THE Learning Tools Center

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: MERIA WILDER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/9/2025 Number Present: 10 Completed Date: 10/9/2025 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 335 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 03:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Carolyn Conley, Lead Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. You, Keshia Dixon, Owner, and Tina Ramseur, Director, assisted us with today’s visit. During today’s visit you stated that you had an appointment and will need to leave at 12:00. You completed the Legal Designee Information form allowing Ms. Ramseur to sign the visit summary and the Staff and Training Worksheet. You and Ms. Ramseur also completed the Preservice Administrator form during today’s visit. We monitored Ms. Ramseur’s WORKS account, and it shows that the registration is in process. You and Ms. Ramseur stated that her account was under a different name and that WORKS is in the process of merging the two accounts together. This facility operates Monday through Friday from the hours of 6:30am to 5:30pm. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on November 20, 2024. Prior to today’s visit, the compliance history was 91%. The NC Secretary of State was checked prior to today’s visit and your business The Learning Tools Center was listed as current-active. I monitored the required postings that were posted at the facilities entrance. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued on September 26, 2024. The following restrictions are listed on the license: first and second shift care and meets enhanced ratios. We reviewed with you today the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to your phone number, email address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. You stated that T. Ramseur is now serving as the facility Administrator and assumed administrative responsibilities on October 1, 2025. Your last sanitation inspection report was dated June 26, 2025, with a superior classification and six (6) demerits. Your last fire inspection report was dated July 10, 2025, and was emailed to me on August 18, 2025. Emergency drills, fire drills and playground inspections were monitored and are occurring as required. Each licensed indoor and outdoor space was monitored today. The children were observed playing in activity areas, toileting/personal care routines, participating in teacher directed activities, outside play and lunch. Teacher and children’s interactions were positive and nurturing. Supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, use of approved space, classroom capacities, and permit restrictions were monitored during today’s visit. Daily sign in/out sheets and attendance was current/accurate. A menu was posted that documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Hazardous product storage, general safety, and discipline practices were monitored. There were no medications, no medication permission to administer forms, and no Medical Action Plans to monitor during today’s visit. A portion of the children’s files and staff record files were monitored. You stated that your program does not provide transportation. I monitored the incident report log and screen time logs posted in each classroom space. The Operational Policies and Parent Handbook were reviewed. You stated that the Family Handbook was revised and reviewed in March 2024. You stated that Staff Policies and Procedures had a section that was revised and reviewed in June 2024. You stated that neither has changed as of toady’s date. The “Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers” was completed during today’s visit. The following violations were observed and cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The fire inspection was completed on on 7/10/25 and the provider sent it to the consultant on 8/18/25. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 813 Electric fans were not mounted out of reach or did not have a mesh guard to prevent access. There was a plugged in fan in the hallway on the floor that was on and did not have a barrier. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(d) 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. Space one used by children one year of age had plastic bags with diapers in an unlocked cabinet that was not at least five feet from the floor. .0604(q) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. There was documentation for two staff members that the last time the EMC Plan was reviewed was 8/30/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. There were no training certificates nor documentation that one staff member that is required to have 20 hours has received annual training hours since 11/21/24. .1103(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. One staff member that has been employed since 9/25/23 had a Staff Development Plan with a date of 10/4/24. A staff member that has been employed since 8/30/24 did not have documentation that an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan has been completed. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1791 The child care provider did not provide the required beverage(s). It was observed during today's visit the chocolate milk was offered as a choice during lunch. .0901(e)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The ABCMS was monitored prior to today's and the portal for this program has not be set up as of today's date. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. There was documentation for two staff members that the last time the EPR Plan was reviewed was 8/30/24. .0607(e) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. There is no documentation nor training certificates that a staff member that was hired on 8/30/24 has completed the required health and safety trainings. .1102(a) Technical Assistance: Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against your license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. • This facility has not completed the ABCMS portal roster. As discussed, all facilities are required to complete the facility roster in the ABCMS portal and have all of the staff that work at the facility linked to the facilities roster. I suggest contacting your program Administrator to assist you with completing this process. If you have questions regarding the process you may reach out to the Criminal Background unit regarding the ABCMS Portal at ABCMS Provider Portal email support: DCDEE_ABCMS_PROVIDER@dhhs.nc.gov Criminal Background Unit: 919-814-6401. • In the hallway at the entrance to the facility there was a circular fan located on the floor was powered on, plugged in and was accessible to children. The fan openings are hazards as children can put their fingers inside and access the fan blades. As discussed, there should be a barrier around the fan to prevent children from being accessible to the fan blades. This item was corrected during today’s visit by Ms. Dixon, removing the fan. • There were plastic bags of diapers stored in an unlocked cabinet below five (5) feet and accessible to children in space 1 where children under three years old are cared for. As discussed, plastic bags must be inaccessible to children under three years old. I suggest that this cabinet be locked, or the plastic wrap be removed from the diapers. This item was corrected during the visit by the teacher locking the cabinet with a key lock. • During lunch in space two children were offered chocolate milk with their lunch. As discussed, chocolate milk does not meet meal pattern guidelines for preschool aged children. I suggest, prior to severing children food items, the meal pattern guidelines listed on the Divisions website under Provider Documents be reviewed to ensure what’s being served meets the guidelines for the age of children being served. This item was corrected during today’s visit by the cook removing the milk from the classroom. This item was corrected during the visit by the cook removing the chocolate milk from the classroom and the teacher serving the children 2% white milk with their meal. • Your last fire inspection was dated July 10, 2025, and was emailed to me on August 18, 2025. As discussed, fire inspection reports must be sent to me within seven (7) days of the inspection report being completed or a violation will be cited at your next monitoring visit. I suggest that the fire inspection report be sent to me the same day the inspection is completed to ensure that you are in compliance with child care rules pertaining to this violation. This violation was corrected during the visit. • Two (2) staff members with hire dates of 9/25/2023 and 8/302024, did not have documentation for completing a review of the Emergency Medical Care (EMC) plan annually. The last date documented a being reviewed was listed as 8/30/2024. As discussed, the EMC plan should be updated and/or reviewed with staff annually and as changes occur. I suggest that a calendar reminder be set to document and complete a review of the EMC plan with all staff annually prior to the expiration of the previous EMC plan review. A review of all staff files should be completed quarterly to ensure that all information in staff files is up to date, current and accurate at all times. • Two (2) staff members with hire dates of 9/25/2023 and 8/30/2024, did not have documentation for completing a review of the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) plan annually. The last date documented a being reviewed was listed as 8/30/2024. As discussed, the EPR plan should be updated and/or reviewed with staff annually and as changes occur. I suggest that a calendar reminder be set to document and complete a review of the EPR plan with all staff annually prior to the expiration of the previous EPR plan review. A review of all staff files should be completed quarterly to ensure that all information in staff files is up to date, current and accurate at all times. • One (1) staff member with a hire date of 9/25/2023, did not have documentation for 20 hours of on-going training annually. There is no documentation of any ongoing training hours having been completed to date. As discussed, on going training hours are required by child care rules to be completed annually. I suggest that a review of each staff file be completed to ensure that all staff files are complete with all staff requirements as required in child care rule. •Two (2) staff members with hire dates of 9/25/2023 and 8/30/2024 did not have documentation for completing a Staff Development plan (SDP) annually. As discussed, staff development plans are required to be completed annually. I suggest that a reminder is set on a calendar to alert you of when staff file item requirements are is due to be updated. I also suggest that a review of each staff file be completed to ensure that all staff files are completed with all staff requirements as required in child care rule. • One (1) staff member with a hire date of 8/30/2024, did not have documentation for completing required Health and Safety Training topics within one year of being hired. There is no documentation on file for Health and Safety Training topics being complete although there were dates listed on the health and safety training log. As discussed, all Health and Safety Training Topics are required to be completed within one year of being hired and every five (5) years thereafter. I suggest that a review of staff files be completed to ensure that all staff files are complete with all staff requirements as required in child care rule. Consultation: • During today’s visit, we provided the Director with extensive technical assistance and guidance on completing, maintaining, and reviewing the staff and training worksheet. This support is intended to ensure that the worksheet is available for each monitoring visit and remains current and accurate at all times moving forward. • We discussed ensuring that activities listed on activity plans are in engaging, aligned with NC Foundations for Early Learning Development (NCFELD) and are age/developmentally appropriate. I suggest that you reach out to Smart Start Rowan to assist with purposeful lesson planning and implementation strategies. During today’s visit we left two (2) copies of the NC Foundations for Early Learning Development book with you to assist teachers with creating meaningful lesson plans and a guide to implementation. • We discussed being mindful of whole group learning activity timeframes based on their age and developmental needs. Whole group learning for children should be meaningful and engaging. When children are no longer engaged, there should be a smooth transition into the next activity. I suggest that you reach out to Smart Start Rowan to assist with purposeful lesson planning and ways to maximize the time provided for activities. • When participating in outside play be sure there are enough materials available to all children to engage with. Please refer to the NC Foundations for Early Learning Development book for activities and ways to engage while participating in outdoors play. • We discussed that you will only list the last four digits of the staff’s social security number. • We discussed that it is important that applicants include any early childhood education experience. They made an additional page to include this information. • We discussed that you would want to include all staff on the Staff and Training Worksheet when you submit it to your consultant for review. • We discussed that it is important to monitor the children’s application when you receive them from families to ensure that they are fully completed. This includes but not limited to health care needs, the name of the health care professional and date of application. • We discussed that you would want to request that the parent/guardians check that they received the Parent Handbook, Discipline Policy, Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma Policy and the NC Summary of the Child Care Law on the Parent Handbook Policy Acknowledgement Form. • Please ensure that all staff have a WORKS account and that they mail official transcripts to the Workforce Unit located in the Raleigh office for evaluation. Once staff have received a status letter in their WORKS account, they should place a copy of their letter in their staff file. • Today in space two, I provided consultation on transition activities in the preschool classroom to assist with classroom and behavior management. • Today I showed you how to access the following on the DHHS website: meal pattern guidelines, Child Care Rules and provider documents. • On-going training hours are monitored annually from annual compliance visit date to annual compliance visit date. Please ensure that staff are documenting their training on the on-going training log and have attached the training certificates. • Please ensure that the staff and training worksheet is updated for all staff members to reflect any changes. Remember if there is a blank space something will need to be written in that space. If it does not pertain to that staff member, you can write “NA”. • Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: - Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Getting-a-License - Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development - Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-ProfessionalDevelopment/Health-and-Safety-Trainings - Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-ChildCare/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy - DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New -DCDEE Pathways to the Stars: The NC Quality Rating and Improvement System https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization COMPLIANCE PLAN: All violations cited and not corrected today must be corrected immediately. Please submit a written, signed, and dated statement to me at the email or mailing address below detailing the following information: • Your compliance letter must include the following: The name of your center The center’s ID number The date you write the letter d. Address each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. Your signature • Supporting documentation including the following: Training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov. and must be received no later than October 23, 2025. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (980) 434-3877 or by email at meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time and assistance today. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: MERIA WILDER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/9/2025 Number Present: 10 Completed Date: 10/9/2025 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 335 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 03:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Carolyn Conley, Lead Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. You, Keshia Dixon, Owner, and Tina Ramseur, Director, assisted us with today’s visit. During today’s visit you stated that you had an appointment and will need to leave at 12:00. You completed the Legal Designee Information form allowing Ms. Ramseur to sign the visit summary and the Staff and Training Worksheet. You and Ms. Ramseur also completed the Preservice Administrator form during today’s visit. We monitored Ms. Ramseur’s WORKS account, and it shows that the registration is in process. You and Ms. Ramseur stated that her account was under a different name and that WORKS is in the process of merging the two accounts together. This facility operates Monday through Friday from the hours of 6:30am to 5:30pm. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on November 20, 2024. Prior to today’s visit, the compliance history was 91%. The NC Secretary of State was checked prior to today’s visit and your business The Learning Tools Center was listed as current-active. I monitored the required postings that were posted at the facilities entrance. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued on September 26, 2024. The following restrictions are listed on the license: first and second shift care and meets enhanced ratios. We reviewed with you today the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to your phone number, email address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. You stated that T. Ramseur is now serving as the facility Administrator and assumed administrative responsibilities on October 1, 2025. Your last sanitation inspection report was dated June 26, 2025, with a superior classification and six (6) demerits. Your last fire inspection report was dated July 10, 2025, and was emailed to me on August 18, 2025. Emergency drills, fire drills and playground inspections were monitored and are occurring as required. Each licensed indoor and outdoor space was monitored today. The children were observed playing in activity areas, toileting/personal care routines, participating in teacher directed activities, outside play and lunch. Teacher and children’s interactions were positive and nurturing. Supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, use of approved space, classroom capacities, and permit restrictions were monitored during today’s visit. Daily sign in/out sheets and attendance was current/accurate. A menu was posted that documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Hazardous product storage, general safety, and discipline practices were monitored. There were no medications, no medication permission to administer forms, and no Medical Action Plans to monitor during today’s visit. A portion of the children’s files and staff record files were monitored. You stated that your program does not provide transportation. I monitored the incident report log and screen time logs posted in each classroom space. The Operational Policies and Parent Handbook were reviewed. You stated that the Family Handbook was revised and reviewed in March 2024. You stated that Staff Policies and Procedures had a section that was revised and reviewed in June 2024. You stated that neither has changed as of toady’s date. The “Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers” was completed during today’s visit. The following violations were observed and cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The fire inspection was completed on on 7/10/25 and the provider sent it to the consultant on 8/18/25. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 813 Electric fans were not mounted out of reach or did not have a mesh guard to prevent access. There was a plugged in fan in the hallway on the floor that was on and did not have a barrier. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(d) 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. Space one used by children one year of age had plastic bags with diapers in an unlocked cabinet that was not at least five feet from the floor. .0604(q) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. There was documentation for two staff members that the last time the EMC Plan was reviewed was 8/30/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. There were no training certificates nor documentation that one staff member that is required to have 20 hours has received annual training hours since 11/21/24. .1103(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. One staff member that has been employed since 9/25/23 had a Staff Development Plan with a date of 10/4/24. A staff member that has been employed since 8/30/24 did not have documentation that an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan has been completed. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1791 The child care provider did not provide the required beverage(s). It was observed during today's visit the chocolate milk was offered as a choice during lunch. .0901(e)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The ABCMS was monitored prior to today's and the portal for this program has not be set up as of today's date. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. There was documentation for two staff members that the last time the EPR Plan was reviewed was 8/30/24. .0607(e) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. There is no documentation nor training certificates that a staff member that was hired on 8/30/24 has completed the required health and safety trainings. .1102(a) Technical Assistance: Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against your license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. • This facility has not completed the ABCMS portal roster. As discussed, all facilities are required to complete the facility roster in the ABCMS portal and have all of the staff that work at the facility linked to the facilities roster. I suggest contacting your program Administrator to assist you with completing this process. If you have questions regarding the process you may reach out to the Criminal Background unit regarding the ABCMS Portal at ABCMS Provider Portal email support: DCDEE_ABCMS_PROVIDER@dhhs.nc.gov Criminal Background Unit: 919-814-6401. • In the hallway at the entrance to the facility there was a circular fan located on the floor was powered on, plugged in and was accessible to children. The fan openings are hazards as children can put their fingers inside and access the fan blades. As discussed, there should be a barrier around the fan to prevent children from being accessible to the fan blades. This item was corrected during today’s visit by Ms. Dixon, removing the fan. • There were plastic bags of diapers stored in an unlocked cabinet below five (5) feet and accessible to children in space 1 where children under three years old are cared for. As discussed, plastic bags must be inaccessible to children under three years old. I suggest that this cabinet be locked, or the plastic wrap be removed from the diapers. This item was corrected during the visit by the teacher locking the cabinet with a key lock. • During lunch in space two children were offered chocolate milk with their lunch. As discussed, chocolate milk does not meet meal pattern guidelines for preschool aged children. I suggest, prior to severing children food items, the meal pattern guidelines listed on the Divisions website under Provider Documents be reviewed to ensure what’s being served meets the guidelines for the age of children being served. This item was corrected during today’s visit by the cook removing the milk from the classroom. This item was corrected during the visit by the cook removing the chocolate milk from the classroom and the teacher serving the children 2% white milk with their meal. • Your last fire inspection was dated July 10, 2025, and was emailed to me on August 18, 2025. As discussed, fire inspection reports must be sent to me within seven (7) days of the inspection report being completed or a violation will be cited at your next monitoring visit. I suggest that the fire inspection report be sent to me the same day the inspection is completed to ensure that you are in compliance with child care rules pertaining to this violation. This violation was corrected during the visit. • Two (2) staff members with hire dates of 9/25/2023 and 8/302024, did not have documentation for completing a review of the Emergency Medical Care (EMC) plan annually. The last date documented a being reviewed was listed as 8/30/2024. As discussed, the EMC plan should be updated and/or reviewed with staff annually and as changes occur. I suggest that a calendar reminder be set to document and complete a review of the EMC plan with all staff annually prior to the expiration of the previous EMC plan review. A review of all staff files should be completed quarterly to ensure that all information in staff files is up to date, current and accurate at all times. • Two (2) staff members with hire dates of 9/25/2023 and 8/30/2024, did not have documentation for completing a review of the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) plan annually. The last date documented a being reviewed was listed as 8/30/2024. As discussed, the EPR plan should be updated and/or reviewed with staff annually and as changes occur. I suggest that a calendar reminder be set to document and complete a review of the EPR plan with all staff annually prior to the expiration of the previous EPR plan review. A review of all staff files should be completed quarterly to ensure that all information in staff files is up to date, current and accurate at all times. • One (1) staff member with a hire date of 9/25/2023, did not have documentation for 20 hours of on-going training annually. There is no documentation of any ongoing training hours having been completed to date. As discussed, on going training hours are required by child care rules to be completed annually. I suggest that a review of each staff file be completed to ensure that all staff files are complete with all staff requirements as required in child care rule. •Two (2) staff members with hire dates of 9/25/2023 and 8/30/2024 did not have documentation for completing a Staff Development plan (SDP) annually. As discussed, staff development plans are required to be completed annually. I suggest that a reminder is set on a calendar to alert you of when staff file item requirements are is due to be updated. I also suggest that a review of each staff file be completed to ensure that all staff files are completed with all staff requirements as required in child care rule. • One (1) staff member with a hire date of 8/30/2024, did not have documentation for completing required Health and Safety Training topics within one year of being hired. There is no documentation on file for Health and Safety Training topics being complete although there were dates listed on the health and safety training log. As discussed, all Health and Safety Training Topics are required to be completed within one year of being hired and every five (5) years thereafter. I suggest that a review of staff files be completed to ensure that all staff files are complete with all staff requirements as required in child care rule. Consultation: • During today’s visit, we provided the Director with extensive technical assistance and guidance on completing, maintaining, and reviewing the staff and training worksheet. This support is intended to ensure that the worksheet is available for each monitoring visit and remains current and accurate at all times moving forward. • We discussed ensuring that activities listed on activity plans are in engaging, aligned with NC Foundations for Early Learning Development (NCFELD) and are age/developmentally appropriate. I suggest that you reach out to Smart Start Rowan to assist with purposeful lesson planning and implementation strategies. During today’s visit we left two (2) copies of the NC Foundations for Early Learning Development book with you to assist teachers with creating meaningful lesson plans and a guide to implementation. • We discussed being mindful of whole group learning activity timeframes based on their age and developmental needs. Whole group learning for children should be meaningful and engaging. When children are no longer engaged, there should be a smooth transition into the next activity. I suggest that you reach out to Smart Start Rowan to assist with purposeful lesson planning and ways to maximize the time provided for activities. • When participating in outside play be sure there are enough materials available to all children to engage with. Please refer to the NC Foundations for Early Learning Development book for activities and ways to engage while participating in outdoors play. • We discussed that you will only list the last four digits of the staff’s social security number. • We discussed that it is important that applicants include any early childhood education experience. They made an additional page to include this information. • We discussed that you would want to include all staff on the Staff and Training Worksheet when you submit it to your consultant for review. • We discussed that it is important to monitor the children’s application when you receive them from families to ensure that they are fully completed. This includes but not limited to health care needs, the name of the health care professional and date of application. • We discussed that you would want to request that the parent/guardians check that they received the Parent Handbook, Discipline Policy, Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma Policy and the NC Summary of the Child Care Law on the Parent Handbook Policy Acknowledgement Form. • Please ensure that all staff have a WORKS account and that they mail official transcripts to the Workforce Unit located in the Raleigh office for evaluation. Once staff have received a status letter in their WORKS account, they should place a copy of their letter in their staff file. • Today in space two, I provided consultation on transition activities in the preschool classroom to assist with classroom and behavior management. • Today I showed you how to access the following on the DHHS website: meal pattern guidelines, Child Care Rules and provider documents. • On-going training hours are monitored annually from annual compliance visit date to annual compliance visit date. Please ensure that staff are documenting their training on the on-going training log and have attached the training certificates. • Please ensure that the staff and training worksheet is updated for all staff members to reflect any changes. Remember if there is a blank space something will need to be written in that space. If it does not pertain to that staff member, you can write “NA”. • Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: - Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Getting-a-License - Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development - Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-ProfessionalDevelopment/Health-and-Safety-Trainings - Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-ChildCare/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy - DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New -DCDEE Pathways to the Stars: The NC Quality Rating and Improvement System https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization COMPLIANCE PLAN: All violations cited and not corrected today must be corrected immediately. Please submit a written, signed, and dated statement to me at the email or mailing address below detailing the following information: • Your compliance letter must include the following: The name of your center The center’s ID number The date you write the letter d. Address each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. Your signature • Supporting documentation including the following: Training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov. and must be received no later than October 23, 2025. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (980) 434-3877 or by email at meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time and assistance today. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0514 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: MERIA WILDER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/9/2025 Number Present: 10 Completed Date: 10/9/2025 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 335 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 03:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Carolyn Conley, Lead Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. You, Keshia Dixon, Owner, and Tina Ramseur, Director, assisted us with today’s visit. During today’s visit you stated that you had an appointment and will need to leave at 12:00. You completed the Legal Designee Information form allowing Ms. Ramseur to sign the visit summary and the Staff and Training Worksheet. You and Ms. Ramseur also completed the Preservice Administrator form during today’s visit. We monitored Ms. Ramseur’s WORKS account, and it shows that the registration is in process. You and Ms. Ramseur stated that her account was under a different name and that WORKS is in the process of merging the two accounts together. This facility operates Monday through Friday from the hours of 6:30am to 5:30pm. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on November 20, 2024. Prior to today’s visit, the compliance history was 91%. The NC Secretary of State was checked prior to today’s visit and your business The Learning Tools Center was listed as current-active. I monitored the required postings that were posted at the facilities entrance. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued on September 26, 2024. The following restrictions are listed on the license: first and second shift care and meets enhanced ratios. We reviewed with you today the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to your phone number, email address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. You stated that T. Ramseur is now serving as the facility Administrator and assumed administrative responsibilities on October 1, 2025. Your last sanitation inspection report was dated June 26, 2025, with a superior classification and six (6) demerits. Your last fire inspection report was dated July 10, 2025, and was emailed to me on August 18, 2025. Emergency drills, fire drills and playground inspections were monitored and are occurring as required. Each licensed indoor and outdoor space was monitored today. The children were observed playing in activity areas, toileting/personal care routines, participating in teacher directed activities, outside play and lunch. Teacher and children’s interactions were positive and nurturing. Supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, use of approved space, classroom capacities, and permit restrictions were monitored during today’s visit. Daily sign in/out sheets and attendance was current/accurate. A menu was posted that documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Hazardous product storage, general safety, and discipline practices were monitored. There were no medications, no medication permission to administer forms, and no Medical Action Plans to monitor during today’s visit. A portion of the children’s files and staff record files were monitored. You stated that your program does not provide transportation. I monitored the incident report log and screen time logs posted in each classroom space. The Operational Policies and Parent Handbook were reviewed. You stated that the Family Handbook was revised and reviewed in March 2024. You stated that Staff Policies and Procedures had a section that was revised and reviewed in June 2024. You stated that neither has changed as of toady’s date. The “Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers” was completed during today’s visit. The following violations were observed and cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The fire inspection was completed on on 7/10/25 and the provider sent it to the consultant on 8/18/25. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 813 Electric fans were not mounted out of reach or did not have a mesh guard to prevent access. There was a plugged in fan in the hallway on the floor that was on and did not have a barrier. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(d) 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. Space one used by children one year of age had plastic bags with diapers in an unlocked cabinet that was not at least five feet from the floor. .0604(q) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. There was documentation for two staff members that the last time the EMC Plan was reviewed was 8/30/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. There were no training certificates nor documentation that one staff member that is required to have 20 hours has received annual training hours since 11/21/24. .1103(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. One staff member that has been employed since 9/25/23 had a Staff Development Plan with a date of 10/4/24. A staff member that has been employed since 8/30/24 did not have documentation that an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan has been completed. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1791 The child care provider did not provide the required beverage(s). It was observed during today's visit the chocolate milk was offered as a choice during lunch. .0901(e)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The ABCMS was monitored prior to today's and the portal for this program has not be set up as of today's date. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. There was documentation for two staff members that the last time the EPR Plan was reviewed was 8/30/24. .0607(e) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. There is no documentation nor training certificates that a staff member that was hired on 8/30/24 has completed the required health and safety trainings. .1102(a) Technical Assistance: Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against your license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. • This facility has not completed the ABCMS portal roster. As discussed, all facilities are required to complete the facility roster in the ABCMS portal and have all of the staff that work at the facility linked to the facilities roster. I suggest contacting your program Administrator to assist you with completing this process. If you have questions regarding the process you may reach out to the Criminal Background unit regarding the ABCMS Portal at ABCMS Provider Portal email support: DCDEE_ABCMS_PROVIDER@dhhs.nc.gov Criminal Background Unit: 919-814-6401. • In the hallway at the entrance to the facility there was a circular fan located on the floor was powered on, plugged in and was accessible to children. The fan openings are hazards as children can put their fingers inside and access the fan blades. As discussed, there should be a barrier around the fan to prevent children from being accessible to the fan blades. This item was corrected during today’s visit by Ms. Dixon, removing the fan. • There were plastic bags of diapers stored in an unlocked cabinet below five (5) feet and accessible to children in space 1 where children under three years old are cared for. As discussed, plastic bags must be inaccessible to children under three years old. I suggest that this cabinet be locked, or the plastic wrap be removed from the diapers. This item was corrected during the visit by the teacher locking the cabinet with a key lock. • During lunch in space two children were offered chocolate milk with their lunch. As discussed, chocolate milk does not meet meal pattern guidelines for preschool aged children. I suggest, prior to severing children food items, the meal pattern guidelines listed on the Divisions website under Provider Documents be reviewed to ensure what’s being served meets the guidelines for the age of children being served. This item was corrected during today’s visit by the cook removing the milk from the classroom. This item was corrected during the visit by the cook removing the chocolate milk from the classroom and the teacher serving the children 2% white milk with their meal. • Your last fire inspection was dated July 10, 2025, and was emailed to me on August 18, 2025. As discussed, fire inspection reports must be sent to me within seven (7) days of the inspection report being completed or a violation will be cited at your next monitoring visit. I suggest that the fire inspection report be sent to me the same day the inspection is completed to ensure that you are in compliance with child care rules pertaining to this violation. This violation was corrected during the visit. • Two (2) staff members with hire dates of 9/25/2023 and 8/302024, did not have documentation for completing a review of the Emergency Medical Care (EMC) plan annually. The last date documented a being reviewed was listed as 8/30/2024. As discussed, the EMC plan should be updated and/or reviewed with staff annually and as changes occur. I suggest that a calendar reminder be set to document and complete a review of the EMC plan with all staff annually prior to the expiration of the previous EMC plan review. A review of all staff files should be completed quarterly to ensure that all information in staff files is up to date, current and accurate at all times. • Two (2) staff members with hire dates of 9/25/2023 and 8/30/2024, did not have documentation for completing a review of the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) plan annually. The last date documented a being reviewed was listed as 8/30/2024. As discussed, the EPR plan should be updated and/or reviewed with staff annually and as changes occur. I suggest that a calendar reminder be set to document and complete a review of the EPR plan with all staff annually prior to the expiration of the previous EPR plan review. A review of all staff files should be completed quarterly to ensure that all information in staff files is up to date, current and accurate at all times. • One (1) staff member with a hire date of 9/25/2023, did not have documentation for 20 hours of on-going training annually. There is no documentation of any ongoing training hours having been completed to date. As discussed, on going training hours are required by child care rules to be completed annually. I suggest that a review of each staff file be completed to ensure that all staff files are complete with all staff requirements as required in child care rule. •Two (2) staff members with hire dates of 9/25/2023 and 8/30/2024 did not have documentation for completing a Staff Development plan (SDP) annually. As discussed, staff development plans are required to be completed annually. I suggest that a reminder is set on a calendar to alert you of when staff file item requirements are is due to be updated. I also suggest that a review of each staff file be completed to ensure that all staff files are completed with all staff requirements as required in child care rule. • One (1) staff member with a hire date of 8/30/2024, did not have documentation for completing required Health and Safety Training topics within one year of being hired. There is no documentation on file for Health and Safety Training topics being complete although there were dates listed on the health and safety training log. As discussed, all Health and Safety Training Topics are required to be completed within one year of being hired and every five (5) years thereafter. I suggest that a review of staff files be completed to ensure that all staff files are complete with all staff requirements as required in child care rule. Consultation: • During today’s visit, we provided the Director with extensive technical assistance and guidance on completing, maintaining, and reviewing the staff and training worksheet. This support is intended to ensure that the worksheet is available for each monitoring visit and remains current and accurate at all times moving forward. • We discussed ensuring that activities listed on activity plans are in engaging, aligned with NC Foundations for Early Learning Development (NCFELD) and are age/developmentally appropriate. I suggest that you reach out to Smart Start Rowan to assist with purposeful lesson planning and implementation strategies. During today’s visit we left two (2) copies of the NC Foundations for Early Learning Development book with you to assist teachers with creating meaningful lesson plans and a guide to implementation. • We discussed being mindful of whole group learning activity timeframes based on their age and developmental needs. Whole group learning for children should be meaningful and engaging. When children are no longer engaged, there should be a smooth transition into the next activity. I suggest that you reach out to Smart Start Rowan to assist with purposeful lesson planning and ways to maximize the time provided for activities. • When participating in outside play be sure there are enough materials available to all children to engage with. Please refer to the NC Foundations for Early Learning Development book for activities and ways to engage while participating in outdoors play. • We discussed that you will only list the last four digits of the staff’s social security number. • We discussed that it is important that applicants include any early childhood education experience. They made an additional page to include this information. • We discussed that you would want to include all staff on the Staff and Training Worksheet when you submit it to your consultant for review. • We discussed that it is important to monitor the children’s application when you receive them from families to ensure that they are fully completed. This includes but not limited to health care needs, the name of the health care professional and date of application. • We discussed that you would want to request that the parent/guardians check that they received the Parent Handbook, Discipline Policy, Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma Policy and the NC Summary of the Child Care Law on the Parent Handbook Policy Acknowledgement Form. • Please ensure that all staff have a WORKS account and that they mail official transcripts to the Workforce Unit located in the Raleigh office for evaluation. Once staff have received a status letter in their WORKS account, they should place a copy of their letter in their staff file. • Today in space two, I provided consultation on transition activities in the preschool classroom to assist with classroom and behavior management. • Today I showed you how to access the following on the DHHS website: meal pattern guidelines, Child Care Rules and provider documents. • On-going training hours are monitored annually from annual compliance visit date to annual compliance visit date. Please ensure that staff are documenting their training on the on-going training log and have attached the training certificates. • Please ensure that the staff and training worksheet is updated for all staff members to reflect any changes. Remember if there is a blank space something will need to be written in that space. If it does not pertain to that staff member, you can write “NA”. • Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: - Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Getting-a-License - Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development - Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-ProfessionalDevelopment/Health-and-Safety-Trainings - Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-ChildCare/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy - DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New -DCDEE Pathways to the Stars: The NC Quality Rating and Improvement System https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization COMPLIANCE PLAN: All violations cited and not corrected today must be corrected immediately. Please submit a written, signed, and dated statement to me at the email or mailing address below detailing the following information: • Your compliance letter must include the following: The name of your center The center’s ID number The date you write the letter d. Address each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. Your signature • Supporting documentation including the following: Training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov. and must be received no later than October 23, 2025. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (980) 434-3877 or by email at meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time and assistance today. 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 .0802 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: MERIA WILDER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/9/2025 Number Present: 10 Completed Date: 10/9/2025 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 335 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 03:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Carolyn Conley, Lead Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. You, Keshia Dixon, Owner, and Tina Ramseur, Director, assisted us with today’s visit. During today’s visit you stated that you had an appointment and will need to leave at 12:00. You completed the Legal Designee Information form allowing Ms. Ramseur to sign the visit summary and the Staff and Training Worksheet. You and Ms. Ramseur also completed the Preservice Administrator form during today’s visit. We monitored Ms. Ramseur’s WORKS account, and it shows that the registration is in process. You and Ms. Ramseur stated that her account was under a different name and that WORKS is in the process of merging the two accounts together. This facility operates Monday through Friday from the hours of 6:30am to 5:30pm. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on November 20, 2024. Prior to today’s visit, the compliance history was 91%. The NC Secretary of State was checked prior to today’s visit and your business The Learning Tools Center was listed as current-active. I monitored the required postings that were posted at the facilities entrance. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued on September 26, 2024. The following restrictions are listed on the license: first and second shift care and meets enhanced ratios. We reviewed with you today the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to your phone number, email address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. You stated that T. Ramseur is now serving as the facility Administrator and assumed administrative responsibilities on October 1, 2025. Your last sanitation inspection report was dated June 26, 2025, with a superior classification and six (6) demerits. Your last fire inspection report was dated July 10, 2025, and was emailed to me on August 18, 2025. Emergency drills, fire drills and playground inspections were monitored and are occurring as required. Each licensed indoor and outdoor space was monitored today. The children were observed playing in activity areas, toileting/personal care routines, participating in teacher directed activities, outside play and lunch. Teacher and children’s interactions were positive and nurturing. Supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, use of approved space, classroom capacities, and permit restrictions were monitored during today’s visit. Daily sign in/out sheets and attendance was current/accurate. A menu was posted that documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Hazardous product storage, general safety, and discipline practices were monitored. There were no medications, no medication permission to administer forms, and no Medical Action Plans to monitor during today’s visit. A portion of the children’s files and staff record files were monitored. You stated that your program does not provide transportation. I monitored the incident report log and screen time logs posted in each classroom space. The Operational Policies and Parent Handbook were reviewed. You stated that the Family Handbook was revised and reviewed in March 2024. You stated that Staff Policies and Procedures had a section that was revised and reviewed in June 2024. You stated that neither has changed as of toady’s date. The “Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers” was completed during today’s visit. The following violations were observed and cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The fire inspection was completed on on 7/10/25 and the provider sent it to the consultant on 8/18/25. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 813 Electric fans were not mounted out of reach or did not have a mesh guard to prevent access. There was a plugged in fan in the hallway on the floor that was on and did not have a barrier. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(d) 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. Space one used by children one year of age had plastic bags with diapers in an unlocked cabinet that was not at least five feet from the floor. .0604(q) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. There was documentation for two staff members that the last time the EMC Plan was reviewed was 8/30/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. There were no training certificates nor documentation that one staff member that is required to have 20 hours has received annual training hours since 11/21/24. .1103(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. One staff member that has been employed since 9/25/23 had a Staff Development Plan with a date of 10/4/24. A staff member that has been employed since 8/30/24 did not have documentation that an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan has been completed. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1791 The child care provider did not provide the required beverage(s). It was observed during today's visit the chocolate milk was offered as a choice during lunch. .0901(e)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The ABCMS was monitored prior to today's and the portal for this program has not be set up as of today's date. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. There was documentation for two staff members that the last time the EPR Plan was reviewed was 8/30/24. .0607(e) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. There is no documentation nor training certificates that a staff member that was hired on 8/30/24 has completed the required health and safety trainings. .1102(a) Technical Assistance: Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against your license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. • This facility has not completed the ABCMS portal roster. As discussed, all facilities are required to complete the facility roster in the ABCMS portal and have all of the staff that work at the facility linked to the facilities roster. I suggest contacting your program Administrator to assist you with completing this process. If you have questions regarding the process you may reach out to the Criminal Background unit regarding the ABCMS Portal at ABCMS Provider Portal email support: DCDEE_ABCMS_PROVIDER@dhhs.nc.gov Criminal Background Unit: 919-814-6401. • In the hallway at the entrance to the facility there was a circular fan located on the floor was powered on, plugged in and was accessible to children. The fan openings are hazards as children can put their fingers inside and access the fan blades. As discussed, there should be a barrier around the fan to prevent children from being accessible to the fan blades. This item was corrected during today’s visit by Ms. Dixon, removing the fan. • There were plastic bags of diapers stored in an unlocked cabinet below five (5) feet and accessible to children in space 1 where children under three years old are cared for. As discussed, plastic bags must be inaccessible to children under three years old. I suggest that this cabinet be locked, or the plastic wrap be removed from the diapers. This item was corrected during the visit by the teacher locking the cabinet with a key lock. • During lunch in space two children were offered chocolate milk with their lunch. As discussed, chocolate milk does not meet meal pattern guidelines for preschool aged children. I suggest, prior to severing children food items, the meal pattern guidelines listed on the Divisions website under Provider Documents be reviewed to ensure what’s being served meets the guidelines for the age of children being served. This item was corrected during today’s visit by the cook removing the milk from the classroom. This item was corrected during the visit by the cook removing the chocolate milk from the classroom and the teacher serving the children 2% white milk with their meal. • Your last fire inspection was dated July 10, 2025, and was emailed to me on August 18, 2025. As discussed, fire inspection reports must be sent to me within seven (7) days of the inspection report being completed or a violation will be cited at your next monitoring visit. I suggest that the fire inspection report be sent to me the same day the inspection is completed to ensure that you are in compliance with child care rules pertaining to this violation. This violation was corrected during the visit. • Two (2) staff members with hire dates of 9/25/2023 and 8/302024, did not have documentation for completing a review of the Emergency Medical Care (EMC) plan annually. The last date documented a being reviewed was listed as 8/30/2024. As discussed, the EMC plan should be updated and/or reviewed with staff annually and as changes occur. I suggest that a calendar reminder be set to document and complete a review of the EMC plan with all staff annually prior to the expiration of the previous EMC plan review. A review of all staff files should be completed quarterly to ensure that all information in staff files is up to date, current and accurate at all times. • Two (2) staff members with hire dates of 9/25/2023 and 8/30/2024, did not have documentation for completing a review of the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) plan annually. The last date documented a being reviewed was listed as 8/30/2024. As discussed, the EPR plan should be updated and/or reviewed with staff annually and as changes occur. I suggest that a calendar reminder be set to document and complete a review of the EPR plan with all staff annually prior to the expiration of the previous EPR plan review. A review of all staff files should be completed quarterly to ensure that all information in staff files is up to date, current and accurate at all times. • One (1) staff member with a hire date of 9/25/2023, did not have documentation for 20 hours of on-going training annually. There is no documentation of any ongoing training hours having been completed to date. As discussed, on going training hours are required by child care rules to be completed annually. I suggest that a review of each staff file be completed to ensure that all staff files are complete with all staff requirements as required in child care rule. •Two (2) staff members with hire dates of 9/25/2023 and 8/30/2024 did not have documentation for completing a Staff Development plan (SDP) annually. As discussed, staff development plans are required to be completed annually. I suggest that a reminder is set on a calendar to alert you of when staff file item requirements are is due to be updated. I also suggest that a review of each staff file be completed to ensure that all staff files are completed with all staff requirements as required in child care rule. • One (1) staff member with a hire date of 8/30/2024, did not have documentation for completing required Health and Safety Training topics within one year of being hired. There is no documentation on file for Health and Safety Training topics being complete although there were dates listed on the health and safety training log. As discussed, all Health and Safety Training Topics are required to be completed within one year of being hired and every five (5) years thereafter. I suggest that a review of staff files be completed to ensure that all staff files are complete with all staff requirements as required in child care rule. Consultation: • During today’s visit, we provided the Director with extensive technical assistance and guidance on completing, maintaining, and reviewing the staff and training worksheet. This support is intended to ensure that the worksheet is available for each monitoring visit and remains current and accurate at all times moving forward. • We discussed ensuring that activities listed on activity plans are in engaging, aligned with NC Foundations for Early Learning Development (NCFELD) and are age/developmentally appropriate. I suggest that you reach out to Smart Start Rowan to assist with purposeful lesson planning and implementation strategies. During today’s visit we left two (2) copies of the NC Foundations for Early Learning Development book with you to assist teachers with creating meaningful lesson plans and a guide to implementation. • We discussed being mindful of whole group learning activity timeframes based on their age and developmental needs. Whole group learning for children should be meaningful and engaging. When children are no longer engaged, there should be a smooth transition into the next activity. I suggest that you reach out to Smart Start Rowan to assist with purposeful lesson planning and ways to maximize the time provided for activities. • When participating in outside play be sure there are enough materials available to all children to engage with. Please refer to the NC Foundations for Early Learning Development book for activities and ways to engage while participating in outdoors play. • We discussed that you will only list the last four digits of the staff’s social security number. • We discussed that it is important that applicants include any early childhood education experience. They made an additional page to include this information. • We discussed that you would want to include all staff on the Staff and Training Worksheet when you submit it to your consultant for review. • We discussed that it is important to monitor the children’s application when you receive them from families to ensure that they are fully completed. This includes but not limited to health care needs, the name of the health care professional and date of application. • We discussed that you would want to request that the parent/guardians check that they received the Parent Handbook, Discipline Policy, Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma Policy and the NC Summary of the Child Care Law on the Parent Handbook Policy Acknowledgement Form. • Please ensure that all staff have a WORKS account and that they mail official transcripts to the Workforce Unit located in the Raleigh office for evaluation. Once staff have received a status letter in their WORKS account, they should place a copy of their letter in their staff file. • Today in space two, I provided consultation on transition activities in the preschool classroom to assist with classroom and behavior management. • Today I showed you how to access the following on the DHHS website: meal pattern guidelines, Child Care Rules and provider documents. • On-going training hours are monitored annually from annual compliance visit date to annual compliance visit date. Please ensure that staff are documenting their training on the on-going training log and have attached the training certificates. • Please ensure that the staff and training worksheet is updated for all staff members to reflect any changes. Remember if there is a blank space something will need to be written in that space. If it does not pertain to that staff member, you can write “NA”. • Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: - Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Getting-a-License - Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development - Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-ProfessionalDevelopment/Health-and-Safety-Trainings - Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-ChildCare/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy - DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New -DCDEE Pathways to the Stars: The NC Quality Rating and Improvement System https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization COMPLIANCE PLAN: All violations cited and not corrected today must be corrected immediately. Please submit a written, signed, and dated statement to me at the email or mailing address below detailing the following information: • Your compliance letter must include the following: The name of your center The center’s ID number The date you write the letter d. Address each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. Your signature • Supporting documentation including the following: Training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov. and must be received no later than October 23, 2025. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (980) 434-3877 or by email at meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time and assistance today. 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: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: MERIA WILDER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/9/2025 Number Present: 10 Completed Date: 10/9/2025 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 335 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 03:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. Carolyn Conley, Lead Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. You, Keshia Dixon, Owner, and Tina Ramseur, Director, assisted us with today’s visit. During today’s visit you stated that you had an appointment and will need to leave at 12:00. You completed the Legal Designee Information form allowing Ms. Ramseur to sign the visit summary and the Staff and Training Worksheet. You and Ms. Ramseur also completed the Preservice Administrator form during today’s visit. We monitored Ms. Ramseur’s WORKS account, and it shows that the registration is in process. You and Ms. Ramseur stated that her account was under a different name and that WORKS is in the process of merging the two accounts together. This facility operates Monday through Friday from the hours of 6:30am to 5:30pm. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on November 20, 2024. Prior to today’s visit, the compliance history was 91%. The NC Secretary of State was checked prior to today’s visit and your business The Learning Tools Center was listed as current-active. I monitored the required postings that were posted at the facilities entrance. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued on September 26, 2024. The following restrictions are listed on the license: first and second shift care and meets enhanced ratios. We reviewed with you today the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to your phone number, email address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. You stated that T. Ramseur is now serving as the facility Administrator and assumed administrative responsibilities on October 1, 2025. Your last sanitation inspection report was dated June 26, 2025, with a superior classification and six (6) demerits. Your last fire inspection report was dated July 10, 2025, and was emailed to me on August 18, 2025. Emergency drills, fire drills and playground inspections were monitored and are occurring as required. Each licensed indoor and outdoor space was monitored today. The children were observed playing in activity areas, toileting/personal care routines, participating in teacher directed activities, outside play and lunch. Teacher and children’s interactions were positive and nurturing. Supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, use of approved space, classroom capacities, and permit restrictions were monitored during today’s visit. Daily sign in/out sheets and attendance was current/accurate. A menu was posted that documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Hazardous product storage, general safety, and discipline practices were monitored. There were no medications, no medication permission to administer forms, and no Medical Action Plans to monitor during today’s visit. A portion of the children’s files and staff record files were monitored. You stated that your program does not provide transportation. I monitored the incident report log and screen time logs posted in each classroom space. The Operational Policies and Parent Handbook were reviewed. You stated that the Family Handbook was revised and reviewed in March 2024. You stated that Staff Policies and Procedures had a section that was revised and reviewed in June 2024. You stated that neither has changed as of toady’s date. The “Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers” was completed during today’s visit. The following violations were observed and cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The fire inspection was completed on on 7/10/25 and the provider sent it to the consultant on 8/18/25. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 813 Electric fans were not mounted out of reach or did not have a mesh guard to prevent access. There was a plugged in fan in the hallway on the floor that was on and did not have a barrier. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(d) 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. Space one used by children one year of age had plastic bags with diapers in an unlocked cabinet that was not at least five feet from the floor. .0604(q) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. There was documentation for two staff members that the last time the EMC Plan was reviewed was 8/30/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. There were no training certificates nor documentation that one staff member that is required to have 20 hours has received annual training hours since 11/21/24. .1103(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. One staff member that has been employed since 9/25/23 had a Staff Development Plan with a date of 10/4/24. A staff member that has been employed since 8/30/24 did not have documentation that an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan has been completed. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1791 The child care provider did not provide the required beverage(s). It was observed during today's visit the chocolate milk was offered as a choice during lunch. .0901(e)(1-7) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The ABCMS was monitored prior to today's and the portal for this program has not be set up as of today's date. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. There was documentation for two staff members that the last time the EPR Plan was reviewed was 8/30/24. .0607(e) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. There is no documentation nor training certificates that a staff member that was hired on 8/30/24 has completed the required health and safety trainings. .1102(a) Technical Assistance: Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against your license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. • This facility has not completed the ABCMS portal roster. As discussed, all facilities are required to complete the facility roster in the ABCMS portal and have all of the staff that work at the facility linked to the facilities roster. I suggest contacting your program Administrator to assist you with completing this process. If you have questions regarding the process you may reach out to the Criminal Background unit regarding the ABCMS Portal at ABCMS Provider Portal email support: DCDEE_ABCMS_PROVIDER@dhhs.nc.gov Criminal Background Unit: 919-814-6401. • In the hallway at the entrance to the facility there was a circular fan located on the floor was powered on, plugged in and was accessible to children. The fan openings are hazards as children can put their fingers inside and access the fan blades. As discussed, there should be a barrier around the fan to prevent children from being accessible to the fan blades. This item was corrected during today’s visit by Ms. Dixon, removing the fan. • There were plastic bags of diapers stored in an unlocked cabinet below five (5) feet and accessible to children in space 1 where children under three years old are cared for. As discussed, plastic bags must be inaccessible to children under three years old. I suggest that this cabinet be locked, or the plastic wrap be removed from the diapers. This item was corrected during the visit by the teacher locking the cabinet with a key lock. • During lunch in space two children were offered chocolate milk with their lunch. As discussed, chocolate milk does not meet meal pattern guidelines for preschool aged children. I suggest, prior to severing children food items, the meal pattern guidelines listed on the Divisions website under Provider Documents be reviewed to ensure what’s being served meets the guidelines for the age of children being served. This item was corrected during today’s visit by the cook removing the milk from the classroom. This item was corrected during the visit by the cook removing the chocolate milk from the classroom and the teacher serving the children 2% white milk with their meal. • Your last fire inspection was dated July 10, 2025, and was emailed to me on August 18, 2025. As discussed, fire inspection reports must be sent to me within seven (7) days of the inspection report being completed or a violation will be cited at your next monitoring visit. I suggest that the fire inspection report be sent to me the same day the inspection is completed to ensure that you are in compliance with child care rules pertaining to this violation. This violation was corrected during the visit. • Two (2) staff members with hire dates of 9/25/2023 and 8/302024, did not have documentation for completing a review of the Emergency Medical Care (EMC) plan annually. The last date documented a being reviewed was listed as 8/30/2024. As discussed, the EMC plan should be updated and/or reviewed with staff annually and as changes occur. I suggest that a calendar reminder be set to document and complete a review of the EMC plan with all staff annually prior to the expiration of the previous EMC plan review. A review of all staff files should be completed quarterly to ensure that all information in staff files is up to date, current and accurate at all times. • Two (2) staff members with hire dates of 9/25/2023 and 8/30/2024, did not have documentation for completing a review of the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) plan annually. The last date documented a being reviewed was listed as 8/30/2024. As discussed, the EPR plan should be updated and/or reviewed with staff annually and as changes occur. I suggest that a calendar reminder be set to document and complete a review of the EPR plan with all staff annually prior to the expiration of the previous EPR plan review. A review of all staff files should be completed quarterly to ensure that all information in staff files is up to date, current and accurate at all times. • One (1) staff member with a hire date of 9/25/2023, did not have documentation for 20 hours of on-going training annually. There is no documentation of any ongoing training hours having been completed to date. As discussed, on going training hours are required by child care rules to be completed annually. I suggest that a review of each staff file be completed to ensure that all staff files are complete with all staff requirements as required in child care rule. •Two (2) staff members with hire dates of 9/25/2023 and 8/30/2024 did not have documentation for completing a Staff Development plan (SDP) annually. As discussed, staff development plans are required to be completed annually. I suggest that a reminder is set on a calendar to alert you of when staff file item requirements are is due to be updated. I also suggest that a review of each staff file be completed to ensure that all staff files are completed with all staff requirements as required in child care rule. • One (1) staff member with a hire date of 8/30/2024, did not have documentation for completing required Health and Safety Training topics within one year of being hired. There is no documentation on file for Health and Safety Training topics being complete although there were dates listed on the health and safety training log. As discussed, all Health and Safety Training Topics are required to be completed within one year of being hired and every five (5) years thereafter. I suggest that a review of staff files be completed to ensure that all staff files are complete with all staff requirements as required in child care rule. Consultation: • During today’s visit, we provided the Director with extensive technical assistance and guidance on completing, maintaining, and reviewing the staff and training worksheet. This support is intended to ensure that the worksheet is available for each monitoring visit and remains current and accurate at all times moving forward. • We discussed ensuring that activities listed on activity plans are in engaging, aligned with NC Foundations for Early Learning Development (NCFELD) and are age/developmentally appropriate. I suggest that you reach out to Smart Start Rowan to assist with purposeful lesson planning and implementation strategies. During today’s visit we left two (2) copies of the NC Foundations for Early Learning Development book with you to assist teachers with creating meaningful lesson plans and a guide to implementation. • We discussed being mindful of whole group learning activity timeframes based on their age and developmental needs. Whole group learning for children should be meaningful and engaging. When children are no longer engaged, there should be a smooth transition into the next activity. I suggest that you reach out to Smart Start Rowan to assist with purposeful lesson planning and ways to maximize the time provided for activities. • When participating in outside play be sure there are enough materials available to all children to engage with. Please refer to the NC Foundations for Early Learning Development book for activities and ways to engage while participating in outdoors play. • We discussed that you will only list the last four digits of the staff’s social security number. • We discussed that it is important that applicants include any early childhood education experience. They made an additional page to include this information. • We discussed that you would want to include all staff on the Staff and Training Worksheet when you submit it to your consultant for review. • We discussed that it is important to monitor the children’s application when you receive them from families to ensure that they are fully completed. This includes but not limited to health care needs, the name of the health care professional and date of application. • We discussed that you would want to request that the parent/guardians check that they received the Parent Handbook, Discipline Policy, Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma Policy and the NC Summary of the Child Care Law on the Parent Handbook Policy Acknowledgement Form. • Please ensure that all staff have a WORKS account and that they mail official transcripts to the Workforce Unit located in the Raleigh office for evaluation. Once staff have received a status letter in their WORKS account, they should place a copy of their letter in their staff file. • Today in space two, I provided consultation on transition activities in the preschool classroom to assist with classroom and behavior management. • Today I showed you how to access the following on the DHHS website: meal pattern guidelines, Child Care Rules and provider documents. • On-going training hours are monitored annually from annual compliance visit date to annual compliance visit date. Please ensure that staff are documenting their training on the on-going training log and have attached the training certificates. • Please ensure that the staff and training worksheet is updated for all staff members to reflect any changes. Remember if there is a blank space something will need to be written in that space. If it does not pertain to that staff member, you can write “NA”. • Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: - Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Getting-a-License - Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development - Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-ProfessionalDevelopment/Health-and-Safety-Trainings - Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-ChildCare/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy - DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New -DCDEE Pathways to the Stars: The NC Quality Rating and Improvement System https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization COMPLIANCE PLAN: All violations cited and not corrected today must be corrected immediately. Please submit a written, signed, and dated statement to me at the email or mailing address below detailing the following information: • Your compliance letter must include the following: The name of your center The center’s ID number The date you write the letter d. Address each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. Your signature • Supporting documentation including the following: Training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov. and must be received no later than October 23, 2025. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (980) 434-3877 or by email at meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time and assistance today. 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 .0901 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: MERIA WILDER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2025 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 4/23/2025 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 280 Time In: 09:35 AM Time Out: 02:15 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. Carolyn Conley, Lead Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. Ms. Joyce Simpson, Administrator, was not present during today’s visit. You, Keshia Dixon, Owner, stated that Ms. Simpson has been on leave since March 26, 2025, and that you do not know the anticipated date of return of Ms. Simpson at this time. You stated that you are hoping to have a date by today. You requested to use Ms. Linda Clark, lead teacher, as an interim administrator. We monitored the education status for Linda Clark today in WORKS. Linda Clark is qualified as a Level II Administrator; therefore, she is qualified to work as the administrator of the child care center. To process this request, please submit a Preservice Administrator form that I will email you for Linda Clark as well as Linda Clark’s scheduled working hours to adhere to Child Care Rule .0714(a) regarding the Administrator required to work 25 hours per week on-site at the facility. In addition, if you choose to assign Ms. Clark as the administrator, a qualified lead teacher will replace Ms. Clark in the classroom. Having Ms. Clark assigned as an Assistant Director, even when Ms. Simpson returns to work, would be helpful to have someone who already meets the education requirements in place for extra support. As you receive information regarding Ms. Simpson’s return to her Administrator duties, keep me informed of what the plan is for Ms. Simpson's return. I observed the required postings: Three-Star Rated license, NC Summary of Child Care Law dated September 2023, sanitation placard, Emergency Medical Care Plan, Emergency Phone Numbers, First Aid poster, tobacco free signage, daily schedule, current activity plan, and safe arrival and departure procedures. Your program currently operates with a Three-Star License, issued on September 26, 2024, earning two (2) points in staff education, five (5) points in program standards and no quality point, for a total of 7 total points earned. Your facility operates with the following permit restrictions: first and second care and meets enhanced ratios. The center's compliance history was 92% as of November 20, 2024, and was reviewed with you today. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on November 20, 2024. I monitored all of the indoor and outdoor areas. I observed children throughout the classrooms participating in free play in activity areas, transitions, teacher directed activities, personal care routines, lunch and nap time. I monitored for general safety, storage of hazardous products, appropriate discipline, storage of medication and medication administration. Program records including emergency medical care plan, safe arrival and departure procedures, incident log, outdoor safety inspections, fire drills and emergency drills. We were unable to monitor the Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) Plan during today’s visit because you did not have a hard copy available, and you were unable to access the plan on the computer. Today, we reviewed staff record files for four (4) returning staff members to verify current and valid Criminal Background Check qualification letters, valid CPR and First Aid training, completion of the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training and health and safety trainings. We began monitoring a file of an individual that you stated that was hired on April 7, 2025. You stated that this staff person’s employment will be terminated due to excessive absences. Children were adequately supervised, enhanced staff-child ratios were maintained, adequate approved space was used, minimum space capacities were maintained, and permit restrictions including first and second shift care were met. Today’s lunch listed on the menu was peperoni hot pocket, green beans, fruit cup and 1% unflavored white milk but pasta salad, tuna, crackers and pudding was served today. You stated that there were no medications, no medication permission to administer forms and no Medical Action Plans to monitor. You stated that your program does not provide transportation. Your most recent fire drill was conducted on April 11, 2025, and has been completed monthly for the past twelve (12) months. Your most recent shelter in place emergency drill was conducted on April 11, 2025, and has been completed quarterly. Your most recent fire inspection was completed on April 22, 2024. You stated that you contacted your local fire inspector, and they stated that they would be out to your facility to complete the upcoming fire inspection on April 28, 2025. Your most recent sanitation inspection was completed on November 12, 2024, with a superior classification. I monitored all health and safety requirements during today’s visit. The following violations were cited during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. Today there were eleven (11) children that were present at the facility and only seven (7) were signed in and documented as being present. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. In space #4, the Staff to Child Ratio Worksheet was not posted. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. Children were not served the meal that was listed on the menu for today. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 604 Lavatories were not kept clean, in good repair and kept free of storage. In the bathroom located in space #1 there was a wagon stored beside the toilet and the toilet paper holder was not attached to the wall and and the toilet paper was located on the floor. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(a) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space 4, the attendance roster was not up to date and current. GS 110-91(9) 1812 The center did not complete an EPR Plan within four months of completing the EPR in Child Care training and/or the Plan was not completed on a template provided by the Division. There was not a current Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan on file for this facility. .0607(c) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. One (1) staff member with a hire date of 8/30/24 had health information stored in her personnel file. .0701(d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a hire date of 8/30/24, did not have documentation of completing Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment. .1102(g) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One (1) staff member with a hire date of 3/28/2024, did not have documentation of having completed all required Health and Safety training topics within the first year of being hired. .1102(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: In space 1, the attendance roster was not up to date and current. The children that were present today were not identified as present on the attendance roster. As discussed, children’s attendance should be documented as present when they arrive in the classroom daily. I suggest that as children arrive for the day the teacher that is designated to care for the children in that space ensure that attendance documentation is current. This item was corrected during the visit by the teacher updating the attendance roster. In space #1, the Staff to Child Ratio Worksheet was not posted. As discussed, this worksheet should be completed and posted to reflect the maximum number of children allowed in the space and the maximum space capacity whichever is the lesser number and posted in each classroom. I suggest that staff/child ratio worksheets be completed and posted in each classroom where there is not one present and posted. This item was corrected during the visit by you completing and posting the staff/child ratio worksheet. One (1) staff member with a hire date of 3/28/2024, did not have documentation of having completed all required Health and Safety training topics within the first year of being hired. As discussed, Health and Safety training topics are required to be completed within one year of being hired and every five (5) years thereafter. I suggest that you review staff files to ensure that all staff members have completed all training as required within the required timeframes to ensure compliance with child care rules. One (1) staff member with a hire date of 8/30/24 had health information stored in her personnel file. As discussed, all staff health information should be stored in a separate file for each staff member away from the staff member’s personnel file. I suggest that you go through all files for each staff member to ensure that health information and personnel information are not stored together. This violation was corrected during today’s visit you placing the staff members’ health information in a separate file designated for health information. Today there were eleven (11) children that were present at the facility and only seven (7) were signed in and documented as being present. As discussed, children should be signed in as they arrive in the classroom daily. I suggest that as children arrive for the day the parent or the teacher that is designated to care for the children in that space ensure that all children are signed in daily and that the sign in/out documentation is current. This item was corrected during the visit by you updating the sign in/out sheet. In the bathroom located in space #1 there was a wagon stored beside the toilet and the toilet paper holder was not attached to the wall and and the toilet paper was located on the floor. As discussed, the bathroom cannot be used as a storage room and all items that are broken and not able to be used properly should be fixed immediately. I suggest that a walkthrough of each space be completed to ensure that all bathroom spaces are kept free of storage items and broken items are removed and fixed. This violation was corrected during today’s visit by you removing the wagon and picking the toilet paper off of the floor. One staff member with a hire date of 8/30/24, did not have documentation of completing Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment. As discussed, Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training should be completed within 90 days of each staff member being hired. I suggest that you go through all files to ensure that all required training is completed within the required timeframe to ensure compliance. Children were not served the meal that was listed on the menu for today. As discussed, when updating and making changes to the menu, the updates are identified on the menu prior to the children being served the meal. Also, be sure when creating the menu that all meals meet nutritional meal pattern guidelines. This violation was corrected during the visit by you, updating the changes to the menu. There was not a current Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan on file for this facility. As discussed, a current EPR plan should be available and identify which staff members role in carrying out the plan in the event of an emergency. I suggest that the EPR plan be printed and available. If there are any changes to staff members roles, the plan will need to be updated as they occur and a new plan printed and reviewed with all staff. CONSULTATION: We discussed that the staff’s health questionnaire and emergency information needs to be updated annually. When completing new staff orientation, new staff members that are hired should have all orientation topics completed prior to the staff member and the Administrator signing and dating the documents as being completed. You stated that you received clarification from the DCDEE office that balloons may be used as a prop during “picture day”. We discussed that the room housing the balloons should be locked when not in use. The balloons will need to be removed after the “picture day” event. Child care rule .0604(q) states that balloons of any type should not be accessible to children. Fire inspections are to be sent to the consultant within 7 business days of the inspection being completed. If the fire inspection report is not sent to the consultant within 7 business days a violation will be cited at the next monitoring visit. When reviewing Staff Files, Children’s Files, and Program Records, utilize the Staff Files Checklist, Children’s File Checklist, Volunteer Files Checklist and the Program Records File Checklist to ensure that you are maintaining compliance with all of the files that are monitored by DCDEE and that all of the documents within those files are current, accurate and relevant. These forms should be updated annually with staff files, children’s records and program record documents to ensure that all information stored in your facilities files are current and accurate prior to DCDEE monitoring visits. These file checklists can be found on the DCDEE website under provider documents. Located on the DCDEE website there is an editable form of the staff and training worksheet that you may utilize when completing the staff and training worksheet to assist you with being prepared for your upcoming monitoring visits. This document can be downloaded to your computer and completed electronically. Please keep the Staff and Training Worksheet updated and available for DCDEE staff. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. DCDEE Resources Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Getting-a-License Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-Child-Care/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New Child Care facility’s now have until May 31, 2025, to enroll in the lead in water testing, lead based paint testing and Asbestos testing through Clean Water for US Kids. The following link will take you to the website to enroll https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. ABCMS SYSTEM: The process of notifying the Division of any new child care providers working who are hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement as stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 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 and someone will assist you. No new federal or state funds have been given to DCDEE to stabilize North Carolina early childhood education programs. If lawmakers vote to make money available for stabilization grants, DCDEE will share that information in the Raise NC Newsletter, emails and on the Division’s website. Compliance Plan: All violations cited and not corrected today must be corrected immediately. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct those violations. Please submit a written, signed, and dated statement to me at the email/address below detailing the steps taken to correct each violation. Your compliance letter must include the following: 1. The name of your center 2. The center’s ID number 3. The date you write the letter 4. Address each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. 5. Address your plan to ensure that you will not have that violation again. 6. Your signature Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than May 7, 2025. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. If you cannot meet the requirements by this date you shall contact me with a timeline of the corrections. In some cases, this timeline may be extended. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education 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. Child care programs are required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Meria Wilder Post Office Box 9591 Statesville, NC 28677 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (980)434-3877 or by email at meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0302 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: MERIA WILDER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2025 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 4/23/2025 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 280 Time In: 09:35 AM Time Out: 02:15 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. Carolyn Conley, Lead Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. Ms. Joyce Simpson, Administrator, was not present during today’s visit. You, Keshia Dixon, Owner, stated that Ms. Simpson has been on leave since March 26, 2025, and that you do not know the anticipated date of return of Ms. Simpson at this time. You stated that you are hoping to have a date by today. You requested to use Ms. Linda Clark, lead teacher, as an interim administrator. We monitored the education status for Linda Clark today in WORKS. Linda Clark is qualified as a Level II Administrator; therefore, she is qualified to work as the administrator of the child care center. To process this request, please submit a Preservice Administrator form that I will email you for Linda Clark as well as Linda Clark’s scheduled working hours to adhere to Child Care Rule .0714(a) regarding the Administrator required to work 25 hours per week on-site at the facility. In addition, if you choose to assign Ms. Clark as the administrator, a qualified lead teacher will replace Ms. Clark in the classroom. Having Ms. Clark assigned as an Assistant Director, even when Ms. Simpson returns to work, would be helpful to have someone who already meets the education requirements in place for extra support. As you receive information regarding Ms. Simpson’s return to her Administrator duties, keep me informed of what the plan is for Ms. Simpson's return. I observed the required postings: Three-Star Rated license, NC Summary of Child Care Law dated September 2023, sanitation placard, Emergency Medical Care Plan, Emergency Phone Numbers, First Aid poster, tobacco free signage, daily schedule, current activity plan, and safe arrival and departure procedures. Your program currently operates with a Three-Star License, issued on September 26, 2024, earning two (2) points in staff education, five (5) points in program standards and no quality point, for a total of 7 total points earned. Your facility operates with the following permit restrictions: first and second care and meets enhanced ratios. The center's compliance history was 92% as of November 20, 2024, and was reviewed with you today. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on November 20, 2024. I monitored all of the indoor and outdoor areas. I observed children throughout the classrooms participating in free play in activity areas, transitions, teacher directed activities, personal care routines, lunch and nap time. I monitored for general safety, storage of hazardous products, appropriate discipline, storage of medication and medication administration. Program records including emergency medical care plan, safe arrival and departure procedures, incident log, outdoor safety inspections, fire drills and emergency drills. We were unable to monitor the Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) Plan during today’s visit because you did not have a hard copy available, and you were unable to access the plan on the computer. Today, we reviewed staff record files for four (4) returning staff members to verify current and valid Criminal Background Check qualification letters, valid CPR and First Aid training, completion of the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training and health and safety trainings. We began monitoring a file of an individual that you stated that was hired on April 7, 2025. You stated that this staff person’s employment will be terminated due to excessive absences. Children were adequately supervised, enhanced staff-child ratios were maintained, adequate approved space was used, minimum space capacities were maintained, and permit restrictions including first and second shift care were met. Today’s lunch listed on the menu was peperoni hot pocket, green beans, fruit cup and 1% unflavored white milk but pasta salad, tuna, crackers and pudding was served today. You stated that there were no medications, no medication permission to administer forms and no Medical Action Plans to monitor. You stated that your program does not provide transportation. Your most recent fire drill was conducted on April 11, 2025, and has been completed monthly for the past twelve (12) months. Your most recent shelter in place emergency drill was conducted on April 11, 2025, and has been completed quarterly. Your most recent fire inspection was completed on April 22, 2024. You stated that you contacted your local fire inspector, and they stated that they would be out to your facility to complete the upcoming fire inspection on April 28, 2025. Your most recent sanitation inspection was completed on November 12, 2024, with a superior classification. I monitored all health and safety requirements during today’s visit. The following violations were cited during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. Today there were eleven (11) children that were present at the facility and only seven (7) were signed in and documented as being present. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. In space #4, the Staff to Child Ratio Worksheet was not posted. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. Children were not served the meal that was listed on the menu for today. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 604 Lavatories were not kept clean, in good repair and kept free of storage. In the bathroom located in space #1 there was a wagon stored beside the toilet and the toilet paper holder was not attached to the wall and and the toilet paper was located on the floor. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(a) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space 4, the attendance roster was not up to date and current. GS 110-91(9) 1812 The center did not complete an EPR Plan within four months of completing the EPR in Child Care training and/or the Plan was not completed on a template provided by the Division. There was not a current Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan on file for this facility. .0607(c) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. One (1) staff member with a hire date of 8/30/24 had health information stored in her personnel file. .0701(d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a hire date of 8/30/24, did not have documentation of completing Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment. .1102(g) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One (1) staff member with a hire date of 3/28/2024, did not have documentation of having completed all required Health and Safety training topics within the first year of being hired. .1102(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: In space 1, the attendance roster was not up to date and current. The children that were present today were not identified as present on the attendance roster. As discussed, children’s attendance should be documented as present when they arrive in the classroom daily. I suggest that as children arrive for the day the teacher that is designated to care for the children in that space ensure that attendance documentation is current. This item was corrected during the visit by the teacher updating the attendance roster. In space #1, the Staff to Child Ratio Worksheet was not posted. As discussed, this worksheet should be completed and posted to reflect the maximum number of children allowed in the space and the maximum space capacity whichever is the lesser number and posted in each classroom. I suggest that staff/child ratio worksheets be completed and posted in each classroom where there is not one present and posted. This item was corrected during the visit by you completing and posting the staff/child ratio worksheet. One (1) staff member with a hire date of 3/28/2024, did not have documentation of having completed all required Health and Safety training topics within the first year of being hired. As discussed, Health and Safety training topics are required to be completed within one year of being hired and every five (5) years thereafter. I suggest that you review staff files to ensure that all staff members have completed all training as required within the required timeframes to ensure compliance with child care rules. One (1) staff member with a hire date of 8/30/24 had health information stored in her personnel file. As discussed, all staff health information should be stored in a separate file for each staff member away from the staff member’s personnel file. I suggest that you go through all files for each staff member to ensure that health information and personnel information are not stored together. This violation was corrected during today’s visit you placing the staff members’ health information in a separate file designated for health information. Today there were eleven (11) children that were present at the facility and only seven (7) were signed in and documented as being present. As discussed, children should be signed in as they arrive in the classroom daily. I suggest that as children arrive for the day the parent or the teacher that is designated to care for the children in that space ensure that all children are signed in daily and that the sign in/out documentation is current. This item was corrected during the visit by you updating the sign in/out sheet. In the bathroom located in space #1 there was a wagon stored beside the toilet and the toilet paper holder was not attached to the wall and and the toilet paper was located on the floor. As discussed, the bathroom cannot be used as a storage room and all items that are broken and not able to be used properly should be fixed immediately. I suggest that a walkthrough of each space be completed to ensure that all bathroom spaces are kept free of storage items and broken items are removed and fixed. This violation was corrected during today’s visit by you removing the wagon and picking the toilet paper off of the floor. One staff member with a hire date of 8/30/24, did not have documentation of completing Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment. As discussed, Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training should be completed within 90 days of each staff member being hired. I suggest that you go through all files to ensure that all required training is completed within the required timeframe to ensure compliance. Children were not served the meal that was listed on the menu for today. As discussed, when updating and making changes to the menu, the updates are identified on the menu prior to the children being served the meal. Also, be sure when creating the menu that all meals meet nutritional meal pattern guidelines. This violation was corrected during the visit by you, updating the changes to the menu. There was not a current Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan on file for this facility. As discussed, a current EPR plan should be available and identify which staff members role in carrying out the plan in the event of an emergency. I suggest that the EPR plan be printed and available. If there are any changes to staff members roles, the plan will need to be updated as they occur and a new plan printed and reviewed with all staff. CONSULTATION: We discussed that the staff’s health questionnaire and emergency information needs to be updated annually. When completing new staff orientation, new staff members that are hired should have all orientation topics completed prior to the staff member and the Administrator signing and dating the documents as being completed. You stated that you received clarification from the DCDEE office that balloons may be used as a prop during “picture day”. We discussed that the room housing the balloons should be locked when not in use. The balloons will need to be removed after the “picture day” event. Child care rule .0604(q) states that balloons of any type should not be accessible to children. Fire inspections are to be sent to the consultant within 7 business days of the inspection being completed. If the fire inspection report is not sent to the consultant within 7 business days a violation will be cited at the next monitoring visit. When reviewing Staff Files, Children’s Files, and Program Records, utilize the Staff Files Checklist, Children’s File Checklist, Volunteer Files Checklist and the Program Records File Checklist to ensure that you are maintaining compliance with all of the files that are monitored by DCDEE and that all of the documents within those files are current, accurate and relevant. These forms should be updated annually with staff files, children’s records and program record documents to ensure that all information stored in your facilities files are current and accurate prior to DCDEE monitoring visits. These file checklists can be found on the DCDEE website under provider documents. Located on the DCDEE website there is an editable form of the staff and training worksheet that you may utilize when completing the staff and training worksheet to assist you with being prepared for your upcoming monitoring visits. This document can be downloaded to your computer and completed electronically. Please keep the Staff and Training Worksheet updated and available for DCDEE staff. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. DCDEE Resources Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Getting-a-License Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-Child-Care/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New Child Care facility’s now have until May 31, 2025, to enroll in the lead in water testing, lead based paint testing and Asbestos testing through Clean Water for US Kids. The following link will take you to the website to enroll https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. ABCMS SYSTEM: The process of notifying the Division of any new child care providers working who are hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement as stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 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 and someone will assist you. No new federal or state funds have been given to DCDEE to stabilize North Carolina early childhood education programs. If lawmakers vote to make money available for stabilization grants, DCDEE will share that information in the Raise NC Newsletter, emails and on the Division’s website. Compliance Plan: All violations cited and not corrected today must be corrected immediately. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct those violations. Please submit a written, signed, and dated statement to me at the email/address below detailing the steps taken to correct each violation. Your compliance letter must include the following: 1. The name of your center 2. The center’s ID number 3. The date you write the letter 4. Address each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. 5. Address your plan to ensure that you will not have that violation again. 6. Your signature Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than May 7, 2025. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. If you cannot meet the requirements by this date you shall contact me with a timeline of the corrections. In some cases, this timeline may be extended. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education 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. Child care programs are required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Meria Wilder Post Office Box 9591 Statesville, NC 28677 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (980)434-3877 or by email at meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. 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: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: MERIA WILDER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2025 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 4/23/2025 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 280 Time In: 09:35 AM Time Out: 02:15 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. Carolyn Conley, Lead Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. Ms. Joyce Simpson, Administrator, was not present during today’s visit. You, Keshia Dixon, Owner, stated that Ms. Simpson has been on leave since March 26, 2025, and that you do not know the anticipated date of return of Ms. Simpson at this time. You stated that you are hoping to have a date by today. You requested to use Ms. Linda Clark, lead teacher, as an interim administrator. We monitored the education status for Linda Clark today in WORKS. Linda Clark is qualified as a Level II Administrator; therefore, she is qualified to work as the administrator of the child care center. To process this request, please submit a Preservice Administrator form that I will email you for Linda Clark as well as Linda Clark’s scheduled working hours to adhere to Child Care Rule .0714(a) regarding the Administrator required to work 25 hours per week on-site at the facility. In addition, if you choose to assign Ms. Clark as the administrator, a qualified lead teacher will replace Ms. Clark in the classroom. Having Ms. Clark assigned as an Assistant Director, even when Ms. Simpson returns to work, would be helpful to have someone who already meets the education requirements in place for extra support. As you receive information regarding Ms. Simpson’s return to her Administrator duties, keep me informed of what the plan is for Ms. Simpson's return. I observed the required postings: Three-Star Rated license, NC Summary of Child Care Law dated September 2023, sanitation placard, Emergency Medical Care Plan, Emergency Phone Numbers, First Aid poster, tobacco free signage, daily schedule, current activity plan, and safe arrival and departure procedures. Your program currently operates with a Three-Star License, issued on September 26, 2024, earning two (2) points in staff education, five (5) points in program standards and no quality point, for a total of 7 total points earned. Your facility operates with the following permit restrictions: first and second care and meets enhanced ratios. The center's compliance history was 92% as of November 20, 2024, and was reviewed with you today. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on November 20, 2024. I monitored all of the indoor and outdoor areas. I observed children throughout the classrooms participating in free play in activity areas, transitions, teacher directed activities, personal care routines, lunch and nap time. I monitored for general safety, storage of hazardous products, appropriate discipline, storage of medication and medication administration. Program records including emergency medical care plan, safe arrival and departure procedures, incident log, outdoor safety inspections, fire drills and emergency drills. We were unable to monitor the Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) Plan during today’s visit because you did not have a hard copy available, and you were unable to access the plan on the computer. Today, we reviewed staff record files for four (4) returning staff members to verify current and valid Criminal Background Check qualification letters, valid CPR and First Aid training, completion of the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training and health and safety trainings. We began monitoring a file of an individual that you stated that was hired on April 7, 2025. You stated that this staff person’s employment will be terminated due to excessive absences. Children were adequately supervised, enhanced staff-child ratios were maintained, adequate approved space was used, minimum space capacities were maintained, and permit restrictions including first and second shift care were met. Today’s lunch listed on the menu was peperoni hot pocket, green beans, fruit cup and 1% unflavored white milk but pasta salad, tuna, crackers and pudding was served today. You stated that there were no medications, no medication permission to administer forms and no Medical Action Plans to monitor. You stated that your program does not provide transportation. Your most recent fire drill was conducted on April 11, 2025, and has been completed monthly for the past twelve (12) months. Your most recent shelter in place emergency drill was conducted on April 11, 2025, and has been completed quarterly. Your most recent fire inspection was completed on April 22, 2024. You stated that you contacted your local fire inspector, and they stated that they would be out to your facility to complete the upcoming fire inspection on April 28, 2025. Your most recent sanitation inspection was completed on November 12, 2024, with a superior classification. I monitored all health and safety requirements during today’s visit. The following violations were cited during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. Today there were eleven (11) children that were present at the facility and only seven (7) were signed in and documented as being present. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. In space #4, the Staff to Child Ratio Worksheet was not posted. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. Children were not served the meal that was listed on the menu for today. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 604 Lavatories were not kept clean, in good repair and kept free of storage. In the bathroom located in space #1 there was a wagon stored beside the toilet and the toilet paper holder was not attached to the wall and and the toilet paper was located on the floor. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(a) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space 4, the attendance roster was not up to date and current. GS 110-91(9) 1812 The center did not complete an EPR Plan within four months of completing the EPR in Child Care training and/or the Plan was not completed on a template provided by the Division. There was not a current Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan on file for this facility. .0607(c) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. One (1) staff member with a hire date of 8/30/24 had health information stored in her personnel file. .0701(d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a hire date of 8/30/24, did not have documentation of completing Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment. .1102(g) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One (1) staff member with a hire date of 3/28/2024, did not have documentation of having completed all required Health and Safety training topics within the first year of being hired. .1102(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: In space 1, the attendance roster was not up to date and current. The children that were present today were not identified as present on the attendance roster. As discussed, children’s attendance should be documented as present when they arrive in the classroom daily. I suggest that as children arrive for the day the teacher that is designated to care for the children in that space ensure that attendance documentation is current. This item was corrected during the visit by the teacher updating the attendance roster. In space #1, the Staff to Child Ratio Worksheet was not posted. As discussed, this worksheet should be completed and posted to reflect the maximum number of children allowed in the space and the maximum space capacity whichever is the lesser number and posted in each classroom. I suggest that staff/child ratio worksheets be completed and posted in each classroom where there is not one present and posted. This item was corrected during the visit by you completing and posting the staff/child ratio worksheet. One (1) staff member with a hire date of 3/28/2024, did not have documentation of having completed all required Health and Safety training topics within the first year of being hired. As discussed, Health and Safety training topics are required to be completed within one year of being hired and every five (5) years thereafter. I suggest that you review staff files to ensure that all staff members have completed all training as required within the required timeframes to ensure compliance with child care rules. One (1) staff member with a hire date of 8/30/24 had health information stored in her personnel file. As discussed, all staff health information should be stored in a separate file for each staff member away from the staff member’s personnel file. I suggest that you go through all files for each staff member to ensure that health information and personnel information are not stored together. This violation was corrected during today’s visit you placing the staff members’ health information in a separate file designated for health information. Today there were eleven (11) children that were present at the facility and only seven (7) were signed in and documented as being present. As discussed, children should be signed in as they arrive in the classroom daily. I suggest that as children arrive for the day the parent or the teacher that is designated to care for the children in that space ensure that all children are signed in daily and that the sign in/out documentation is current. This item was corrected during the visit by you updating the sign in/out sheet. In the bathroom located in space #1 there was a wagon stored beside the toilet and the toilet paper holder was not attached to the wall and and the toilet paper was located on the floor. As discussed, the bathroom cannot be used as a storage room and all items that are broken and not able to be used properly should be fixed immediately. I suggest that a walkthrough of each space be completed to ensure that all bathroom spaces are kept free of storage items and broken items are removed and fixed. This violation was corrected during today’s visit by you removing the wagon and picking the toilet paper off of the floor. One staff member with a hire date of 8/30/24, did not have documentation of completing Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment. As discussed, Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training should be completed within 90 days of each staff member being hired. I suggest that you go through all files to ensure that all required training is completed within the required timeframe to ensure compliance. Children were not served the meal that was listed on the menu for today. As discussed, when updating and making changes to the menu, the updates are identified on the menu prior to the children being served the meal. Also, be sure when creating the menu that all meals meet nutritional meal pattern guidelines. This violation was corrected during the visit by you, updating the changes to the menu. There was not a current Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan on file for this facility. As discussed, a current EPR plan should be available and identify which staff members role in carrying out the plan in the event of an emergency. I suggest that the EPR plan be printed and available. If there are any changes to staff members roles, the plan will need to be updated as they occur and a new plan printed and reviewed with all staff. CONSULTATION: We discussed that the staff’s health questionnaire and emergency information needs to be updated annually. When completing new staff orientation, new staff members that are hired should have all orientation topics completed prior to the staff member and the Administrator signing and dating the documents as being completed. You stated that you received clarification from the DCDEE office that balloons may be used as a prop during “picture day”. We discussed that the room housing the balloons should be locked when not in use. The balloons will need to be removed after the “picture day” event. Child care rule .0604(q) states that balloons of any type should not be accessible to children. Fire inspections are to be sent to the consultant within 7 business days of the inspection being completed. If the fire inspection report is not sent to the consultant within 7 business days a violation will be cited at the next monitoring visit. When reviewing Staff Files, Children’s Files, and Program Records, utilize the Staff Files Checklist, Children’s File Checklist, Volunteer Files Checklist and the Program Records File Checklist to ensure that you are maintaining compliance with all of the files that are monitored by DCDEE and that all of the documents within those files are current, accurate and relevant. These forms should be updated annually with staff files, children’s records and program record documents to ensure that all information stored in your facilities files are current and accurate prior to DCDEE monitoring visits. These file checklists can be found on the DCDEE website under provider documents. Located on the DCDEE website there is an editable form of the staff and training worksheet that you may utilize when completing the staff and training worksheet to assist you with being prepared for your upcoming monitoring visits. This document can be downloaded to your computer and completed electronically. Please keep the Staff and Training Worksheet updated and available for DCDEE staff. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. DCDEE Resources Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Getting-a-License Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-Child-Care/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New Child Care facility’s now have until May 31, 2025, to enroll in the lead in water testing, lead based paint testing and Asbestos testing through Clean Water for US Kids. The following link will take you to the website to enroll https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. ABCMS SYSTEM: The process of notifying the Division of any new child care providers working who are hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement as stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 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 and someone will assist you. No new federal or state funds have been given to DCDEE to stabilize North Carolina early childhood education programs. If lawmakers vote to make money available for stabilization grants, DCDEE will share that information in the Raise NC Newsletter, emails and on the Division’s website. Compliance Plan: All violations cited and not corrected today must be corrected immediately. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct those violations. Please submit a written, signed, and dated statement to me at the email/address below detailing the steps taken to correct each violation. Your compliance letter must include the following: 1. The name of your center 2. The center’s ID number 3. The date you write the letter 4. Address each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. 5. Address your plan to ensure that you will not have that violation again. 6. Your signature Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than May 7, 2025. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. If you cannot meet the requirements by this date you shall contact me with a timeline of the corrections. In some cases, this timeline may be extended. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education 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. Child care programs are required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Meria Wilder Post Office Box 9591 Statesville, NC 28677 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (980)434-3877 or by email at meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: MERIA WILDER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/23/2025 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 4/23/2025 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 280 Time In: 09:35 AM Time Out: 02:15 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. Carolyn Conley, Lead Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. Ms. Joyce Simpson, Administrator, was not present during today’s visit. You, Keshia Dixon, Owner, stated that Ms. Simpson has been on leave since March 26, 2025, and that you do not know the anticipated date of return of Ms. Simpson at this time. You stated that you are hoping to have a date by today. You requested to use Ms. Linda Clark, lead teacher, as an interim administrator. We monitored the education status for Linda Clark today in WORKS. Linda Clark is qualified as a Level II Administrator; therefore, she is qualified to work as the administrator of the child care center. To process this request, please submit a Preservice Administrator form that I will email you for Linda Clark as well as Linda Clark’s scheduled working hours to adhere to Child Care Rule .0714(a) regarding the Administrator required to work 25 hours per week on-site at the facility. In addition, if you choose to assign Ms. Clark as the administrator, a qualified lead teacher will replace Ms. Clark in the classroom. Having Ms. Clark assigned as an Assistant Director, even when Ms. Simpson returns to work, would be helpful to have someone who already meets the education requirements in place for extra support. As you receive information regarding Ms. Simpson’s return to her Administrator duties, keep me informed of what the plan is for Ms. Simpson's return. I observed the required postings: Three-Star Rated license, NC Summary of Child Care Law dated September 2023, sanitation placard, Emergency Medical Care Plan, Emergency Phone Numbers, First Aid poster, tobacco free signage, daily schedule, current activity plan, and safe arrival and departure procedures. Your program currently operates with a Three-Star License, issued on September 26, 2024, earning two (2) points in staff education, five (5) points in program standards and no quality point, for a total of 7 total points earned. Your facility operates with the following permit restrictions: first and second care and meets enhanced ratios. The center's compliance history was 92% as of November 20, 2024, and was reviewed with you today. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on November 20, 2024. I monitored all of the indoor and outdoor areas. I observed children throughout the classrooms participating in free play in activity areas, transitions, teacher directed activities, personal care routines, lunch and nap time. I monitored for general safety, storage of hazardous products, appropriate discipline, storage of medication and medication administration. Program records including emergency medical care plan, safe arrival and departure procedures, incident log, outdoor safety inspections, fire drills and emergency drills. We were unable to monitor the Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) Plan during today’s visit because you did not have a hard copy available, and you were unable to access the plan on the computer. Today, we reviewed staff record files for four (4) returning staff members to verify current and valid Criminal Background Check qualification letters, valid CPR and First Aid training, completion of the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training and health and safety trainings. We began monitoring a file of an individual that you stated that was hired on April 7, 2025. You stated that this staff person’s employment will be terminated due to excessive absences. Children were adequately supervised, enhanced staff-child ratios were maintained, adequate approved space was used, minimum space capacities were maintained, and permit restrictions including first and second shift care were met. Today’s lunch listed on the menu was peperoni hot pocket, green beans, fruit cup and 1% unflavored white milk but pasta salad, tuna, crackers and pudding was served today. You stated that there were no medications, no medication permission to administer forms and no Medical Action Plans to monitor. You stated that your program does not provide transportation. Your most recent fire drill was conducted on April 11, 2025, and has been completed monthly for the past twelve (12) months. Your most recent shelter in place emergency drill was conducted on April 11, 2025, and has been completed quarterly. Your most recent fire inspection was completed on April 22, 2024. You stated that you contacted your local fire inspector, and they stated that they would be out to your facility to complete the upcoming fire inspection on April 28, 2025. Your most recent sanitation inspection was completed on November 12, 2024, with a superior classification. I monitored all health and safety requirements during today’s visit. The following violations were cited during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. Today there were eleven (11) children that were present at the facility and only seven (7) were signed in and documented as being present. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. In space #4, the Staff to Child Ratio Worksheet was not posted. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. Children were not served the meal that was listed on the menu for today. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 604 Lavatories were not kept clean, in good repair and kept free of storage. In the bathroom located in space #1 there was a wagon stored beside the toilet and the toilet paper holder was not attached to the wall and and the toilet paper was located on the floor. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(a) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space 4, the attendance roster was not up to date and current. GS 110-91(9) 1812 The center did not complete an EPR Plan within four months of completing the EPR in Child Care training and/or the Plan was not completed on a template provided by the Division. There was not a current Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan on file for this facility. .0607(c) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. One (1) staff member with a hire date of 8/30/24 had health information stored in her personnel file. .0701(d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member with a hire date of 8/30/24, did not have documentation of completing Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment. .1102(g) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One (1) staff member with a hire date of 3/28/2024, did not have documentation of having completed all required Health and Safety training topics within the first year of being hired. .1102(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: In space 1, the attendance roster was not up to date and current. The children that were present today were not identified as present on the attendance roster. As discussed, children’s attendance should be documented as present when they arrive in the classroom daily. I suggest that as children arrive for the day the teacher that is designated to care for the children in that space ensure that attendance documentation is current. This item was corrected during the visit by the teacher updating the attendance roster. In space #1, the Staff to Child Ratio Worksheet was not posted. As discussed, this worksheet should be completed and posted to reflect the maximum number of children allowed in the space and the maximum space capacity whichever is the lesser number and posted in each classroom. I suggest that staff/child ratio worksheets be completed and posted in each classroom where there is not one present and posted. This item was corrected during the visit by you completing and posting the staff/child ratio worksheet. One (1) staff member with a hire date of 3/28/2024, did not have documentation of having completed all required Health and Safety training topics within the first year of being hired. As discussed, Health and Safety training topics are required to be completed within one year of being hired and every five (5) years thereafter. I suggest that you review staff files to ensure that all staff members have completed all training as required within the required timeframes to ensure compliance with child care rules. One (1) staff member with a hire date of 8/30/24 had health information stored in her personnel file. As discussed, all staff health information should be stored in a separate file for each staff member away from the staff member’s personnel file. I suggest that you go through all files for each staff member to ensure that health information and personnel information are not stored together. This violation was corrected during today’s visit you placing the staff members’ health information in a separate file designated for health information. Today there were eleven (11) children that were present at the facility and only seven (7) were signed in and documented as being present. As discussed, children should be signed in as they arrive in the classroom daily. I suggest that as children arrive for the day the parent or the teacher that is designated to care for the children in that space ensure that all children are signed in daily and that the sign in/out documentation is current. This item was corrected during the visit by you updating the sign in/out sheet. In the bathroom located in space #1 there was a wagon stored beside the toilet and the toilet paper holder was not attached to the wall and and the toilet paper was located on the floor. As discussed, the bathroom cannot be used as a storage room and all items that are broken and not able to be used properly should be fixed immediately. I suggest that a walkthrough of each space be completed to ensure that all bathroom spaces are kept free of storage items and broken items are removed and fixed. This violation was corrected during today’s visit by you removing the wagon and picking the toilet paper off of the floor. One staff member with a hire date of 8/30/24, did not have documentation of completing Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment. As discussed, Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training should be completed within 90 days of each staff member being hired. I suggest that you go through all files to ensure that all required training is completed within the required timeframe to ensure compliance. Children were not served the meal that was listed on the menu for today. As discussed, when updating and making changes to the menu, the updates are identified on the menu prior to the children being served the meal. Also, be sure when creating the menu that all meals meet nutritional meal pattern guidelines. This violation was corrected during the visit by you, updating the changes to the menu. There was not a current Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan on file for this facility. As discussed, a current EPR plan should be available and identify which staff members role in carrying out the plan in the event of an emergency. I suggest that the EPR plan be printed and available. If there are any changes to staff members roles, the plan will need to be updated as they occur and a new plan printed and reviewed with all staff. CONSULTATION: We discussed that the staff’s health questionnaire and emergency information needs to be updated annually. When completing new staff orientation, new staff members that are hired should have all orientation topics completed prior to the staff member and the Administrator signing and dating the documents as being completed. You stated that you received clarification from the DCDEE office that balloons may be used as a prop during “picture day”. We discussed that the room housing the balloons should be locked when not in use. The balloons will need to be removed after the “picture day” event. Child care rule .0604(q) states that balloons of any type should not be accessible to children. Fire inspections are to be sent to the consultant within 7 business days of the inspection being completed. If the fire inspection report is not sent to the consultant within 7 business days a violation will be cited at the next monitoring visit. When reviewing Staff Files, Children’s Files, and Program Records, utilize the Staff Files Checklist, Children’s File Checklist, Volunteer Files Checklist and the Program Records File Checklist to ensure that you are maintaining compliance with all of the files that are monitored by DCDEE and that all of the documents within those files are current, accurate and relevant. These forms should be updated annually with staff files, children’s records and program record documents to ensure that all information stored in your facilities files are current and accurate prior to DCDEE monitoring visits. These file checklists can be found on the DCDEE website under provider documents. Located on the DCDEE website there is an editable form of the staff and training worksheet that you may utilize when completing the staff and training worksheet to assist you with being prepared for your upcoming monitoring visits. This document can be downloaded to your computer and completed electronically. Please keep the Staff and Training Worksheet updated and available for DCDEE staff. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. DCDEE Resources Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Getting-a-License Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-Child-Care/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New Child Care facility’s now have until May 31, 2025, to enroll in the lead in water testing, lead based paint testing and Asbestos testing through Clean Water for US Kids. The following link will take you to the website to enroll https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. ABCMS SYSTEM: The process of notifying the Division of any new child care providers working who are hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement as stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 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 and someone will assist you. No new federal or state funds have been given to DCDEE to stabilize North Carolina early childhood education programs. If lawmakers vote to make money available for stabilization grants, DCDEE will share that information in the Raise NC Newsletter, emails and on the Division’s website. Compliance Plan: All violations cited and not corrected today must be corrected immediately. In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct those violations. Please submit a written, signed, and dated statement to me at the email/address below detailing the steps taken to correct each violation. Your compliance letter must include the following: 1. The name of your center 2. The center’s ID number 3. The date you write the letter 4. Address each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. 5. Address your plan to ensure that you will not have that violation again. 6. Your signature Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than May 7, 2025. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. If you cannot meet the requirements by this date you shall contact me with a timeline of the corrections. In some cases, this timeline may be extended. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education 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. Child care programs are required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Meria Wilder Post Office Box 9591 Statesville, NC 28677 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (980)434-3877 or by email at meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: MERIA WILDER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/20/2024 Number Present: 6 Completed Date: 11/20/2024 Age: From 2 To 4 Total Minutes: 208 Time In: 09:32 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements. Carolyn Conley, Lead Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. You, Keshia Dixon, Owner, assisted us with today’s visit. You stated that Ms. Simpson, Director, definitely works 1:00 to 5:30 and then her hours vary throughout the morning during the week. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued on September 26, 2024. The following restrictions are listed on the license: first and second shift care and meets enhanced ratios. Prior to today’s visit, the compliance history was 86%. We reviewed with you today the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to your phone number, email address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. Your last sanitation inspection was dated November 12, 2024, with a Superior classification and two demerits. Your last fire inspection was dated April 4, 2024. Emergency drills, fire drills and playground inspections were monitored and are occurring as required. We visited each licensed indoor and outdoor space with you today. The children were observed playing in activity areas, toileting and participating in teacher directed activities. You stated that you do not provide screen time. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Hazardous product storage, general safety, and discipline practices were monitored. There were no medications, medication permission to administer forms, and no Medical Action Plans to monitor during today’s visit. A portion of the children’s files and staff record files were monitored. Health and safety requirements were monitored. The Staff and Training Worksheet was completed and available for review during today’s visit. You stated that your program does not provide transportation. The Operational Policies and Parent Handbook were reviewed in September 2023. You stated that the Family Handbook was revised and reviewed in March 2024. You stated that Staff Policies and Procedures had a section that was revised and reviewed in June 2024. You stated that neither have changed as of toady’s date. Supervision of children, staff-child ratios and group sizes, use of approved space, classroom capacities, and permit restrictions were monitored during today’s visit. The “Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers” was completed during today’s visit. The following violations were observed and cited during today's visit: 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. In space #4 there was not an allergy listing posted. .0901(g) 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 there were diapers in plastic packaging and a latex balloon were stored under the diaper changing table below 5ft. .0604(q) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space #2 the last date that attendance had been documented was 11/15/2024. GS 110-91(9) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. One child with a birth date of 8/31/2017, had an application on file that did not identify the child’s particular fears, allergies/symptoms, unique behavior characteristics and health concerns identified. .0801(a)(1-7) • In space #1 there were diapers in plastic packaging and a latex balloon stored under the diaper changing table below 5ft. As discussed, plastic bags and/or packaging should be made inaccessible to children under 3 years old. Balloons of any type are prohibited in childcare settings. I suggest that a walkthrough of all classroom spaces be completed daily by teachers prior to children’s arrival to monitor for storage of hazardous materials and all hazardous materials be removed or made inaccessible to children. • In space #1 there was no allergy listing posted. As discussed, in all classroom spaces there should be an allergy listing posted to identify children’s food allergies or food preferences. I suggest that food allergies and food preferences be added to the allergy listing that is posted as children enroll or leave the program. • In space #2 the last date that attendance had been documented was November 15, 2024. As discussed, attendance should be recorded daily and kept up to date daily. I suggest that the attendance roster be updated daily as children arrive and are signed in at school for the day. • One child with a birth date of August 31, 2017, had an application on file that did not identify the child’s particular fears, allergies/symptoms, unique behavior characteristics and health concerns identified. As discussed, all children’s applications are required to have all information completed by the parent on the child’s application. I suggest that children’s files be monitored at least quarterly to ensure that all required information has been updated and documented in each child’s children’s record. CONSULTATION: 1. Child care programs are required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. 2. Please send the annual fire inspection to me within seven days of receiving a visit from the fire marshal. Please ensure that the fire inspection is completed on the Adult Day Care & Child Care Fire Inspection Report form. 3. Please ensure that the staff and training worksheet is updated for all staff members to reflect any changes. Remember if there is a blank space something will need to be written in that space. If it does not pertain to that staff member, you can write “NA”. 4. https://www.positivechildhoodalliancenc.org/online-trainings/ is the new website for new staff to complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of hire. Please ensure that a copy of the training certificate is in each staff member’s file. 5. Please ensure that all staff have a WORKS account and that they mail official transcripts to the Workforce Unit located in the Raleigh office for evaluation. Once staff have received a status letter in their WORKS account, they should place a copy of their letter in their staff file. 6. On-going training hours are monitored annually from annual compliance visit date to annual compliance visit date. Please ensure that staff are documenting their training on the on-going training log and have attached the training certificates. 7. All Health & Safety trainings are required to be completed by all staff within one year of employment. Please ensure that staff are documenting Health & Safety trainings on the Health & Safety training log and have attached the training certificates. 8. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. 9. Here are some important links on the DCEEE website that may be helpful: -Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Getting-a-License -Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development -Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings -Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-Child-Care/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy -DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New 10. K. Finger has completed EDU 119 and EDU 261, and her unofficial transcripts are documented in her staff file. I requested that she send her official transcript to the WORKS to be verified once she receives her official transcript from the school. Be reminded that when sending the official transcript to WORKS the envelope containing the transcript is sent in unopened. If it has been opened when the WORKS receives it, you will be required to request another unopened official transcript from the school that would need to be sent to the WORKS to be verified. 11. When completing new staff orientation that is required within the first 2 week you can review recognizing, responding to, and reporting child abuse, neglect, or maltreatment policies and procedures for your program or they can complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment. 12. We discussed having a sign-in-out sheet for you and the director. This documentation is important to show that your director as on site at least 25 hours. 