weather conditions permit, as listed in G.S. 110-91(12) as follows: (A) art and other creative play; (B) children's books; (C) blocks and block building; (D) manipulatives; and (E) family living and dramatic play; and (3) include a daily gross motor activity that may occur indoors or outdoors. 10A NCAC 09 .2806 CAREGIVING ACTIVITIES FOR PRESCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN (a) Each center shall comply with the requirements in Rule .0508 of this Chapter for written activity schedules and plans and in Rule .0509 of this Chapter for general activity requirements. (b) Each center providing care to preschool-age children shall comply with the requirements for activity areas for preschool-age children in Rule .0510 of this Chapter, except that all five of the activity areas listed in G.S. 110-91(12) shall be available each day and the activities listed in Rule .0510(c) of this Chapter shall be offered for each group of children at least once per week. QRIS Pathways to the Stars: -We reviewed Pathway #1, #2, and #3, Family and Community Engagement Foundational Practices, Continuous Quality Improvement, approved curriculum, formative assessment tools, and staff to child ratio options. I encouraged you to review this information more thoroughly by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. -Reach out to Child Care Connections for additional technical assistance and support at 828-439-2328. -This facility is a Head Start program; therefore, you stated you intend to follow Pathway #3 for your upcoming rated license reassessment. I provided you with the required application documents for this pathway option during the visit. Reminders and Resources: -Providers can speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to the challenging behaviors in their classroom by calling 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. Providers may also submit questions to a Behavior Support Advisor online and receive a call or email in response. In addition, providers may post questions in the ‘Talk to the Expert’ Group on an online network, Social Emotional Connections, for early childhood educators. There are also opportunities to join free webinars on challenging topics or classroom activities. For a flyer including active links to access these resources, please reach out to me and I will send this to you via email. I encouraged you to place a copy of the flyer in each classroom so that staff may access the information when needed. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the "What's New" tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. Thank you for your time and assistance today. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me at 704-853-9196 or Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov. Kristen Mauney, Child Care Consultant PO Box 674 Denver, NC 28037 If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0508 · Violation

Name of Operation: CIRCLE OF FRIENDS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 12000074 Consultant: KRISTEN R. MAUNEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/16/2025 Number Present: 41 Completed Date: 10/16/2025 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 01:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements, including health and safety. The visit was conducted with you, LaTina Johnson, Administrator. You provided me with applicable program, staff, and children’s records for review. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed before the visit and Blue Ridge Community Action, Incorporated was current/active as of October 16, 2025. This program currently operates with a Five star rated license effective April 25, 2019. The program’s compliance history was 92 percent prior to today’s visit. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today, including NC Pre-K requirements. Children and staff were observed during free play activities indoors, gross motor activities outdoors, story time, handwashing routines, lunch and nap time. All staff were listed on the ABCMS Provider Portal roster for this facility. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 5, 2025. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 2 demerits noted on the grade card. The analysis date for the most recent lead water test was July 19, 2023. Lead testing must be completed every three years. You may review your facilities results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. This website also indicated “enrollment started” for required asbestos and lead-based paint testing. I suggested that you or the individual responsible contact RTI to request an update on this facilities enrollment with required asbestos and lead based paint testing. These tests must be completed by December 31, 2025. The most recent fire inspection for your facility was conducted on November 7, 2024. I suggested that you contact your local fire inspector and request a fire inspection for your facility. The most recent monthly fire drill was conducted on September 22, 2025, at 10:05am. The most recent quarterly lockdown/shelter-in-place drill was conducted on July 25, 2025, at 10:00am. The next quarterly emergency drill is due by October 25, 2025. The facilities EPR Plan was reviewed on August 13, 2025. You stated you have reviewed changes to the plan with staff but you have not updated the plan online yet. I requested that you update the plan online and print a copy for review during your next monitoring visit. The most recent monthly playground inspection was completed on June 15, 2025, by Barry Ragsdale. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the Visit Summary left with you at the conclusion of this visit. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. In outdoor space #2, a yellow plastic object representing a bee on the side of the portable tree climber was cracked with sharp edges accessible to children. .0601(c) 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. In space #1, one electrical outlet not in use was uncovered and accessible to children on the wall beside a filing cabinet. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The most recent monthly playground inspection report on file for review was completed on June 15, 2025. .0605(q) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). The criminal background qualification for one staff member, Donitia Shatley, employed on 9/23/2014, expired on 8/9/2025. The criminal background recheck was not completed until 9/30/2025. This staff member’s current qualification letter was on file for review. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1767 The health assessment did not include a vision screening. One child initially enrolled on 8/26/2024 and enrolled in NC Pre-K on 8/25/2025 did not have a completed vision screening on file for review. The health assessment on file for this child indicated "n/a" for the vision screening. .3005 (a)(3) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the violation item number, statement of compliance, date of the visit and license ID number in the letter. I must receive your compliance statement by October 30, 2025. Please send your letter to Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If you state in your violation correction letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Criminal Background Check- Criminal background rechecks must be completed prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter. I suggested that you have staff begin the criminal background recheck process at least 6 months prior to the expiration date. I suggested that you create a chart with all staff members criminal background check qualification dates to assist you with ensuring criminal background rechecks are completed prior to the expiration. Playground equipment- When conducting your monthly playground inspections, I reminded you to check all equipment to ensure broken equipment and hazards are not accessible to children. I suggested that you instruct staff to inform administrative staff when a piece of equipment is broken or damaged, and remove the equipment, if able, from the play area so that the broken equipment is not accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT (c) Equipment and furnishings shall be sturdy, stable, and free of hazards that may injure children including sharp edges, lead based or peeling paint, rust, loose nails, splinters, protrusions (excluding nuts and bolts on sides of fences), and pinch and crush points. Electrical outlets- Staff members covered the electrical outlet with a safety plug during the visit. I suggested that you monitor all spaces used by children throughout the day to ensure all electrical outlets not in use are covered with a safety plug. Check all electrical outlets at the beginning of the day. Playground inspections- Playground inspections must be completed and documented monthly. I suggested that the designated individual conduct a playground inspection on the same day you complete the monthly fire drill to ensure both are completed each month. I also suggested adding reminder alerts on your computer or phone to complete these inspections each month. NC Pre-K vision screening- I suggested that you thoroughly review children’s files, specifically NC Pre-K children’s files, prior to enrollment to ensure that each child’s applicable medical documentation is on file within 30 days of enrollment. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3005 states: (a) A health assessment shall be on file at the NC Pre-K site within 30 days after a child enters the NC Pre-K program and the assessment may be no more than 12 months old at the time of program entry. The health assessment shall include the following: (1) physical examination; (2) updated immunizations; (3) vision screening; (4) hearing screening; and (5) dental screening. (b) Site-level administrators shall review all health assessment results at the time of the child's entry into the program to determine whether the assessment includes specific instructions for identified health needs that may require physical or occupational or other therapies to support the child's development and learning goals. Consultation: We discussed the following during the visit: -I suggested that you or the individual responsible contact RTI to request an update on this facilities enrollment with required asbestos and lead based paint testing. These tests must be completed by December 31, 2025. -Staff who do not have current CPR and First Aid certification cannot open, close, be alone at the facility caring for children, transport children, or be listed on the Emergency Medical Care Plan to respond to medical emergencies. -Activity plans must include activities for each activity area in your classroom. 10A NCAC 09 .0508(g) The activity plan shall: (1) identify activities that allow children to choose to participate with the whole group, part of the group, or independent of the group; (2) reflect that the children have four different activities daily, at least one of which is outdoors, if weather conditions permit, as listed in G.S. 110-91(12) as follows: (A) art and other creative play; (B) children's books; (C) blocks and block building; (D) manipulatives; and (E) family living and dramatic play; and (3) include a daily gross motor activity that may occur indoors or outdoors. 10A NCAC 09 .2806 CAREGIVING ACTIVITIES FOR PRESCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN (a) Each center shall comply with the requirements in Rule .0508 of this Chapter for written activity schedules and plans and in Rule .0509 of this Chapter for general activity requirements. (b) Each center providing care to preschool-age children shall comply with the requirements for activity areas for preschool-age children in Rule .0510 of this Chapter, except that all five of the activity areas listed in G.S. 110-91(12) shall be available each day and the activities listed in Rule .0510(c) of this Chapter shall be offered for each group of children at least once per week. QRIS Pathways to the Stars: -We reviewed Pathway #1, #2, and #3, Family and Community Engagement Foundational Practices, Continuous Quality Improvement, approved curriculum, formative assessment tools, and staff to child ratio options. I encouraged you to review this information more thoroughly by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. -Reach out to Child Care Connections for additional technical assistance and support at 828-439-2328. -This facility is a Head Start program; therefore, you stated you intend to follow Pathway #3 for your upcoming rated license reassessment. I provided you with the required application documents for this pathway option during the visit. Reminders and Resources: -Providers can speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to the challenging behaviors in their classroom by calling 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. Providers may also submit questions to a Behavior Support Advisor online and receive a call or email in response. In addition, providers may post questions in the ‘Talk to the Expert’ Group on an online network, Social Emotional Connections, for early childhood educators. There are also opportunities to join free webinars on challenging topics or classroom activities. For a flyer including active links to access these resources, please reach out to me and I will send this to you via email. I encouraged you to place a copy of the flyer in each classroom so that staff may access the information when needed. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the "What's New" tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. Thank you for your time and assistance today. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me at 704-853-9196 or Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov. Kristen Mauney, Child Care Consultant PO Box 674 Denver, NC 28037 If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: CIRCLE OF FRIENDS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 12000074 Consultant: KRISTEN R. MAUNEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/16/2025 Number Present: 41 Completed Date: 10/16/2025 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 01:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements, including health and safety. The visit was conducted with you, LaTina Johnson, Administrator. You provided me with applicable program, staff, and children’s records for review. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed before the visit and Blue Ridge Community Action, Incorporated was current/active as of October 16, 2025. This program currently operates with a Five star rated license effective April 25, 2019. The program’s compliance history was 92 percent prior to today’s visit. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today, including NC Pre-K requirements. Children and staff were observed during free play activities indoors, gross motor activities outdoors, story time, handwashing routines, lunch and nap time. All staff were listed on the ABCMS Provider Portal roster for this facility. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 5, 2025. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 2 demerits noted on the grade card. The analysis date for the most recent lead water test was July 19, 2023. Lead testing must be completed every three years. You may review your facilities results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. This website also indicated “enrollment started” for required asbestos and lead-based paint testing. I suggested that you or the individual responsible contact RTI to request an update on this facilities enrollment with required asbestos and lead based paint testing. These tests must be completed by December 31, 2025. The most recent fire inspection for your facility was conducted on November 7, 2024. I suggested that you contact your local fire inspector and request a fire inspection for your facility. The most recent monthly fire drill was conducted on September 22, 2025, at 10:05am. The most recent quarterly lockdown/shelter-in-place drill was conducted on July 25, 2025, at 10:00am. The next quarterly emergency drill is due by October 25, 2025. The facilities EPR Plan was reviewed on August 13, 2025. You stated you have reviewed changes to the plan with staff but you have not updated the plan online yet. I requested that you update the plan online and print a copy for review during your next monitoring visit. The most recent monthly playground inspection was completed on June 15, 2025, by Barry Ragsdale. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the Visit Summary left with you at the conclusion of this visit. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. In outdoor space #2, a yellow plastic object representing a bee on the side of the portable tree climber was cracked with sharp edges accessible to children. .0601(c) 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. In space #1, one electrical outlet not in use was uncovered and accessible to children on the wall beside a filing cabinet. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The most recent monthly playground inspection report on file for review was completed on June 15, 2025. .0605(q) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). The criminal background qualification for one staff member, Donitia Shatley, employed on 9/23/2014, expired on 8/9/2025. The criminal background recheck was not completed until 9/30/2025. This staff member’s current qualification letter was on file for review. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1767 The health assessment did not include a vision screening. One child initially enrolled on 8/26/2024 and enrolled in NC Pre-K on 8/25/2025 did not have a completed vision screening on file for review. The health assessment on file for this child indicated "n/a" for the vision screening. .3005 (a)(3) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the violation item number, statement of compliance, date of the visit and license ID number in the letter. I must receive your compliance statement by October 30, 2025. Please send your letter to Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If you state in your violation correction letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Criminal Background Check- Criminal background rechecks must be completed prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter. I suggested that you have staff begin the criminal background recheck process at least 6 months prior to the expiration date. I suggested that you create a chart with all staff members criminal background check qualification dates to assist you with ensuring criminal background rechecks are completed prior to the expiration. Playground equipment- When conducting your monthly playground inspections, I reminded you to check all equipment to ensure broken equipment and hazards are not accessible to children. I suggested that you instruct staff to inform administrative staff when a piece of equipment is broken or damaged, and remove the equipment, if able, from the play area so that the broken equipment is not accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT (c) Equipment and furnishings shall be sturdy, stable, and free of hazards that may injure children including sharp edges, lead based or peeling paint, rust, loose nails, splinters, protrusions (excluding nuts and bolts on sides of fences), and pinch and crush points. Electrical outlets- Staff members covered the electrical outlet with a safety plug during the visit. I suggested that you monitor all spaces used by children throughout the day to ensure all electrical outlets not in use are covered with a safety plug. Check all electrical outlets at the beginning of the day. Playground inspections- Playground inspections must be completed and documented monthly. I suggested that the designated individual conduct a playground inspection on the same day you complete the monthly fire drill to ensure both are completed each month. I also suggested adding reminder alerts on your computer or phone to complete these inspections each month. NC Pre-K vision screening- I suggested that you thoroughly review children’s files, specifically NC Pre-K children’s files, prior to enrollment to ensure that each child’s applicable medical documentation is on file within 30 days of enrollment. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3005 states: (a) A health assessment shall be on file at the NC Pre-K site within 30 days after a child enters the NC Pre-K program and the assessment may be no more than 12 months old at the time of program entry. The health assessment shall include the following: (1) physical examination; (2) updated immunizations; (3) vision screening; (4) hearing screening; and (5) dental screening. (b) Site-level administrators shall review all health assessment results at the time of the child's entry into the program to determine whether the assessment includes specific instructions for identified health needs that may require physical or occupational or other therapies to support the child's development and learning goals. Consultation: We discussed the following during the visit: -I suggested that you or the individual responsible contact RTI to request an update on this facilities enrollment with required asbestos and lead based paint testing. These tests must be completed by December 31, 2025. -Staff who do not have current CPR and First Aid certification cannot open, close, be alone at the facility caring for children, transport children, or be listed on the Emergency Medical Care Plan to respond to medical emergencies. -Activity plans must include activities for each activity area in your classroom. 10A NCAC 09 .0508(g) The activity plan shall: (1) identify activities that allow children to choose to participate with the whole group, part of the group, or independent of the group; (2) reflect that the children have four different activities daily, at least one of which is outdoors, if weather conditions permit, as listed in G.S. 110-91(12) as follows: (A) art and other creative play; (B) children's books; (C) blocks and block building; (D) manipulatives; and (E) family living and dramatic play; and (3) include a daily gross motor activity that may occur indoors or outdoors. 10A NCAC 09 .2806 CAREGIVING ACTIVITIES FOR PRESCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN (a) Each center shall comply with the requirements in Rule .0508 of this Chapter for written activity schedules and plans and in Rule .0509 of this Chapter for general activity requirements. (b) Each center providing care to preschool-age children shall comply with the requirements for activity areas for preschool-age children in Rule .0510 of this Chapter, except that all five of the activity areas listed in G.S. 110-91(12) shall be available each day and the activities listed in Rule .0510(c) of this Chapter shall be offered for each group of children at least once per week. QRIS Pathways to the Stars: -We reviewed Pathway #1, #2, and #3, Family and Community Engagement Foundational Practices, Continuous Quality Improvement, approved curriculum, formative assessment tools, and staff to child ratio options. I encouraged you to review this information more thoroughly by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. -Reach out to Child Care Connections for additional technical assistance and support at 828-439-2328. -This facility is a Head Start program; therefore, you stated you intend to follow Pathway #3 for your upcoming rated license reassessment. I provided you with the required application documents for this pathway option during the visit. Reminders and Resources: -Providers can speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to the challenging behaviors in their classroom by calling 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. Providers may also submit questions to a Behavior Support Advisor online and receive a call or email in response. In addition, providers may post questions in the ‘Talk to the Expert’ Group on an online network, Social Emotional Connections, for early childhood educators. There are also opportunities to join free webinars on challenging topics or classroom activities. For a flyer including active links to access these resources, please reach out to me and I will send this to you via email. I encouraged you to place a copy of the flyer in each classroom so that staff may access the information when needed. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the "What's New" tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. Thank you for your time and assistance today. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me at 704-853-9196 or Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov. Kristen Mauney, Child Care Consultant PO Box 674 Denver, NC 28037 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 .2806 · Violation

Name of Operation: CIRCLE OF FRIENDS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 12000074 Consultant: KRISTEN R. MAUNEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/16/2025 Number Present: 41 Completed Date: 10/16/2025 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 01:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements, including health and safety. The visit was conducted with you, LaTina Johnson, Administrator. You provided me with applicable program, staff, and children’s records for review. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed before the visit and Blue Ridge Community Action, Incorporated was current/active as of October 16, 2025. This program currently operates with a Five star rated license effective April 25, 2019. The program’s compliance history was 92 percent prior to today’s visit. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today, including NC Pre-K requirements. Children and staff were observed during free play activities indoors, gross motor activities outdoors, story time, handwashing routines, lunch and nap time. All staff were listed on the ABCMS Provider Portal roster for this facility. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 5, 2025. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 2 demerits noted on the grade card. The analysis date for the most recent lead water test was July 19, 2023. Lead testing must be completed every three years. You may review your facilities results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. This website also indicated “enrollment started” for required asbestos and lead-based paint testing. I suggested that you or the individual responsible contact RTI to request an update on this facilities enrollment with required asbestos and lead based paint testing. These tests must be completed by December 31, 2025. The most recent fire inspection for your facility was conducted on November 7, 2024. I suggested that you contact your local fire inspector and request a fire inspection for your facility. The most recent monthly fire drill was conducted on September 22, 2025, at 10:05am. The most recent quarterly lockdown/shelter-in-place drill was conducted on July 25, 2025, at 10:00am. The next quarterly emergency drill is due by October 25, 2025. The facilities EPR Plan was reviewed on August 13, 2025. You stated you have reviewed changes to the plan with staff but you have not updated the plan online yet. I requested that you update the plan online and print a copy for review during your next monitoring visit. The most recent monthly playground inspection was completed on June 15, 2025, by Barry Ragsdale. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the Visit Summary left with you at the conclusion of this visit. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. In outdoor space #2, a yellow plastic object representing a bee on the side of the portable tree climber was cracked with sharp edges accessible to children. .0601(c) 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. In space #1, one electrical outlet not in use was uncovered and accessible to children on the wall beside a filing cabinet. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The most recent monthly playground inspection report on file for review was completed on June 15, 2025. .0605(q) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). The criminal background qualification for one staff member, Donitia Shatley, employed on 9/23/2014, expired on 8/9/2025. The criminal background recheck was not completed until 9/30/2025. This staff member’s current qualification letter was on file for review. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1767 The health assessment did not include a vision screening. One child initially enrolled on 8/26/2024 and enrolled in NC Pre-K on 8/25/2025 did not have a completed vision screening on file for review. The health assessment on file for this child indicated "n/a" for the vision screening. .3005 (a)(3) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the violation item number, statement of compliance, date of the visit and license ID number in the letter. I must receive your compliance statement by October 30, 2025. Please send your letter to Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If you state in your violation correction letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Criminal Background Check- Criminal background rechecks must be completed prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter. I suggested that you have staff begin the criminal background recheck process at least 6 months prior to the expiration date. I suggested that you create a chart with all staff members criminal background check qualification dates to assist you with ensuring criminal background rechecks are completed prior to the expiration. Playground equipment- When conducting your monthly playground inspections, I reminded you to check all equipment to ensure broken equipment and hazards are not accessible to children. I suggested that you instruct staff to inform administrative staff when a piece of equipment is broken or damaged, and remove the equipment, if able, from the play area so that the broken equipment is not accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT (c) Equipment and furnishings shall be sturdy, stable, and free of hazards that may injure children including sharp edges, lead based or peeling paint, rust, loose nails, splinters, protrusions (excluding nuts and bolts on sides of fences), and pinch and crush points. Electrical outlets- Staff members covered the electrical outlet with a safety plug during the visit. I suggested that you monitor all spaces used by children throughout the day to ensure all electrical outlets not in use are covered with a safety plug. Check all electrical outlets at the beginning of the day. Playground inspections- Playground inspections must be completed and documented monthly. I suggested that the designated individual conduct a playground inspection on the same day you complete the monthly fire drill to ensure both are completed each month. I also suggested adding reminder alerts on your computer or phone to complete these inspections each month. NC Pre-K vision screening- I suggested that you thoroughly review children’s files, specifically NC Pre-K children’s files, prior to enrollment to ensure that each child’s applicable medical documentation is on file within 30 days of enrollment. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3005 states: (a) A health assessment shall be on file at the NC Pre-K site within 30 days after a child enters the NC Pre-K program and the assessment may be no more than 12 months old at the time of program entry. The health assessment shall include the following: (1) physical examination; (2) updated immunizations; (3) vision screening; (4) hearing screening; and (5) dental screening. (b) Site-level administrators shall review all health assessment results at the time of the child's entry into the program to determine whether the assessment includes specific instructions for identified health needs that may require physical or occupational or other therapies to support the child's development and learning goals. Consultation: We discussed the following during the visit: -I suggested that you or the individual responsible contact RTI to request an update on this facilities enrollment with required asbestos and lead based paint testing. These tests must be completed by December 31, 2025. -Staff who do not have current CPR and First Aid certification cannot open, close, be alone at the facility caring for children, transport children, or be listed on the Emergency Medical Care Plan to respond to medical emergencies. -Activity plans must include activities for each activity area in your classroom. 10A NCAC 09 .0508(g) The activity plan shall: (1) identify activities that allow children to choose to participate with the whole group, part of the group, or independent of the group; (2) reflect that the children have four different activities daily, at least one of which is outdoors, if weather conditions permit, as listed in G.S. 110-91(12) as follows: (A) art and other creative play; (B) children's books; (C) blocks and block building; (D) manipulatives; and (E) family living and dramatic play; and (3) include a daily gross motor activity that may occur indoors or outdoors. 