13. When a staff member returns from personal/sick leave they will need to complete the CPR/FA and Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment if it is past the 90 days of hire prior to returning. COMPLIANCE PLAN: All violations cited and not corrected today must be corrected immediately. Please submit a written, signed, and dated statement to me at the email or mailing address below detailing the following information: 1) Your compliance letter must include the following: a. The name of your center b. The center’s ID number c. The date you write the letter d. Address each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. e. Your signature 2) Supporting documentation including the following: a. Training certificates, CBC letters, acknowledgement statements, and photographs for me to use to verify compliance. b. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than December 4, 2024. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. If you cannot meet the requirements by this date you should contact me with a timeline of the corrections. In some cases, this timeline may be extended. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education 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. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Meria Wilder P.O. Box 6591 Statesville, NC 28677 For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included in the body of the email: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (980) 434-3877 or by email at meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. 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 .0901 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/5/2024 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 9/5/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 340 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Rated License Assessment Announced/Unannounced: Announced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor for compliance with child care requirements during a rated license visit, and to review the environment rating scale (ERS) summary. Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. You, K. Dixon, Owner, and J. Simpson, Administrator, met with us today. You and Ms. Simpson completed the Staff and Training Worksheets during today's visit. The following was monitored during today’s visit: • The Administrative Action Plan • Supervision • Staff Child Ratio • CPR and First Aid • Special Training • Storage of Hazardous Substances • Storage of Medication • Adequate Approved/Space • Staff Records • Program Records • Provisional License Posted • Permit Restrictions The completion of the Corrective Action Plan as part of the Administrative Action Provisional Licensed issued April 17, 2024, is as follows: The Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter, and Corrective Action Plan were posted on the Parent Information board located near the entrance as required. Stipulation #1 requires the facility to be in compliance with all applicable child care requirements. During today’s visit, three violations were cited and two corrected during today’s visit. Stipulation #2 requires Keisha Dixon, Owner, to contact C. Conley, Lead Consultant, within one week of receiving the action to arrange for a complete review of child care requirements with all staff. The training was scheduled on May 1, 2024, and completed on May 29, 2024, from 3:30pm-5:20pm at your facility. Stipulation #2 is complete. Stipulation #3 requires Ms. Dixon, Owner, to submit a written plan within two weeks after the action is received on how the facility will obtain a star rated license after the Provisional License period. This written plan was submitted to me on May 29, 2024. The written plan required by stipulation #3 was approved on May 29, 2024. Stipulation #4 requires Ms. Dixon, Owner, to develop a written plan within two weeks after the Rules Review training is completed, to ensure compliance with director qualifications and lead teacher qualifications. This written plan was submitted to me on June 21, 2024. The written plan required by stipulation #4 was approved on August 21, 2024. Stipulation #5 requires Ms. Dixon to conduct a staff meeting within two weeks after Ms. Conley approves the written plans in stipulation #3 and #4 to review them with your staff. Today, we received the following documentation from the mandatory staff meeting that took place on September 3, 2024: -The attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting. -The minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. This completes stipulation #5 of the corrective action plan. All documentation from the corrective action plan will be maintained in the facility file for review by representatives of DCDEE upon request. The children were observed during art activities at the table, handwashing routines, lunch and naptime. Lunch consisted of cheese pizza, baked beans, chocolate pudding and milk. The menu posted had the following listed for today: cheese pizza, bake beans, pears, tatter tots and milk. This was brought to your attention and apple sauce was served to the children and the menu was revised. RATED LICENSE REVIEW: Education Standard Points: *J. Simpson, Administrator, is eligible for 7 (seven) points in education standards. *The Lead Teachers are eligible for 2 (two) points in education standards. One staff member has her Lead Teacher equivalency and a BA in Early Childhood Education and at least 2 years of experience. You sent me documentation that the 2nd staff member is enrolled in EDU 119 and EDU 261 and will complete the course on October 11, 2024. Both staff members do have WORKS accounts. Child Care Rule .2819(a) requires the education points to be determined by the lowest number of points earned by the on-site administrator, lead teachers, teachers, and group leaders, per Rules .2820, .2821, .2822, .2823. Your facilities education points are currently determined by the administrator and lead teachers since those are the positions currently needed at your facility. Therefore, the facility is eligible for 2 (two) points in education standards. Program Standard Points: You requested to have the environmental rating scales conducted on January 4, 2024. The NCRLAP assessors attempted to complete two (2) assessments on February 21, 2024, and March 5, 2024, but were unable due to low enrollment. The ECERS-R assessment was conducted on March 14, 2024, with a score of 4.83. The ITERS-R assessment was conducted on March 14, 2024, with a score of 3.47. Per 10A NCAC 09 .2817(b) in order to earn three (3) points or higher in program standard points, each classroom has to score at least a 4.0 or higher. On April 12, 2024, you requested to have the ITERS-R reassessment, and the request was submitted on July 10, 2024. The NCRLAP assessor attempted to conduct the assessment on August 12, 2024, but was unable to conduct the assessment because a storm had gone through the previous night and the facility's air conditioning turned off and the facility was in the process of cooling off when the assessor arrived. The assessor returned on August 22, 2024, and conducted the ITERS-R assessment. On August 28, 2024, I received a copy of the scores and sent a copy to you. The facility received an ITERS-R score of 5.07 points, and an ECERS-R score of 4.83, with an average score of 4.95. The total average score is used to determine the number of program points earned on the star rated license. During today’s visit, we reviewed the ERS summary with you and the administrator and focused on those items reviewed on the summary that scored a four or below. The following technical assistance was given for the ITERS-R: -Item #5 (Display) Indicator 5.2: To earn credit for this indicator the room would need to have at least two mobiles that are able to move in space. -Item #7 (Meals and Snacks) Indicator 3.1: To receive credit for this indicator water would need to be offered throughout the day; including between meals. Indicator 3.2: Sausage links are considered a choking hazard for children under the age of four. Staff can cut the links into bite sized pieces. Indicator 3.3: Tables need to be sanitized after cleaning with soapy water and the sanitizer needs to be left on the table for at least two minutes. Tables will need to be recleaned if children place objects on the table before the meal is served. Indicator 3.4: At least one staff member needs to visually see all children and be at arm’s length at all times when they are eating. Item #8 (Nap/Rest) Indicator 3.2: Mats need to be at least 36 inches apart to earn credit for this indicator. Indicator #9 (Diapering) Indicator 3.1: Wipes are required to be pulled out prior to starting the diaper change. Prior to sliding a clean diaper under the child, the staff should use a separate wipe for them and the child to clean their hands. Indicator 3.2: Have staff keep a diaper changing chart so that they can document when they checked/changed the children’s diaper to ensure that this occurs every two hours. Indicator 3.3: Remind staff that they are required to wash their hands again after they have cleaned and sanitized the diaper changing table. -Item #11 (Safety Practices) Indicator 5.1: Do not serve whole breakfast sausage to children under four years of age. If it is served make sure to cut it up in bite sized pieces. Small pieces of chalk are considered choking hazards for this age group. Remind staff to monitor the classroom daily prior to children arriving to ensure that there are no safety hazards. In addition, in order to receive credit for this indicator the diapering edge needs to be at least 6 inches from the bottom not the mat on top. -Item #12 (Helping Children Understand Language) Indicator 3.4: Staff need to avoid negative words in situations where the children’s behaviors were being addressed. Encourage staff to use positive language and redirection. Item #16 (Active Physical Play) Indicator 5.3: There needs to be an ample amount of gross motor equipment indoors to ensure there is enough for the children present and that there are no long waiting periods. Item #17 (Art) Indicator 5.1: Classrooms should be monitored daily to ensure that that there are no choking hazards located in the art area. Item #19 (Blocks) Indicator 5.3: The block area should not be in a traffic area nor have other activities within the area. This prevents the children from having the space to build up and out. Item #26 (Peer Interactions) Indicator 5.1: Where there are instances of conflict between children, staff need to facilitate peer interaction and redirection with the young children. They do not have the words or skills at this age, and it is important that staff provide words and model the actions to be taken. Item #29 (Schedule) Indicator 5.1: Have staff create a system to ensure that a diaper check/change occurs every two hours and it is documented. Indicator 5.4: Children should not wait longer than three minutes without an activity. While the children are sitting at the tables waiting for lunch staff could be singing, doing finger plays, reading a book, playing a game, etc. We discussed the grievance process today, and you stated that you are happy with the scores. We reviewed the “Program Standards Worksheet”. The facility meets requirements in Rule .2806, enhanced ratios in Rule .2818(b) and has an ERS average score of 4.95 and no classroom lower than a score of 4.0. The facility is eligible for five (5) points in program standards. Quality Point We reviewed the quality point options during the visit conducted on April 12, 2024. At that time, you decided to choose to meet the quality point for completing twenty (20) additional annual on-going training hours for full-time lead teachers and teachers, and staff working part-time. We discussed that the facility would be eligible for a three-star license without the quality point. The facility is eligible for two (2) points in education standards and five (5) points in program standards which is a total of seven (7) points and a three-star license. You requested not to earn the quality point at this time. I will submit the Rated License Packet once I receive the compliance letter. The following violations were observed during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The children were served cheese pizza, baked beans, chocolate pudding and milk. The menu listed cheese pizza, baked beans, pear, tater tots and milk. The menu was revised and the children were served applesauce. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space 4 children's attendance records had not been completed when children arrived. GS 110-91(9) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. The staff member hired on 9/29/23 had no record in her file that she has competed the above training. .1102(g) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: -The attendance record needs to be completed as children are arriving in the classroom. Keep the record visible and in a place that staff will remember to complete. -We discussed monitoring the food menu daily prior to serving meals to ensure that what is on the menu is what is served to the children. -Each staff member is required to complete the Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training within the first 90 days of hire and the training certificate is required to be in the staffs' files. https://preventchildabusenc-lms.org/courses/rr-update/ CONSULTATION: -We discussed that the Lead Teachers are required to be in classroom at least two thirds of the day during the learning hours. -We discussed ensuring dates on the documents are the dates on the staff checklist and on Staff and Training Worksheet. -Please keep the Staff and Training Worksheet current and complete at all times. This document will be monitored during the visits conducted by DCDEE representatives. We provided technical assistance as you and Ms. Simpson were completing the worksheets during today's visit. -We discussed with you becoming familiar with your action plan and the child care rules and laws to ensure that you and staff are always in compliance. I will process the paperwork to request a three star rated license be issued to your facility. The three star rated license will take approximately three weeks to receive from the Raleigh office by mail. The rated license will be mailed to the facility. Once you receive the rated license, please post it in the foyer of the facility. Your facility will be monitored for compliance with child care requirements a minimum of twice annually. If DCDEE receives concerns regarding your facility, additional visits may be conducted to look into those concerns. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher compliance history to maintain your star rated license. Your compliance history will continue to build over an 18-month period. The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your center. If your center's compliance history drops below 75% you may receive an administrative action. Your compliance history before today’s visit was 86%. -For questions regarding Rowan DSS subsidy contact Paige Palmer, Rebecca.palmer@rowancountync.gov, 704-216-8349. -For TA on assessments and/or annual in-service training contact Betty Trujillo, Early Education Program Lead Smart Start Rowan, btrujillo@smartstartrowan.org, (704) 603-3351. -For child care health questions or assistance contact Kimberly Cruz, Child Care Health Consultant, kimberly.cruz@rowancountync.gov, (704) 216-8806. -For assistance with challenging behaviors with children contact the Healthy Social Behavior Specialist: Burnita Fabers, fabers@childcareresourcesinc.org, 704-376-6697 x 310. -For assistance with children birth-three years of age, contact the NC Birth-to-Three Quality Initiative, Priscilla Hayes, phayes@childcareresourcesinc.org, 704-376-6697 x 305. -For questions regarding clarification of Child Care rules and requirements you can contact me, carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov, 704-594-0149. RULES AND GENERAL STATUTE REFERECES: *Star Rating: 10A NCAC 09 .2802(c) An operator may apply for a star rating based on the total number of points achieved for each component of the two- through five-star rated license. In order to achieve a two- through five-star rating, the minimum score achieved shall be a least four points as follows: 4 points-6 points: Two Stars 7 points-9 points: Three Stars 10 points-12 points: Four Stars 13 points-15 points: Five Stars *Administrator Requirements for a Rated License: 10A NCAC 09 .2819 Enhanced Education Standards for On-Site Administrators for a Rated License for Child Care Centers (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the education standards for an on-site administrator for child care centers. The points for education standards shall be determined by applying this Rule and Rules .2820, .2821, .2822 and .2823 of this Section. To determine the points attained for meeting the education standards, the lowest number of points attained pursuant to each Rule shall be the point used to meet Rule .2802 of this Section. *Lead Teacher Requirements for a Rated License: 10A NCAC 09 .2820 Enhanced Education Standards for Lead Teachers for a Rated License for Child Care Centers(a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating all lead teachers in child care centers. The points for education standards shall be determined by applying this Rule and Rules .2819, .2821, .2822 and .2823 of this Section. To determine the points attained for meeting the education standards, the lowest number of points attained pursuant to each Rule shall be the point used to meet Rule .2802 of this Section. REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by the end of the business day September 9, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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 .2200 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/5/2024 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 9/5/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 340 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Rated License Assessment Announced/Unannounced: Announced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor for compliance with child care requirements during a rated license visit, and to review the environment rating scale (ERS) summary. Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. You, K. Dixon, Owner, and J. Simpson, Administrator, met with us today. You and Ms. Simpson completed the Staff and Training Worksheets during today's visit. The following was monitored during today’s visit: • The Administrative Action Plan • Supervision • Staff Child Ratio • CPR and First Aid • Special Training • Storage of Hazardous Substances • Storage of Medication • Adequate Approved/Space • Staff Records • Program Records • Provisional License Posted • Permit Restrictions The completion of the Corrective Action Plan as part of the Administrative Action Provisional Licensed issued April 17, 2024, is as follows: The Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter, and Corrective Action Plan were posted on the Parent Information board located near the entrance as required. Stipulation #1 requires the facility to be in compliance with all applicable child care requirements. During today’s visit, three violations were cited and two corrected during today’s visit. Stipulation #2 requires Keisha Dixon, Owner, to contact C. Conley, Lead Consultant, within one week of receiving the action to arrange for a complete review of child care requirements with all staff. The training was scheduled on May 1, 2024, and completed on May 29, 2024, from 3:30pm-5:20pm at your facility. Stipulation #2 is complete. Stipulation #3 requires Ms. Dixon, Owner, to submit a written plan within two weeks after the action is received on how the facility will obtain a star rated license after the Provisional License period. This written plan was submitted to me on May 29, 2024. The written plan required by stipulation #3 was approved on May 29, 2024. Stipulation #4 requires Ms. Dixon, Owner, to develop a written plan within two weeks after the Rules Review training is completed, to ensure compliance with director qualifications and lead teacher qualifications. This written plan was submitted to me on June 21, 2024. The written plan required by stipulation #4 was approved on August 21, 2024. Stipulation #5 requires Ms. Dixon to conduct a staff meeting within two weeks after Ms. Conley approves the written plans in stipulation #3 and #4 to review them with your staff. Today, we received the following documentation from the mandatory staff meeting that took place on September 3, 2024: -The attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting. -The minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. This completes stipulation #5 of the corrective action plan. All documentation from the corrective action plan will be maintained in the facility file for review by representatives of DCDEE upon request. The children were observed during art activities at the table, handwashing routines, lunch and naptime. Lunch consisted of cheese pizza, baked beans, chocolate pudding and milk. The menu posted had the following listed for today: cheese pizza, bake beans, pears, tatter tots and milk. This was brought to your attention and apple sauce was served to the children and the menu was revised. RATED LICENSE REVIEW: Education Standard Points: *J. Simpson, Administrator, is eligible for 7 (seven) points in education standards. *The Lead Teachers are eligible for 2 (two) points in education standards. One staff member has her Lead Teacher equivalency and a BA in Early Childhood Education and at least 2 years of experience. You sent me documentation that the 2nd staff member is enrolled in EDU 119 and EDU 261 and will complete the course on October 11, 2024. Both staff members do have WORKS accounts. Child Care Rule .2819(a) requires the education points to be determined by the lowest number of points earned by the on-site administrator, lead teachers, teachers, and group leaders, per Rules .2820, .2821, .2822, .2823. Your facilities education points are currently determined by the administrator and lead teachers since those are the positions currently needed at your facility. Therefore, the facility is eligible for 2 (two) points in education standards. Program Standard Points: You requested to have the environmental rating scales conducted on January 4, 2024. The NCRLAP assessors attempted to complete two (2) assessments on February 21, 2024, and March 5, 2024, but were unable due to low enrollment. The ECERS-R assessment was conducted on March 14, 2024, with a score of 4.83. The ITERS-R assessment was conducted on March 14, 2024, with a score of 3.47. Per 10A NCAC 09 .2817(b) in order to earn three (3) points or higher in program standard points, each classroom has to score at least a 4.0 or higher. On April 12, 2024, you requested to have the ITERS-R reassessment, and the request was submitted on July 10, 2024. The NCRLAP assessor attempted to conduct the assessment on August 12, 2024, but was unable to conduct the assessment because a storm had gone through the previous night and the facility's air conditioning turned off and the facility was in the process of cooling off when the assessor arrived. The assessor returned on August 22, 2024, and conducted the ITERS-R assessment. On August 28, 2024, I received a copy of the scores and sent a copy to you. The facility received an ITERS-R score of 5.07 points, and an ECERS-R score of 4.83, with an average score of 4.95. The total average score is used to determine the number of program points earned on the star rated license. During today’s visit, we reviewed the ERS summary with you and the administrator and focused on those items reviewed on the summary that scored a four or below. The following technical assistance was given for the ITERS-R: -Item #5 (Display) Indicator 5.2: To earn credit for this indicator the room would need to have at least two mobiles that are able to move in space. -Item #7 (Meals and Snacks) Indicator 3.1: To receive credit for this indicator water would need to be offered throughout the day; including between meals. Indicator 3.2: Sausage links are considered a choking hazard for children under the age of four. Staff can cut the links into bite sized pieces. Indicator 3.3: Tables need to be sanitized after cleaning with soapy water and the sanitizer needs to be left on the table for at least two minutes. Tables will need to be recleaned if children place objects on the table before the meal is served. Indicator 3.4: At least one staff member needs to visually see all children and be at arm’s length at all times when they are eating. Item #8 (Nap/Rest) Indicator 3.2: Mats need to be at least 36 inches apart to earn credit for this indicator. Indicator #9 (Diapering) Indicator 3.1: Wipes are required to be pulled out prior to starting the diaper change. Prior to sliding a clean diaper under the child, the staff should use a separate wipe for them and the child to clean their hands. Indicator 3.2: Have staff keep a diaper changing chart so that they can document when they checked/changed the children’s diaper to ensure that this occurs every two hours. Indicator 3.3: Remind staff that they are required to wash their hands again after they have cleaned and sanitized the diaper changing table. -Item #11 (Safety Practices) Indicator 5.1: Do not serve whole breakfast sausage to children under four years of age. If it is served make sure to cut it up in bite sized pieces. Small pieces of chalk are considered choking hazards for this age group. Remind staff to monitor the classroom daily prior to children arriving to ensure that there are no safety hazards. In addition, in order to receive credit for this indicator the diapering edge needs to be at least 6 inches from the bottom not the mat on top. -Item #12 (Helping Children Understand Language) Indicator 3.4: Staff need to avoid negative words in situations where the children’s behaviors were being addressed. Encourage staff to use positive language and redirection. Item #16 (Active Physical Play) Indicator 5.3: There needs to be an ample amount of gross motor equipment indoors to ensure there is enough for the children present and that there are no long waiting periods. Item #17 (Art) Indicator 5.1: Classrooms should be monitored daily to ensure that that there are no choking hazards located in the art area. Item #19 (Blocks) Indicator 5.3: The block area should not be in a traffic area nor have other activities within the area. This prevents the children from having the space to build up and out. Item #26 (Peer Interactions) Indicator 5.1: Where there are instances of conflict between children, staff need to facilitate peer interaction and redirection with the young children. They do not have the words or skills at this age, and it is important that staff provide words and model the actions to be taken. Item #29 (Schedule) Indicator 5.1: Have staff create a system to ensure that a diaper check/change occurs every two hours and it is documented. Indicator 5.4: Children should not wait longer than three minutes without an activity. While the children are sitting at the tables waiting for lunch staff could be singing, doing finger plays, reading a book, playing a game, etc. We discussed the grievance process today, and you stated that you are happy with the scores. We reviewed the “Program Standards Worksheet”. The facility meets requirements in Rule .2806, enhanced ratios in Rule .2818(b) and has an ERS average score of 4.95 and no classroom lower than a score of 4.0. The facility is eligible for five (5) points in program standards. Quality Point We reviewed the quality point options during the visit conducted on April 12, 2024. At that time, you decided to choose to meet the quality point for completing twenty (20) additional annual on-going training hours for full-time lead teachers and teachers, and staff working part-time. We discussed that the facility would be eligible for a three-star license without the quality point. The facility is eligible for two (2) points in education standards and five (5) points in program standards which is a total of seven (7) points and a three-star license. You requested not to earn the quality point at this time. I will submit the Rated License Packet once I receive the compliance letter. The following violations were observed during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The children were served cheese pizza, baked beans, chocolate pudding and milk. The menu listed cheese pizza, baked beans, pear, tater tots and milk. The menu was revised and the children were served applesauce. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space 4 children's attendance records had not been completed when children arrived. GS 110-91(9) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. The staff member hired on 9/29/23 had no record in her file that she has competed the above training. .1102(g) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: -The attendance record needs to be completed as children are arriving in the classroom. Keep the record visible and in a place that staff will remember to complete. -We discussed monitoring the food menu daily prior to serving meals to ensure that what is on the menu is what is served to the children. -Each staff member is required to complete the Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training within the first 90 days of hire and the training certificate is required to be in the staffs' files. https://preventchildabusenc-lms.org/courses/rr-update/ CONSULTATION: -We discussed that the Lead Teachers are required to be in classroom at least two thirds of the day during the learning hours. -We discussed ensuring dates on the documents are the dates on the staff checklist and on Staff and Training Worksheet. -Please keep the Staff and Training Worksheet current and complete at all times. This document will be monitored during the visits conducted by DCDEE representatives. We provided technical assistance as you and Ms. Simpson were completing the worksheets during today's visit. -We discussed with you becoming familiar with your action plan and the child care rules and laws to ensure that you and staff are always in compliance. I will process the paperwork to request a three star rated license be issued to your facility. The three star rated license will take approximately three weeks to receive from the Raleigh office by mail. The rated license will be mailed to the facility. Once you receive the rated license, please post it in the foyer of the facility. Your facility will be monitored for compliance with child care requirements a minimum of twice annually. If DCDEE receives concerns regarding your facility, additional visits may be conducted to look into those concerns. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher compliance history to maintain your star rated license. Your compliance history will continue to build over an 18-month period. The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your center. If your center's compliance history drops below 75% you may receive an administrative action. Your compliance history before today’s visit was 86%. -For questions regarding Rowan DSS subsidy contact Paige Palmer, Rebecca.palmer@rowancountync.gov, 704-216-8349. -For TA on assessments and/or annual in-service training contact Betty Trujillo, Early Education Program Lead Smart Start Rowan, btrujillo@smartstartrowan.org, (704) 603-3351. -For child care health questions or assistance contact Kimberly Cruz, Child Care Health Consultant, kimberly.cruz@rowancountync.gov, (704) 216-8806. -For assistance with challenging behaviors with children contact the Healthy Social Behavior Specialist: Burnita Fabers, fabers@childcareresourcesinc.org, 704-376-6697 x 310. -For assistance with children birth-three years of age, contact the NC Birth-to-Three Quality Initiative, Priscilla Hayes, phayes@childcareresourcesinc.org, 704-376-6697 x 305. -For questions regarding clarification of Child Care rules and requirements you can contact me, carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov, 704-594-0149. RULES AND GENERAL STATUTE REFERECES: *Star Rating: 10A NCAC 09 .2802(c) An operator may apply for a star rating based on the total number of points achieved for each component of the two- through five-star rated license. In order to achieve a two- through five-star rating, the minimum score achieved shall be a least four points as follows: 4 points-6 points: Two Stars 7 points-9 points: Three Stars 10 points-12 points: Four Stars 13 points-15 points: Five Stars *Administrator Requirements for a Rated License: 10A NCAC 09 .2819 Enhanced Education Standards for On-Site Administrators for a Rated License for Child Care Centers (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the education standards for an on-site administrator for child care centers. The points for education standards shall be determined by applying this Rule and Rules .2820, .2821, .2822 and .2823 of this Section. To determine the points attained for meeting the education standards, the lowest number of points attained pursuant to each Rule shall be the point used to meet Rule .2802 of this Section. *Lead Teacher Requirements for a Rated License: 10A NCAC 09 .2820 Enhanced Education Standards for Lead Teachers for a Rated License for Child Care Centers(a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating all lead teachers in child care centers. The points for education standards shall be determined by applying this Rule and Rules .2819, .2821, .2822 and .2823 of this Section. To determine the points attained for meeting the education standards, the lowest number of points attained pursuant to each Rule shall be the point used to meet Rule .2802 of this Section. REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by the end of the business day September 9, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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 .2802 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/5/2024 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 9/5/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 340 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Rated License Assessment Announced/Unannounced: Announced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor for compliance with child care requirements during a rated license visit, and to review the environment rating scale (ERS) summary. Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. You, K. Dixon, Owner, and J. Simpson, Administrator, met with us today. You and Ms. Simpson completed the Staff and Training Worksheets during today's visit. The following was monitored during today’s visit: • The Administrative Action Plan • Supervision • Staff Child Ratio • CPR and First Aid • Special Training • Storage of Hazardous Substances • Storage of Medication • Adequate Approved/Space • Staff Records • Program Records • Provisional License Posted • Permit Restrictions The completion of the Corrective Action Plan as part of the Administrative Action Provisional Licensed issued April 17, 2024, is as follows: The Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter, and Corrective Action Plan were posted on the Parent Information board located near the entrance as required. Stipulation #1 requires the facility to be in compliance with all applicable child care requirements. During today’s visit, three violations were cited and two corrected during today’s visit. Stipulation #2 requires Keisha Dixon, Owner, to contact C. Conley, Lead Consultant, within one week of receiving the action to arrange for a complete review of child care requirements with all staff. The training was scheduled on May 1, 2024, and completed on May 29, 2024, from 3:30pm-5:20pm at your facility. Stipulation #2 is complete. Stipulation #3 requires Ms. Dixon, Owner, to submit a written plan within two weeks after the action is received on how the facility will obtain a star rated license after the Provisional License period. This written plan was submitted to me on May 29, 2024. The written plan required by stipulation #3 was approved on May 29, 2024. Stipulation #4 requires Ms. Dixon, Owner, to develop a written plan within two weeks after the Rules Review training is completed, to ensure compliance with director qualifications and lead teacher qualifications. This written plan was submitted to me on June 21, 2024. The written plan required by stipulation #4 was approved on August 21, 2024. Stipulation #5 requires Ms. Dixon to conduct a staff meeting within two weeks after Ms. Conley approves the written plans in stipulation #3 and #4 to review them with your staff. Today, we received the following documentation from the mandatory staff meeting that took place on September 3, 2024: -The attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting. -The minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. This completes stipulation #5 of the corrective action plan. All documentation from the corrective action plan will be maintained in the facility file for review by representatives of DCDEE upon request. The children were observed during art activities at the table, handwashing routines, lunch and naptime. Lunch consisted of cheese pizza, baked beans, chocolate pudding and milk. The menu posted had the following listed for today: cheese pizza, bake beans, pears, tatter tots and milk. This was brought to your attention and apple sauce was served to the children and the menu was revised. RATED LICENSE REVIEW: Education Standard Points: *J. Simpson, Administrator, is eligible for 7 (seven) points in education standards. *The Lead Teachers are eligible for 2 (two) points in education standards. One staff member has her Lead Teacher equivalency and a BA in Early Childhood Education and at least 2 years of experience. You sent me documentation that the 2nd staff member is enrolled in EDU 119 and EDU 261 and will complete the course on October 11, 2024. Both staff members do have WORKS accounts. Child Care Rule .2819(a) requires the education points to be determined by the lowest number of points earned by the on-site administrator, lead teachers, teachers, and group leaders, per Rules .2820, .2821, .2822, .2823. Your facilities education points are currently determined by the administrator and lead teachers since those are the positions currently needed at your facility. Therefore, the facility is eligible for 2 (two) points in education standards. Program Standard Points: You requested to have the environmental rating scales conducted on January 4, 2024. The NCRLAP assessors attempted to complete two (2) assessments on February 21, 2024, and March 5, 2024, but were unable due to low enrollment. The ECERS-R assessment was conducted on March 14, 2024, with a score of 4.83. The ITERS-R assessment was conducted on March 14, 2024, with a score of 3.47. Per 10A NCAC 09 .2817(b) in order to earn three (3) points or higher in program standard points, each classroom has to score at least a 4.0 or higher. On April 12, 2024, you requested to have the ITERS-R reassessment, and the request was submitted on July 10, 2024. The NCRLAP assessor attempted to conduct the assessment on August 12, 2024, but was unable to conduct the assessment because a storm had gone through the previous night and the facility's air conditioning turned off and the facility was in the process of cooling off when the assessor arrived. The assessor returned on August 22, 2024, and conducted the ITERS-R assessment. On August 28, 2024, I received a copy of the scores and sent a copy to you. The facility received an ITERS-R score of 5.07 points, and an ECERS-R score of 4.83, with an average score of 4.95. The total average score is used to determine the number of program points earned on the star rated license. During today’s visit, we reviewed the ERS summary with you and the administrator and focused on those items reviewed on the summary that scored a four or below. The following technical assistance was given for the ITERS-R: -Item #5 (Display) Indicator 5.2: To earn credit for this indicator the room would need to have at least two mobiles that are able to move in space. -Item #7 (Meals and Snacks) Indicator 3.1: To receive credit for this indicator water would need to be offered throughout the day; including between meals. Indicator 3.2: Sausage links are considered a choking hazard for children under the age of four. Staff can cut the links into bite sized pieces. Indicator 3.3: Tables need to be sanitized after cleaning with soapy water and the sanitizer needs to be left on the table for at least two minutes. Tables will need to be recleaned if children place objects on the table before the meal is served. Indicator 3.4: At least one staff member needs to visually see all children and be at arm’s length at all times when they are eating. Item #8 (Nap/Rest) Indicator 3.2: Mats need to be at least 36 inches apart to earn credit for this indicator. Indicator #9 (Diapering) Indicator 3.1: Wipes are required to be pulled out prior to starting the diaper change. Prior to sliding a clean diaper under the child, the staff should use a separate wipe for them and the child to clean their hands. Indicator 3.2: Have staff keep a diaper changing chart so that they can document when they checked/changed the children’s diaper to ensure that this occurs every two hours. Indicator 3.3: Remind staff that they are required to wash their hands again after they have cleaned and sanitized the diaper changing table. -Item #11 (Safety Practices) Indicator 5.1: Do not serve whole breakfast sausage to children under four years of age. If it is served make sure to cut it up in bite sized pieces. Small pieces of chalk are considered choking hazards for this age group. Remind staff to monitor the classroom daily prior to children arriving to ensure that there are no safety hazards. In addition, in order to receive credit for this indicator the diapering edge needs to be at least 6 inches from the bottom not the mat on top. -Item #12 (Helping Children Understand Language) Indicator 3.4: Staff need to avoid negative words in situations where the children’s behaviors were being addressed. Encourage staff to use positive language and redirection. Item #16 (Active Physical Play) Indicator 5.3: There needs to be an ample amount of gross motor equipment indoors to ensure there is enough for the children present and that there are no long waiting periods. Item #17 (Art) Indicator 5.1: Classrooms should be monitored daily to ensure that that there are no choking hazards located in the art area. Item #19 (Blocks) Indicator 5.3: The block area should not be in a traffic area nor have other activities within the area. This prevents the children from having the space to build up and out. Item #26 (Peer Interactions) Indicator 5.1: Where there are instances of conflict between children, staff need to facilitate peer interaction and redirection with the young children. They do not have the words or skills at this age, and it is important that staff provide words and model the actions to be taken. Item #29 (Schedule) Indicator 5.1: Have staff create a system to ensure that a diaper check/change occurs every two hours and it is documented. Indicator 5.4: Children should not wait longer than three minutes without an activity. While the children are sitting at the tables waiting for lunch staff could be singing, doing finger plays, reading a book, playing a game, etc. We discussed the grievance process today, and you stated that you are happy with the scores. We reviewed the “Program Standards Worksheet”. The facility meets requirements in Rule .2806, enhanced ratios in Rule .2818(b) and has an ERS average score of 4.95 and no classroom lower than a score of 4.0. The facility is eligible for five (5) points in program standards. Quality Point We reviewed the quality point options during the visit conducted on April 12, 2024. At that time, you decided to choose to meet the quality point for completing twenty (20) additional annual on-going training hours for full-time lead teachers and teachers, and staff working part-time. We discussed that the facility would be eligible for a three-star license without the quality point. The facility is eligible for two (2) points in education standards and five (5) points in program standards which is a total of seven (7) points and a three-star license. You requested not to earn the quality point at this time. I will submit the Rated License Packet once I receive the compliance letter. The following violations were observed during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The children were served cheese pizza, baked beans, chocolate pudding and milk. The menu listed cheese pizza, baked beans, pear, tater tots and milk. The menu was revised and the children were served applesauce. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space 4 children's attendance records had not been completed when children arrived. GS 110-91(9) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. The staff member hired on 9/29/23 had no record in her file that she has competed the above training. .1102(g) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: -The attendance record needs to be completed as children are arriving in the classroom. Keep the record visible and in a place that staff will remember to complete. -We discussed monitoring the food menu daily prior to serving meals to ensure that what is on the menu is what is served to the children. -Each staff member is required to complete the Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training within the first 90 days of hire and the training certificate is required to be in the staffs' files. https://preventchildabusenc-lms.org/courses/rr-update/ CONSULTATION: -We discussed that the Lead Teachers are required to be in classroom at least two thirds of the day during the learning hours. -We discussed ensuring dates on the documents are the dates on the staff checklist and on Staff and Training Worksheet. -Please keep the Staff and Training Worksheet current and complete at all times. This document will be monitored during the visits conducted by DCDEE representatives. We provided technical assistance as you and Ms. Simpson were completing the worksheets during today's visit. -We discussed with you becoming familiar with your action plan and the child care rules and laws to ensure that you and staff are always in compliance. I will process the paperwork to request a three star rated license be issued to your facility. The three star rated license will take approximately three weeks to receive from the Raleigh office by mail. The rated license will be mailed to the facility. Once you receive the rated license, please post it in the foyer of the facility. Your facility will be monitored for compliance with child care requirements a minimum of twice annually. If DCDEE receives concerns regarding your facility, additional visits may be conducted to look into those concerns. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher compliance history to maintain your star rated license. Your compliance history will continue to build over an 18-month period. The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your center. If your center's compliance history drops below 75% you may receive an administrative action. Your compliance history before today’s visit was 86%. -For questions regarding Rowan DSS subsidy contact Paige Palmer, Rebecca.palmer@rowancountync.gov, 704-216-8349. -For TA on assessments and/or annual in-service training contact Betty Trujillo, Early Education Program Lead Smart Start Rowan, btrujillo@smartstartrowan.org, (704) 603-3351. -For child care health questions or assistance contact Kimberly Cruz, Child Care Health Consultant, kimberly.cruz@rowancountync.gov, (704) 216-8806. -For assistance with challenging behaviors with children contact the Healthy Social Behavior Specialist: Burnita Fabers, fabers@childcareresourcesinc.org, 704-376-6697 x 310. -For assistance with children birth-three years of age, contact the NC Birth-to-Three Quality Initiative, Priscilla Hayes, phayes@childcareresourcesinc.org, 704-376-6697 x 305. -For questions regarding clarification of Child Care rules and requirements you can contact me, carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov, 704-594-0149. RULES AND GENERAL STATUTE REFERECES: *Star Rating: 10A NCAC 09 .2802(c) An operator may apply for a star rating based on the total number of points achieved for each component of the two- through five-star rated license. In order to achieve a two- through five-star rating, the minimum score achieved shall be a least four points as follows: 4 points-6 points: Two Stars 7 points-9 points: Three Stars 10 points-12 points: Four Stars 13 points-15 points: Five Stars *Administrator Requirements for a Rated License: 10A NCAC 09 .2819 Enhanced Education Standards for On-Site Administrators for a Rated License for Child Care Centers (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the education standards for an on-site administrator for child care centers. The points for education standards shall be determined by applying this Rule and Rules .2820, .2821, .2822 and .2823 of this Section. To determine the points attained for meeting the education standards, the lowest number of points attained pursuant to each Rule shall be the point used to meet Rule .2802 of this Section. *Lead Teacher Requirements for a Rated License: 10A NCAC 09 .2820 Enhanced Education Standards for Lead Teachers for a Rated License for Child Care Centers(a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating all lead teachers in child care centers. The points for education standards shall be determined by applying this Rule and Rules .2819, .2821, .2822 and .2823 of this Section. To determine the points attained for meeting the education standards, the lowest number of points attained pursuant to each Rule shall be the point used to meet Rule .2802 of this Section. REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by the end of the business day September 9, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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 .2817 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/5/2024 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 9/5/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 340 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Rated License Assessment Announced/Unannounced: Announced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor for compliance with child care requirements during a rated license visit, and to review the environment rating scale (ERS) summary. Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. You, K. Dixon, Owner, and J. Simpson, Administrator, met with us today. You and Ms. Simpson completed the Staff and Training Worksheets during today's visit. The following was monitored during today’s visit: • The Administrative Action Plan • Supervision • Staff Child Ratio • CPR and First Aid • Special Training • Storage of Hazardous Substances • Storage of Medication • Adequate Approved/Space • Staff Records • Program Records • Provisional License Posted • Permit Restrictions The completion of the Corrective Action Plan as part of the Administrative Action Provisional Licensed issued April 17, 2024, is as follows: The Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter, and Corrective Action Plan were posted on the Parent Information board located near the entrance as required. Stipulation #1 requires the facility to be in compliance with all applicable child care requirements. During today’s visit, three violations were cited and two corrected during today’s visit. Stipulation #2 requires Keisha Dixon, Owner, to contact C. Conley, Lead Consultant, within one week of receiving the action to arrange for a complete review of child care requirements with all staff. The training was scheduled on May 1, 2024, and completed on May 29, 2024, from 3:30pm-5:20pm at your facility. Stipulation #2 is complete. Stipulation #3 requires Ms. Dixon, Owner, to submit a written plan within two weeks after the action is received on how the facility will obtain a star rated license after the Provisional License period. This written plan was submitted to me on May 29, 2024. The written plan required by stipulation #3 was approved on May 29, 2024. Stipulation #4 requires Ms. Dixon, Owner, to develop a written plan within two weeks after the Rules Review training is completed, to ensure compliance with director qualifications and lead teacher qualifications. This written plan was submitted to me on June 21, 2024. The written plan required by stipulation #4 was approved on August 21, 2024. Stipulation #5 requires Ms. Dixon to conduct a staff meeting within two weeks after Ms. Conley approves the written plans in stipulation #3 and #4 to review them with your staff. Today, we received the following documentation from the mandatory staff meeting that took place on September 3, 2024: -The attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting. -The minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. This completes stipulation #5 of the corrective action plan. All documentation from the corrective action plan will be maintained in the facility file for review by representatives of DCDEE upon request. The children were observed during art activities at the table, handwashing routines, lunch and naptime. Lunch consisted of cheese pizza, baked beans, chocolate pudding and milk. The menu posted had the following listed for today: cheese pizza, bake beans, pears, tatter tots and milk. This was brought to your attention and apple sauce was served to the children and the menu was revised. RATED LICENSE REVIEW: Education Standard Points: *J. Simpson, Administrator, is eligible for 7 (seven) points in education standards. *The Lead Teachers are eligible for 2 (two) points in education standards. One staff member has her Lead Teacher equivalency and a BA in Early Childhood Education and at least 2 years of experience. You sent me documentation that the 2nd staff member is enrolled in EDU 119 and EDU 261 and will complete the course on October 11, 2024. Both staff members do have WORKS accounts. Child Care Rule .2819(a) requires the education points to be determined by the lowest number of points earned by the on-site administrator, lead teachers, teachers, and group leaders, per Rules .2820, .2821, .2822, .2823. Your facilities education points are currently determined by the administrator and lead teachers since those are the positions currently needed at your facility. Therefore, the facility is eligible for 2 (two) points in education standards. Program Standard Points: You requested to have the environmental rating scales conducted on January 4, 2024. The NCRLAP assessors attempted to complete two (2) assessments on February 21, 2024, and March 5, 2024, but were unable due to low enrollment. The ECERS-R assessment was conducted on March 14, 2024, with a score of 4.83. The ITERS-R assessment was conducted on March 14, 2024, with a score of 3.47. Per 10A NCAC 09 .2817(b) in order to earn three (3) points or higher in program standard points, each classroom has to score at least a 4.0 or higher. On April 12, 2024, you requested to have the ITERS-R reassessment, and the request was submitted on July 10, 2024. The NCRLAP assessor attempted to conduct the assessment on August 12, 2024, but was unable to conduct the assessment because a storm had gone through the previous night and the facility's air conditioning turned off and the facility was in the process of cooling off when the assessor arrived. The assessor returned on August 22, 2024, and conducted the ITERS-R assessment. On August 28, 2024, I received a copy of the scores and sent a copy to you. The facility received an ITERS-R score of 5.07 points, and an ECERS-R score of 4.83, with an average score of 4.95. The total average score is used to determine the number of program points earned on the star rated license. During today’s visit, we reviewed the ERS summary with you and the administrator and focused on those items reviewed on the summary that scored a four or below. The following technical assistance was given for the ITERS-R: -Item #5 (Display) Indicator 5.2: To earn credit for this indicator the room would need to have at least two mobiles that are able to move in space. -Item #7 (Meals and Snacks) Indicator 3.1: To receive credit for this indicator water would need to be offered throughout the day; including between meals. Indicator 3.2: Sausage links are considered a choking hazard for children under the age of four. Staff can cut the links into bite sized pieces. Indicator 3.3: Tables need to be sanitized after cleaning with soapy water and the sanitizer needs to be left on the table for at least two minutes. Tables will need to be recleaned if children place objects on the table before the meal is served. Indicator 3.4: At least one staff member needs to visually see all children and be at arm’s length at all times when they are eating. Item #8 (Nap/Rest) Indicator 3.2: Mats need to be at least 36 inches apart to earn credit for this indicator. Indicator #9 (Diapering) Indicator 3.1: Wipes are required to be pulled out prior to starting the diaper change. Prior to sliding a clean diaper under the child, the staff should use a separate wipe for them and the child to clean their hands. Indicator 3.2: Have staff keep a diaper changing chart so that they can document when they checked/changed the children’s diaper to ensure that this occurs every two hours. Indicator 3.3: Remind staff that they are required to wash their hands again after they have cleaned and sanitized the diaper changing table. -Item #11 (Safety Practices) Indicator 5.1: Do not serve whole breakfast sausage to children under four years of age. If it is served make sure to cut it up in bite sized pieces. Small pieces of chalk are considered choking hazards for this age group. Remind staff to monitor the classroom daily prior to children arriving to ensure that there are no safety hazards. In addition, in order to receive credit for this indicator the diapering edge needs to be at least 6 inches from the bottom not the mat on top. -Item #12 (Helping Children Understand Language) Indicator 3.4: Staff need to avoid negative words in situations where the children’s behaviors were being addressed. Encourage staff to use positive language and redirection. Item #16 (Active Physical Play) Indicator 5.3: There needs to be an ample amount of gross motor equipment indoors to ensure there is enough for the children present and that there are no long waiting periods. Item #17 (Art) Indicator 5.1: Classrooms should be monitored daily to ensure that that there are no choking hazards located in the art area. Item #19 (Blocks) Indicator 5.3: The block area should not be in a traffic area nor have other activities within the area. This prevents the children from having the space to build up and out. Item #26 (Peer Interactions) Indicator 5.1: Where there are instances of conflict between children, staff need to facilitate peer interaction and redirection with the young children. They do not have the words or skills at this age, and it is important that staff provide words and model the actions to be taken. Item #29 (Schedule) Indicator 5.1: Have staff create a system to ensure that a diaper check/change occurs every two hours and it is documented. Indicator 5.4: Children should not wait longer than three minutes without an activity. While the children are sitting at the tables waiting for lunch staff could be singing, doing finger plays, reading a book, playing a game, etc. We discussed the grievance process today, and you stated that you are happy with the scores. We reviewed the “Program Standards Worksheet”. The facility meets requirements in Rule .2806, enhanced ratios in Rule .2818(b) and has an ERS average score of 4.95 and no classroom lower than a score of 4.0. The facility is eligible for five (5) points in program standards. Quality Point We reviewed the quality point options during the visit conducted on April 12, 2024. At that time, you decided to choose to meet the quality point for completing twenty (20) additional annual on-going training hours for full-time lead teachers and teachers, and staff working part-time. We discussed that the facility would be eligible for a three-star license without the quality point. The facility is eligible for two (2) points in education standards and five (5) points in program standards which is a total of seven (7) points and a three-star license. You requested not to earn the quality point at this time. I will submit the Rated License Packet once I receive the compliance letter. The following violations were observed during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The children were served cheese pizza, baked beans, chocolate pudding and milk. The menu listed cheese pizza, baked beans, pear, tater tots and milk. The menu was revised and the children were served applesauce. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space 4 children's attendance records had not been completed when children arrived. GS 110-91(9) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. The staff member hired on 9/29/23 had no record in her file that she has competed the above training. .1102(g) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: -The attendance record needs to be completed as children are arriving in the classroom. Keep the record visible and in a place that staff will remember to complete. -We discussed monitoring the food menu daily prior to serving meals to ensure that what is on the menu is what is served to the children. -Each staff member is required to complete the Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training within the first 90 days of hire and the training certificate is required to be in the staffs' files. https://preventchildabusenc-lms.org/courses/rr-update/ CONSULTATION: -We discussed that the Lead Teachers are required to be in classroom at least two thirds of the day during the learning hours. -We discussed ensuring dates on the documents are the dates on the staff checklist and on Staff and Training Worksheet. -Please keep the Staff and Training Worksheet current and complete at all times. This document will be monitored during the visits conducted by DCDEE representatives. We provided technical assistance as you and Ms. Simpson were completing the worksheets during today's visit. -We discussed with you becoming familiar with your action plan and the child care rules and laws to ensure that you and staff are always in compliance. I will process the paperwork to request a three star rated license be issued to your facility. The three star rated license will take approximately three weeks to receive from the Raleigh office by mail. The rated license will be mailed to the facility. Once you receive the rated license, please post it in the foyer of the facility. Your facility will be monitored for compliance with child care requirements a minimum of twice annually. If DCDEE receives concerns regarding your facility, additional visits may be conducted to look into those concerns. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher compliance history to maintain your star rated license. Your compliance history will continue to build over an 18-month period. The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your center. If your center's compliance history drops below 75% you may receive an administrative action. Your compliance history before today’s visit was 86%. -For questions regarding Rowan DSS subsidy contact Paige Palmer, Rebecca.palmer@rowancountync.gov, 704-216-8349. -For TA on assessments and/or annual in-service training contact Betty Trujillo, Early Education Program Lead Smart Start Rowan, btrujillo@smartstartrowan.org, (704) 603-3351. -For child care health questions or assistance contact Kimberly Cruz, Child Care Health Consultant, kimberly.cruz@rowancountync.gov, (704) 216-8806. -For assistance with challenging behaviors with children contact the Healthy Social Behavior Specialist: Burnita Fabers, fabers@childcareresourcesinc.org, 704-376-6697 x 310. -For assistance with children birth-three years of age, contact the NC Birth-to-Three Quality Initiative, Priscilla Hayes, phayes@childcareresourcesinc.org, 704-376-6697 x 305. -For questions regarding clarification of Child Care rules and requirements you can contact me, carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov, 704-594-0149. RULES AND GENERAL STATUTE REFERECES: *Star Rating: 10A NCAC 09 .2802(c) An operator may apply for a star rating based on the total number of points achieved for each component of the two- through five-star rated license. In order to achieve a two- through five-star rating, the minimum score achieved shall be a least four points as follows: 4 points-6 points: Two Stars 7 points-9 points: Three Stars 10 points-12 points: Four Stars 13 points-15 points: Five Stars *Administrator Requirements for a Rated License: 10A NCAC 09 .2819 Enhanced Education Standards for On-Site Administrators for a Rated License for Child Care Centers (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the education standards for an on-site administrator for child care centers. The points for education standards shall be determined by applying this Rule and Rules .2820, .2821, .2822 and .2823 of this Section. To determine the points attained for meeting the education standards, the lowest number of points attained pursuant to each Rule shall be the point used to meet Rule .2802 of this Section. *Lead Teacher Requirements for a Rated License: 10A NCAC 09 .2820 Enhanced Education Standards for Lead Teachers for a Rated License for Child Care Centers(a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating all lead teachers in child care centers. The points for education standards shall be determined by applying this Rule and Rules .2819, .2821, .2822 and .2823 of this Section. To determine the points attained for meeting the education standards, the lowest number of points attained pursuant to each Rule shall be the point used to meet Rule .2802 of this Section. REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by the end of the business day September 9, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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 .2819 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/5/2024 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 9/5/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 340 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Rated License Assessment Announced/Unannounced: Announced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor for compliance with child care requirements during a rated license visit, and to review the environment rating scale (ERS) summary. Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. You, K. Dixon, Owner, and J. Simpson, Administrator, met with us today. You and Ms. Simpson completed the Staff and Training Worksheets during today's visit. The following was monitored during today’s visit: • The Administrative Action Plan • Supervision • Staff Child Ratio • CPR and First Aid • Special Training • Storage of Hazardous Substances • Storage of Medication • Adequate Approved/Space • Staff Records • Program Records • Provisional License Posted • Permit Restrictions The completion of the Corrective Action Plan as part of the Administrative Action Provisional Licensed issued April 17, 2024, is as follows: The Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter, and Corrective Action Plan were posted on the Parent Information board located near the entrance as required. Stipulation #1 requires the facility to be in compliance with all applicable child care requirements. During today’s visit, three violations were cited and two corrected during today’s visit. Stipulation #2 requires Keisha Dixon, Owner, to contact C. Conley, Lead Consultant, within one week of receiving the action to arrange for a complete review of child care requirements with all staff. The training was scheduled on May 1, 2024, and completed on May 29, 2024, from 3:30pm-5:20pm at your facility. Stipulation #2 is complete. Stipulation #3 requires Ms. Dixon, Owner, to submit a written plan within two weeks after the action is received on how the facility will obtain a star rated license after the Provisional License period. This written plan was submitted to me on May 29, 2024. The written plan required by stipulation #3 was approved on May 29, 2024. Stipulation #4 requires Ms. Dixon, Owner, to develop a written plan within two weeks after the Rules Review training is completed, to ensure compliance with director qualifications and lead teacher qualifications. This written plan was submitted to me on June 21, 2024. The written plan required by stipulation #4 was approved on August 21, 2024. Stipulation #5 requires Ms. Dixon to conduct a staff meeting within two weeks after Ms. Conley approves the written plans in stipulation #3 and #4 to review them with your staff. Today, we received the following documentation from the mandatory staff meeting that took place on September 3, 2024: -The attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting. -The minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. This completes stipulation #5 of the corrective action plan. All documentation from the corrective action plan will be maintained in the facility file for review by representatives of DCDEE upon request. The children were observed during art activities at the table, handwashing routines, lunch and naptime. Lunch consisted of cheese pizza, baked beans, chocolate pudding and milk. The menu posted had the following listed for today: cheese pizza, bake beans, pears, tatter tots and milk. This was brought to your attention and apple sauce was served to the children and the menu was revised. RATED LICENSE REVIEW: Education Standard Points: *J. Simpson, Administrator, is eligible for 7 (seven) points in education standards. *The Lead Teachers are eligible for 2 (two) points in education standards. One staff member has her Lead Teacher equivalency and a BA in Early Childhood Education and at least 2 years of experience. You sent me documentation that the 2nd staff member is enrolled in EDU 119 and EDU 261 and will complete the course on October 11, 2024. Both staff members do have WORKS accounts. Child Care Rule .2819(a) requires the education points to be determined by the lowest number of points earned by the on-site administrator, lead teachers, teachers, and group leaders, per Rules .2820, .2821, .2822, .2823. Your facilities education points are currently determined by the administrator and lead teachers since those are the positions currently needed at your facility. Therefore, the facility is eligible for 2 (two) points in education standards. Program Standard Points: You requested to have the environmental rating scales conducted on January 4, 2024. The NCRLAP assessors attempted to complete two (2) assessments on February 21, 2024, and March 5, 2024, but were unable due to low enrollment. The ECERS-R assessment was conducted on March 14, 2024, with a score of 4.83. The ITERS-R assessment was conducted on March 14, 2024, with a score of 3.47. Per 10A NCAC 09 .2817(b) in order to earn three (3) points or higher in program standard points, each classroom has to score at least a 4.0 or higher. On April 12, 2024, you requested to have the ITERS-R reassessment, and the request was submitted on July 10, 2024. The NCRLAP assessor attempted to conduct the assessment on August 12, 2024, but was unable to conduct the assessment because a storm had gone through the previous night and the facility's air conditioning turned off and the facility was in the process of cooling off when the assessor arrived. The assessor returned on August 22, 2024, and conducted the ITERS-R assessment. On August 28, 2024, I received a copy of the scores and sent a copy to you. The facility received an ITERS-R score of 5.07 points, and an ECERS-R score of 4.83, with an average score of 4.95. The total average score is used to determine the number of program points earned on the star rated license. During today’s visit, we reviewed the ERS summary with you and the administrator and focused on those items reviewed on the summary that scored a four or below. The following technical assistance was given for the ITERS-R: -Item #5 (Display) Indicator 5.2: To earn credit for this indicator the room would need to have at least two mobiles that are able to move in space. -Item #7 (Meals and Snacks) Indicator 3.1: To receive credit for this indicator water would need to be offered throughout the day; including between meals. Indicator 3.2: Sausage links are considered a choking hazard for children under the age of four. Staff can cut the links into bite sized pieces. Indicator 3.3: Tables need to be sanitized after cleaning with soapy water and the sanitizer needs to be left on the table for at least two minutes. Tables will need to be recleaned if children place objects on the table before the meal is served. Indicator 3.4: At least one staff member needs to visually see all children and be at arm’s length at all times when they are eating. Item #8 (Nap/Rest) Indicator 3.2: Mats need to be at least 36 inches apart to earn credit for this indicator. Indicator #9 (Diapering) Indicator 3.1: Wipes are required to be pulled out prior to starting the diaper change. Prior to sliding a clean diaper under the child, the staff should use a separate wipe for them and the child to clean their hands. Indicator 3.2: Have staff keep a diaper changing chart so that they can document when they checked/changed the children’s diaper to ensure that this occurs every two hours. Indicator 3.3: Remind staff that they are required to wash their hands again after they have cleaned and sanitized the diaper changing table. -Item #11 (Safety Practices) Indicator 5.1: Do not serve whole breakfast sausage to children under four years of age. If it is served make sure to cut it up in bite sized pieces. Small pieces of chalk are considered choking hazards for this age group. Remind staff to monitor the classroom daily prior to children arriving to ensure that there are no safety hazards. In addition, in order to receive credit for this indicator the diapering edge needs to be at least 6 inches from the bottom not the mat on top. -Item #12 (Helping Children Understand Language) Indicator 3.4: Staff need to avoid negative words in situations where the children’s behaviors were being addressed. Encourage staff to use positive language and redirection. Item #16 (Active Physical Play) Indicator 5.3: There needs to be an ample amount of gross motor equipment indoors to ensure there is enough for the children present and that there are no long waiting periods. Item #17 (Art) Indicator 5.1: Classrooms should be monitored daily to ensure that that there are no choking hazards located in the art area. Item #19 (Blocks) Indicator 5.3: The block area should not be in a traffic area nor have other activities within the area. This prevents the children from having the space to build up and out. Item #26 (Peer Interactions) Indicator 5.1: Where there are instances of conflict between children, staff need to facilitate peer interaction and redirection with the young children. They do not have the words or skills at this age, and it is important that staff provide words and model the actions to be taken. Item #29 (Schedule) Indicator 5.1: Have staff create a system to ensure that a diaper check/change occurs every two hours and it is documented. Indicator 5.4: Children should not wait longer than three minutes without an activity. While the children are sitting at the tables waiting for lunch staff could be singing, doing finger plays, reading a book, playing a game, etc. We discussed the grievance process today, and you stated that you are happy with the scores. We reviewed the “Program Standards Worksheet”. The facility meets requirements in Rule .2806, enhanced ratios in Rule .2818(b) and has an ERS average score of 4.95 and no classroom lower than a score of 4.0. The facility is eligible for five (5) points in program standards. Quality Point We reviewed the quality point options during the visit conducted on April 12, 2024. At that time, you decided to choose to meet the quality point for completing twenty (20) additional annual on-going training hours for full-time lead teachers and teachers, and staff working part-time. We discussed that the facility would be eligible for a three-star license without the quality point. The facility is eligible for two (2) points in education standards and five (5) points in program standards which is a total of seven (7) points and a three-star license. You requested not to earn the quality point at this time. I will submit the Rated License Packet once I receive the compliance letter. The following violations were observed during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The children were served cheese pizza, baked beans, chocolate pudding and milk. The menu listed cheese pizza, baked beans, pear, tater tots and milk. The menu was revised and the children were served applesauce. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space 4 children's attendance records had not been completed when children arrived. GS 110-91(9) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. The staff member hired on 9/29/23 had no record in her file that she has competed the above training. .1102(g) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: -The attendance record needs to be completed as children are arriving in the classroom. Keep the record visible and in a place that staff will remember to complete. -We discussed monitoring the food menu daily prior to serving meals to ensure that what is on the menu is what is served to the children. -Each staff member is required to complete the Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training within the first 90 days of hire and the training certificate is required to be in the staffs' files. https://preventchildabusenc-lms.org/courses/rr-update/ CONSULTATION: -We discussed that the Lead Teachers are required to be in classroom at least two thirds of the day during the learning hours. -We discussed ensuring dates on the documents are the dates on the staff checklist and on Staff and Training Worksheet. -Please keep the Staff and Training Worksheet current and complete at all times. This document will be monitored during the visits conducted by DCDEE representatives. We provided technical assistance as you and Ms. Simpson were completing the worksheets during today's visit. -We discussed with you becoming familiar with your action plan and the child care rules and laws to ensure that you and staff are always in compliance. I will process the paperwork to request a three star rated license be issued to your facility. The three star rated license will take approximately three weeks to receive from the Raleigh office by mail. The rated license will be mailed to the facility. Once you receive the rated license, please post it in the foyer of the facility. Your facility will be monitored for compliance with child care requirements a minimum of twice annually. If DCDEE receives concerns regarding your facility, additional visits may be conducted to look into those concerns. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher compliance history to maintain your star rated license. Your compliance history will continue to build over an 18-month period. The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your center. If your center's compliance history drops below 75% you may receive an administrative action. Your compliance history before today’s visit was 86%. -For questions regarding Rowan DSS subsidy contact Paige Palmer, Rebecca.palmer@rowancountync.gov, 704-216-8349. -For TA on assessments and/or annual in-service training contact Betty Trujillo, Early Education Program Lead Smart Start Rowan, btrujillo@smartstartrowan.org, (704) 603-3351. -For child care health questions or assistance contact Kimberly Cruz, Child Care Health Consultant, kimberly.cruz@rowancountync.gov, (704) 216-8806. -For assistance with challenging behaviors with children contact the Healthy Social Behavior Specialist: Burnita Fabers, fabers@childcareresourcesinc.org, 704-376-6697 x 310. -For assistance with children birth-three years of age, contact the NC Birth-to-Three Quality Initiative, Priscilla Hayes, phayes@childcareresourcesinc.org, 704-376-6697 x 305. -For questions regarding clarification of Child Care rules and requirements you can contact me, carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov, 704-594-0149. RULES AND GENERAL STATUTE REFERECES: *Star Rating: 10A NCAC 09 .2802(c) An operator may apply for a star rating based on the total number of points achieved for each component of the two- through five-star rated license. In order to achieve a two- through five-star rating, the minimum score achieved shall be a least four points as follows: 4 points-6 points: Two Stars 7 points-9 points: Three Stars 10 points-12 points: Four Stars 13 points-15 points: Five Stars *Administrator Requirements for a Rated License: 10A NCAC 09 .2819 Enhanced Education Standards for On-Site Administrators for a Rated License for Child Care Centers (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the education standards for an on-site administrator for child care centers. The points for education standards shall be determined by applying this Rule and Rules .2820, .2821, .2822 and .2823 of this Section. To determine the points attained for meeting the education standards, the lowest number of points attained pursuant to each Rule shall be the point used to meet Rule .2802 of this Section. *Lead Teacher Requirements for a Rated License: 10A NCAC 09 .2820 Enhanced Education Standards for Lead Teachers for a Rated License for Child Care Centers(a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating all lead teachers in child care centers. The points for education standards shall be determined by applying this Rule and Rules .2819, .2821, .2822 and .2823 of this Section. To determine the points attained for meeting the education standards, the lowest number of points attained pursuant to each Rule shall be the point used to meet Rule .2802 of this Section. REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by the end of the business day September 9, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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 .2820 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/5/2024 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 9/5/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 340 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Rated License Assessment Announced/Unannounced: Announced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor for compliance with child care requirements during a rated license visit, and to review the environment rating scale (ERS) summary. Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. You, K. Dixon, Owner, and J. Simpson, Administrator, met with us today. You and Ms. Simpson completed the Staff and Training Worksheets during today's visit. The following was monitored during today’s visit: • The Administrative Action Plan • Supervision • Staff Child Ratio • CPR and First Aid • Special Training • Storage of Hazardous Substances • Storage of Medication • Adequate Approved/Space • Staff Records • Program Records • Provisional License Posted • Permit Restrictions The completion of the Corrective Action Plan as part of the Administrative Action Provisional Licensed issued April 17, 2024, is as follows: The Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter, and Corrective Action Plan were posted on the Parent Information board located near the entrance as required. Stipulation #1 requires the facility to be in compliance with all applicable child care requirements. During today’s visit, three violations were cited and two corrected during today’s visit. Stipulation #2 requires Keisha Dixon, Owner, to contact C. Conley, Lead Consultant, within one week of receiving the action to arrange for a complete review of child care requirements with all staff. The training was scheduled on May 1, 2024, and completed on May 29, 2024, from 3:30pm-5:20pm at your facility. Stipulation #2 is complete. Stipulation #3 requires Ms. Dixon, Owner, to submit a written plan within two weeks after the action is received on how the facility will obtain a star rated license after the Provisional License period. This written plan was submitted to me on May 29, 2024. The written plan required by stipulation #3 was approved on May 29, 2024. Stipulation #4 requires Ms. Dixon, Owner, to develop a written plan within two weeks after the Rules Review training is completed, to ensure compliance with director qualifications and lead teacher qualifications. This written plan was submitted to me on June 21, 2024. The written plan required by stipulation #4 was approved on August 21, 2024. Stipulation #5 requires Ms. Dixon to conduct a staff meeting within two weeks after Ms. Conley approves the written plans in stipulation #3 and #4 to review them with your staff. Today, we received the following documentation from the mandatory staff meeting that took place on September 3, 2024: -The attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting. -The minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. This completes stipulation #5 of the corrective action plan. All documentation from the corrective action plan will be maintained in the facility file for review by representatives of DCDEE upon request. The children were observed during art activities at the table, handwashing routines, lunch and naptime. Lunch consisted of cheese pizza, baked beans, chocolate pudding and milk. The menu posted had the following listed for today: cheese pizza, bake beans, pears, tatter tots and milk. This was brought to your attention and apple sauce was served to the children and the menu was revised. RATED LICENSE REVIEW: Education Standard Points: *J. Simpson, Administrator, is eligible for 7 (seven) points in education standards. *The Lead Teachers are eligible for 2 (two) points in education standards. One staff member has her Lead Teacher equivalency and a BA in Early Childhood Education and at least 2 years of experience. You sent me documentation that the 2nd staff member is enrolled in EDU 119 and EDU 261 and will complete the course on October 11, 2024. Both staff members do have WORKS accounts. Child Care Rule .2819(a) requires the education points to be determined by the lowest number of points earned by the on-site administrator, lead teachers, teachers, and group leaders, per Rules .2820, .2821, .2822, .2823. Your facilities education points are currently determined by the administrator and lead teachers since those are the positions currently needed at your facility. Therefore, the facility is eligible for 2 (two) points in education standards. Program Standard Points: You requested to have the environmental rating scales conducted on January 4, 2024. The NCRLAP assessors attempted to complete two (2) assessments on February 21, 2024, and March 5, 2024, but were unable due to low enrollment. The ECERS-R assessment was conducted on March 14, 2024, with a score of 4.83. The ITERS-R assessment was conducted on March 14, 2024, with a score of 3.47. Per 10A NCAC 09 .2817(b) in order to earn three (3) points or higher in program standard points, each classroom has to score at least a 4.0 or higher. On April 12, 2024, you requested to have the ITERS-R reassessment, and the request was submitted on July 10, 2024. The NCRLAP assessor attempted to conduct the assessment on August 12, 2024, but was unable to conduct the assessment because a storm had gone through the previous night and the facility's air conditioning turned off and the facility was in the process of cooling off when the assessor arrived. The assessor returned on August 22, 2024, and conducted the ITERS-R assessment. On August 28, 2024, I received a copy of the scores and sent a copy to you. The facility received an ITERS-R score of 5.07 points, and an ECERS-R score of 4.83, with an average score of 4.95. The total average score is used to determine the number of program points earned on the star rated license. During today’s visit, we reviewed the ERS summary with you and the administrator and focused on those items reviewed on the summary that scored a four or below. The following technical assistance was given for the ITERS-R: -Item #5 (Display) Indicator 5.2: To earn credit for this indicator the room would need to have at least two mobiles that are able to move in space. -Item #7 (Meals and Snacks) Indicator 3.1: To receive credit for this indicator water would need to be offered throughout the day; including between meals. Indicator 3.2: Sausage links are considered a choking hazard for children under the age of four. Staff can cut the links into bite sized pieces. Indicator 3.3: Tables need to be sanitized after cleaning with soapy water and the sanitizer needs to be left on the table for at least two minutes. Tables will need to be recleaned if children place objects on the table before the meal is served. Indicator 3.4: At least one staff member needs to visually see all children and be at arm’s length at all times when they are eating. Item #8 (Nap/Rest) Indicator 3.2: Mats need to be at least 36 inches apart to earn credit for this indicator. Indicator #9 (Diapering) Indicator 3.1: Wipes are required to be pulled out prior to starting the diaper change. Prior to sliding a clean diaper under the child, the staff should use a separate wipe for them and the child to clean their hands. Indicator 3.2: Have staff keep a diaper changing chart so that they can document when they checked/changed the children’s diaper to ensure that this occurs every two hours. Indicator 3.3: Remind staff that they are required to wash their hands again after they have cleaned and sanitized the diaper changing table. -Item #11 (Safety Practices) Indicator 5.1: Do not serve whole breakfast sausage to children under four years of age. If it is served make sure to cut it up in bite sized pieces. Small pieces of chalk are considered choking hazards for this age group. Remind staff to monitor the classroom daily prior to children arriving to ensure that there are no safety hazards. In addition, in order to receive credit for this indicator the diapering edge needs to be at least 6 inches from the bottom not the mat on top. -Item #12 (Helping Children Understand Language) Indicator 3.4: Staff need to avoid negative words in situations where the children’s behaviors were being addressed. Encourage staff to use positive language and redirection. Item #16 (Active Physical Play) Indicator 5.3: There needs to be an ample amount of gross motor equipment indoors to ensure there is enough for the children present and that there are no long waiting periods. Item #17 (Art) Indicator 5.1: Classrooms should be monitored daily to ensure that that there are no choking hazards located in the art area. Item #19 (Blocks) Indicator 5.3: The block area should not be in a traffic area nor have other activities within the area. This prevents the children from having the space to build up and out. Item #26 (Peer Interactions) Indicator 5.1: Where there are instances of conflict between children, staff need to facilitate peer interaction and redirection with the young children. They do not have the words or skills at this age, and it is important that staff provide words and model the actions to be taken. Item #29 (Schedule) Indicator 5.1: Have staff create a system to ensure that a diaper check/change occurs every two hours and it is documented. Indicator 5.4: Children should not wait longer than three minutes without an activity. While the children are sitting at the tables waiting for lunch staff could be singing, doing finger plays, reading a book, playing a game, etc. We discussed the grievance process today, and you stated that you are happy with the scores. We reviewed the “Program Standards Worksheet”. The facility meets requirements in Rule .2806, enhanced ratios in Rule .2818(b) and has an ERS average score of 4.95 and no classroom lower than a score of 4.0. The facility is eligible for five (5) points in program standards. Quality Point We reviewed the quality point options during the visit conducted on April 12, 2024. At that time, you decided to choose to meet the quality point for completing twenty (20) additional annual on-going training hours for full-time lead teachers and teachers, and staff working part-time. We discussed that the facility would be eligible for a three-star license without the quality point. The facility is eligible for two (2) points in education standards and five (5) points in program standards which is a total of seven (7) points and a three-star license. You requested not to earn the quality point at this time. I will submit the Rated License Packet once I receive the compliance letter. The following violations were observed during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The children were served cheese pizza, baked beans, chocolate pudding and milk. The menu listed cheese pizza, baked beans, pear, tater tots and milk. The menu was revised and the children were served applesauce. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space 4 children's attendance records had not been completed when children arrived. GS 110-91(9) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. The staff member hired on 9/29/23 had no record in her file that she has competed the above training. .1102(g) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: -The attendance record needs to be completed as children are arriving in the classroom. Keep the record visible and in a place that staff will remember to complete. -We discussed monitoring the food menu daily prior to serving meals to ensure that what is on the menu is what is served to the children. -Each staff member is required to complete the Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training within the first 90 days of hire and the training certificate is required to be in the staffs' files. https://preventchildabusenc-lms.org/courses/rr-update/ CONSULTATION: -We discussed that the Lead Teachers are required to be in classroom at least two thirds of the day during the learning hours. -We discussed ensuring dates on the documents are the dates on the staff checklist and on Staff and Training Worksheet. -Please keep the Staff and Training Worksheet current and complete at all times. This document will be monitored during the visits conducted by DCDEE representatives. We provided technical assistance as you and Ms. Simpson were completing the worksheets during today's visit. -We discussed with you becoming familiar with your action plan and the child care rules and laws to ensure that you and staff are always in compliance. I will process the paperwork to request a three star rated license be issued to your facility. The three star rated license will take approximately three weeks to receive from the Raleigh office by mail. The rated license will be mailed to the facility. Once you receive the rated license, please post it in the foyer of the facility. Your facility will be monitored for compliance with child care requirements a minimum of twice annually. If DCDEE receives concerns regarding your facility, additional visits may be conducted to look into those concerns. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher compliance history to maintain your star rated license. Your compliance history will continue to build over an 18-month period. The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your center. If your center's compliance history drops below 75% you may receive an administrative action. Your compliance history before today’s visit was 86%. -For questions regarding Rowan DSS subsidy contact Paige Palmer, Rebecca.palmer@rowancountync.gov, 704-216-8349. -For TA on assessments and/or annual in-service training contact Betty Trujillo, Early Education Program Lead Smart Start Rowan, btrujillo@smartstartrowan.org, (704) 603-3351. -For child care health questions or assistance contact Kimberly Cruz, Child Care Health Consultant, kimberly.cruz@rowancountync.gov, (704) 216-8806. -For assistance with challenging behaviors with children contact the Healthy Social Behavior Specialist: Burnita Fabers, fabers@childcareresourcesinc.org, 704-376-6697 x 310. -For assistance with children birth-three years of age, contact the NC Birth-to-Three Quality Initiative, Priscilla Hayes, phayes@childcareresourcesinc.org, 704-376-6697 x 305. -For questions regarding clarification of Child Care rules and requirements you can contact me, carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov, 704-594-0149. RULES AND GENERAL STATUTE REFERECES: *Star Rating: 10A NCAC 09 .2802(c) An operator may apply for a star rating based on the total number of points achieved for each component of the two- through five-star rated license. In order to achieve a two- through five-star rating, the minimum score achieved shall be a least four points as follows: 4 points-6 points: Two Stars 7 points-9 points: Three Stars 10 points-12 points: Four Stars 13 points-15 points: Five Stars *Administrator Requirements for a Rated License: 10A NCAC 09 .2819 Enhanced Education Standards for On-Site Administrators for a Rated License for Child Care Centers (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the education standards for an on-site administrator for child care centers. The points for education standards shall be determined by applying this Rule and Rules .2820, .2821, .2822 and .2823 of this Section. To determine the points attained for meeting the education standards, the lowest number of points attained pursuant to each Rule shall be the point used to meet Rule .2802 of this Section. *Lead Teacher Requirements for a Rated License: 10A NCAC 09 .2820 Enhanced Education Standards for Lead Teachers for a Rated License for Child Care Centers(a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating all lead teachers in child care centers. The points for education standards shall be determined by applying this Rule and Rules .2819, .2821, .2822 and .2823 of this Section. To determine the points attained for meeting the education standards, the lowest number of points attained pursuant to each Rule shall be the point used to meet Rule .2802 of this Section. REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by the end of the business day September 9, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/5/2024 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 9/5/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 340 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Rated License Assessment Announced/Unannounced: Announced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor for compliance with child care requirements during a rated license visit, and to review the environment rating scale (ERS) summary. Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. You, K. Dixon, Owner, and J. Simpson, Administrator, met with us today. You and Ms. Simpson completed the Staff and Training Worksheets during today's visit. The following was monitored during today’s visit: • The Administrative Action Plan • Supervision • Staff Child Ratio • CPR and First Aid • Special Training • Storage of Hazardous Substances • Storage of Medication • Adequate Approved/Space • Staff Records • Program Records • Provisional License Posted • Permit Restrictions The completion of the Corrective Action Plan as part of the Administrative Action Provisional Licensed issued April 17, 2024, is as follows: The Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter, and Corrective Action Plan were posted on the Parent Information board located near the entrance as required. Stipulation #1 requires the facility to be in compliance with all applicable child care requirements. During today’s visit, three violations were cited and two corrected during today’s visit. Stipulation #2 requires Keisha Dixon, Owner, to contact C. Conley, Lead Consultant, within one week of receiving the action to arrange for a complete review of child care requirements with all staff. The training was scheduled on May 1, 2024, and completed on May 29, 2024, from 3:30pm-5:20pm at your facility. Stipulation #2 is complete. Stipulation #3 requires Ms. Dixon, Owner, to submit a written plan within two weeks after the action is received on how the facility will obtain a star rated license after the Provisional License period. This written plan was submitted to me on May 29, 2024. The written plan required by stipulation #3 was approved on May 29, 2024. Stipulation #4 requires Ms. Dixon, Owner, to develop a written plan within two weeks after the Rules Review training is completed, to ensure compliance with director qualifications and lead teacher qualifications. This written plan was submitted to me on June 21, 2024. The written plan required by stipulation #4 was approved on August 21, 2024. Stipulation #5 requires Ms. Dixon to conduct a staff meeting within two weeks after Ms. Conley approves the written plans in stipulation #3 and #4 to review them with your staff. Today, we received the following documentation from the mandatory staff meeting that took place on September 3, 2024: -The attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting. -The minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. This completes stipulation #5 of the corrective action plan. All documentation from the corrective action plan will be maintained in the facility file for review by representatives of DCDEE upon request. The children were observed during art activities at the table, handwashing routines, lunch and naptime. Lunch consisted of cheese pizza, baked beans, chocolate pudding and milk. The menu posted had the following listed for today: cheese pizza, bake beans, pears, tatter tots and milk. This was brought to your attention and apple sauce was served to the children and the menu was revised. RATED LICENSE REVIEW: Education Standard Points: *J. Simpson, Administrator, is eligible for 7 (seven) points in education standards. *The Lead Teachers are eligible for 2 (two) points in education standards. One staff member has her Lead Teacher equivalency and a BA in Early Childhood Education and at least 2 years of experience. You sent me documentation that the 2nd staff member is enrolled in EDU 119 and EDU 261 and will complete the course on October 11, 2024. Both staff members do have WORKS accounts. Child Care Rule .2819(a) requires the education points to be determined by the lowest number of points earned by the on-site administrator, lead teachers, teachers, and group leaders, per Rules .2820, .2821, .2822, .2823. Your facilities education points are currently determined by the administrator and lead teachers since those are the positions currently needed at your facility. Therefore, the facility is eligible for 2 (two) points in education standards. Program Standard Points: You requested to have the environmental rating scales conducted on January 4, 2024. The NCRLAP assessors attempted to complete two (2) assessments on February 21, 2024, and March 5, 2024, but were unable due to low enrollment. The ECERS-R assessment was conducted on March 14, 2024, with a score of 4.83. The ITERS-R assessment was conducted on March 14, 2024, with a score of 3.47. Per 10A NCAC 09 .2817(b) in order to earn three (3) points or higher in program standard points, each classroom has to score at least a 4.0 or higher. On April 12, 2024, you requested to have the ITERS-R reassessment, and the request was submitted on July 10, 2024. The NCRLAP assessor attempted to conduct the assessment on August 12, 2024, but was unable to conduct the assessment because a storm had gone through the previous night and the facility's air conditioning turned off and the facility was in the process of cooling off when the assessor arrived. The assessor returned on August 22, 2024, and conducted the ITERS-R assessment. On August 28, 2024, I received a copy of the scores and sent a copy to you. The facility received an ITERS-R score of 5.07 points, and an ECERS-R score of 4.83, with an average score of 4.95. The total average score is used to determine the number of program points earned on the star rated license. During today’s visit, we reviewed the ERS summary with you and the administrator and focused on those items reviewed on the summary that scored a four or below. The following technical assistance was given for the ITERS-R: -Item #5 (Display) Indicator 5.2: To earn credit for this indicator the room would need to have at least two mobiles that are able to move in space. -Item #7 (Meals and Snacks) Indicator 3.1: To receive credit for this indicator water would need to be offered throughout the day; including between meals. Indicator 3.2: Sausage links are considered a choking hazard for children under the age of four. Staff can cut the links into bite sized pieces. Indicator 3.3: Tables need to be sanitized after cleaning with soapy water and the sanitizer needs to be left on the table for at least two minutes. Tables will need to be recleaned if children place objects on the table before the meal is served. Indicator 3.4: At least one staff member needs to visually see all children and be at arm’s length at all times when they are eating. Item #8 (Nap/Rest) Indicator 3.2: Mats need to be at least 36 inches apart to earn credit for this indicator. Indicator #9 (Diapering) Indicator 3.1: Wipes are required to be pulled out prior to starting the diaper change. Prior to sliding a clean diaper under the child, the staff should use a separate wipe for them and the child to clean their hands. Indicator 3.2: Have staff keep a diaper changing chart so that they can document when they checked/changed the children’s diaper to ensure that this occurs every two hours. Indicator 3.3: Remind staff that they are required to wash their hands again after they have cleaned and sanitized the diaper changing table. -Item #11 (Safety Practices) Indicator 5.1: Do not serve whole breakfast sausage to children under four years of age. If it is served make sure to cut it up in bite sized pieces. Small pieces of chalk are considered choking hazards for this age group. Remind staff to monitor the classroom daily prior to children arriving to ensure that there are no safety hazards. In addition, in order to receive credit for this indicator the diapering edge needs to be at least 6 inches from the bottom not the mat on top. -Item #12 (Helping Children Understand Language) Indicator 3.4: Staff need to avoid negative words in situations where the children’s behaviors were being addressed. Encourage staff to use positive language and redirection. Item #16 (Active Physical Play) Indicator 5.3: There needs to be an ample amount of gross motor equipment indoors to ensure there is enough for the children present and that there are no long waiting periods. Item #17 (Art) Indicator 5.1: Classrooms should be monitored daily to ensure that that there are no choking hazards located in the art area. Item #19 (Blocks) Indicator 5.3: The block area should not be in a traffic area nor have other activities within the area. This prevents the children from having the space to build up and out. Item #26 (Peer Interactions) Indicator 5.1: Where there are instances of conflict between children, staff need to facilitate peer interaction and redirection with the young children. They do not have the words or skills at this age, and it is important that staff provide words and model the actions to be taken. Item #29 (Schedule) Indicator 5.1: Have staff create a system to ensure that a diaper check/change occurs every two hours and it is documented. Indicator 5.4: Children should not wait longer than three minutes without an activity. While the children are sitting at the tables waiting for lunch staff could be singing, doing finger plays, reading a book, playing a game, etc. We discussed the grievance process today, and you stated that you are happy with the scores. We reviewed the “Program Standards Worksheet”. The facility meets requirements in Rule .2806, enhanced ratios in Rule .2818(b) and has an ERS average score of 4.95 and no classroom lower than a score of 4.0. The facility is eligible for five (5) points in program standards. Quality Point We reviewed the quality point options during the visit conducted on April 12, 2024. At that time, you decided to choose to meet the quality point for completing twenty (20) additional annual on-going training hours for full-time lead teachers and teachers, and staff working part-time. We discussed that the facility would be eligible for a three-star license without the quality point. The facility is eligible for two (2) points in education standards and five (5) points in program standards which is a total of seven (7) points and a three-star license. You requested not to earn the quality point at this time. I will submit the Rated License Packet once I receive the compliance letter. The following violations were observed during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The children were served cheese pizza, baked beans, chocolate pudding and milk. The menu listed cheese pizza, baked beans, pear, tater tots and milk. The menu was revised and the children were served applesauce. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space 4 children's attendance records had not been completed when children arrived. GS 110-91(9) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. The staff member hired on 9/29/23 had no record in her file that she has competed the above training. .1102(g) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: -The attendance record needs to be completed as children are arriving in the classroom. Keep the record visible and in a place that staff will remember to complete. -We discussed monitoring the food menu daily prior to serving meals to ensure that what is on the menu is what is served to the children. -Each staff member is required to complete the Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training within the first 90 days of hire and the training certificate is required to be in the staffs' files. https://preventchildabusenc-lms.org/courses/rr-update/ CONSULTATION: -We discussed that the Lead Teachers are required to be in classroom at least two thirds of the day during the learning hours. -We discussed ensuring dates on the documents are the dates on the staff checklist and on Staff and Training Worksheet. -Please keep the Staff and Training Worksheet current and complete at all times. This document will be monitored during the visits conducted by DCDEE representatives. We provided technical assistance as you and Ms. Simpson were completing the worksheets during today's visit. -We discussed with you becoming familiar with your action plan and the child care rules and laws to ensure that you and staff are always in compliance. I will process the paperwork to request a three star rated license be issued to your facility. The three star rated license will take approximately three weeks to receive from the Raleigh office by mail. The rated license will be mailed to the facility. Once you receive the rated license, please post it in the foyer of the facility. Your facility will be monitored for compliance with child care requirements a minimum of twice annually. If DCDEE receives concerns regarding your facility, additional visits may be conducted to look into those concerns. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher compliance history to maintain your star rated license. Your compliance history will continue to build over an 18-month period. The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your center. If your center's compliance history drops below 75% you may receive an administrative action. Your compliance history before today’s visit was 86%. -For questions regarding Rowan DSS subsidy contact Paige Palmer, Rebecca.palmer@rowancountync.gov, 704-216-8349. -For TA on assessments and/or annual in-service training contact Betty Trujillo, Early Education Program Lead Smart Start Rowan, btrujillo@smartstartrowan.org, (704) 603-3351. -For child care health questions or assistance contact Kimberly Cruz, Child Care Health Consultant, kimberly.cruz@rowancountync.gov, (704) 216-8806. -For assistance with challenging behaviors with children contact the Healthy Social Behavior Specialist: Burnita Fabers, fabers@childcareresourcesinc.org, 704-376-6697 x 310. -For assistance with children birth-three years of age, contact the NC Birth-to-Three Quality Initiative, Priscilla Hayes, phayes@childcareresourcesinc.org, 704-376-6697 x 305. -For questions regarding clarification of Child Care rules and requirements you can contact me, carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov, 704-594-0149. RULES AND GENERAL STATUTE REFERECES: *Star Rating: 10A NCAC 09 .2802(c) An operator may apply for a star rating based on the total number of points achieved for each component of the two- through five-star rated license. In order to achieve a two- through five-star rating, the minimum score achieved shall be a least four points as follows: 4 points-6 points: Two Stars 7 points-9 points: Three Stars 10 points-12 points: Four Stars 13 points-15 points: Five Stars *Administrator Requirements for a Rated License: 10A NCAC 09 .2819 Enhanced Education Standards for On-Site Administrators for a Rated License for Child Care Centers (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the education standards for an on-site administrator for child care centers. The points for education standards shall be determined by applying this Rule and Rules .2820, .2821, .2822 and .2823 of this Section. To determine the points attained for meeting the education standards, the lowest number of points attained pursuant to each Rule shall be the point used to meet Rule .2802 of this Section. *Lead Teacher Requirements for a Rated License: 10A NCAC 09 .2820 Enhanced Education Standards for Lead Teachers for a Rated License for Child Care Centers(a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating all lead teachers in child care centers. The points for education standards shall be determined by applying this Rule and Rules .2819, .2821, .2822 and .2823 of this Section. To determine the points attained for meeting the education standards, the lowest number of points attained pursuant to each Rule shall be the point used to meet Rule .2802 of this Section. REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by the end of the business day September 9, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0302 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0824-004L Visit Date: 8/6/2024 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 8/6/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 155 Time In: 08:25 AM Time Out: 11:00 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to investigate a report received in the Raleigh office. There is a concern that children are not adequately supervised. I was accompanied by Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant, during today’s visit. Upon arrival, we were greeted by you, Keisha Dixon, Owner. Joyce Simpson, Director, arrived at 9:15. You are currently operating with a provisional license effective April 17, 2024, to October 17, 2024. This facility has a licensed capacity of 74 children for first and second shift care with the ability to care for children between the ages one year to 12 years old. You verified that your hours of operation that is listed on your application is 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM. You stated at this time children begin arriving around 7:45/10:00 and leave around 5:30PM. The children were observed during arrival procedures, breakfast and free choice activities. The provisional license was prominently posted. Permit restrictions, staff/child ratio, supervision, capacity, group size and space were monitored. You stated that there are eight children present between one year of age through five years of age and there are fourteen children enrolled. Also, during today’s visit we reminded you that a compliance letter is due to me no later than August 8, 2024 for the violation cited during the visit on July 25, 2024. We stated the reason for our visit. FINDINGS: -You stated that you shared the contact information of the transportation services, Connection, with the families and you reminded them that this was on a trial basis which began the week of July 1, 2024. You stated you do not have a contract with Connection. It was the families responsibility to have set up the transportation and to have a contract with Connection. -You stated that the driver would walk the children to the facility door and would sign the children in and at the end of the day sign the children out. We monitored the sign in/out sheets and the children names were listed but there were no dates or times listed for the children during the time frame that Connection transported. -You stated that on August 1, 2024, a Smart Start Rowan representative informed you that she observed a child three years of age run behind the transportation vehicle and the driver did not see the child. You were not aware of how long the child was not supervised. -You stated that prior to this brought your attention you had met with the driver of the transportation service, Connection, and told him that you would be informing the families that this service will be no longer be provided because of lack of structure and communication and that it was affecting The Learning Tools. -You stated that families would text and call you concerning the transportation services being late and you would tell them that they needed to contact the transportation service provider. You reminded them that the transportation service is not provided by The Learning Tools. -We asked for the copy of the Connections Contract that families had reviewed and signed. You stated that you did not have a copy because the service was sperate from The Learning Tools. Based on observations and discussions with you and Ms. Simpson we were unable to substantiate the allegation. One violation was observed during today's visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children enrolled at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. We did not observe any times of arrival or departure for the month of July. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) TECHNICAL ASSITANCE: -The times that children arrive and depart need to be documented on the arrival/departure sign in/out sheet. CONSULTATION: -We discussed adding to your handbook that The Learning Tools does not provide transportation. Families may contact the Department of Social Services to request information on transportation resources. Previous Correspondence: On June 6, 2024, I sent a follow-up email from our phone conversation on June 4, 2024, when we discussed your question concerning transportation not offered by your program, but an arrangement set up by a parent. The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) does not monitor requirements for transportation that is not offered by you and your program. The safe arrival and departure procedure for the facility needs to be followed. Typically, programs have a policy that states “an adult must come into the facility to drop-off and pick-up the child and make sure the staff person is aware of the child’s arrival and departure”. You will need to have program policy/protocol for signing children in and out each day. You will need to ensure that the safe arrival and departure procedures are being followed when the children arrive to your program and depart from your program. As discussed on 6/4/24 you will want to make sure you have everything in writing with the parent. You may want to include the following: DROP-OFF AT FACILITY: *the facility will not have any responsibilities regarding the children being transported to the facility. *the facility must have a staff member available daily to get the three children from the transportation vehicle and bring them into the facility safely - .1003(h) PICK-UP AT FACILITY: *the facility must have a staff member available daily to put the three children onto the transportation vehicle *the person transporting the children is listed on the pick-up list for each child being transported *the facility ensures that each child is put in an individual seat belt or child safety seat appropriate to the child’s age or weight - .1001(a) *the facility must create pick-up and delivery procedures to ensure children are protected from danger and not exposed to risk of harm. These procedures shall be communicated to parents, and a copy shall be posted in the center where they can be seen by the parents. - .1003(b) *children shall be loaded and unloaded from curbside or in a safe, off-street area, out of the flow of traffic, so that they are protected from all traffic hazards. - .1003(h) *written permission from the parent for the facility to put the children on the vehicle for daily transportation.- .1003(i) As discussed previously it is the families that should have the contract with the transportation services because you stated that your facility does not provide transportation which would include you not contracting with a transportation service; particularly when the service is not in compliance with the child care rules. For example, having a criminal background check qualification letter, current CPR/FA, etc. REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by August 19, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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 .2200 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0824-004L Visit Date: 8/6/2024 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 8/6/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 155 Time In: 08:25 AM Time Out: 11:00 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to investigate a report received in the Raleigh office. There is a concern that children are not adequately supervised. I was accompanied by Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant, during today’s visit. Upon arrival, we were greeted by you, Keisha Dixon, Owner. Joyce Simpson, Director, arrived at 9:15. You are currently operating with a provisional license effective April 17, 2024, to October 17, 2024. This facility has a licensed capacity of 74 children for first and second shift care with the ability to care for children between the ages one year to 12 years old. You verified that your hours of operation that is listed on your application is 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM. You stated at this time children begin arriving around 7:45/10:00 and leave around 5:30PM. The children were observed during arrival procedures, breakfast and free choice activities. The provisional license was prominently posted. Permit restrictions, staff/child ratio, supervision, capacity, group size and space were monitored. You stated that there are eight children present between one year of age through five years of age and there are fourteen children enrolled. Also, during today’s visit we reminded you that a compliance letter is due to me no later than August 8, 2024 for the violation cited during the visit on July 25, 2024. We stated the reason for our visit. FINDINGS: -You stated that you shared the contact information of the transportation services, Connection, with the families and you reminded them that this was on a trial basis which began the week of July 1, 2024. You stated you do not have a contract with Connection. It was the families responsibility to have set up the transportation and to have a contract with Connection. -You stated that the driver would walk the children to the facility door and would sign the children in and at the end of the day sign the children out. We monitored the sign in/out sheets and the children names were listed but there were no dates or times listed for the children during the time frame that Connection transported. -You stated that on August 1, 2024, a Smart Start Rowan representative informed you that she observed a child three years of age run behind the transportation vehicle and the driver did not see the child. You were not aware of how long the child was not supervised. -You stated that prior to this brought your attention you had met with the driver of the transportation service, Connection, and told him that you would be informing the families that this service will be no longer be provided because of lack of structure and communication and that it was affecting The Learning Tools. -You stated that families would text and call you concerning the transportation services being late and you would tell them that they needed to contact the transportation service provider. You reminded them that the transportation service is not provided by The Learning Tools. -We asked for the copy of the Connections Contract that families had reviewed and signed. You stated that you did not have a copy because the service was sperate from The Learning Tools. Based on observations and discussions with you and Ms. Simpson we were unable to substantiate the allegation. One violation was observed during today's visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children enrolled at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. We did not observe any times of arrival or departure for the month of July. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) TECHNICAL ASSITANCE: -The times that children arrive and depart need to be documented on the arrival/departure sign in/out sheet. CONSULTATION: -We discussed adding to your handbook that The Learning Tools does not provide transportation. Families may contact the Department of Social Services to request information on transportation resources. Previous Correspondence: On June 6, 2024, I sent a follow-up email from our phone conversation on June 4, 2024, when we discussed your question concerning transportation not offered by your program, but an arrangement set up by a parent. The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) does not monitor requirements for transportation that is not offered by you and your program. The safe arrival and departure procedure for the facility needs to be followed. Typically, programs have a policy that states “an adult must come into the facility to drop-off and pick-up the child and make sure the staff person is aware of the child’s arrival and departure”. You will need to have program policy/protocol for signing children in and out each day. You will need to ensure that the safe arrival and departure procedures are being followed when the children arrive to your program and depart from your program. As discussed on 6/4/24 you will want to make sure you have everything in writing with the parent. You may want to include the following: DROP-OFF AT FACILITY: *the facility will not have any responsibilities regarding the children being transported to the facility. *the facility must have a staff member available daily to get the three children from the transportation vehicle and bring them into the facility safely - .1003(h) PICK-UP AT FACILITY: *the facility must have a staff member available daily to put the three children onto the transportation vehicle *the person transporting the children is listed on the pick-up list for each child being transported *the facility ensures that each child is put in an individual seat belt or child safety seat appropriate to the child’s age or weight - .1001(a) *the facility must create pick-up and delivery procedures to ensure children are protected from danger and not exposed to risk of harm. These procedures shall be communicated to parents, and a copy shall be posted in the center where they can be seen by the parents. - .1003(b) *children shall be loaded and unloaded from curbside or in a safe, off-street area, out of the flow of traffic, so that they are protected from all traffic hazards. - .1003(h) *written permission from the parent for the facility to put the children on the vehicle for daily transportation.- .1003(i) As discussed previously it is the families that should have the contract with the transportation services because you stated that your facility does not provide transportation which would include you not contracting with a transportation service; particularly when the service is not in compliance with the child care rules. For example, having a criminal background check qualification letter, current CPR/FA, etc. REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by August 19, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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 .0710 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/25/2024 Number Present: 13 Completed Date: 7/25/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced An Administrative Action Follow Up Visit was conducted today. I was accompanied by Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant. Upon arrival, we were greeted by you, Ms. Dixon, Owner and we stated the reason for our visit. Ms. Simpson arrived as you were getting ready to prepare lunch. The Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter and Corrective Action Plan were posted on the Parent Information board located near the entrance. The children were observed during free choice activities indoors, teacher directed activities and lunch. We monitored the following during today’s visit: -Supervision -Staff/child ratios -Adequate/approved space -Criminal background checks -Permit posted -CPR and First Aid Training -Special Training -Program Records Emergency drills and outdoor inspections are occurring as required. The fire inspection was conducted on April 4, 2024. A sanitation inspection was conducted on April 22, 2024, with two demerits and a superior rating. There have been no new staff hired since our last visit. I monitored WORKS and on July 11, 2024, R. Burns qualified as a Lead Teacher You stated that Ms. Finger is still enrolled in EDU 119 and will be completed in August 2024. We reviewed the Corrective Action Plan that you received on April 17, 2024: Item 1: You will maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements, including but not limited to, the following: -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0714(a) regarding Director Qualification -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 10A NCAC 09 .0710 (a-b) regarding Lead Teacher Qualifications Item 2: Within one (1) week after the Notice was received, you, Keshia Dixon, Owner, was to contact me to schedule a Rules Review Training in which all staff would need to attend. I contacted you on May 1, 2024, to remind you to schedule a Rules Review for you and all staff. We scheduled the review, and it took place on May 29, 2024, from 3:30-5:20 at your facility. All staff were present and there is documentation that they were present. Item 3: Within two (2) weeks after this Notice is received, you needed to submit a written plan to me on how the facility will obtain a star rated license after the Provisional License period. This was submitted to me on May 29, 2024. Item 4: Within two (2) weeks after the training that took place on May 29, 2024, You, were to develop a written plan to ensure compliance with director qualifications and lead teacher qualifications. The written plan was also to include, but not limited to, the following: -Plan to verify staff are meeting preservice administrator and lead teacher requirements prior to employment -Plan to verify staff qualifications using the WORKS status letter prior to employment -Plan for determining what position a new staff member can hold based on their current qualifications -Plan for a periodic review of staff qualifications You submitted the plan to me on June 21, 2024. I reviewed the plan and sent an email to you on July 5, 2024, requesting revisions and clarification. I received an email that same day informing me that the facility was closed due to the holiday and that you would submit the revised plan to me. As of today’s date, I have not received the revised plan. During today’s visit you stated that you have made the revisions and that you wanted to review on more time prior to sending it to me. Please submit the revised plan to me by the end of the business day Monday, July 29, 2024. Once approved the written plan will be immediately implemented and permanently incorporated into the facility’s operating procedures. A copy of the approved written plan will be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) upon request. Item 5: Within two (2) weeks after the approval of the written plans, a staff meeting will need to be conducted to review the approved written plans. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, are required to participate in the mandatory staff meeting. Documentation of the staff meeting will need to include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. A signed attendance roster of staff attending the meeting will need to be emailed to me within two (2) days after the meeting is conducted. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. Timeline for processing a license after determining points earned. PROGRAM POINTS: -Child Care Rule .2817(b) requires all classrooms assessed by NCRLAP to earn a minimum of 4.0 or higher in order to use any of the assessment scores to earn three or more points in program standards on the star rated license. If any of the assessments earn below 4.0, none of the scores can be used and the facility will earn two points in program standards. -When all assessments score a 4.0 or higher, the combined point average of the ITERS-R and ECERS-R assessments is used to determine the program standard points earned on the star rated license. -You stated that you are continuing to meet enhanced ratios and space. We reviewed the Programs Standards Worksheet and what the facility would need to be eligible for five points and six points program standards. You will need to meet the requirements in Child Care Rule .2806, enhanced ratios and have an average ERS score of 4.75 to be eligible for five points in program standards. You will need to meet the requirements in Child Care Rule .2806, enhanced ratios, enhanced space and have an average ERS score of 5 to be eligible for six points in program standards. -The total number of program points will be determined once we receive the ITERS-R reassessment scores. EDUCATION POINTS: -All staff must have their current education showing in WORKS. -Minimum requirements for staff must be met. -Minimum administrator requirements [.0704(a)] are: (1)have either a high school diploma or its equivalent; (2) have two years of full-time work experience in a licensed child care center or early childhood work experience; or an undergraduate, graduate, or associate degree, with 12 semester hours in child development, child psychology, early childhood education or directly related field; or a Child Development Associate Credential; or completion of a community or technical college curriculum program in the area of child care or early childhood; or one year of full-time child care or early childhood work experience and a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential; and (3) have verification of having completed, or be currently enrolled in, two semester credit hours, or 32 clock hours, of training in the area of early childhood program administration; or, have one year experience performing administrative responsibilities. *If an administrator has not met the qualifications required by G.S. 110-91(8), the requirements of Child Care Rule .0704(a) are required to be met.* -Minimum lead teacher and teacher requirements [.0710] are: -They have to be at least 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or its equivalent, and have one of the following: (1) One year of child care experience working in a licensed child care center or two years of verifiable experience as a licensed family child care home operator; or (2) Completion of a two-year high school program of Early Childhood Education in Family and Consumer Sciences Education; or (3) Twenty hours of training in child development, which will include the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential coursework, within the first six months of employment in addition to the number of on-going training hours required in Child Care Rule .1103. *If an individual does not have a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential (NCECC) or its equivalent, the requirements of Child Care Rule .0710 are required to be met.* We will monitor WORKS to determine education points for the Administrator, Lead Teachers, Teachers(if applicable) and Group Leader/Program Coordinator (if applicable). The group with the lowest point level is used to determine the education points earned on the star rated license. Quality Point: -The facility is eligible for one quality point for meeting an educational option. This means that each staff member must complete 20 additional in-service training hours in addition to their annual in-service training hours required in Child Care Rule .1103(a). These trainings can be taken through any Smart Start/Partnership for Children agencies, Child Care Resource and Referral agencies and various agencies that are approved by the DCDEE. To be eligible for a star rated license at the end of the Provisional License the facility must earn a compliance history score of 75 percent or higher. To continue to receive DSS subsidy at the end of the Provisional License the facility must earn at least a three star license. The following violation was observed during today's 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. A staff member was hired on 5/13/24 and there was no documentation on her New Staff Orientation form that she has completed the 2nd half of the orientation training. .1101(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: Document the date, amount of time, and initials on the New Staff Orientation form as you are reviewing the items with the new staff member. By completing the New Staff Orientation form as you are reviewing topics with the staff member, there will be less errors made on the document and it will ensure that it is complete and accurate at the end of the orientation. Once completed make sure you and the new staff member are signing and dating the document. CONSULTATION: -I gave you a copy of the college degrees approved to be related to Early Childhood Education for future reference when interviewing individuals. -For questions regarding Rowan DSS subsidy contact Paige Palmer, Rebecca.palmer@rowancountymc.gov, 704-216-8349 -For TA on assessments and/or annual in-service training contact Betty Trujillo, Early Education Program Lead Smart Start Rowan, btrujillo@smartstartrowan.org, (704) 603-3351 -For child care health questions or assistance contact Kimberly Cruz, Child Care Health Consultant, kimberly.cruz@rowancountync.gov, (704) 216-8806 -For assistance with challenging behaviors with children contact the Healthy Social Behavior Specialist: Burnita Fabers, fabers@childcareresourcesinc.org, 704-376-6697 x 310. -For assistance with children birth-three years of age, contact the NC Birth-to-Three Quality Initiative, Priscilla Hayes, phayes@childcareresourcesinc.org, 704-376-6697 x 305. -For questions regarding clarification of Child Care rules and requirements you can contact me, carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov, 704-594-0149. -You requested clarification on the Space Calculations Sheet. We reviewed the room numbers and matched with the floor diagram. We also reviewed the 25 square feet and 30 square feet per child. Twenty-five square meets minimum space requirement and 30 square feet per child meets enhanced space requirements. -We discussed that one college semester hour in early childhood/child development is equal to 16 in-service training hours. General Statute Reference: General Stature 110-91(8) (8) Qualifications for Staff. – All child care center administrators shall be at least 21 years of age. All child care center administrators shall have the North Carolina Early Childhood Administration Credential or its equivalent as determined by the Department. All child care administrators performing administrative duties as of the date this act becomes law and child care administrators who assume administrative duties at any time after this act becomes law and until September 1, 1998, shall obtain the required credential by September 1, 2000. Child care administrators who assume administrative duties after September 1, 1998, shall begin working toward the completion of the North Carolina Early Childhood Administration Credential or its equivalent within six months after assuming administrative duties and shall complete the credential or its equivalent within two years after beginning work to complete the credential. Each child care center shall be under the direction or supervision of a person meeting these requirements. All staff counted toward meeting the required staff-child ratio shall be at least 16 years of age, provided that persons younger than 18 years of age work under the direct supervision of a credentialed staff person who is at least 21 years of age. All lead teachers in a child care center shall have at least a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential or its equivalent as determined by the Department. Lead teachers shall be enrolled in the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential coursework or its equivalent as determined by the Department within six months after becoming employed as a lead teacher or within six months after this act becomes law, whichever is later, and shall complete the credential or its equivalent within 18 months after enrollment. For child care centers licensed to care for 200 or more children, the Department, in collaboration with the North Carolina Institute for Early Childhood Professional Development, shall establish categories to recognize the levels of education achieved by child care center administrators and teachers who perform administrative functions. The Department shall use these categories to establish appropriate staffing based on the size of the center and the individual staff responsibilities. REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by August 8, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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 .0714 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/25/2024 Number Present: 13 Completed Date: 7/25/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced An Administrative Action Follow Up Visit was conducted today. I was accompanied by Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant. Upon arrival, we were greeted by you, Ms. Dixon, Owner and we stated the reason for our visit. Ms. Simpson arrived as you were getting ready to prepare lunch. The Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter and Corrective Action Plan were posted on the Parent Information board located near the entrance. The children were observed during free choice activities indoors, teacher directed activities and lunch. We monitored the following during today’s visit: -Supervision -Staff/child ratios -Adequate/approved space -Criminal background checks -Permit posted -CPR and First Aid Training -Special Training -Program Records Emergency drills and outdoor inspections are occurring as required. The fire inspection was conducted on April 4, 2024. A sanitation inspection was conducted on April 22, 2024, with two demerits and a superior rating. There have been no new staff hired since our last visit. I monitored WORKS and on July 11, 2024, R. Burns qualified as a Lead Teacher You stated that Ms. Finger is still enrolled in EDU 119 and will be completed in August 2024. We reviewed the Corrective Action Plan that you received on April 17, 2024: Item 1: You will maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements, including but not limited to, the following: -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0714(a) regarding Director Qualification -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 10A NCAC 09 .0710 (a-b) regarding Lead Teacher Qualifications Item 2: Within one (1) week after the Notice was received, you, Keshia Dixon, Owner, was to contact me to schedule a Rules Review Training in which all staff would need to attend. I contacted you on May 1, 2024, to remind you to schedule a Rules Review for you and all staff. We scheduled the review, and it took place on May 29, 2024, from 3:30-5:20 at your facility. All staff were present and there is documentation that they were present. Item 3: Within two (2) weeks after this Notice is received, you needed to submit a written plan to me on how the facility will obtain a star rated license after the Provisional License period. This was submitted to me on May 29, 2024. Item 4: Within two (2) weeks after the training that took place on May 29, 2024, You, were to develop a written plan to ensure compliance with director qualifications and lead teacher qualifications. The written plan was also to include, but not limited to, the following: -Plan to verify staff are meeting preservice administrator and lead teacher requirements prior to employment -Plan to verify staff qualifications using the WORKS status letter prior to employment -Plan for determining what position a new staff member can hold based on their current qualifications -Plan for a periodic review of staff qualifications You submitted the plan to me on June 21, 2024. I reviewed the plan and sent an email to you on July 5, 2024, requesting revisions and clarification. I received an email that same day informing me that the facility was closed due to the holiday and that you would submit the revised plan to me. As of today’s date, I have not received the revised plan. During today’s visit you stated that you have made the revisions and that you wanted to review on more time prior to sending it to me. Please submit the revised plan to me by the end of the business day Monday, July 29, 2024. Once approved the written plan will be immediately implemented and permanently incorporated into the facility’s operating procedures. A copy of the approved written plan will be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) upon request. Item 5: Within two (2) weeks after the approval of the written plans, a staff meeting will need to be conducted to review the approved written plans. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, are required to participate in the mandatory staff meeting. Documentation of the staff meeting will need to include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. A signed attendance roster of staff attending the meeting will need to be emailed to me within two (2) days after the meeting is conducted. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. Timeline for processing a license after determining points earned. PROGRAM POINTS: -Child Care Rule .2817(b) requires all classrooms assessed by NCRLAP to earn a minimum of 4.0 or higher in order to use any of the assessment scores to earn three or more points in program standards on the star rated license. If any of the assessments earn below 4.0, none of the scores can be used and the facility will earn two points in program standards. -When all assessments score a 4.0 or higher, the combined point average of the ITERS-R and ECERS-R assessments is used to determine the program standard points earned on the star rated license. -You stated that you are continuing to meet enhanced ratios and space. We reviewed the Programs Standards Worksheet and what the facility would need to be eligible for five points and six points program standards. You will need to meet the requirements in Child Care Rule .2806, enhanced ratios and have an average ERS score of 4.75 to be eligible for five points in program standards. You will need to meet the requirements in Child Care Rule .2806, enhanced ratios, enhanced space and have an average ERS score of 5 to be eligible for six points in program standards. -The total number of program points will be determined once we receive the ITERS-R reassessment scores. EDUCATION POINTS: -All staff must have their current education showing in WORKS. -Minimum requirements for staff must be met. -Minimum administrator requirements [.0704(a)] are: (1)have either a high school diploma or its equivalent; (2) have two years of full-time work experience in a licensed child care center or early childhood work experience; or an undergraduate, graduate, or associate degree, with 12 semester hours in child development, child psychology, early childhood education or directly related field; or a Child Development Associate Credential; or completion of a community or technical college curriculum program in the area of child care or early childhood; or one year of full-time child care or early childhood work experience and a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential; and (3) have verification of having completed, or be currently enrolled in, two semester credit hours, or 32 clock hours, of training in the area of early childhood program administration; or, have one year experience performing administrative responsibilities. *If an administrator has not met the qualifications required by G.S. 110-91(8), the requirements of Child Care Rule .0704(a) are required to be met.* -Minimum lead teacher and teacher requirements [.0710] are: -They have to be at least 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or its equivalent, and have one of the following: (1) One year of child care experience working in a licensed child care center or two years of verifiable experience as a licensed family child care home operator; or (2) Completion of a two-year high school program of Early Childhood Education in Family and Consumer Sciences Education; or (3) Twenty hours of training in child development, which will include the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential coursework, within the first six months of employment in addition to the number of on-going training hours required in Child Care Rule .1103. *If an individual does not have a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential (NCECC) or its equivalent, the requirements of Child Care Rule .0710 are required to be met.