10A NCAC 09 .2806 CAREGIVING ACTIVITIES FOR PRESCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN (a) Each center shall comply with the requirements in Rule .0508 of this Chapter for written activity schedules and plans and in Rule .0509 of this Chapter for general activity requirements. (b) Each center providing care to preschool-age children shall comply with the requirements for activity areas for preschool-age children in Rule .0510 of this Chapter, except that all five of the activity areas listed in G.S. 110-91(12) shall be available each day and the activities listed in Rule .0510(c) of this Chapter shall be offered for each group of children at least once per week. QRIS Pathways to the Stars: -We reviewed Pathway #1, #2, and #3, Family and Community Engagement Foundational Practices, Continuous Quality Improvement, approved curriculum, formative assessment tools, and staff to child ratio options. I encouraged you to review this information more thoroughly by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. -Reach out to Child Care Connections for additional technical assistance and support at 828-439-2328. -This facility is a Head Start program; therefore, you stated you intend to follow Pathway #3 for your upcoming rated license reassessment. I provided you with the required application documents for this pathway option during the visit. Reminders and Resources: -Providers can speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to the challenging behaviors in their classroom by calling 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. Providers may also submit questions to a Behavior Support Advisor online and receive a call or email in response. In addition, providers may post questions in the ‘Talk to the Expert’ Group on an online network, Social Emotional Connections, for early childhood educators. There are also opportunities to join free webinars on challenging topics or classroom activities. For a flyer including active links to access these resources, please reach out to me and I will send this to you via email. I encouraged you to place a copy of the flyer in each classroom so that staff may access the information when needed. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the "What's New" tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. Thank you for your time and assistance today. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me at 704-853-9196 or Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov. Kristen Mauney, Child Care Consultant PO Box 674 Denver, NC 28037 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 .3005 · Violation

Name of Operation: CIRCLE OF FRIENDS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 12000074 Consultant: KRISTEN R. MAUNEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/16/2025 Number Present: 41 Completed Date: 10/16/2025 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 01:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements, including health and safety. The visit was conducted with you, LaTina Johnson, Administrator. You provided me with applicable program, staff, and children’s records for review. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed before the visit and Blue Ridge Community Action, Incorporated was current/active as of October 16, 2025. This program currently operates with a Five star rated license effective April 25, 2019. The program’s compliance history was 92 percent prior to today’s visit. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today, including NC Pre-K requirements. Children and staff were observed during free play activities indoors, gross motor activities outdoors, story time, handwashing routines, lunch and nap time. All staff were listed on the ABCMS Provider Portal roster for this facility. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 5, 2025. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 2 demerits noted on the grade card. The analysis date for the most recent lead water test was July 19, 2023. Lead testing must be completed every three years. You may review your facilities results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. This website also indicated “enrollment started” for required asbestos and lead-based paint testing. I suggested that you or the individual responsible contact RTI to request an update on this facilities enrollment with required asbestos and lead based paint testing. These tests must be completed by December 31, 2025. The most recent fire inspection for your facility was conducted on November 7, 2024. I suggested that you contact your local fire inspector and request a fire inspection for your facility. The most recent monthly fire drill was conducted on September 22, 2025, at 10:05am. The most recent quarterly lockdown/shelter-in-place drill was conducted on July 25, 2025, at 10:00am. The next quarterly emergency drill is due by October 25, 2025. The facilities EPR Plan was reviewed on August 13, 2025. You stated you have reviewed changes to the plan with staff but you have not updated the plan online yet. I requested that you update the plan online and print a copy for review during your next monitoring visit. The most recent monthly playground inspection was completed on June 15, 2025, by Barry Ragsdale. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the Visit Summary left with you at the conclusion of this visit. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. In outdoor space #2, a yellow plastic object representing a bee on the side of the portable tree climber was cracked with sharp edges accessible to children. .0601(c) 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. In space #1, one electrical outlet not in use was uncovered and accessible to children on the wall beside a filing cabinet. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The most recent monthly playground inspection report on file for review was completed on June 15, 2025. .0605(q) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). The criminal background qualification for one staff member, Donitia Shatley, employed on 9/23/2014, expired on 8/9/2025. The criminal background recheck was not completed until 9/30/2025. This staff member’s current qualification letter was on file for review. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1767 The health assessment did not include a vision screening. One child initially enrolled on 8/26/2024 and enrolled in NC Pre-K on 8/25/2025 did not have a completed vision screening on file for review. The health assessment on file for this child indicated "n/a" for the vision screening. .3005 (a)(3) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the violation item number, statement of compliance, date of the visit and license ID number in the letter. I must receive your compliance statement by October 30, 2025. Please send your letter to Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If you state in your violation correction letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Criminal Background Check- Criminal background rechecks must be completed prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter. I suggested that you have staff begin the criminal background recheck process at least 6 months prior to the expiration date. I suggested that you create a chart with all staff members criminal background check qualification dates to assist you with ensuring criminal background rechecks are completed prior to the expiration. Playground equipment- When conducting your monthly playground inspections, I reminded you to check all equipment to ensure broken equipment and hazards are not accessible to children. I suggested that you instruct staff to inform administrative staff when a piece of equipment is broken or damaged, and remove the equipment, if able, from the play area so that the broken equipment is not accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT (c) Equipment and furnishings shall be sturdy, stable, and free of hazards that may injure children including sharp edges, lead based or peeling paint, rust, loose nails, splinters, protrusions (excluding nuts and bolts on sides of fences), and pinch and crush points. Electrical outlets- Staff members covered the electrical outlet with a safety plug during the visit. I suggested that you monitor all spaces used by children throughout the day to ensure all electrical outlets not in use are covered with a safety plug. Check all electrical outlets at the beginning of the day. Playground inspections- Playground inspections must be completed and documented monthly. I suggested that the designated individual conduct a playground inspection on the same day you complete the monthly fire drill to ensure both are completed each month. I also suggested adding reminder alerts on your computer or phone to complete these inspections each month. NC Pre-K vision screening- I suggested that you thoroughly review children’s files, specifically NC Pre-K children’s files, prior to enrollment to ensure that each child’s applicable medical documentation is on file within 30 days of enrollment. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3005 states: (a) A health assessment shall be on file at the NC Pre-K site within 30 days after a child enters the NC Pre-K program and the assessment may be no more than 12 months old at the time of program entry. The health assessment shall include the following: (1) physical examination; (2) updated immunizations; (3) vision screening; (4) hearing screening; and (5) dental screening. (b) Site-level administrators shall review all health assessment results at the time of the child's entry into the program to determine whether the assessment includes specific instructions for identified health needs that may require physical or occupational or other therapies to support the child's development and learning goals. Consultation: We discussed the following during the visit: -I suggested that you or the individual responsible contact RTI to request an update on this facilities enrollment with required asbestos and lead based paint testing. These tests must be completed by December 31, 2025. -Staff who do not have current CPR and First Aid certification cannot open, close, be alone at the facility caring for children, transport children, or be listed on the Emergency Medical Care Plan to respond to medical emergencies. -Activity plans must include activities for each activity area in your classroom. 10A NCAC 09 .0508(g) The activity plan shall: (1) identify activities that allow children to choose to participate with the whole group, part of the group, or independent of the group; (2) reflect that the children have four different activities daily, at least one of which is outdoors, if weather conditions permit, as listed in G.S. 110-91(12) as follows: (A) art and other creative play; (B) children's books; (C) blocks and block building; (D) manipulatives; and (E) family living and dramatic play; and (3) include a daily gross motor activity that may occur indoors or outdoors. 10A NCAC 09 .2806 CAREGIVING ACTIVITIES FOR PRESCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN (a) Each center shall comply with the requirements in Rule .0508 of this Chapter for written activity schedules and plans and in Rule .0509 of this Chapter for general activity requirements. (b) Each center providing care to preschool-age children shall comply with the requirements for activity areas for preschool-age children in Rule .0510 of this Chapter, except that all five of the activity areas listed in G.S. 110-91(12) shall be available each day and the activities listed in Rule .0510(c) of this Chapter shall be offered for each group of children at least once per week. QRIS Pathways to the Stars: -We reviewed Pathway #1, #2, and #3, Family and Community Engagement Foundational Practices, Continuous Quality Improvement, approved curriculum, formative assessment tools, and staff to child ratio options. I encouraged you to review this information more thoroughly by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. -Reach out to Child Care Connections for additional technical assistance and support at 828-439-2328. -This facility is a Head Start program; therefore, you stated you intend to follow Pathway #3 for your upcoming rated license reassessment. I provided you with the required application documents for this pathway option during the visit. Reminders and Resources: -Providers can speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to the challenging behaviors in their classroom by calling 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. Providers may also submit questions to a Behavior Support Advisor online and receive a call or email in response. In addition, providers may post questions in the ‘Talk to the Expert’ Group on an online network, Social Emotional Connections, for early childhood educators. There are also opportunities to join free webinars on challenging topics or classroom activities. For a flyer including active links to access these resources, please reach out to me and I will send this to you via email. I encouraged you to place a copy of the flyer in each classroom so that staff may access the information when needed. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the "What's New" tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. Thank you for your time and assistance today. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me at 704-853-9196 or Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov. Kristen Mauney, Child Care Consultant PO Box 674 Denver, NC 28037 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: CIRCLE OF FRIENDS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 12000074 Consultant: KRISTEN R. MAUNEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/16/2025 Number Present: 41 Completed Date: 10/16/2025 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 01:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements, including health and safety. The visit was conducted with you, LaTina Johnson, Administrator. You provided me with applicable program, staff, and children’s records for review. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed before the visit and Blue Ridge Community Action, Incorporated was current/active as of October 16, 2025. This program currently operates with a Five star rated license effective April 25, 2019. The program’s compliance history was 92 percent prior to today’s visit. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today, including NC Pre-K requirements. Children and staff were observed during free play activities indoors, gross motor activities outdoors, story time, handwashing routines, lunch and nap time. All staff were listed on the ABCMS Provider Portal roster for this facility. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 5, 2025. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 2 demerits noted on the grade card. The analysis date for the most recent lead water test was July 19, 2023. Lead testing must be completed every three years. You may review your facilities results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. This website also indicated “enrollment started” for required asbestos and lead-based paint testing. I suggested that you or the individual responsible contact RTI to request an update on this facilities enrollment with required asbestos and lead based paint testing. These tests must be completed by December 31, 2025. The most recent fire inspection for your facility was conducted on November 7, 2024. I suggested that you contact your local fire inspector and request a fire inspection for your facility. The most recent monthly fire drill was conducted on September 22, 2025, at 10:05am. The most recent quarterly lockdown/shelter-in-place drill was conducted on July 25, 2025, at 10:00am. The next quarterly emergency drill is due by October 25, 2025. The facilities EPR Plan was reviewed on August 13, 2025. You stated you have reviewed changes to the plan with staff but you have not updated the plan online yet. I requested that you update the plan online and print a copy for review during your next monitoring visit. The most recent monthly playground inspection was completed on June 15, 2025, by Barry Ragsdale. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the Visit Summary left with you at the conclusion of this visit. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. In outdoor space #2, a yellow plastic object representing a bee on the side of the portable tree climber was cracked with sharp edges accessible to children. .0601(c) 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. In space #1, one electrical outlet not in use was uncovered and accessible to children on the wall beside a filing cabinet. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The most recent monthly playground inspection report on file for review was completed on June 15, 2025. .0605(q) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). The criminal background qualification for one staff member, Donitia Shatley, employed on 9/23/2014, expired on 8/9/2025. The criminal background recheck was not completed until 9/30/2025. This staff member’s current qualification letter was on file for review. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1767 The health assessment did not include a vision screening. One child initially enrolled on 8/26/2024 and enrolled in NC Pre-K on 8/25/2025 did not have a completed vision screening on file for review. The health assessment on file for this child indicated "n/a" for the vision screening. .3005 (a)(3) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the violation item number, statement of compliance, date of the visit and license ID number in the letter. I must receive your compliance statement by October 30, 2025. Please send your letter to Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If you state in your violation correction letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Criminal Background Check- Criminal background rechecks must be completed prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter. I suggested that you have staff begin the criminal background recheck process at least 6 months prior to the expiration date. I suggested that you create a chart with all staff members criminal background check qualification dates to assist you with ensuring criminal background rechecks are completed prior to the expiration. Playground equipment- When conducting your monthly playground inspections, I reminded you to check all equipment to ensure broken equipment and hazards are not accessible to children. I suggested that you instruct staff to inform administrative staff when a piece of equipment is broken or damaged, and remove the equipment, if able, from the play area so that the broken equipment is not accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT (c) Equipment and furnishings shall be sturdy, stable, and free of hazards that may injure children including sharp edges, lead based or peeling paint, rust, loose nails, splinters, protrusions (excluding nuts and bolts on sides of fences), and pinch and crush points. Electrical outlets- Staff members covered the electrical outlet with a safety plug during the visit. I suggested that you monitor all spaces used by children throughout the day to ensure all electrical outlets not in use are covered with a safety plug. Check all electrical outlets at the beginning of the day. Playground inspections- Playground inspections must be completed and documented monthly. I suggested that the designated individual conduct a playground inspection on the same day you complete the monthly fire drill to ensure both are completed each month. I also suggested adding reminder alerts on your computer or phone to complete these inspections each month. NC Pre-K vision screening- I suggested that you thoroughly review children’s files, specifically NC Pre-K children’s files, prior to enrollment to ensure that each child’s applicable medical documentation is on file within 30 days of enrollment. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3005 states: (a) A health assessment shall be on file at the NC Pre-K site within 30 days after a child enters the NC Pre-K program and the assessment may be no more than 12 months old at the time of program entry. The health assessment shall include the following: (1) physical examination; (2) updated immunizations; (3) vision screening; (4) hearing screening; and (5) dental screening. (b) Site-level administrators shall review all health assessment results at the time of the child's entry into the program to determine whether the assessment includes specific instructions for identified health needs that may require physical or occupational or other therapies to support the child's development and learning goals. Consultation: We discussed the following during the visit: -I suggested that you or the individual responsible contact RTI to request an update on this facilities enrollment with required asbestos and lead based paint testing. These tests must be completed by December 31, 2025. -Staff who do not have current CPR and First Aid certification cannot open, close, be alone at the facility caring for children, transport children, or be listed on the Emergency Medical Care Plan to respond to medical emergencies. -Activity plans must include activities for each activity area in your classroom. 10A NCAC 09 .0508(g) The activity plan shall: (1) identify activities that allow children to choose to participate with the whole group, part of the group, or independent of the group; (2) reflect that the children have four different activities daily, at least one of which is outdoors, if weather conditions permit, as listed in G.S. 110-91(12) as follows: (A) art and other creative play; (B) children's books; (C) blocks and block building; (D) manipulatives; and (E) family living and dramatic play; and (3) include a daily gross motor activity that may occur indoors or outdoors. 10A NCAC 09 .2806 CAREGIVING ACTIVITIES FOR PRESCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN (a) Each center shall comply with the requirements in Rule .0508 of this Chapter for written activity schedules and plans and in Rule .0509 of this Chapter for general activity requirements. (b) Each center providing care to preschool-age children shall comply with the requirements for activity areas for preschool-age children in Rule .0510 of this Chapter, except that all five of the activity areas listed in G.S. 110-91(12) shall be available each day and the activities listed in Rule .0510(c) of this Chapter shall be offered for each group of children at least once per week. QRIS Pathways to the Stars: -We reviewed Pathway #1, #2, and #3, Family and Community Engagement Foundational Practices, Continuous Quality Improvement, approved curriculum, formative assessment tools, and staff to child ratio options. I encouraged you to review this information more thoroughly by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. -Reach out to Child Care Connections for additional technical assistance and support at 828-439-2328. -This facility is a Head Start program; therefore, you stated you intend to follow Pathway #3 for your upcoming rated license reassessment. I provided you with the required application documents for this pathway option during the visit. Reminders and Resources: -Providers can speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to the challenging behaviors in their classroom by calling 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. Providers may also submit questions to a Behavior Support Advisor online and receive a call or email in response. In addition, providers may post questions in the ‘Talk to the Expert’ Group on an online network, Social Emotional Connections, for early childhood educators. There are also opportunities to join free webinars on challenging topics or classroom activities. For a flyer including active links to access these resources, please reach out to me and I will send this to you via email. I encouraged you to place a copy of the flyer in each classroom so that staff may access the information when needed. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the "What's New" tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. Thank you for your time and assistance today. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me at 704-853-9196 or Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov. Kristen Mauney, Child Care Consultant PO Box 674 Denver, NC 28037 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: CIRCLE OF FRIENDS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 12000074 Consultant: KRISTEN R. MAUNEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/16/2025 Number Present: 41 Completed Date: 10/16/2025 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 01:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements, including health and safety. The visit was conducted with you, LaTina Johnson, Administrator. You provided me with applicable program, staff, and children’s records for review. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed before the visit and Blue Ridge Community Action, Incorporated was current/active as of October 16, 2025. This program currently operates with a Five star rated license effective April 25, 2019. The program’s compliance history was 92 percent prior to today’s visit. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today, including NC Pre-K requirements. Children and staff were observed during free play activities indoors, gross motor activities outdoors, story time, handwashing routines, lunch and nap time. All staff were listed on the ABCMS Provider Portal roster for this facility. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 5, 2025. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 2 demerits noted on the grade card. The analysis date for the most recent lead water test was July 19, 2023. Lead testing must be completed every three years. You may review your facilities results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. This website also indicated “enrollment started” for required asbestos and lead-based paint testing. I suggested that you or the individual responsible contact RTI to request an update on this facilities enrollment with required asbestos and lead based paint testing. These tests must be completed by December 31, 2025. The most recent fire inspection for your facility was conducted on November 7, 2024. I suggested that you contact your local fire inspector and request a fire inspection for your facility. The most recent monthly fire drill was conducted on September 22, 2025, at 10:05am. The most recent quarterly lockdown/shelter-in-place drill was conducted on July 25, 2025, at 10:00am. The next quarterly emergency drill is due by October 25, 2025. The facilities EPR Plan was reviewed on August 13, 2025. You stated you have reviewed changes to the plan with staff but you have not updated the plan online yet. I requested that you update the plan online and print a copy for review during your next monitoring visit. The most recent monthly playground inspection was completed on June 15, 2025, by Barry Ragsdale. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the Visit Summary left with you at the conclusion of this visit. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. In outdoor space #2, a yellow plastic object representing a bee on the side of the portable tree climber was cracked with sharp edges accessible to children. .0601(c) 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. In space #1, one electrical outlet not in use was uncovered and accessible to children on the wall beside a filing cabinet. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The most recent monthly playground inspection report on file for review was completed on June 15, 2025. .0605(q) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). The criminal background qualification for one staff member, Donitia Shatley, employed on 9/23/2014, expired on 8/9/2025. The criminal background recheck was not completed until 9/30/2025. This staff member’s current qualification letter was on file for review. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1767 The health assessment did not include a vision screening. One child initially enrolled on 8/26/2024 and enrolled in NC Pre-K on 8/25/2025 did not have a completed vision screening on file for review. The health assessment on file for this child indicated "n/a" for the vision screening. .3005 (a)(3) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the violation item number, statement of compliance, date of the visit and license ID number in the letter. I must receive your compliance statement by October 30, 2025. Please send your letter to Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If you state in your violation correction letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Criminal Background Check- Criminal background rechecks must be completed prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter. I suggested that you have staff begin the criminal background recheck process at least 6 months prior to the expiration date. I suggested that you create a chart with all staff members criminal background check qualification dates to assist you with ensuring criminal background rechecks are completed prior to the expiration. Playground equipment- When conducting your monthly playground inspections, I reminded you to check all equipment to ensure broken equipment and hazards are not accessible to children. I suggested that you instruct staff to inform administrative staff when a piece of equipment is broken or damaged, and remove the equipment, if able, from the play area so that the broken equipment is not accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT (c) Equipment and furnishings shall be sturdy, stable, and free of hazards that may injure children including sharp edges, lead based or peeling paint, rust, loose nails, splinters, protrusions (excluding nuts and bolts on sides of fences), and pinch and crush points. Electrical outlets- Staff members covered the electrical outlet with a safety plug during the visit. I suggested that you monitor all spaces used by children throughout the day to ensure all electrical outlets not in use are covered with a safety plug. Check all electrical outlets at the beginning of the day. Playground inspections- Playground inspections must be completed and documented monthly. I suggested that the designated individual conduct a playground inspection on the same day you complete the monthly fire drill to ensure both are completed each month. I also suggested adding reminder alerts on your computer or phone to complete these inspections each month. NC Pre-K vision screening- I suggested that you thoroughly review children’s files, specifically NC Pre-K children’s files, prior to enrollment to ensure that each child’s applicable medical documentation is on file within 30 days of enrollment. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3005 states: (a) A health assessment shall be on file at the NC Pre-K site within 30 days after a child enters the NC Pre-K program and the assessment may be no more than 12 months old at the time of program entry. The health assessment shall include the following: (1) physical examination; (2) updated immunizations; (3) vision screening; (4) hearing screening; and (5) dental screening. (b) Site-level administrators shall review all health assessment results at the time of the child's entry into the program to determine whether the assessment includes specific instructions for identified health needs that may require physical or occupational or other therapies to support the child's development and learning goals. Consultation: We discussed the following during the visit: -I suggested that you or the individual responsible contact RTI to request an update on this facilities enrollment with required asbestos and lead based paint testing. These tests must be completed by December 31, 2025. -Staff who do not have current CPR and First Aid certification cannot open, close, be alone at the facility caring for children, transport children, or be listed on the Emergency Medical Care Plan to respond to medical emergencies. -Activity plans must include activities for each activity area in your classroom. 10A NCAC 09 .0508(g) The activity plan shall: (1) identify activities that allow children to choose to participate with the whole group, part of the group, or independent of the group; (2) reflect that the children have four different activities daily, at least one of which is outdoors, if weather conditions permit, as listed in G.S. 110-91(12) as follows: (A) art and other creative play; (B) children's books; (C) blocks and block building; (D) manipulatives; and (E) family living and dramatic play; and (3) include a daily gross motor activity that may occur indoors or outdoors. 10A NCAC 09 .2806 CAREGIVING ACTIVITIES FOR PRESCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN (a) Each center shall comply with the requirements in Rule .0508 of this Chapter for written activity schedules and plans and in Rule .0509 of this Chapter for general activity requirements. (b) Each center providing care to preschool-age children shall comply with the requirements for activity areas for preschool-age children in Rule .0510 of this Chapter, except that all five of the activity areas listed in G.S. 110-91(12) shall be available each day and the activities listed in Rule .0510(c) of this Chapter shall be offered for each group of children at least once per week. QRIS Pathways to the Stars: -We reviewed Pathway #1, #2, and #3, Family and Community Engagement Foundational Practices, Continuous Quality Improvement, approved curriculum, formative assessment tools, and staff to child ratio options. I encouraged you to review this information more thoroughly by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. -Reach out to Child Care Connections for additional technical assistance and support at 828-439-2328. -This facility is a Head Start program; therefore, you stated you intend to follow Pathway #3 for your upcoming rated license reassessment. I provided you with the required application documents for this pathway option during the visit. Reminders and Resources: -Providers can speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to the challenging behaviors in their classroom by calling 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. Providers may also submit questions to a Behavior Support Advisor online and receive a call or email in response. In addition, providers may post questions in the ‘Talk to the Expert’ Group on an online network, Social Emotional Connections, for early childhood educators. There are also opportunities to join free webinars on challenging topics or classroom activities. For a flyer including active links to access these resources, please reach out to me and I will send this to you via email. I encouraged you to place a copy of the flyer in each classroom so that staff may access the information when needed. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the "What's New" tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. Thank you for your time and assistance today. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me at 704-853-9196 or Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov. Kristen Mauney, Child Care Consultant PO Box 674 Denver, NC 28037 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: CIRCLE OF FRIENDS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 12000074 Consultant: KRISTEN R. MAUNEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/16/2025 Number Present: 41 Completed Date: 10/16/2025 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 01:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements, including health and safety. The visit was conducted with you, LaTina Johnson, Administrator. You provided me with applicable program, staff, and children’s records for review. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed before the visit and Blue Ridge Community Action, Incorporated was current/active as of October 16, 2025. This program currently operates with a Five star rated license effective April 25, 2019. The program’s compliance history was 92 percent prior to today’s visit. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today, including NC Pre-K requirements. Children and staff were observed during free play activities indoors, gross motor activities outdoors, story time, handwashing routines, lunch and nap time. All staff were listed on the ABCMS Provider Portal roster for this facility. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 5, 2025. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 2 demerits noted on the grade card. The analysis date for the most recent lead water test was July 19, 2023. Lead testing must be completed every three years. You may review your facilities results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. This website also indicated “enrollment started” for required asbestos and lead-based paint testing. I suggested that you or the individual responsible contact RTI to request an update on this facilities enrollment with required asbestos and lead based paint testing. These tests must be completed by December 31, 2025. The most recent fire inspection for your facility was conducted on November 7, 2024. I suggested that you contact your local fire inspector and request a fire inspection for your facility. The most recent monthly fire drill was conducted on September 22, 2025, at 10:05am. The most recent quarterly lockdown/shelter-in-place drill was conducted on July 25, 2025, at 10:00am. The next quarterly emergency drill is due by October 25, 2025. The facilities EPR Plan was reviewed on August 13, 2025. You stated you have reviewed changes to the plan with staff but you have not updated the plan online yet. I requested that you update the plan online and print a copy for review during your next monitoring visit. The most recent monthly playground inspection was completed on June 15, 2025, by Barry Ragsdale. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the Visit Summary left with you at the conclusion of this visit. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. In outdoor space #2, a yellow plastic object representing a bee on the side of the portable tree climber was cracked with sharp edges accessible to children. .0601(c) 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. In space #1, one electrical outlet not in use was uncovered and accessible to children on the wall beside a filing cabinet. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The most recent monthly playground inspection report on file for review was completed on June 15, 2025. .0605(q) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). The criminal background qualification for one staff member, Donitia Shatley, employed on 9/23/2014, expired on 8/9/2025. The criminal background recheck was not completed until 9/30/2025. This staff member’s current qualification letter was on file for review. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1767 The health assessment did not include a vision screening. One child initially enrolled on 8/26/2024 and enrolled in NC Pre-K on 8/25/2025 did not have a completed vision screening on file for review. The health assessment on file for this child indicated "n/a" for the vision screening. .3005 (a)(3) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the violation item number, statement of compliance, date of the visit and license ID number in the letter. I must receive your compliance statement by October 30, 2025. Please send your letter to Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If you state in your violation correction letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Criminal Background Check- Criminal background rechecks must be completed prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter. I suggested that you have staff begin the criminal background recheck process at least 6 months prior to the expiration date. I suggested that you create a chart with all staff members criminal background check qualification dates to assist you with ensuring criminal background rechecks are completed prior to the expiration. Playground equipment- When conducting your monthly playground inspections, I reminded you to check all equipment to ensure broken equipment and hazards are not accessible to children. I suggested that you instruct staff to inform administrative staff when a piece of equipment is broken or damaged, and remove the equipment, if able, from the play area so that the broken equipment is not accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT (c) Equipment and furnishings shall be sturdy, stable, and free of hazards that may injure children including sharp edges, lead based or peeling paint, rust, loose nails, splinters, protrusions (excluding nuts and bolts on sides of fences), and pinch and crush points. Electrical outlets- Staff members covered the electrical outlet with a safety plug during the visit. I suggested that you monitor all spaces used by children throughout the day to ensure all electrical outlets not in use are covered with a safety plug. Check all electrical outlets at the beginning of the day. Playground inspections- Playground inspections must be completed and documented monthly. I suggested that the designated individual conduct a playground inspection on the same day you complete the monthly fire drill to ensure both are completed each month. I also suggested adding reminder alerts on your computer or phone to complete these inspections each month. NC Pre-K vision screening- I suggested that you thoroughly review children’s files, specifically NC Pre-K children’s files, prior to enrollment to ensure that each child’s applicable medical documentation is on file within 30 days of enrollment. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3005 states: (a) A health assessment shall be on file at the NC Pre-K site within 30 days after a child enters the NC Pre-K program and the assessment may be no more than 12 months old at the time of program entry. The health assessment shall include the following: (1) physical examination; (2) updated immunizations; (3) vision screening; (4) hearing screening; and (5) dental screening. (b) Site-level administrators shall review all health assessment results at the time of the child's entry into the program to determine whether the assessment includes specific instructions for identified health needs that may require physical or occupational or other therapies to support the child's development and learning goals. Consultation: We discussed the following during the visit: -I suggested that you or the individual responsible contact RTI to request an update on this facilities enrollment with required asbestos and lead based paint testing. These tests must be completed by December 31, 2025. -Staff who do not have current CPR and First Aid certification cannot open, close, be alone at the facility caring for children, transport children, or be listed on the Emergency Medical Care Plan to respond to medical emergencies. -Activity plans must include activities for each activity area in your classroom. 10A NCAC 09 .0508(g) The activity plan shall: (1) identify activities that allow children to choose to participate with the whole group, part of the group, or independent of the group; (2) reflect that the children have four different activities daily, at least one of which is outdoors, if weather conditions permit, as listed in G.S. 110-91(12) as follows: (A) art and other creative play; (B) children's books; (C) blocks and block building; (D) manipulatives; and (E) family living and dramatic play; and (3) include a daily gross motor activity that may occur indoors or outdoors. 10A NCAC 09 .2806 CAREGIVING ACTIVITIES FOR PRESCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN (a) Each center shall comply with the requirements in Rule .0508 of this Chapter for written activity schedules and plans and in Rule .0509 of this Chapter for general activity requirements. (b) Each center providing care to preschool-age children shall comply with the requirements for activity areas for preschool-age children in Rule .0510 of this Chapter, except that all five of the activity areas listed in G.S. 110-91(12) shall be available each day and the activities listed in Rule .0510(c) of this Chapter shall be offered for each group of children at least once per week. QRIS Pathways to the Stars: -We reviewed Pathway #1, #2, and #3, Family and Community Engagement Foundational Practices, Continuous Quality Improvement, approved curriculum, formative assessment tools, and staff to child ratio options. I encouraged you to review this information more thoroughly by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. -Reach out to Child Care Connections for additional technical assistance and support at 828-439-2328. -This facility is a Head Start program; therefore, you stated you intend to follow Pathway #3 for your upcoming rated license reassessment. I provided you with the required application documents for this pathway option during the visit. Reminders and Resources: -Providers can speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to the challenging behaviors in their classroom by calling 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. Providers may also submit questions to a Behavior Support Advisor online and receive a call or email in response. In addition, providers may post questions in the ‘Talk to the Expert’ Group on an online network, Social Emotional Connections, for early childhood educators. There are also opportunities to join free webinars on challenging topics or classroom activities. For a flyer including active links to access these resources, please reach out to me and I will send this to you via email. I encouraged you to place a copy of the flyer in each classroom so that staff may access the information when needed. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the "What's New" tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. Thank you for your time and assistance today. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me at 704-853-9196 or Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov. Kristen Mauney, Child Care Consultant PO Box 674 Denver, NC 28037 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. 110-102 · Violation

Name of Operation: CIRCLE OF FRIENDS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 12000074 Consultant: KRISTEN R. MAUNEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2025 Number Present: 7 Completed Date: 4/23/2025 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 90 Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements. The visit was conducted with you, Latina Johnson, Administrator. You provided me with applicable program and staff records for review. This program currently operates with a Five star rated license effective April 25, 2019. The program’s compliance history was 92 percent prior to today’s visit. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on April 21, 2025, and Blue Ridge Community Action, Inc. was listed as current/active. Limited monitoring was conducted. Staff and children were observed during nap, toileting routines and handwashing routines. NC Pre-K and Head Start programs were not in operation today. The previous sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 5, 2025. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 2 demerits noted on the grade card. The most recent lead water test was completed on July 19, 2023. Lead testing must be completed every three years. You may review results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. This website also indicated “enrollment started” for required asbestos and lead paint testing. The most recent fire inspection for your facility was conducted on November 7, 2024. You stated no new staff members have been employed since your most recent annual compliance visit. Applicable records for existing staff members, including criminal background checks and First Aid and CPR training, were reviewed. The following violation of child care requirements was observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 115 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not posted in a prominent place in the center. The Summary of NC Child Care Law was not posted in the facility. G.S. 110-102 The violation observed was corrected during the visit. Technical Assistance regarding the violation observed: I suggested that you review the Provider Documents and Forms on the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov, to ensure required posted items have not inadvertently been removed or misplaced. I provided you with a copy of the NC Summary of the Law and you posted this document during the visit. Consultation (the following items reviewed were in compliance today): We discussed the following during the visit: -Per Senate Bill 425, facilities are currently held harmless from star rated license assessments. -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. You stated you completed the training. 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 (919) 814-8401. You stated you have completed this task. Reminders: -Providers can speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to the challenging behaviors in their classroom by calling 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. As we continue expanding our training offerings, DCDEE has established a new email address and phone number for Moodle support. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the "What's New" tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. Thank you for your time and assistance during today’s visit. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me at 704-853-9196. Kristen Mauney, Child Care Consultant PO Box 674, Denver, NC 28037 Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: CIRCLE OF FRIENDS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 12000074 Consultant: KRISTEN R. MAUNEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2025 Number Present: 7 Completed Date: 4/23/2025 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 90 Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements. The visit was conducted with you, Latina Johnson, Administrator. You provided me with applicable program and staff records for review. This program currently operates with a Five star rated license effective April 25, 2019. The program’s compliance history was 92 percent prior to today’s visit. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on April 21, 2025, and Blue Ridge Community Action, Inc. was listed as current/active. Limited monitoring was conducted. Staff and children were observed during nap, toileting routines and handwashing routines. NC Pre-K and Head Start programs were not in operation today. The previous sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 5, 2025. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 2 demerits noted on the grade card. The most recent lead water test was completed on July 19, 2023. Lead testing must be completed every three years. You may review results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. This website also indicated “enrollment started” for required asbestos and lead paint testing. The most recent fire inspection for your facility was conducted on November 7, 2024. You stated no new staff members have been employed since your most recent annual compliance visit. Applicable records for existing staff members, including criminal background checks and First Aid and CPR training, were reviewed. The following violation of child care requirements was observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 115 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not posted in a prominent place in the center. The Summary of NC Child Care Law was not posted in the facility. G.S. 110-102 The violation observed was corrected during the visit. Technical Assistance regarding the violation observed: I suggested that you review the Provider Documents and Forms on the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov, to ensure required posted items have not inadvertently been removed or misplaced. I provided you with a copy of the NC Summary of the Law and you posted this document during the visit. Consultation (the following items reviewed were in compliance today): We discussed the following during the visit: -Per Senate Bill 425, facilities are currently held harmless from star rated license assessments. -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. You stated you completed the training. 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 (919) 814-8401. You stated you have completed this task. Reminders: -Providers can speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to the challenging behaviors in their classroom by calling 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. As we continue expanding our training offerings, DCDEE has established a new email address and phone number for Moodle support. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the "What's New" tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. Thank you for your time and assistance during today’s visit. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me at 704-853-9196. Kristen Mauney, Child Care Consultant PO Box 674, Denver, NC 28037 Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: CIRCLE OF FRIENDS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 12000074 Consultant: KRISTEN R. MAUNEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/5/2024 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 12/5/2024 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 288 Time In: 09:55 AM Time Out: 01:38 PM Time In: 02:25 PM Time Out: 03:30 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit, including health and safety. The visit was conducted with you, LaTina Johnson, Administrator. You provided me with applicable program, staff, and children’s records for review. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed before the visit and Blue Ridge Community Action, Incorporated was current/active as of December 5, 2024. The facilities contact information was reviewed and confirmed with you. This program currently operates with a Five star rated license effective April 25, 2019. The program’s compliance history was 96 percent prior to today’s visit. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today, including NC Pre-K requirements. Children and staff were observed during free play activities indoors, gross motor activities outdoors, handwashing routines and lunch. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on July 19, 2024. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 4 demerits noted on the grade card. The most recent lead water test results were completed on July 19, 2023. Lead testing must be completed every three years. You may review your facilities results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. This website also indicated “enrollment started” for required asbestos and lead paint testing. The most recent fire inspection for your facility was conducted on November 7, 2024. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the Visit Summary left with you at the conclusion of this visit. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 608 Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, before and after water activity play, after outside play, and after handling animals or animal cages. In space #4, one child two years of age did not have their hands washed prior to eating lunch. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(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. Four aerosol cans of Santa Snow and one aerosol can of Colorations foam paint were observed in an unlocked closet accessible to children in space #1. .2820(b) 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. An incident report for a child's injury that occurred on 11/20/2024 did not include the time parents were notified of the incident. .0802 (e) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space #4, two plastic bags and one Ziploc bag with safety warnings were observed in children’s cubbies accessible to children two years of age. .0604(q) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). The criminal background qualification for one staff member, Courtney Gilbert-Everhart, employed on 8/22/2022, expired on 10/2/2024. The criminal background recheck was not completed until 11/27/2024. This staff member's current qualification letter was on file for review. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the violation item number, statement of compliance, date of the visit and license ID number in the letter. I must receive your compliance statement by December 19, 2024. Please send your letter to Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your violation correction letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Criminal Background Check: Courtney Gilbert-Everhart's current qualification letter was on file for review. Criminal background rechecks must be completed prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter. I suggested that you have staff begin the criminal background recheck process at least 6 months prior to the expiration date. We discussed beginning the criminal background recheck process for Sandy Swepson, whose criminal background check qualification letter expires on 4/8/2025. Handwashing: I reviewed handwashing requirements with you during the visit. I suggested that you monitor staff and children during handwashing routines to provide guidance as needed. I suggested washing children’s hands before lunch enters the classroom so that children are not tempted to go to the table prior to washing hands. Child care center employees shall ensure that children wash their hands as follows: (1) upon arrival at the child care center; (2) after each diaper change or visit to the toilet; (3) before eating meals or snacks; (4) before and after water play; (5) after being outdoors; and (6) after handling animals or animal cages. (d) Except when the action that necessitates handwashing is diapering and before eating meals or snacks, hand antiseptics may be used in lieu of handwashing while a child is outdoors, provided that the child's hands are washed when the child returns indoors. Storage of Hazardous Products: The administrator locked the closet door during the visit. We discussed requirements for storage of hazardous products and monitoring all areas to ensure hazardous products are stored appropriately. I suggested that you reach out to your local Environmental Health Specialist to discuss approved locking devices. Toxic substances, which include 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 shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination lock, electronic or magnetic device, keypad, key, or equivalent locking device. Keys and electronic or magnetic unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Incident Reports: -I discussed with you the information required by rule for incident reports and suggested that you review incident report requirements with all staff. I suggested that you review all incident reports once received to ensure all required information is obtained. This will allow you to gather any missing information from staff to be recorded prior to filing. Child care rule .0802(e) states the child care provider shall complete an incident report each time a child is injured as a result of an incident occurring while the child is in care. This incident report shall include: (1) facility identifying information; (2) the child's name; (3) date and time of the incident; (4) witness to the incident; (5) time the parent is notified of the incident and by whom; (6) piece of equipment involved, if applicable; (7) cause of injury, if applicable; (8) type of injury, if applicable; (9) body part injured, if applicable; (10) where the child received medical treatment, if applicable; (11) description of how and where the incident occurred, and the First Aid received; and (12) steps taken to prevent reoccurrence. This report shall be signed by the person completing it and by the parent, a copy given to the parent or a parent signature declining a copy and the report maintained in the child's file. A copy of the form may be found on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/pdf_forms/DCDEE-0058.pdf. Choking/Suffocation Hazards: -Staff members moved the plastic bags to a shelf above five feet from the floor during the visit. Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed must be inaccessible to children under three years of age. I suggested that you monitor all classrooms for children under three years of age to ensure plastic grocery bags, plastic packaging, small toys, small art supplies, and other potential choking hazards are inaccessible to children or removed from the classroom. We discussed adding a bucket in the classroom on a shelf above five feet from the floor for clothing that becomes wet. We discussed requirements for storage of plastic bags versus soiled clothing in plastic bags containing potential biocontaminants. *As a result of tropical storm Helene and a declared natural disaster in Western North Carolina, technical assistance was provided to assist the child care provider in achieving compliance with the following: -A shelter-in-place drill was completed on June 28, 2024, and the next lockdown drill was completed on October 15, 2024. A lockdown drill or shelter-in-place drill must be completed within three months of the previous drill. I suggested that you record potential dates of emergency drills on a calendar to assist with tracking drills to ensure completion within the three month time period. You may even conduct drills more frequently to ensure compliance. -Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training for one staff member employed on 7/18/2024 was not completed until 11/19/2024. New staff must complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. I suggested that staff complete this training within the first two weeks of employment, in conjunction with orientation, to ensure compliance with this requirement. Training for Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training must be completed through https://preventchildabusenc.gov. I reminded you that this training is not what is expected during staff orientation. A conversation with staff pertaining to the facilities specific policies and procedures for recognizing and reporting child abuse is the expectation. -The medical report for one child enrolled on 10/7/2024 was not on file available for review. You stated this child transferred to your facility from Quaker Meadows Generations, a facility that experienced flooding and loss of records during Hurricane Helene. We discussed requesting the child’s parent to obtain medical documents from the child’s doctor to provide to you by January 5, 2025. The medical report for one child enrolled on 7/18/2024 was not completed and received until 10/17/2024. Children’s medical exam or health assessment must be received and on file within thirty days of the child’s enrollment. I suggested that you request children’s medical exams and immunization records prior to enrollment to ensure compliance with this requirement. -An activity plan was not posted in space #1. The administrator posted the activity plan during the visit. The activity plan was in a folder in the classroom. I reminded you that activity plans must be posted in the classroom. I suggested and you agreed to print ahead and post a copy of activity plans for each week throughout the month to ensure the current activity plan is posted. Consultation: We discussed the following during the visit: -Per Senate Bill 425, facilities are currently held harmless from star rated license assessments. -I suggested that you review all children’s applications upon enrollment to ensure all required information is recorded, prior to the child’s first day of attendance. If the information does not apply to the child, instruct parents to write “n/a” rather than leaving the information blank. Reminders and Resources: -Here is the link for the current resources and information regarding COVID-19. https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/materials-and-resources/materials-about-covid-19-symptoms-and-treatment -Providers can speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to the challenging behaviors in their classroom by calling 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. As we continue expanding our training offerings, DCDEE has established a new email address and phone number for Moodle support. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the "What's New" tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me at 704-853-9196. Kristen Mauney, Child Care Consultant PO Box 674 Denver, NC 28037 Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: CIRCLE OF FRIENDS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 12000074 Consultant: KRISTEN R. MAUNEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/5/2024 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 12/5/2024 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 288 Time In: 09:55 AM Time Out: 01:38 PM Time In: 02:25 PM Time Out: 03:30 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit, including health and safety. The visit was conducted with you, LaTina Johnson, Administrator. You provided me with applicable program, staff, and children’s records for review. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed before the visit and Blue Ridge Community Action, Incorporated was current/active as of December 5, 2024. The facilities contact information was reviewed and confirmed with you. This program currently operates with a Five star rated license effective April 25, 2019. The program’s compliance history was 96 percent prior to today’s visit. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today, including NC Pre-K requirements. Children and staff were observed during free play activities indoors, gross motor activities outdoors, handwashing routines and lunch. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on July 19, 2024. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 4 demerits noted on the grade card. The most recent lead water test results were completed on July 19, 2023. Lead testing must be completed every three years. You may review your facilities results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. This website also indicated “enrollment started” for required asbestos and lead paint testing. The most recent fire inspection for your facility was conducted on November 7, 2024. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the Visit Summary left with you at the conclusion of this visit. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 608 Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, before and after water activity play, after outside play, and after handling animals or animal cages. In space #4, one child two years of age did not have their hands washed prior to eating lunch. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(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. Four aerosol cans of Santa Snow and one aerosol can of Colorations foam paint were observed in an unlocked closet accessible to children in space #1. .2820(b) 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. An incident report for a child's injury that occurred on 11/20/2024 did not include the time parents were notified of the incident. .0802 (e) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space #4, two plastic bags and one Ziploc bag with safety warnings were observed in children’s cubbies accessible to children two years of age. .0604(q) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). The criminal background qualification for one staff member, Courtney Gilbert-Everhart, employed on 8/22/2022, expired on 10/2/2024. The criminal background recheck was not completed until 11/27/2024. This staff member's current qualification letter was on file for review. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the violation item number, statement of compliance, date of the visit and license ID number in the letter. I must receive your compliance statement by December 19, 2024. Please send your letter to Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your violation correction letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Criminal Background Check: Courtney Gilbert-Everhart's current qualification letter was on file for review. Criminal background rechecks must be completed prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter. I suggested that you have staff begin the criminal background recheck process at least 6 months prior to the expiration date. We discussed beginning the criminal background recheck process for Sandy Swepson, whose criminal background check qualification letter expires on 4/8/2025. Handwashing: I reviewed handwashing requirements with you during the visit. I suggested that you monitor staff and children during handwashing routines to provide guidance as needed. I suggested washing children’s hands before lunch enters the classroom so that children are not tempted to go to the table prior to washing hands. Child care center employees shall ensure that children wash their hands as follows: (1) upon arrival at the child care center; (2) after each diaper change or visit to the toilet; (3) before eating meals or snacks; (4) before and after water play; (5) after being outdoors; and (6) after handling animals or animal cages. (d) Except when the action that necessitates handwashing is diapering and before eating meals or snacks, hand antiseptics may be used in lieu of handwashing while a child is outdoors, provided that the child's hands are washed when the child returns indoors. Storage of Hazardous Products: The administrator locked the closet door during the visit. We discussed requirements for storage of hazardous products and monitoring all areas to ensure hazardous products are stored appropriately. I suggested that you reach out to your local Environmental Health Specialist to discuss approved locking devices. Toxic substances, which include 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 shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination lock, electronic or magnetic device, keypad, key, or equivalent locking device. Keys and electronic or magnetic unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Incident Reports: -I discussed with you the information required by rule for incident reports and suggested that you review incident report requirements with all staff. I suggested that you review all incident reports once received to ensure all required information is obtained. This will allow you to gather any missing information from staff to be recorded prior to filing. Child care rule .0802(e) states the child care provider shall complete an incident report each time a child is injured as a result of an incident occurring while the child is in care. This incident report shall include: (1) facility identifying information; (2) the child's name; (3) date and time of the incident; (4) witness to the incident; (5) time the parent is notified of the incident and by whom; (6) piece of equipment involved, if applicable; (7) cause of injury, if applicable; (8) type of injury, if applicable; (9) body part injured, if applicable; (10) where the child received medical treatment, if applicable; (11) description of how and where the incident occurred, and the First Aid received; and (12) steps taken to prevent reoccurrence. This report shall be signed by the person completing it and by the parent, a copy given to the parent or a parent signature declining a copy and the report maintained in the child's file. A copy of the form may be found on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/pdf_forms/DCDEE-0058.pdf. Choking/Suffocation Hazards: -Staff members moved the plastic bags to a shelf above five feet from the floor during the visit. Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed must be inaccessible to children under three years of age. I suggested that you monitor all classrooms for children under three years of age to ensure plastic grocery bags, plastic packaging, small toys, small art supplies, and other potential choking hazards are inaccessible to children or removed from the classroom. We discussed adding a bucket in the classroom on a shelf above five feet from the floor for clothing that becomes wet. We discussed requirements for storage of plastic bags versus soiled clothing in plastic bags containing potential biocontaminants. *As a result of tropical storm Helene and a declared natural disaster in Western North Carolina, technical assistance was provided to assist the child care provider in achieving compliance with the following: -A shelter-in-place drill was completed on June 28, 2024, and the next lockdown drill was completed on October 15, 2024. A lockdown drill or shelter-in-place drill must be completed within three months of the previous drill. I suggested that you record potential dates of emergency drills on a calendar to assist with tracking drills to ensure completion within the three month time period. You may even conduct drills more frequently to ensure compliance. -Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training for one staff member employed on 7/18/2024 was not completed until 11/19/2024. New staff must complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. I suggested that staff complete this training within the first two weeks of employment, in conjunction with orientation, to ensure compliance with this requirement. Training for Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training must be completed through https://preventchildabusenc.gov. I reminded you that this training is not what is expected during staff orientation. A conversation with staff pertaining to the facilities specific policies and procedures for recognizing and reporting child abuse is the expectation. -The medical report for one child enrolled on 10/7/2024 was not on file available for review. You stated this child transferred to your facility from Quaker Meadows Generations, a facility that experienced flooding and loss of records during Hurricane Helene. We discussed requesting the child’s parent to obtain medical documents from the child’s doctor to provide to you by January 5, 2025. The medical report for one child enrolled on 7/18/2024 was not completed and received until 10/17/2024. Children’s medical exam or health assessment must be received and on file within thirty days of the child’s enrollment. I suggested that you request children’s medical exams and immunization records prior to enrollment to ensure compliance with this requirement. -An activity plan was not posted in space #1. The administrator posted the activity plan during the visit. The activity plan was in a folder in the classroom. I reminded you that activity plans must be posted in the classroom. I suggested and you agreed to print ahead and post a copy of activity plans for each week throughout the month to ensure the current activity plan is posted. Consultation: We discussed the following during the visit: -Per Senate Bill 425, facilities are currently held harmless from star rated license assessments. -I suggested that you review all children’s applications upon enrollment to ensure all required information is recorded, prior to the child’s first day of attendance. If the information does not apply to the child, instruct parents to write “n/a” rather than leaving the information blank. Reminders and Resources: -Here is the link for the current resources and information regarding COVID-19. https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/materials-and-resources/materials-about-covid-19-symptoms-and-treatment -Providers can speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to the challenging behaviors in their classroom by calling 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. As we continue expanding our training offerings, DCDEE has established a new email address and phone number for Moodle support. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the "What's New" tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me at 704-853-9196. Kristen Mauney, Child Care Consultant PO Box 674 Denver, NC 28037 Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: CIRCLE OF FRIENDS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 12000074 Consultant: KRISTEN R. MAUNEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/27/2024 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 6/27/2024 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 215 Time In: 10:25 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. The following areas were monitored during the visit: supervision, staff/child ratio, CPR, first aid, special training, criminal background checks, Emergency Medical Care Plan, administering of medication, storage of hazardous products, storage of medication, general safety, discipline, adequate/approved space, program records, license posted, and permit restrictions. Upon arrival, the purpose of today’s visit was reviewed with you, Latina Johnson, interim Director. You accompanied me on the walkthrough of the facility and provided me with applicable program and staff records for review during the visit. I emailed you a copy of the Preservice Requirements for Administrator of a Child Care Center form to complete and return to me. This program currently operates with a Five star rated license effective April 25, 2019. The program’s compliance history was 97 percent prior to today’s visit. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on June 21, 2024, and Blue Ridge Community Action, Inc. was listed as current/active. Limited monitoring was conducted. A walk-through of licensed indoor space was completed during the visit. Staff and children were observed during free play activities indoors and lunch. Playground space #5, the head start playground, is currently not in use. A new playground structure has been ordered to replace the slide that needs repaired. You stated you are currently utilizing the remaining playground spaces for outdoor play. The previous sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on February 8, 2024. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 4 demerits noted on the grade card. The most recent lead water testing results were completed on July 19, 2023. Lead testing must be completed every three years. You may review progress by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. The most recent fire inspection for your facility was conducted on December 22, 2023. You stated four new staff members have been employed since your most recent annual compliance visit conducted on December 14, 2023. Staff’s Criminal Background Checks and training regarding CPR, First Aid, EPR, and Playground Safety were current during today’s visit. The following violations of child care requirements were observed during today’s visit. Violations and technical assistance were thoroughly reviewed with you and documented in the Visit Summary sent to you at the conclusion of the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. One new staff member employed on April 29, 2024, did not complete orientation for the topics of instruction in the employee's assigned duties and instruction in the administration of medication. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. One new staff member employed on April 15, 2024, only received five and a half hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. One new staff member employed on May 6, 2024, only received four and a half hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The most recent shelter-in-place drill was completed on March 8, 2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the violation item number, statement of compliance, date of the visit, and license ID number in the letter. I must receive your compliance statement by July 11, 2024. Please send your letter to Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your violation correction letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Technical Assistance regarding the violations observed: Emergency Drills- A lockdown drill or shelter-in-place drill must be completed within two weeks. You stated you will complete a drill this week. I reminded you that emergency drills, other than monthly fire drills, must be completed at least every three months. I recommended that you record potential dates of emergency drills on a calendar to assist with tracking completion of drill requirements. This is a repeated violation. New staff orientation- New staff must complete at least six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment and a total of at least sixteen hours of orientation within the first six weeks of employment. Orientation must include a discussion of the facilities policies and procedures pertaining to the required topics areas and should not be limited to staff members attending training. I suggest that you create an orientation training notebook to assist with providing orientation within the required topic areas with staff. You must complete the missing orientation topics with the staff members by July 11, 2024. Rated License Reassessment: To prepare for the reassessment process, DCDEE has developed a cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. Your facility is in cohort two. The preparation year for cohort three will begin July 1, 2024. The reassessment year will be July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. We reviewed the tasks and activities to help you prepare during today’s visit. Consultation (the following items reviewed were in compliance today): -You stated you are interested in creating a natural learning environment on your playground. I suggested visiting the following website for the Natural Learning Initiative. www.naturalearning.org -Administrators may visit http://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/carolina to register for required asbestos and lead paint testing. The website indicates “enrollment started.” -We reviewed sanitation requirements pertaining to storage. Per 15A NCAC 18A .2820 (a) In child care centers, adequate space shall be provided for the storage of equipment, furniture, toys, clothes, linens, backpacks, book bags, diaper bags, beds, cots, mats, and supplies. Storage areas shall be kept clean. Laundry that is not clean shall be handled and stored separately from clean laundry using separate containers that are mad e clean in between uses and kept in good repair. (b) Toxic substances, which include 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 shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination lock, electronic or magnetic device, keypad, key, or equivalent locking device. Keys and electronic or magnetic unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any other product that is labeled "keep out of reach of children" and does not have any other warnings on the label shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. For the purpose of Paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this Rule, a product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. (c) Non-aerosol sanitizing solutions, approved disinfectants, detergent solutions, hand antiseptics, and hand lotions shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. These solutions shall be labeled as sanitizing, disinfecting, or detergent solutions. Hand soap other than that which is in bulk containers is not required to be kept inaccessible to children or in locked storage. Bulk soaps shall be kept inaccessible to children. (d) Medications including prescription and non-prescription items shall be stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container and shall not be stored above food. Designated emergency medications shall be kept inaccessible to children, but are not required to be in locked storage. Non-prescription diaper creams and sunscreen shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. (e) A locked kitchen is not considered to be a locked storage room or cabinet for the purposes of this Rule. -We reviewed sanitation requirements pertaining to toothbrushes and toothpaste. Per 15A NCAC 18A .2820(f) individual cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall be provided for storage of coats, hats, bags, or other items and accessories. Coat hooks not in individual cubicles or lockers, shall be spaced at least 12 horizontal inches apart. A child's coats, hats, bags, and other items or accessories belonging to a child that are stored using cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall not come into contact with stored items belonging to other children. Combs shall be labeled with the name of the child to whom the comb belongs and stored separately from combs or other items that belong to a different child. Toothbrushes shall be labeled with the name of the child to whom the toothbrush belongs, allowed to air dry after use, protected from contamination, and stored in a designated area. When a container of toothpaste is used for multiple children, the toothpaste shall be dispensed onto an intermediate surface such as waxed paper and shall not be dispensed directly onto each child's toothbrush. Reminders: -Providers can speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to the challenging behaviors in their classroom by calling 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. As we continue expanding our training offerings, DCDEE has established a new email address and phone number for Moodle support. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the "What's New" tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. Thank you for your time and assistance during today’s visit. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me at 704-853-9196. Kristen Mauney, Child Care Consultant PO Box 674, Denver, NC 28037 Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .3005 · Violation

Name of Operation: CIRCLE OF FRIENDS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 12000074 Consultant: KRISTEN R. MAUNEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/14/2023 Number Present: 24 Completed Date: 12/14/2023 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 198 Time In: 09:27 AM Time Out: 12:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit, including health and safety. You, Jamie Steiner, new Administrator, assisted me with the walkthrough of the facility and provided me with applicable program, staff, and children’s records for review. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed before the visit and Blue Ridge Community Action, Incorporated was current/active as of December 11, 2023. This program currently operates with a Five star rated license effective April 25, 2019. The program’s compliance history was 98 percent prior to today’s visit. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today, including NC Pre-K requirements. Children and staff were observed during free play activities indoors and nap. Transportation requirements were unable to be monitored today due to the vehicle used for transportation was kept off site. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on February 16, 2023. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 5 demerits noted on the grade card. The most recent fire inspection for your facility was conducted on January 18, 2023. I recommended that you contact your local fire inspector now to request an inspection be made at your facility before January 18, 2024. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the Visit Summary left with you at the conclusion of this visit. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 508 Special diet or food allergy information was not posted where they can be seen in food preparation and eating areas. One child's food allergy was not posted in the kitchen. .0901(g) 861 Prohibited styrofoam and foam rubber products were accessible to children under 3 years of age and/or approved foam products were used without proper supervision. In space #1, foam blocks were observed in the block activity area, foam stamps were observed in the art activity area, and foam dice were observed in the manipulative activity area accessible to one child two years of age who was visiting the classroom for the week. .0604(q) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The most recent lockdown drill was conducted on August 14, 2023. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the violation item number, statement of compliance, date of the visit and license ID number in the letter. I must receive your compliance statement by December 28, 2023. Please send your letter to Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Allergies/Special Diets- The Administrator posted the child’s food allergy information in the kitchen during the visit. The food allergy information for this child was posted in the classroom where the child eats. I recommended that you double check allergy and special diet information monthly to ensure the information is posted in the food prep area and where children eat meals and snacks. Review allergies and specials diets with parents on a regular basis to ensure the allergy or special diet is still relevant to their child. Choking Hazards- The Administrator removed the foam toys from space #1 during the visit. We discussed monitoring classrooms when transitioning children who are under the age of three to another classroom to ensure choking hazards are inaccessible. We discussed the option to keep younger children in space #4, the classroom for children two years of age, and moving younger three-year-old children to space #4 in the event transitions are needed due to staff to child ratios and staffing availability. Emergency Drills- A lockdown drill or shelter-in-place drill must be completed within two weeks. You stated you will complete a drill this week. I reminded you that emergency drills, other than monthly fire drills, must be completed at least every three months. I recommended that you record potential dates of emergency drills on a calendar to assist with tracking completion of drill requirements. Rated License Reassessment: To prepare for the reassessment process, DCDEE has developed a cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. Your facility is in cohort two. The preparation year for cohort two will begin July 1, 2024. The reassessment year will be July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. More information will be forthcoming once your cohort year approaches. Consultation: We discussed the following during the visit: -10A NCAC 09 .3005 CHILD HEALTH ASSESSMENTS (a) A health assessment shall be on file at the NC Pre-K site within 30 days after a child enters the NC Pre-K program and the assessment may be no more than 12 months old at the time of program entry. The health assessment shall include the following: (1) physical examination; (2) updated immunizations; (3) vision screening; (4) hearing screening; and (5) dental screening. (b) Site-level administrators shall review all health assessment results at the time of the child’s entry into the program to determine whether the assessment includes specific instructions for identified health needs that may require physical or occupational or other therapies to support the child’s development and learning goals. If a screening is marked as “uncooperative” or “unable to complete” due to the child being uncooperative then this requirement is not in compliance. However, if the health care professional provides additional information such as “due to developmental delays the hearing screening was not completed” then compliance has been met. -Here is the link for the current resources and information regarding COVID-19. https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/materials-and-resources/materials-about-covid-19-symptoms-and-treatment -Providers can speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to the challenging behaviors in their classroom by calling 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. As we continue expanding our training offerings, DCDEE has established a new email address and phone number for Moodle support. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the "What's New" tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me at 704-853-9196. Kristen Mauney, Child Care Consultant PO Box 674 Denver, NC 28037 Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: CIRCLE OF FRIENDS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 12000074 Consultant: KRISTEN R. MAUNEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/14/2023 Number Present: 24 Completed Date: 12/14/2023 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 198 Time In: 09:27 AM Time Out: 12:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit, including health and safety. You, Jamie Steiner, new Administrator, assisted me with the walkthrough of the facility and provided me with applicable program, staff, and children’s records for review. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed before the visit and Blue Ridge Community Action, Incorporated was current/active as of December 11, 2023. This program currently operates with a Five star rated license effective April 25, 2019. The program’s compliance history was 98 percent prior to today’s visit. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today, including NC Pre-K requirements. Children and staff were observed during free play activities indoors and nap. Transportation requirements were unable to be monitored today due to the vehicle used for transportation was kept off site. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on February 16, 2023. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 5 demerits noted on the grade card. The most recent fire inspection for your facility was conducted on January 18, 2023. I recommended that you contact your local fire inspector now to request an inspection be made at your facility before January 18, 2024. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the Visit Summary left with you at the conclusion of this visit. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 508 Special diet or food allergy information was not posted where they can be seen in food preparation and eating areas. One child's food allergy was not posted in the kitchen. .0901(g) 861 Prohibited styrofoam and foam rubber products were accessible to children under 3 years of age and/or approved foam products were used without proper supervision. In space #1, foam blocks were observed in the block activity area, foam stamps were observed in the art activity area, and foam dice were observed in the manipulative activity area accessible to one child two years of age who was visiting the classroom for the week. .0604(q) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The most recent lockdown drill was conducted on August 14, 2023. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the violation item number, statement of compliance, date of the visit and license ID number in the letter. I must receive your compliance statement by December 28, 2023. Please send your letter to Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Allergies/Special Diets- The Administrator posted the child’s food allergy information in the kitchen during the visit. The food allergy information for this child was posted in the classroom where the child eats. I recommended that you double check allergy and special diet information monthly to ensure the information is posted in the food prep area and where children eat meals and snacks. Review allergies and specials diets with parents on a regular basis to ensure the allergy or special diet is still relevant to their child. Choking Hazards- The Administrator removed the foam toys from space #1 during the visit. We discussed monitoring classrooms when transitioning children who are under the age of three to another classroom to ensure choking hazards are inaccessible. We discussed the option to keep younger children in space #4, the classroom for children two years of age, and moving younger three-year-old children to space #4 in the event transitions are needed due to staff to child ratios and staffing availability. Emergency Drills- A lockdown drill or shelter-in-place drill must be completed within two weeks. You stated you will complete a drill this week. I reminded you that emergency drills, other than monthly fire drills, must be completed at least every three months. I recommended that you record potential dates of emergency drills on a calendar to assist with tracking completion of drill requirements. Rated License Reassessment: To prepare for the reassessment process, DCDEE has developed a cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. Your facility is in cohort two. The preparation year for cohort two will begin July 1, 2024. The reassessment year will be July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. More information will be forthcoming once your cohort year approaches. Consultation: We discussed the following during the visit: -10A NCAC 09 .3005 CHILD HEALTH ASSESSMENTS (a) A health assessment shall be on file at the NC Pre-K site within 30 days after a child enters the NC Pre-K program and the assessment may be no more than 12 months old at the time of program entry. The health assessment shall include the following: (1) physical examination; (2) updated immunizations; (3) vision screening; (4) hearing screening; and (5) dental screening. (b) Site-level administrators shall review all health assessment results at the time of the child’s entry into the program to determine whether the assessment includes specific instructions for identified health needs that may require physical or occupational or other therapies to support the child’s development and learning goals. If a screening is marked as “uncooperative” or “unable to complete” due to the child being uncooperative then this requirement is not in compliance. However, if the health care professional provides additional information such as “due to developmental delays the hearing screening was not completed” then compliance has been met. -Here is the link for the current resources and information regarding COVID-19. https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/materials-and-resources/materials-about-covid-19-symptoms-and-treatment -Providers can speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to the challenging behaviors in their classroom by calling 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. As we continue expanding our training offerings, DCDEE has established a new email address and phone number for Moodle support. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the "What's New" tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me at 704-853-9196. Kristen Mauney, Child Care Consultant PO Box 674 Denver, NC 28037 Kristen.Mauney@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times