* We will monitor WORKS to determine education points for the Administrator, Lead Teachers, Teachers(if applicable) and Group Leader/Program Coordinator (if applicable). The group with the lowest point level is used to determine the education points earned on the star rated license. Quality Point: -The facility is eligible for one quality point for meeting an educational option. This means that each staff member must complete 20 additional in-service training hours in addition to their annual in-service training hours required in Child Care Rule .1103(a). These trainings can be taken through any Smart Start/Partnership for Children agencies, Child Care Resource and Referral agencies and various agencies that are approved by the DCDEE. To be eligible for a star rated license at the end of the Provisional License the facility must earn a compliance history score of 75 percent or higher. To continue to receive DSS subsidy at the end of the Provisional License the facility must earn at least a three star license. The following violation was observed during today's 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. A staff member was hired on 5/13/24 and there was no documentation on her New Staff Orientation form that she has completed the 2nd half of the orientation training. .1101(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: Document the date, amount of time, and initials on the New Staff Orientation form as you are reviewing the items with the new staff member. By completing the New Staff Orientation form as you are reviewing topics with the staff member, there will be less errors made on the document and it will ensure that it is complete and accurate at the end of the orientation. Once completed make sure you and the new staff member are signing and dating the document. CONSULTATION: -I gave you a copy of the college degrees approved to be related to Early Childhood Education for future reference when interviewing individuals. -For questions regarding Rowan DSS subsidy contact Paige Palmer, Rebecca.palmer@rowancountymc.gov, 704-216-8349 -For TA on assessments and/or annual in-service training contact Betty Trujillo, Early Education Program Lead Smart Start Rowan, btrujillo@smartstartrowan.org, (704) 603-3351 -For child care health questions or assistance contact Kimberly Cruz, Child Care Health Consultant, kimberly.cruz@rowancountync.gov, (704) 216-8806 -For assistance with challenging behaviors with children contact the Healthy Social Behavior Specialist: Burnita Fabers, fabers@childcareresourcesinc.org, 704-376-6697 x 310. -For assistance with children birth-three years of age, contact the NC Birth-to-Three Quality Initiative, Priscilla Hayes, phayes@childcareresourcesinc.org, 704-376-6697 x 305. -For questions regarding clarification of Child Care rules and requirements you can contact me, carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov, 704-594-0149. -You requested clarification on the Space Calculations Sheet. We reviewed the room numbers and matched with the floor diagram. We also reviewed the 25 square feet and 30 square feet per child. Twenty-five square meets minimum space requirement and 30 square feet per child meets enhanced space requirements. -We discussed that one college semester hour in early childhood/child development is equal to 16 in-service training hours. General Statute Reference: General Stature 110-91(8) (8) Qualifications for Staff. – All child care center administrators shall be at least 21 years of age. All child care center administrators shall have the North Carolina Early Childhood Administration Credential or its equivalent as determined by the Department. All child care administrators performing administrative duties as of the date this act becomes law and child care administrators who assume administrative duties at any time after this act becomes law and until September 1, 1998, shall obtain the required credential by September 1, 2000. Child care administrators who assume administrative duties after September 1, 1998, shall begin working toward the completion of the North Carolina Early Childhood Administration Credential or its equivalent within six months after assuming administrative duties and shall complete the credential or its equivalent within two years after beginning work to complete the credential. Each child care center shall be under the direction or supervision of a person meeting these requirements. All staff counted toward meeting the required staff-child ratio shall be at least 16 years of age, provided that persons younger than 18 years of age work under the direct supervision of a credentialed staff person who is at least 21 years of age. All lead teachers in a child care center shall have at least a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential or its equivalent as determined by the Department. Lead teachers shall be enrolled in the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential coursework or its equivalent as determined by the Department within six months after becoming employed as a lead teacher or within six months after this act becomes law, whichever is later, and shall complete the credential or its equivalent within 18 months after enrollment. For child care centers licensed to care for 200 or more children, the Department, in collaboration with the North Carolina Institute for Early Childhood Professional Development, shall establish categories to recognize the levels of education achieved by child care center administrators and teachers who perform administrative functions. The Department shall use these categories to establish appropriate staffing based on the size of the center and the individual staff responsibilities. REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by August 8, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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 .2200 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/25/2024 Number Present: 13 Completed Date: 7/25/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced An Administrative Action Follow Up Visit was conducted today. I was accompanied by Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant. Upon arrival, we were greeted by you, Ms. Dixon, Owner and we stated the reason for our visit. Ms. Simpson arrived as you were getting ready to prepare lunch. The Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter and Corrective Action Plan were posted on the Parent Information board located near the entrance. The children were observed during free choice activities indoors, teacher directed activities and lunch. We monitored the following during today’s visit: -Supervision -Staff/child ratios -Adequate/approved space -Criminal background checks -Permit posted -CPR and First Aid Training -Special Training -Program Records Emergency drills and outdoor inspections are occurring as required. The fire inspection was conducted on April 4, 2024. A sanitation inspection was conducted on April 22, 2024, with two demerits and a superior rating. There have been no new staff hired since our last visit. I monitored WORKS and on July 11, 2024, R. Burns qualified as a Lead Teacher You stated that Ms. Finger is still enrolled in EDU 119 and will be completed in August 2024. We reviewed the Corrective Action Plan that you received on April 17, 2024: Item 1: You will maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements, including but not limited to, the following: -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0714(a) regarding Director Qualification -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 10A NCAC 09 .0710 (a-b) regarding Lead Teacher Qualifications Item 2: Within one (1) week after the Notice was received, you, Keshia Dixon, Owner, was to contact me to schedule a Rules Review Training in which all staff would need to attend. I contacted you on May 1, 2024, to remind you to schedule a Rules Review for you and all staff. We scheduled the review, and it took place on May 29, 2024, from 3:30-5:20 at your facility. All staff were present and there is documentation that they were present. Item 3: Within two (2) weeks after this Notice is received, you needed to submit a written plan to me on how the facility will obtain a star rated license after the Provisional License period. This was submitted to me on May 29, 2024. Item 4: Within two (2) weeks after the training that took place on May 29, 2024, You, were to develop a written plan to ensure compliance with director qualifications and lead teacher qualifications. The written plan was also to include, but not limited to, the following: -Plan to verify staff are meeting preservice administrator and lead teacher requirements prior to employment -Plan to verify staff qualifications using the WORKS status letter prior to employment -Plan for determining what position a new staff member can hold based on their current qualifications -Plan for a periodic review of staff qualifications You submitted the plan to me on June 21, 2024. I reviewed the plan and sent an email to you on July 5, 2024, requesting revisions and clarification. I received an email that same day informing me that the facility was closed due to the holiday and that you would submit the revised plan to me. As of today’s date, I have not received the revised plan. During today’s visit you stated that you have made the revisions and that you wanted to review on more time prior to sending it to me. Please submit the revised plan to me by the end of the business day Monday, July 29, 2024. Once approved the written plan will be immediately implemented and permanently incorporated into the facility’s operating procedures. A copy of the approved written plan will be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) upon request. Item 5: Within two (2) weeks after the approval of the written plans, a staff meeting will need to be conducted to review the approved written plans. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, are required to participate in the mandatory staff meeting. Documentation of the staff meeting will need to include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. A signed attendance roster of staff attending the meeting will need to be emailed to me within two (2) days after the meeting is conducted. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. Timeline for processing a license after determining points earned. PROGRAM POINTS: -Child Care Rule .2817(b) requires all classrooms assessed by NCRLAP to earn a minimum of 4.0 or higher in order to use any of the assessment scores to earn three or more points in program standards on the star rated license. If any of the assessments earn below 4.0, none of the scores can be used and the facility will earn two points in program standards. -When all assessments score a 4.0 or higher, the combined point average of the ITERS-R and ECERS-R assessments is used to determine the program standard points earned on the star rated license. -You stated that you are continuing to meet enhanced ratios and space. We reviewed the Programs Standards Worksheet and what the facility would need to be eligible for five points and six points program standards. You will need to meet the requirements in Child Care Rule .2806, enhanced ratios and have an average ERS score of 4.75 to be eligible for five points in program standards. You will need to meet the requirements in Child Care Rule .2806, enhanced ratios, enhanced space and have an average ERS score of 5 to be eligible for six points in program standards. -The total number of program points will be determined once we receive the ITERS-R reassessment scores. EDUCATION POINTS: -All staff must have their current education showing in WORKS. -Minimum requirements for staff must be met. -Minimum administrator requirements [.0704(a)] are: (1)have either a high school diploma or its equivalent; (2) have two years of full-time work experience in a licensed child care center or early childhood work experience; or an undergraduate, graduate, or associate degree, with 12 semester hours in child development, child psychology, early childhood education or directly related field; or a Child Development Associate Credential; or completion of a community or technical college curriculum program in the area of child care or early childhood; or one year of full-time child care or early childhood work experience and a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential; and (3) have verification of having completed, or be currently enrolled in, two semester credit hours, or 32 clock hours, of training in the area of early childhood program administration; or, have one year experience performing administrative responsibilities. *If an administrator has not met the qualifications required by G.S. 110-91(8), the requirements of Child Care Rule .0704(a) are required to be met.* -Minimum lead teacher and teacher requirements [.0710] are: -They have to be at least 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or its equivalent, and have one of the following: (1) One year of child care experience working in a licensed child care center or two years of verifiable experience as a licensed family child care home operator; or (2) Completion of a two-year high school program of Early Childhood Education in Family and Consumer Sciences Education; or (3) Twenty hours of training in child development, which will include the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential coursework, within the first six months of employment in addition to the number of on-going training hours required in Child Care Rule .1103. *If an individual does not have a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential (NCECC) or its equivalent, the requirements of Child Care Rule .0710 are required to be met.* We will monitor WORKS to determine education points for the Administrator, Lead Teachers, Teachers(if applicable) and Group Leader/Program Coordinator (if applicable). The group with the lowest point level is used to determine the education points earned on the star rated license. Quality Point: -The facility is eligible for one quality point for meeting an educational option. This means that each staff member must complete 20 additional in-service training hours in addition to their annual in-service training hours required in Child Care Rule .1103(a). These trainings can be taken through any Smart Start/Partnership for Children agencies, Child Care Resource and Referral agencies and various agencies that are approved by the DCDEE. To be eligible for a star rated license at the end of the Provisional License the facility must earn a compliance history score of 75 percent or higher. To continue to receive DSS subsidy at the end of the Provisional License the facility must earn at least a three star license. The following violation was observed during today's 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. A staff member was hired on 5/13/24 and there was no documentation on her New Staff Orientation form that she has completed the 2nd half of the orientation training. .1101(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: Document the date, amount of time, and initials on the New Staff Orientation form as you are reviewing the items with the new staff member. By completing the New Staff Orientation form as you are reviewing topics with the staff member, there will be less errors made on the document and it will ensure that it is complete and accurate at the end of the orientation. Once completed make sure you and the new staff member are signing and dating the document. CONSULTATION: -I gave you a copy of the college degrees approved to be related to Early Childhood Education for future reference when interviewing individuals. -For questions regarding Rowan DSS subsidy contact Paige Palmer, Rebecca.palmer@rowancountymc.gov, 704-216-8349 -For TA on assessments and/or annual in-service training contact Betty Trujillo, Early Education Program Lead Smart Start Rowan, btrujillo@smartstartrowan.org, (704) 603-3351 -For child care health questions or assistance contact Kimberly Cruz, Child Care Health Consultant, kimberly.cruz@rowancountync.gov, (704) 216-8806 -For assistance with challenging behaviors with children contact the Healthy Social Behavior Specialist: Burnita Fabers, fabers@childcareresourcesinc.org, 704-376-6697 x 310. -For assistance with children birth-three years of age, contact the NC Birth-to-Three Quality Initiative, Priscilla Hayes, phayes@childcareresourcesinc.org, 704-376-6697 x 305. -For questions regarding clarification of Child Care rules and requirements you can contact me, carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov, 704-594-0149. -You requested clarification on the Space Calculations Sheet. We reviewed the room numbers and matched with the floor diagram. We also reviewed the 25 square feet and 30 square feet per child. Twenty-five square meets minimum space requirement and 30 square feet per child meets enhanced space requirements. -We discussed that one college semester hour in early childhood/child development is equal to 16 in-service training hours. General Statute Reference: General Stature 110-91(8) (8) Qualifications for Staff. – All child care center administrators shall be at least 21 years of age. All child care center administrators shall have the North Carolina Early Childhood Administration Credential or its equivalent as determined by the Department. All child care administrators performing administrative duties as of the date this act becomes law and child care administrators who assume administrative duties at any time after this act becomes law and until September 1, 1998, shall obtain the required credential by September 1, 2000. Child care administrators who assume administrative duties after September 1, 1998, shall begin working toward the completion of the North Carolina Early Childhood Administration Credential or its equivalent within six months after assuming administrative duties and shall complete the credential or its equivalent within two years after beginning work to complete the credential. Each child care center shall be under the direction or supervision of a person meeting these requirements. All staff counted toward meeting the required staff-child ratio shall be at least 16 years of age, provided that persons younger than 18 years of age work under the direct supervision of a credentialed staff person who is at least 21 years of age. All lead teachers in a child care center shall have at least a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential or its equivalent as determined by the Department. Lead teachers shall be enrolled in the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential coursework or its equivalent as determined by the Department within six months after becoming employed as a lead teacher or within six months after this act becomes law, whichever is later, and shall complete the credential or its equivalent within 18 months after enrollment. For child care centers licensed to care for 200 or more children, the Department, in collaboration with the North Carolina Institute for Early Childhood Professional Development, shall establish categories to recognize the levels of education achieved by child care center administrators and teachers who perform administrative functions. The Department shall use these categories to establish appropriate staffing based on the size of the center and the individual staff responsibilities. REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by August 8, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/25/2024 Number Present: 13 Completed Date: 7/25/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced An Administrative Action Follow Up Visit was conducted today. I was accompanied by Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant. Upon arrival, we were greeted by you, Ms. Dixon, Owner and we stated the reason for our visit. Ms. Simpson arrived as you were getting ready to prepare lunch. The Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter and Corrective Action Plan were posted on the Parent Information board located near the entrance. The children were observed during free choice activities indoors, teacher directed activities and lunch. We monitored the following during today’s visit: -Supervision -Staff/child ratios -Adequate/approved space -Criminal background checks -Permit posted -CPR and First Aid Training -Special Training -Program Records Emergency drills and outdoor inspections are occurring as required. The fire inspection was conducted on April 4, 2024. A sanitation inspection was conducted on April 22, 2024, with two demerits and a superior rating. There have been no new staff hired since our last visit. I monitored WORKS and on July 11, 2024, R. Burns qualified as a Lead Teacher You stated that Ms. Finger is still enrolled in EDU 119 and will be completed in August 2024. We reviewed the Corrective Action Plan that you received on April 17, 2024: Item 1: You will maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements, including but not limited to, the following: -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0714(a) regarding Director Qualification -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 10A NCAC 09 .0710 (a-b) regarding Lead Teacher Qualifications Item 2: Within one (1) week after the Notice was received, you, Keshia Dixon, Owner, was to contact me to schedule a Rules Review Training in which all staff would need to attend. I contacted you on May 1, 2024, to remind you to schedule a Rules Review for you and all staff. We scheduled the review, and it took place on May 29, 2024, from 3:30-5:20 at your facility. All staff were present and there is documentation that they were present. Item 3: Within two (2) weeks after this Notice is received, you needed to submit a written plan to me on how the facility will obtain a star rated license after the Provisional License period. This was submitted to me on May 29, 2024. Item 4: Within two (2) weeks after the training that took place on May 29, 2024, You, were to develop a written plan to ensure compliance with director qualifications and lead teacher qualifications. The written plan was also to include, but not limited to, the following: -Plan to verify staff are meeting preservice administrator and lead teacher requirements prior to employment -Plan to verify staff qualifications using the WORKS status letter prior to employment -Plan for determining what position a new staff member can hold based on their current qualifications -Plan for a periodic review of staff qualifications You submitted the plan to me on June 21, 2024. I reviewed the plan and sent an email to you on July 5, 2024, requesting revisions and clarification. I received an email that same day informing me that the facility was closed due to the holiday and that you would submit the revised plan to me. As of today’s date, I have not received the revised plan. During today’s visit you stated that you have made the revisions and that you wanted to review on more time prior to sending it to me. Please submit the revised plan to me by the end of the business day Monday, July 29, 2024. Once approved the written plan will be immediately implemented and permanently incorporated into the facility’s operating procedures. A copy of the approved written plan will be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) upon request. Item 5: Within two (2) weeks after the approval of the written plans, a staff meeting will need to be conducted to review the approved written plans. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, are required to participate in the mandatory staff meeting. Documentation of the staff meeting will need to include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. A signed attendance roster of staff attending the meeting will need to be emailed to me within two (2) days after the meeting is conducted. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. Timeline for processing a license after determining points earned. PROGRAM POINTS: -Child Care Rule .2817(b) requires all classrooms assessed by NCRLAP to earn a minimum of 4.0 or higher in order to use any of the assessment scores to earn three or more points in program standards on the star rated license. If any of the assessments earn below 4.0, none of the scores can be used and the facility will earn two points in program standards. -When all assessments score a 4.0 or higher, the combined point average of the ITERS-R and ECERS-R assessments is used to determine the program standard points earned on the star rated license. -You stated that you are continuing to meet enhanced ratios and space. We reviewed the Programs Standards Worksheet and what the facility would need to be eligible for five points and six points program standards. You will need to meet the requirements in Child Care Rule .2806, enhanced ratios and have an average ERS score of 4.75 to be eligible for five points in program standards. You will need to meet the requirements in Child Care Rule .2806, enhanced ratios, enhanced space and have an average ERS score of 5 to be eligible for six points in program standards. -The total number of program points will be determined once we receive the ITERS-R reassessment scores. EDUCATION POINTS: -All staff must have their current education showing in WORKS. -Minimum requirements for staff must be met. -Minimum administrator requirements [.0704(a)] are: (1)have either a high school diploma or its equivalent; (2) have two years of full-time work experience in a licensed child care center or early childhood work experience; or an undergraduate, graduate, or associate degree, with 12 semester hours in child development, child psychology, early childhood education or directly related field; or a Child Development Associate Credential; or completion of a community or technical college curriculum program in the area of child care or early childhood; or one year of full-time child care or early childhood work experience and a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential; and (3) have verification of having completed, or be currently enrolled in, two semester credit hours, or 32 clock hours, of training in the area of early childhood program administration; or, have one year experience performing administrative responsibilities. *If an administrator has not met the qualifications required by G.S. 110-91(8), the requirements of Child Care Rule .0704(a) are required to be met.* -Minimum lead teacher and teacher requirements [.0710] are: -They have to be at least 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or its equivalent, and have one of the following: (1) One year of child care experience working in a licensed child care center or two years of verifiable experience as a licensed family child care home operator; or (2) Completion of a two-year high school program of Early Childhood Education in Family and Consumer Sciences Education; or (3) Twenty hours of training in child development, which will include the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential coursework, within the first six months of employment in addition to the number of on-going training hours required in Child Care Rule .1103. *If an individual does not have a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential (NCECC) or its equivalent, the requirements of Child Care Rule .0710 are required to be met.* We will monitor WORKS to determine education points for the Administrator, Lead Teachers, Teachers(if applicable) and Group Leader/Program Coordinator (if applicable). The group with the lowest point level is used to determine the education points earned on the star rated license. Quality Point: -The facility is eligible for one quality point for meeting an educational option. This means that each staff member must complete 20 additional in-service training hours in addition to their annual in-service training hours required in Child Care Rule .1103(a). These trainings can be taken through any Smart Start/Partnership for Children agencies, Child Care Resource and Referral agencies and various agencies that are approved by the DCDEE. To be eligible for a star rated license at the end of the Provisional License the facility must earn a compliance history score of 75 percent or higher. To continue to receive DSS subsidy at the end of the Provisional License the facility must earn at least a three star license. The following violation was observed during today's 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. A staff member was hired on 5/13/24 and there was no documentation on her New Staff Orientation form that she has completed the 2nd half of the orientation training. .1101(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: Document the date, amount of time, and initials on the New Staff Orientation form as you are reviewing the items with the new staff member. By completing the New Staff Orientation form as you are reviewing topics with the staff member, there will be less errors made on the document and it will ensure that it is complete and accurate at the end of the orientation. Once completed make sure you and the new staff member are signing and dating the document. CONSULTATION: -I gave you a copy of the college degrees approved to be related to Early Childhood Education for future reference when interviewing individuals. -For questions regarding Rowan DSS subsidy contact Paige Palmer, Rebecca.palmer@rowancountymc.gov, 704-216-8349 -For TA on assessments and/or annual in-service training contact Betty Trujillo, Early Education Program Lead Smart Start Rowan, btrujillo@smartstartrowan.org, (704) 603-3351 -For child care health questions or assistance contact Kimberly Cruz, Child Care Health Consultant, kimberly.cruz@rowancountync.gov, (704) 216-8806 -For assistance with challenging behaviors with children contact the Healthy Social Behavior Specialist: Burnita Fabers, fabers@childcareresourcesinc.org, 704-376-6697 x 310. -For assistance with children birth-three years of age, contact the NC Birth-to-Three Quality Initiative, Priscilla Hayes, phayes@childcareresourcesinc.org, 704-376-6697 x 305. -For questions regarding clarification of Child Care rules and requirements you can contact me, carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov, 704-594-0149. -You requested clarification on the Space Calculations Sheet. We reviewed the room numbers and matched with the floor diagram. We also reviewed the 25 square feet and 30 square feet per child. Twenty-five square meets minimum space requirement and 30 square feet per child meets enhanced space requirements. -We discussed that one college semester hour in early childhood/child development is equal to 16 in-service training hours. General Statute Reference: General Stature 110-91(8) (8) Qualifications for Staff. – All child care center administrators shall be at least 21 years of age. All child care center administrators shall have the North Carolina Early Childhood Administration Credential or its equivalent as determined by the Department. All child care administrators performing administrative duties as of the date this act becomes law and child care administrators who assume administrative duties at any time after this act becomes law and until September 1, 1998, shall obtain the required credential by September 1, 2000. Child care administrators who assume administrative duties after September 1, 1998, shall begin working toward the completion of the North Carolina Early Childhood Administration Credential or its equivalent within six months after assuming administrative duties and shall complete the credential or its equivalent within two years after beginning work to complete the credential. Each child care center shall be under the direction or supervision of a person meeting these requirements. All staff counted toward meeting the required staff-child ratio shall be at least 16 years of age, provided that persons younger than 18 years of age work under the direct supervision of a credentialed staff person who is at least 21 years of age. All lead teachers in a child care center shall have at least a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential or its equivalent as determined by the Department. Lead teachers shall be enrolled in the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential coursework or its equivalent as determined by the Department within six months after becoming employed as a lead teacher or within six months after this act becomes law, whichever is later, and shall complete the credential or its equivalent within 18 months after enrollment. For child care centers licensed to care for 200 or more children, the Department, in collaboration with the North Carolina Institute for Early Childhood Professional Development, shall establish categories to recognize the levels of education achieved by child care center administrators and teachers who perform administrative functions. The Department shall use these categories to establish appropriate staffing based on the size of the center and the individual staff responsibilities. REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by August 8, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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 .0703 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/13/2024 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 6/13/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 95 Time In: 12:10 PM Time Out: 01:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced An Administrative Action Follow Up Visit was conducted today. I was accompanied by Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant. I hand delivered the Action to Ms. Dixon, owner of the facility, on April 17, 2024. Upon arrival, we were greeted by Ms. Dixon and you, Ms. Simpson, Director. Ms. Dixon stated that she would be leaving shortly and that you would be available to assist us with the visit. You stated that your working hours will be 9:00-5:00. The Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter and Corrective Action Plan were posted on the Parent Information board located near the entrance. The children were observed during nap time. We monitored the following during today’s visit: -Supervision -Staff/child ratios -Adequate/approved space -Criminal background checks -Permit posted -CPR and First Aid Training -Special Training -Program Records Emergency drills and outdoor inspections are occurring as required. The fire inspection was conducted on April 4, 2024. A sanitation inspection was conducted on April 22, 2024, with two demerits and a superior rating. There have been no new staff hired since our last visit. R. Burns file was monitored during the visit conducted on May 13, 2024 and we discussed her WORKS account. During today’s visit she stated that she is waiting on her high school transcripts to be sent to her so that she can send them to WORKS. You stated that Ms. Finger is enrolled in EDU 119 and will be completed in August 2024. Due to unforeseen circumstances, the joint TA visit that was scheduled on May 28th with Rowan Smart Start was canceled. You stated that you do not feel that the joint TA visit needs to be rescheduled. You stated that Betty Trujillo and Kimberly Cruz visited your program today. B. Trujillo, Early Childhood Specialist, will be scheduling mock assessments to work with the staff. K. Cruz will also be providing TA concerning health and sanitation items. We reviewed the Corrective Action Plan: 1.The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements, including but not limited to, the following: -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0714(a) regarding Director Qualification -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 10A NCAC 09 .0710 (a-b) regarding Lead Teacher Qualifications 2.Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, Keshia Dixon, Owner, shall contact Carolyn Conley, Lead Child Care Consultant, PO Box 835, Kannapolis, NC 28082, telephone number 704-594-0149, email Carolyn.Conley@dhhs.nc.gov, to arrange for a complete review of all child care requirements. Special emphasis shall be placed on child care requirements in Item #1. Ms. Dixon and all staff members, including full-time, part-time, and auxiliary staff shall attend the mandatory training. No children shall be in care during the training. Documentation of the training shall include a training roster with the names and signatures of the participants, and the date and time the training was conducted. [I contacted Ms. Dixon on May 1, 2024, to remind her that the program needs to schedule a Rules Review for you and all your staff. We scheduled the review and it took place on May 29, 2024 from 3:30-5:20 at your facility. All staff were present and signed in.] 3. Within two (2) weeks after this Notice is received, Ms. Dixon shall submit a written plan on how the facility will obtain a star rated license after the Provisional License period. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: -Complete and submit a rated license application to request a Two through Five Star Rated License -Plan for obtaining the desired education points towards earning a Star Rated License -Plan for obtaining the desired program points towards earning a Star Rated License -Plan for increasing the score on items that scored a Four or below on the ITERS-R assessment conducted on March 14, 2024 [This was submitted to me on May 29, 2024.] 4. Within two (2) weeks after the training required in Item #2 has been completed, Ms. Dixon shall develop a written plan to ensure compliance with director qualifications and lead teacher qualifications. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: -Plan to verify staff are meeting preservice administrator and lead teacher requirements prior to employment -Plan to verify staff qualifications using the WORKS status letter prior to employment -Plan for determining what position a new staff member can hold based on their current qualifications -Plan for a periodic review of staff qualifications The written plan shall be submitted to Ms. Conley for approval. Ms. Conley will notify Ms. Dixon orally and in writing, as to whether the written plan is approved or if modifications are needed. Once approved the written plan shall be immediately implemented and permanently incorporated into the facility’s operating procedures. A copy of the approved written plan shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. [We discussed this during the Rules Review conducted on May 29, 2024, that this needs to be submitted to me by June 12, 2024.] During today’s visit we discussed this plan and what it needs to include. We reviewed 10A NCAC 09 .0703 General Statutory Requirements and 10A NCAC 09.704 Preservice Requirements for Child Care Administrators. I gave you copies of these rules from the rule book (Pg. 23-34) We also reviewed the document “Rated License for Child Care Centers That Provides Care to Preschool and School-Age Children”. This breaks down the requirements needed for each star level. We reviewed what is required to be eligible for three stars. This can be found on the DCDEE website. I gave you a copy of this during today’s visit. I encouraged you to use this information as you work on your plan for stipulation #4. A copy of this was given to you during the visit conducted on May 13, 2024. 5.Within two (2) weeks after the approval of the written plans in Item #3 and #4 of the Corrective Action Plan, a staff meeting shall be conducted to review the approved written plans. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory staff meeting. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. A signed attendance roster of staff attending the meeting shall be emailed to Ms. Conley within two (2) days after the meeting is conducted. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. The following violation was observed during today's visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 1809 The facility operator did not complete the corrective action as specified by the Division. Stipulation #4 was to completed by 6/12/24. G.S. 110-105.6(d) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: -Write out a plan for obtaining the desired education points towards earning a Star Rated License. List all your staff and what you and they have put in place to continue their education. List classes that they are taking and when they will be completed. List their goals and desired grade they are working towards. -Write out a plan for obtaining the desired program points towards earning a Star Rated License and what steps, goals, and timelines you have put in place to ensure that your program is able to put everything in place prior to the Provisional License expiring on October 17, 2024. -Write out the plan for increasing the scores on items that scored a Four or below on the ITERS-R assessment conducted on March 14, 2024. The North Carolina Rated Licensing Assessment Project’s (NCRLAP) website ncrlap.org has resources and trainings specifically for the ITERS-R that may be beneficial for you and your staff. Include in your plan specific resources/trainings that you and your staff will take and use. Include in your plan that you and your staff will be working with Betty Trujillo, Early Education Program Lead, at Smart Start Rowan. Include the date that you will be meeting with her. -We discussed that it may be helpful if you give B. Trujillo a copy of the ERS assessments as she provides TA to you and your staff. Consultation: -Here is a link on the DCDEE website that explains how points are earned. I also gave you a copy of the "Program and Education Requirements for Child Care Centers that Provide Care to Preschool and School-Age Children" as a reference for you as you work on your plan of achieving more stars in program and education standards. https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/How-Points-are-Earned REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by June 27, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor Erin Pickard at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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 .0710 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/13/2024 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 6/13/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 95 Time In: 12:10 PM Time Out: 01:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced An Administrative Action Follow Up Visit was conducted today. I was accompanied by Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant. I hand delivered the Action to Ms. Dixon, owner of the facility, on April 17, 2024. Upon arrival, we were greeted by Ms. Dixon and you, Ms. Simpson, Director. Ms. Dixon stated that she would be leaving shortly and that you would be available to assist us with the visit. You stated that your working hours will be 9:00-5:00. The Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter and Corrective Action Plan were posted on the Parent Information board located near the entrance. The children were observed during nap time. We monitored the following during today’s visit: -Supervision -Staff/child ratios -Adequate/approved space -Criminal background checks -Permit posted -CPR and First Aid Training -Special Training -Program Records Emergency drills and outdoor inspections are occurring as required. The fire inspection was conducted on April 4, 2024. A sanitation inspection was conducted on April 22, 2024, with two demerits and a superior rating. There have been no new staff hired since our last visit. R. Burns file was monitored during the visit conducted on May 13, 2024 and we discussed her WORKS account. During today’s visit she stated that she is waiting on her high school transcripts to be sent to her so that she can send them to WORKS. You stated that Ms. Finger is enrolled in EDU 119 and will be completed in August 2024. Due to unforeseen circumstances, the joint TA visit that was scheduled on May 28th with Rowan Smart Start was canceled. You stated that you do not feel that the joint TA visit needs to be rescheduled. You stated that Betty Trujillo and Kimberly Cruz visited your program today. B. Trujillo, Early Childhood Specialist, will be scheduling mock assessments to work with the staff. K. Cruz will also be providing TA concerning health and sanitation items. We reviewed the Corrective Action Plan: 1.The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements, including but not limited to, the following: -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0714(a) regarding Director Qualification -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 10A NCAC 09 .0710 (a-b) regarding Lead Teacher Qualifications 2.Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, Keshia Dixon, Owner, shall contact Carolyn Conley, Lead Child Care Consultant, PO Box 835, Kannapolis, NC 28082, telephone number 704-594-0149, email Carolyn.Conley@dhhs.nc.gov, to arrange for a complete review of all child care requirements. Special emphasis shall be placed on child care requirements in Item #1. Ms. Dixon and all staff members, including full-time, part-time, and auxiliary staff shall attend the mandatory training. No children shall be in care during the training. Documentation of the training shall include a training roster with the names and signatures of the participants, and the date and time the training was conducted. [I contacted Ms. Dixon on May 1, 2024, to remind her that the program needs to schedule a Rules Review for you and all your staff. We scheduled the review and it took place on May 29, 2024 from 3:30-5:20 at your facility. All staff were present and signed in.] 3. Within two (2) weeks after this Notice is received, Ms. Dixon shall submit a written plan on how the facility will obtain a star rated license after the Provisional License period. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: -Complete and submit a rated license application to request a Two through Five Star Rated License -Plan for obtaining the desired education points towards earning a Star Rated License -Plan for obtaining the desired program points towards earning a Star Rated License -Plan for increasing the score on items that scored a Four or below on the ITERS-R assessment conducted on March 14, 2024 [This was submitted to me on May 29, 2024.] 4. Within two (2) weeks after the training required in Item #2 has been completed, Ms. Dixon shall develop a written plan to ensure compliance with director qualifications and lead teacher qualifications. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: -Plan to verify staff are meeting preservice administrator and lead teacher requirements prior to employment -Plan to verify staff qualifications using the WORKS status letter prior to employment -Plan for determining what position a new staff member can hold based on their current qualifications -Plan for a periodic review of staff qualifications The written plan shall be submitted to Ms. Conley for approval. Ms. Conley will notify Ms. Dixon orally and in writing, as to whether the written plan is approved or if modifications are needed. Once approved the written plan shall be immediately implemented and permanently incorporated into the facility’s operating procedures. A copy of the approved written plan shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. [We discussed this during the Rules Review conducted on May 29, 2024, that this needs to be submitted to me by June 12, 2024.] During today’s visit we discussed this plan and what it needs to include. We reviewed 10A NCAC 09 .0703 General Statutory Requirements and 10A NCAC 09.704 Preservice Requirements for Child Care Administrators. I gave you copies of these rules from the rule book (Pg. 23-34) We also reviewed the document “Rated License for Child Care Centers That Provides Care to Preschool and School-Age Children”. This breaks down the requirements needed for each star level. We reviewed what is required to be eligible for three stars. This can be found on the DCDEE website. I gave you a copy of this during today’s visit. I encouraged you to use this information as you work on your plan for stipulation #4. A copy of this was given to you during the visit conducted on May 13, 2024. 5.Within two (2) weeks after the approval of the written plans in Item #3 and #4 of the Corrective Action Plan, a staff meeting shall be conducted to review the approved written plans. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory staff meeting. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. A signed attendance roster of staff attending the meeting shall be emailed to Ms. Conley within two (2) days after the meeting is conducted. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. The following violation was observed during today's visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 1809 The facility operator did not complete the corrective action as specified by the Division. Stipulation #4 was to completed by 6/12/24. G.S. 110-105.6(d) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: -Write out a plan for obtaining the desired education points towards earning a Star Rated License. List all your staff and what you and they have put in place to continue their education. List classes that they are taking and when they will be completed. List their goals and desired grade they are working towards. -Write out a plan for obtaining the desired program points towards earning a Star Rated License and what steps, goals, and timelines you have put in place to ensure that your program is able to put everything in place prior to the Provisional License expiring on October 17, 2024. -Write out the plan for increasing the scores on items that scored a Four or below on the ITERS-R assessment conducted on March 14, 2024. The North Carolina Rated Licensing Assessment Project’s (NCRLAP) website ncrlap.org has resources and trainings specifically for the ITERS-R that may be beneficial for you and your staff. Include in your plan specific resources/trainings that you and your staff will take and use. Include in your plan that you and your staff will be working with Betty Trujillo, Early Education Program Lead, at Smart Start Rowan. Include the date that you will be meeting with her. -We discussed that it may be helpful if you give B. Trujillo a copy of the ERS assessments as she provides TA to you and your staff. Consultation: -Here is a link on the DCDEE website that explains how points are earned. I also gave you a copy of the "Program and Education Requirements for Child Care Centers that Provide Care to Preschool and School-Age Children" as a reference for you as you work on your plan of achieving more stars in program and education standards. https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/How-Points-are-Earned REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by June 27, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor Erin Pickard at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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 .0714 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/13/2024 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 6/13/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 95 Time In: 12:10 PM Time Out: 01:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced An Administrative Action Follow Up Visit was conducted today. I was accompanied by Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant. I hand delivered the Action to Ms. Dixon, owner of the facility, on April 17, 2024. Upon arrival, we were greeted by Ms. Dixon and you, Ms. Simpson, Director. Ms. Dixon stated that she would be leaving shortly and that you would be available to assist us with the visit. You stated that your working hours will be 9:00-5:00. The Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter and Corrective Action Plan were posted on the Parent Information board located near the entrance. The children were observed during nap time. We monitored the following during today’s visit: -Supervision -Staff/child ratios -Adequate/approved space -Criminal background checks -Permit posted -CPR and First Aid Training -Special Training -Program Records Emergency drills and outdoor inspections are occurring as required. The fire inspection was conducted on April 4, 2024. A sanitation inspection was conducted on April 22, 2024, with two demerits and a superior rating. There have been no new staff hired since our last visit. R. Burns file was monitored during the visit conducted on May 13, 2024 and we discussed her WORKS account. During today’s visit she stated that she is waiting on her high school transcripts to be sent to her so that she can send them to WORKS. You stated that Ms. Finger is enrolled in EDU 119 and will be completed in August 2024. Due to unforeseen circumstances, the joint TA visit that was scheduled on May 28th with Rowan Smart Start was canceled. You stated that you do not feel that the joint TA visit needs to be rescheduled. You stated that Betty Trujillo and Kimberly Cruz visited your program today. B. Trujillo, Early Childhood Specialist, will be scheduling mock assessments to work with the staff. K. Cruz will also be providing TA concerning health and sanitation items. We reviewed the Corrective Action Plan: 1.The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements, including but not limited to, the following: -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0714(a) regarding Director Qualification -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 10A NCAC 09 .0710 (a-b) regarding Lead Teacher Qualifications 2.Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, Keshia Dixon, Owner, shall contact Carolyn Conley, Lead Child Care Consultant, PO Box 835, Kannapolis, NC 28082, telephone number 704-594-0149, email Carolyn.Conley@dhhs.nc.gov, to arrange for a complete review of all child care requirements. Special emphasis shall be placed on child care requirements in Item #1. Ms. Dixon and all staff members, including full-time, part-time, and auxiliary staff shall attend the mandatory training. No children shall be in care during the training. Documentation of the training shall include a training roster with the names and signatures of the participants, and the date and time the training was conducted. [I contacted Ms. Dixon on May 1, 2024, to remind her that the program needs to schedule a Rules Review for you and all your staff. We scheduled the review and it took place on May 29, 2024 from 3:30-5:20 at your facility. All staff were present and signed in.] 3. Within two (2) weeks after this Notice is received, Ms. Dixon shall submit a written plan on how the facility will obtain a star rated license after the Provisional License period. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: -Complete and submit a rated license application to request a Two through Five Star Rated License -Plan for obtaining the desired education points towards earning a Star Rated License -Plan for obtaining the desired program points towards earning a Star Rated License -Plan for increasing the score on items that scored a Four or below on the ITERS-R assessment conducted on March 14, 2024 [This was submitted to me on May 29, 2024.] 4. Within two (2) weeks after the training required in Item #2 has been completed, Ms. Dixon shall develop a written plan to ensure compliance with director qualifications and lead teacher qualifications. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: -Plan to verify staff are meeting preservice administrator and lead teacher requirements prior to employment -Plan to verify staff qualifications using the WORKS status letter prior to employment -Plan for determining what position a new staff member can hold based on their current qualifications -Plan for a periodic review of staff qualifications The written plan shall be submitted to Ms. Conley for approval. Ms. Conley will notify Ms. Dixon orally and in writing, as to whether the written plan is approved or if modifications are needed. Once approved the written plan shall be immediately implemented and permanently incorporated into the facility’s operating procedures. A copy of the approved written plan shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. [We discussed this during the Rules Review conducted on May 29, 2024, that this needs to be submitted to me by June 12, 2024.] During today’s visit we discussed this plan and what it needs to include. We reviewed 10A NCAC 09 .0703 General Statutory Requirements and 10A NCAC 09.704 Preservice Requirements for Child Care Administrators. I gave you copies of these rules from the rule book (Pg. 23-34) We also reviewed the document “Rated License for Child Care Centers That Provides Care to Preschool and School-Age Children”. This breaks down the requirements needed for each star level. We reviewed what is required to be eligible for three stars. This can be found on the DCDEE website. I gave you a copy of this during today’s visit. I encouraged you to use this information as you work on your plan for stipulation #4. A copy of this was given to you during the visit conducted on May 13, 2024. 5.Within two (2) weeks after the approval of the written plans in Item #3 and #4 of the Corrective Action Plan, a staff meeting shall be conducted to review the approved written plans. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory staff meeting. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. A signed attendance roster of staff attending the meeting shall be emailed to Ms. Conley within two (2) days after the meeting is conducted. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. The following violation was observed during today's visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 1809 The facility operator did not complete the corrective action as specified by the Division. Stipulation #4 was to completed by 6/12/24. G.S. 110-105.6(d) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: -Write out a plan for obtaining the desired education points towards earning a Star Rated License. List all your staff and what you and they have put in place to continue their education. List classes that they are taking and when they will be completed. List their goals and desired grade they are working towards. -Write out a plan for obtaining the desired program points towards earning a Star Rated License and what steps, goals, and timelines you have put in place to ensure that your program is able to put everything in place prior to the Provisional License expiring on October 17, 2024. -Write out the plan for increasing the scores on items that scored a Four or below on the ITERS-R assessment conducted on March 14, 2024. The North Carolina Rated Licensing Assessment Project’s (NCRLAP) website ncrlap.org has resources and trainings specifically for the ITERS-R that may be beneficial for you and your staff. Include in your plan specific resources/trainings that you and your staff will take and use. Include in your plan that you and your staff will be working with Betty Trujillo, Early Education Program Lead, at Smart Start Rowan. Include the date that you will be meeting with her. -We discussed that it may be helpful if you give B. Trujillo a copy of the ERS assessments as she provides TA to you and your staff. Consultation: -Here is a link on the DCDEE website that explains how points are earned. I also gave you a copy of the "Program and Education Requirements for Child Care Centers that Provide Care to Preschool and School-Age Children" as a reference for you as you work on your plan of achieving more stars in program and education standards. https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/How-Points-are-Earned REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by June 27, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor Erin Pickard at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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 .2200 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/13/2024 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 6/13/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 95 Time In: 12:10 PM Time Out: 01:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced An Administrative Action Follow Up Visit was conducted today. I was accompanied by Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant. I hand delivered the Action to Ms. Dixon, owner of the facility, on April 17, 2024. Upon arrival, we were greeted by Ms. Dixon and you, Ms. Simpson, Director. Ms. Dixon stated that she would be leaving shortly and that you would be available to assist us with the visit. You stated that your working hours will be 9:00-5:00. The Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter and Corrective Action Plan were posted on the Parent Information board located near the entrance. The children were observed during nap time. We monitored the following during today’s visit: -Supervision -Staff/child ratios -Adequate/approved space -Criminal background checks -Permit posted -CPR and First Aid Training -Special Training -Program Records Emergency drills and outdoor inspections are occurring as required. The fire inspection was conducted on April 4, 2024. A sanitation inspection was conducted on April 22, 2024, with two demerits and a superior rating. There have been no new staff hired since our last visit. R. Burns file was monitored during the visit conducted on May 13, 2024 and we discussed her WORKS account. During today’s visit she stated that she is waiting on her high school transcripts to be sent to her so that she can send them to WORKS. You stated that Ms. Finger is enrolled in EDU 119 and will be completed in August 2024. Due to unforeseen circumstances, the joint TA visit that was scheduled on May 28th with Rowan Smart Start was canceled. You stated that you do not feel that the joint TA visit needs to be rescheduled. You stated that Betty Trujillo and Kimberly Cruz visited your program today. B. Trujillo, Early Childhood Specialist, will be scheduling mock assessments to work with the staff. K. Cruz will also be providing TA concerning health and sanitation items. We reviewed the Corrective Action Plan: 1.The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements, including but not limited to, the following: -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0714(a) regarding Director Qualification -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 10A NCAC 09 .0710 (a-b) regarding Lead Teacher Qualifications 2.Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, Keshia Dixon, Owner, shall contact Carolyn Conley, Lead Child Care Consultant, PO Box 835, Kannapolis, NC 28082, telephone number 704-594-0149, email Carolyn.Conley@dhhs.nc.gov, to arrange for a complete review of all child care requirements. Special emphasis shall be placed on child care requirements in Item #1. Ms. Dixon and all staff members, including full-time, part-time, and auxiliary staff shall attend the mandatory training. No children shall be in care during the training. Documentation of the training shall include a training roster with the names and signatures of the participants, and the date and time the training was conducted. [I contacted Ms. Dixon on May 1, 2024, to remind her that the program needs to schedule a Rules Review for you and all your staff. We scheduled the review and it took place on May 29, 2024 from 3:30-5:20 at your facility. All staff were present and signed in.] 3. Within two (2) weeks after this Notice is received, Ms. Dixon shall submit a written plan on how the facility will obtain a star rated license after the Provisional License period. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: -Complete and submit a rated license application to request a Two through Five Star Rated License -Plan for obtaining the desired education points towards earning a Star Rated License -Plan for obtaining the desired program points towards earning a Star Rated License -Plan for increasing the score on items that scored a Four or below on the ITERS-R assessment conducted on March 14, 2024 [This was submitted to me on May 29, 2024.] 4. Within two (2) weeks after the training required in Item #2 has been completed, Ms. Dixon shall develop a written plan to ensure compliance with director qualifications and lead teacher qualifications. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: -Plan to verify staff are meeting preservice administrator and lead teacher requirements prior to employment -Plan to verify staff qualifications using the WORKS status letter prior to employment -Plan for determining what position a new staff member can hold based on their current qualifications -Plan for a periodic review of staff qualifications The written plan shall be submitted to Ms. Conley for approval. Ms. Conley will notify Ms. Dixon orally and in writing, as to whether the written plan is approved or if modifications are needed. Once approved the written plan shall be immediately implemented and permanently incorporated into the facility’s operating procedures. A copy of the approved written plan shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. [We discussed this during the Rules Review conducted on May 29, 2024, that this needs to be submitted to me by June 12, 2024.] During today’s visit we discussed this plan and what it needs to include. We reviewed 10A NCAC 09 .0703 General Statutory Requirements and 10A NCAC 09.704 Preservice Requirements for Child Care Administrators. I gave you copies of these rules from the rule book (Pg. 23-34) We also reviewed the document “Rated License for Child Care Centers That Provides Care to Preschool and School-Age Children”. This breaks down the requirements needed for each star level. We reviewed what is required to be eligible for three stars. This can be found on the DCDEE website. I gave you a copy of this during today’s visit. I encouraged you to use this information as you work on your plan for stipulation #4. A copy of this was given to you during the visit conducted on May 13, 2024. 5.Within two (2) weeks after the approval of the written plans in Item #3 and #4 of the Corrective Action Plan, a staff meeting shall be conducted to review the approved written plans. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory staff meeting. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. A signed attendance roster of staff attending the meeting shall be emailed to Ms. Conley within two (2) days after the meeting is conducted. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. The following violation was observed during today's visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 1809 The facility operator did not complete the corrective action as specified by the Division. Stipulation #4 was to completed by 6/12/24. G.S. 110-105.6(d) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: -Write out a plan for obtaining the desired education points towards earning a Star Rated License. List all your staff and what you and they have put in place to continue their education. List classes that they are taking and when they will be completed. List their goals and desired grade they are working towards. -Write out a plan for obtaining the desired program points towards earning a Star Rated License and what steps, goals, and timelines you have put in place to ensure that your program is able to put everything in place prior to the Provisional License expiring on October 17, 2024. -Write out the plan for increasing the scores on items that scored a Four or below on the ITERS-R assessment conducted on March 14, 2024. The North Carolina Rated Licensing Assessment Project’s (NCRLAP) website ncrlap.org has resources and trainings specifically for the ITERS-R that may be beneficial for you and your staff. Include in your plan specific resources/trainings that you and your staff will take and use. Include in your plan that you and your staff will be working with Betty Trujillo, Early Education Program Lead, at Smart Start Rowan. Include the date that you will be meeting with her. -We discussed that it may be helpful if you give B. Trujillo a copy of the ERS assessments as she provides TA to you and your staff. Consultation: -Here is a link on the DCDEE website that explains how points are earned. I also gave you a copy of the "Program and Education Requirements for Child Care Centers that Provide Care to Preschool and School-Age Children" as a reference for you as you work on your plan of achieving more stars in program and education standards. https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/How-Points-are-Earned REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by June 27, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor Erin Pickard at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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 09.704 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/13/2024 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 6/13/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 95 Time In: 12:10 PM Time Out: 01:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced An Administrative Action Follow Up Visit was conducted today. I was accompanied by Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant. I hand delivered the Action to Ms. Dixon, owner of the facility, on April 17, 2024. Upon arrival, we were greeted by Ms. Dixon and you, Ms. Simpson, Director. Ms. Dixon stated that she would be leaving shortly and that you would be available to assist us with the visit. You stated that your working hours will be 9:00-5:00. The Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter and Corrective Action Plan were posted on the Parent Information board located near the entrance. The children were observed during nap time. We monitored the following during today’s visit: -Supervision -Staff/child ratios -Adequate/approved space -Criminal background checks -Permit posted -CPR and First Aid Training -Special Training -Program Records Emergency drills and outdoor inspections are occurring as required. The fire inspection was conducted on April 4, 2024. A sanitation inspection was conducted on April 22, 2024, with two demerits and a superior rating. There have been no new staff hired since our last visit. R. Burns file was monitored during the visit conducted on May 13, 2024 and we discussed her WORKS account. During today’s visit she stated that she is waiting on her high school transcripts to be sent to her so that she can send them to WORKS. You stated that Ms. Finger is enrolled in EDU 119 and will be completed in August 2024. Due to unforeseen circumstances, the joint TA visit that was scheduled on May 28th with Rowan Smart Start was canceled. You stated that you do not feel that the joint TA visit needs to be rescheduled. You stated that Betty Trujillo and Kimberly Cruz visited your program today. B. Trujillo, Early Childhood Specialist, will be scheduling mock assessments to work with the staff. K. Cruz will also be providing TA concerning health and sanitation items. We reviewed the Corrective Action Plan: 1.The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements, including but not limited to, the following: -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0714(a) regarding Director Qualification -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 10A NCAC 09 .0710 (a-b) regarding Lead Teacher Qualifications 2.Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, Keshia Dixon, Owner, shall contact Carolyn Conley, Lead Child Care Consultant, PO Box 835, Kannapolis, NC 28082, telephone number 704-594-0149, email Carolyn.Conley@dhhs.nc.gov, to arrange for a complete review of all child care requirements. Special emphasis shall be placed on child care requirements in Item #1. Ms. Dixon and all staff members, including full-time, part-time, and auxiliary staff shall attend the mandatory training. No children shall be in care during the training. Documentation of the training shall include a training roster with the names and signatures of the participants, and the date and time the training was conducted. [I contacted Ms. Dixon on May 1, 2024, to remind her that the program needs to schedule a Rules Review for you and all your staff. We scheduled the review and it took place on May 29, 2024 from 3:30-5:20 at your facility. All staff were present and signed in.] 3. Within two (2) weeks after this Notice is received, Ms. Dixon shall submit a written plan on how the facility will obtain a star rated license after the Provisional License period. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: -Complete and submit a rated license application to request a Two through Five Star Rated License -Plan for obtaining the desired education points towards earning a Star Rated License -Plan for obtaining the desired program points towards earning a Star Rated License -Plan for increasing the score on items that scored a Four or below on the ITERS-R assessment conducted on March 14, 2024 [This was submitted to me on May 29, 2024.] 4. Within two (2) weeks after the training required in Item #2 has been completed, Ms. Dixon shall develop a written plan to ensure compliance with director qualifications and lead teacher qualifications. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: -Plan to verify staff are meeting preservice administrator and lead teacher requirements prior to employment -Plan to verify staff qualifications using the WORKS status letter prior to employment -Plan for determining what position a new staff member can hold based on their current qualifications -Plan for a periodic review of staff qualifications The written plan shall be submitted to Ms. Conley for approval. Ms. Conley will notify Ms. Dixon orally and in writing, as to whether the written plan is approved or if modifications are needed. Once approved the written plan shall be immediately implemented and permanently incorporated into the facility’s operating procedures. A copy of the approved written plan shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. [We discussed this during the Rules Review conducted on May 29, 2024, that this needs to be submitted to me by June 12, 2024.] During today’s visit we discussed this plan and what it needs to include. We reviewed 10A NCAC 09 .0703 General Statutory Requirements and 10A NCAC 09.704 Preservice Requirements for Child Care Administrators. I gave you copies of these rules from the rule book (Pg. 23-34) We also reviewed the document “Rated License for Child Care Centers That Provides Care to Preschool and School-Age Children”. This breaks down the requirements needed for each star level. We reviewed what is required to be eligible for three stars. This can be found on the DCDEE website. I gave you a copy of this during today’s visit. I encouraged you to use this information as you work on your plan for stipulation #4. A copy of this was given to you during the visit conducted on May 13, 2024. 5.Within two (2) weeks after the approval of the written plans in Item #3 and #4 of the Corrective Action Plan, a staff meeting shall be conducted to review the approved written plans. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory staff meeting. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. A signed attendance roster of staff attending the meeting shall be emailed to Ms. Conley within two (2) days after the meeting is conducted. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. The following violation was observed during today's visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 1809 The facility operator did not complete the corrective action as specified by the Division. Stipulation #4 was to completed by 6/12/24. G.S. 110-105.6(d) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: -Write out a plan for obtaining the desired education points towards earning a Star Rated License. List all your staff and what you and they have put in place to continue their education. List classes that they are taking and when they will be completed. List their goals and desired grade they are working towards. -Write out a plan for obtaining the desired program points towards earning a Star Rated License and what steps, goals, and timelines you have put in place to ensure that your program is able to put everything in place prior to the Provisional License expiring on October 17, 2024. -Write out the plan for increasing the scores on items that scored a Four or below on the ITERS-R assessment conducted on March 14, 2024. The North Carolina Rated Licensing Assessment Project’s (NCRLAP) website ncrlap.org has resources and trainings specifically for the ITERS-R that may be beneficial for you and your staff. Include in your plan specific resources/trainings that you and your staff will take and use. Include in your plan that you and your staff will be working with Betty Trujillo, Early Education Program Lead, at Smart Start Rowan. Include the date that you will be meeting with her. -We discussed that it may be helpful if you give B. Trujillo a copy of the ERS assessments as she provides TA to you and your staff. Consultation: -Here is a link on the DCDEE website that explains how points are earned. I also gave you a copy of the "Program and Education Requirements for Child Care Centers that Provide Care to Preschool and School-Age Children" as a reference for you as you work on your plan of achieving more stars in program and education standards. https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/How-Points-are-Earned REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by June 27, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor Erin Pickard at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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. 110-105 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/13/2024 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 6/13/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 95 Time In: 12:10 PM Time Out: 01:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced An Administrative Action Follow Up Visit was conducted today. I was accompanied by Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant. I hand delivered the Action to Ms. Dixon, owner of the facility, on April 17, 2024. Upon arrival, we were greeted by Ms. Dixon and you, Ms. Simpson, Director. Ms. Dixon stated that she would be leaving shortly and that you would be available to assist us with the visit. You stated that your working hours will be 9:00-5:00. The Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter and Corrective Action Plan were posted on the Parent Information board located near the entrance. The children were observed during nap time. We monitored the following during today’s visit: -Supervision -Staff/child ratios -Adequate/approved space -Criminal background checks -Permit posted -CPR and First Aid Training -Special Training -Program Records Emergency drills and outdoor inspections are occurring as required. The fire inspection was conducted on April 4, 2024. A sanitation inspection was conducted on April 22, 2024, with two demerits and a superior rating. There have been no new staff hired since our last visit. R. Burns file was monitored during the visit conducted on May 13, 2024 and we discussed her WORKS account. During today’s visit she stated that she is waiting on her high school transcripts to be sent to her so that she can send them to WORKS. You stated that Ms. Finger is enrolled in EDU 119 and will be completed in August 2024. Due to unforeseen circumstances, the joint TA visit that was scheduled on May 28th with Rowan Smart Start was canceled. You stated that you do not feel that the joint TA visit needs to be rescheduled. You stated that Betty Trujillo and Kimberly Cruz visited your program today. B. Trujillo, Early Childhood Specialist, will be scheduling mock assessments to work with the staff. K. Cruz will also be providing TA concerning health and sanitation items. We reviewed the Corrective Action Plan: 1.The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements, including but not limited to, the following: -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0714(a) regarding Director Qualification -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 10A NCAC 09 .0710 (a-b) regarding Lead Teacher Qualifications 2.Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, Keshia Dixon, Owner, shall contact Carolyn Conley, Lead Child Care Consultant, PO Box 835, Kannapolis, NC 28082, telephone number 704-594-0149, email Carolyn.Conley@dhhs.nc.gov, to arrange for a complete review of all child care requirements. Special emphasis shall be placed on child care requirements in Item #1. Ms. Dixon and all staff members, including full-time, part-time, and auxiliary staff shall attend the mandatory training. No children shall be in care during the training. Documentation of the training shall include a training roster with the names and signatures of the participants, and the date and time the training was conducted. [I contacted Ms. Dixon on May 1, 2024, to remind her that the program needs to schedule a Rules Review for you and all your staff. We scheduled the review and it took place on May 29, 2024 from 3:30-5:20 at your facility. All staff were present and signed in.] 3. Within two (2) weeks after this Notice is received, Ms. Dixon shall submit a written plan on how the facility will obtain a star rated license after the Provisional License period. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: -Complete and submit a rated license application to request a Two through Five Star Rated License -Plan for obtaining the desired education points towards earning a Star Rated License -Plan for obtaining the desired program points towards earning a Star Rated License -Plan for increasing the score on items that scored a Four or below on the ITERS-R assessment conducted on March 14, 2024 [This was submitted to me on May 29, 2024.] 4. Within two (2) weeks after the training required in Item #2 has been completed, Ms. Dixon shall develop a written plan to ensure compliance with director qualifications and lead teacher qualifications. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: -Plan to verify staff are meeting preservice administrator and lead teacher requirements prior to employment -Plan to verify staff qualifications using the WORKS status letter prior to employment -Plan for determining what position a new staff member can hold based on their current qualifications -Plan for a periodic review of staff qualifications The written plan shall be submitted to Ms. Conley for approval. Ms. Conley will notify Ms. Dixon orally and in writing, as to whether the written plan is approved or if modifications are needed. Once approved the written plan shall be immediately implemented and permanently incorporated into the facility’s operating procedures. A copy of the approved written plan shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. [We discussed this during the Rules Review conducted on May 29, 2024, that this needs to be submitted to me by June 12, 2024.] During today’s visit we discussed this plan and what it needs to include. We reviewed 10A NCAC 09 .0703 General Statutory Requirements and 10A NCAC 09.704 Preservice Requirements for Child Care Administrators. I gave you copies of these rules from the rule book (Pg. 23-34) We also reviewed the document “Rated License for Child Care Centers That Provides Care to Preschool and School-Age Children”. This breaks down the requirements needed for each star level. We reviewed what is required to be eligible for three stars. This can be found on the DCDEE website. I gave you a copy of this during today’s visit. I encouraged you to use this information as you work on your plan for stipulation #4. A copy of this was given to you during the visit conducted on May 13, 2024. 5.Within two (2) weeks after the approval of the written plans in Item #3 and #4 of the Corrective Action Plan, a staff meeting shall be conducted to review the approved written plans. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory staff meeting. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. A signed attendance roster of staff attending the meeting shall be emailed to Ms. Conley within two (2) days after the meeting is conducted. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. The following violation was observed during today's visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 1809 The facility operator did not complete the corrective action as specified by the Division. Stipulation #4 was to completed by 6/12/24. G.S. 110-105.6(d) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: -Write out a plan for obtaining the desired education points towards earning a Star Rated License. List all your staff and what you and they have put in place to continue their education. List classes that they are taking and when they will be completed. List their goals and desired grade they are working towards. -Write out a plan for obtaining the desired program points towards earning a Star Rated License and what steps, goals, and timelines you have put in place to ensure that your program is able to put everything in place prior to the Provisional License expiring on October 17, 2024. -Write out the plan for increasing the scores on items that scored a Four or below on the ITERS-R assessment conducted on March 14, 2024. The North Carolina Rated Licensing Assessment Project’s (NCRLAP) website ncrlap.org has resources and trainings specifically for the ITERS-R that may be beneficial for you and your staff. Include in your plan specific resources/trainings that you and your staff will take and use. Include in your plan that you and your staff will be working with Betty Trujillo, Early Education Program Lead, at Smart Start Rowan. Include the date that you will be meeting with her. -We discussed that it may be helpful if you give B. Trujillo a copy of the ERS assessments as she provides TA to you and your staff. Consultation: -Here is a link on the DCDEE website that explains how points are earned. I also gave you a copy of the "Program and Education Requirements for Child Care Centers that Provide Care to Preschool and School-Age Children" as a reference for you as you work on your plan of achieving more stars in program and education standards. https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/How-Points-are-Earned REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by June 27, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor Erin Pickard at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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 .0710 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/13/2024 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 5/13/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced An Administrative Action Follow Up Visit was conducted today. I was accompanied by Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant. I hand delivered the Acton to Ms. Dixon, owner of the facility, on April 17. 2024. Upon arrival, we were greeted by you, Ms. Dixon. You stated that Ms. Simpson, Director, would be arriving today between 2:00PM-3:00PM. The Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter and Corrective Action Plan were posted on the Parent Information board located near the entrance. The children were observed during a teacher directed activity, free choice activities outdoors and arrival procedures. We monitored the following during today’s visit: -Supervision -Staff/child ratios -Adequate/approved space -Criminal background checks -Permit posted -CPR and First -Special Training -Program Records Emergency drills and outdoor inspections are occurring as required. The fire inspection was conducted on April 4, 2024. A sanitation inspection was conducted on April 22, 2024, with two demerits and a superior rating. There was one new staff member hired and her file was monitored. We monitored WORKS and she has an account but there was not an evaluation completed. The staff member stated that she completed the NCECC Equivalency Certification. She contacted her previous employer and requested that they fax it to this facility. Please make sure that this staff member submits the information and requests to be evaluated as a Lead Teacher and other positions that she may take. We reviewed the Corrective Action Plan: 1. The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements, including but not limited to, the following: -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0714(a) regarding Director Qualification -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 10A NCAC 09 .0710 (a-b) regarding Lead Teacher Qualifications 2. Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, Keshia Dixon, Owner, shall contact Carolyn Conley, Lead Child Care Consultant, PO Box 835, Kannapolis, NC 28082, telephone number 704-594-0149, email Carolyn.Conley@dhhs.nc.gov, to arrange for a complete review of all child care requirements. Special emphasis shall be placed on child care requirements in Item #1. Ms. Dixon and all staff members, including full-time, part-time, and auxiliary staff shall attend the mandatory training. No children shall be in care during the training. Documentation of the training shall include a training roster with the names and signatures of the participants, and the date and time the training was conducted. [I contacted you on May 1, 2024, to remind you that you need to schedule a Rules Review for you and all your staff. We were able to schedule the review for May 29, 2024, 6:30-8:30 at your facility.] 3. Within two (2) weeks after this Notice is received, Ms. Dixon shall submit a written plan on how the facility will obtain a star rated license after the Provisional License period. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: -Complete and submit a rated license application to request a Two through Five Star Rated License -Plan for obtaining the desired education points towards earning a Star Rated License -Plan for obtaining the desired program points towards earning a Star Rated License -Plan for increasing the score on items that scored a Four or below on the ITERS-R assessment conducted on March 14, 2024 [We discussed and reviewed this today. Please submit to me no later than May 27, 2024.] 4. Within two (2) weeks after the training required in Item #2 has been completed, Ms. Dixon shall develop a written plan to ensure compliance with director qualifications and lead teacher qualifications. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: -Plan to verify staff are meeting preservice administrator and lead teacher requirements prior to employment -Plan to verify staff qualifications using the WORKS status letter prior to employment -Plan for determining what position a new staff member can hold based on their current qualifications -Plan for a periodic review of staff qualifications The written plan shall be submitted to Ms. Conley for approval. Ms. Conley will notify Ms. Dixon orally and in writing, as to whether the written plan is approved or if modifications are needed. Once approved the written plan shall be immediately implemented and permanently incorporated into the facility’s operating procedures. A copy of the approved written plan shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. 5. Within two (2) weeks after the approval of the written plans in Item #3 and #4 of the Corrective Action Plan, a staff meeting shall be conducted to review the approved written plans. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory staff meeting. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. A signed attendance roster of staff attending the meeting shall be emailed to Ms. Conley within two (2) days after the meeting is conducted. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. The following violation was observed during today's visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 1809 The facility operator did not complete the corrective action as specified by the Division. Stipulation two should have been completed by April 24, 2024. I contacted the operator on May 1, 2024, to schedule the Rules Review. Stipulation three should have been completed by May 1, 2024. We reviewed and discussed this stipulation today. G.S. 110-105.6(d) TECHNICAL ASSITANCE: -Write out a plan for obtaining the desired education points towards earning a Star Rated License. List all your staff and what you and they have put in place to continue their education. List classes that they are taken and when they will be completed. List their goals and desired grade they are working towards. -Write out a plan for obtaining the desired program points towards earning a Star Rated License and what steps, goals, and timelines you have put in place to ensure that you program is able to put everything in place prior to the Provisional License expiring on October 17, 2024. -Write out the plan for increasing the scores on items that scored a four or below on the ITERS-R assessment conducted on March 14, 2024. The North Carolina Rated Licensing Assessment Project’s (NCRLAP) website ncrlap.org has resources and trainings specifically for the ITERS-R that may be beneficial for you and your staff. Include in your plan specific resources/trainings that you and your staff will take and use. Include in your plan that you and your staff will be working with Betty Trujillo, Early Education Program Lead at Smart Start Rowan. Include the date that you will be meeting with her. Consultation: -Here is a link on the DCDEE website that explains how points are earned. I also gave you a copy of the Program and Education Requirements for Child Care Centers that Provide Care to Preschool and School-Age Children as a reference for you as you work on your plan of achieving more stars in program and education standards. https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/How-Points-are-Earned. -Reach out to Kimberly Cruse, Child Care Health Consultant. She may be available to provide support in hand washing routines for staff and children. Office: (704) 216-8806 |Fax: (704) 216-7989 /Email address: kimberly.cruz@rowancountync.gov. REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by May 27, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor Erin Pickard at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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 .0714 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/13/2024 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 5/13/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced An Administrative Action Follow Up Visit was conducted today. I was accompanied by Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant. I hand delivered the Acton to Ms. Dixon, owner of the facility, on April 17. 2024. Upon arrival, we were greeted by you, Ms. Dixon. You stated that Ms. Simpson, Director, would be arriving today between 2:00PM-3:00PM. The Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter and Corrective Action Plan were posted on the Parent Information board located near the entrance. The children were observed during a teacher directed activity, free choice activities outdoors and arrival procedures. We monitored the following during today’s visit: -Supervision -Staff/child ratios -Adequate/approved space -Criminal background checks -Permit posted -CPR and First -Special Training -Program Records Emergency drills and outdoor inspections are occurring as required. The fire inspection was conducted on April 4, 2024. A sanitation inspection was conducted on April 22, 2024, with two demerits and a superior rating. There was one new staff member hired and her file was monitored. We monitored WORKS and she has an account but there was not an evaluation completed. The staff member stated that she completed the NCECC Equivalency Certification. She contacted her previous employer and requested that they fax it to this facility. Please make sure that this staff member submits the information and requests to be evaluated as a Lead Teacher and other positions that she may take. We reviewed the Corrective Action Plan: 1. The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements, including but not limited to, the following: -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0714(a) regarding Director Qualification -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 10A NCAC 09 .0710 (a-b) regarding Lead Teacher Qualifications 2. Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, Keshia Dixon, Owner, shall contact Carolyn Conley, Lead Child Care Consultant, PO Box 835, Kannapolis, NC 28082, telephone number 704-594-0149, email Carolyn.Conley@dhhs.nc.gov, to arrange for a complete review of all child care requirements. Special emphasis shall be placed on child care requirements in Item #1. Ms. Dixon and all staff members, including full-time, part-time, and auxiliary staff shall attend the mandatory training. No children shall be in care during the training. Documentation of the training shall include a training roster with the names and signatures of the participants, and the date and time the training was conducted. [I contacted you on May 1, 2024, to remind you that you need to schedule a Rules Review for you and all your staff. We were able to schedule the review for May 29, 2024, 6:30-8:30 at your facility.] 3. Within two (2) weeks after this Notice is received, Ms. Dixon shall submit a written plan on how the facility will obtain a star rated license after the Provisional License period. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: -Complete and submit a rated license application to request a Two through Five Star Rated License -Plan for obtaining the desired education points towards earning a Star Rated License -Plan for obtaining the desired program points towards earning a Star Rated License -Plan for increasing the score on items that scored a Four or below on the ITERS-R assessment conducted on March 14, 2024 [We discussed and reviewed this today. Please submit to me no later than May 27, 2024.] 4. Within two (2) weeks after the training required in Item #2 has been completed, Ms. Dixon shall develop a written plan to ensure compliance with director qualifications and lead teacher qualifications. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: -Plan to verify staff are meeting preservice administrator and lead teacher requirements prior to employment -Plan to verify staff qualifications using the WORKS status letter prior to employment -Plan for determining what position a new staff member can hold based on their current qualifications -Plan for a periodic review of staff qualifications The written plan shall be submitted to Ms. Conley for approval. Ms. Conley will notify Ms. Dixon orally and in writing, as to whether the written plan is approved or if modifications are needed. Once approved the written plan shall be immediately implemented and permanently incorporated into the facility’s operating procedures. A copy of the approved written plan shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. 5. Within two (2) weeks after the approval of the written plans in Item #3 and #4 of the Corrective Action Plan, a staff meeting shall be conducted to review the approved written plans. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory staff meeting. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. A signed attendance roster of staff attending the meeting shall be emailed to Ms. Conley within two (2) days after the meeting is conducted. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. The following violation was observed during today's visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 1809 The facility operator did not complete the corrective action as specified by the Division. Stipulation two should have been completed by April 24, 2024. I contacted the operator on May 1, 2024, to schedule the Rules Review. Stipulation three should have been completed by May 1, 2024. We reviewed and discussed this stipulation today. G.S. 110-105.6(d) TECHNICAL ASSITANCE: -Write out a plan for obtaining the desired education points towards earning a Star Rated License. List all your staff and what you and they have put in place to continue their education. List classes that they are taken and when they will be completed. List their goals and desired grade they are working towards. -Write out a plan for obtaining the desired program points towards earning a Star Rated License and what steps, goals, and timelines you have put in place to ensure that you program is able to put everything in place prior to the Provisional License expiring on October 17, 2024. -Write out the plan for increasing the scores on items that scored a four or below on the ITERS-R assessment conducted on March 14, 2024. The North Carolina Rated Licensing Assessment Project’s (NCRLAP) website ncrlap.org has resources and trainings specifically for the ITERS-R that may be beneficial for you and your staff. Include in your plan specific resources/trainings that you and your staff will take and use. Include in your plan that you and your staff will be working with Betty Trujillo, Early Education Program Lead at Smart Start Rowan. Include the date that you will be meeting with her. Consultation: -Here is a link on the DCDEE website that explains how points are earned. I also gave you a copy of the Program and Education Requirements for Child Care Centers that Provide Care to Preschool and School-Age Children as a reference for you as you work on your plan of achieving more stars in program and education standards. https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/How-Points-are-Earned. -Reach out to Kimberly Cruse, Child Care Health Consultant. She may be available to provide support in hand washing routines for staff and children. Office: (704) 216-8806 |Fax: (704) 216-7989 /Email address: kimberly.cruz@rowancountync.gov. REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by May 27, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor Erin Pickard at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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 .2200 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/13/2024 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 5/13/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced An Administrative Action Follow Up Visit was conducted today. I was accompanied by Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant. I hand delivered the Acton to Ms. Dixon, owner of the facility, on April 17. 2024. Upon arrival, we were greeted by you, Ms. Dixon. You stated that Ms. Simpson, Director, would be arriving today between 2:00PM-3:00PM. The Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter and Corrective Action Plan were posted on the Parent Information board located near the entrance. The children were observed during a teacher directed activity, free choice activities outdoors and arrival procedures. We monitored the following during today’s visit: -Supervision -Staff/child ratios -Adequate/approved space -Criminal background checks -Permit posted -CPR and First -Special Training -Program Records Emergency drills and outdoor inspections are occurring as required. The fire inspection was conducted on April 4, 2024. A sanitation inspection was conducted on April 22, 2024, with two demerits and a superior rating. There was one new staff member hired and her file was monitored. We monitored WORKS and she has an account but there was not an evaluation completed. The staff member stated that she completed the NCECC Equivalency Certification. She contacted her previous employer and requested that they fax it to this facility. Please make sure that this staff member submits the information and requests to be evaluated as a Lead Teacher and other positions that she may take. We reviewed the Corrective Action Plan: 1. The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements, including but not limited to, the following: -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0714(a) regarding Director Qualification -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 10A NCAC 09 .0710 (a-b) regarding Lead Teacher Qualifications 2. Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, Keshia Dixon, Owner, shall contact Carolyn Conley, Lead Child Care Consultant, PO Box 835, Kannapolis, NC 28082, telephone number 704-594-0149, email Carolyn.Conley@dhhs.nc.gov, to arrange for a complete review of all child care requirements. Special emphasis shall be placed on child care requirements in Item #1. Ms. Dixon and all staff members, including full-time, part-time, and auxiliary staff shall attend the mandatory training. No children shall be in care during the training. Documentation of the training shall include a training roster with the names and signatures of the participants, and the date and time the training was conducted. [I contacted you on May 1, 2024, to remind you that you need to schedule a Rules Review for you and all your staff. We were able to schedule the review for May 29, 2024, 6:30-8:30 at your facility.] 3. Within two (2) weeks after this Notice is received, Ms. Dixon shall submit a written plan on how the facility will obtain a star rated license after the Provisional License period. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: -Complete and submit a rated license application to request a Two through Five Star Rated License -Plan for obtaining the desired education points towards earning a Star Rated License -Plan for obtaining the desired program points towards earning a Star Rated License -Plan for increasing the score on items that scored a Four or below on the ITERS-R assessment conducted on March 14, 2024 [We discussed and reviewed this today. Please submit to me no later than May 27, 2024.] 4. Within two (2) weeks after the training required in Item #2 has been completed, Ms. Dixon shall develop a written plan to ensure compliance with director qualifications and lead teacher qualifications. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: -Plan to verify staff are meeting preservice administrator and lead teacher requirements prior to employment -Plan to verify staff qualifications using the WORKS status letter prior to employment -Plan for determining what position a new staff member can hold based on their current qualifications -Plan for a periodic review of staff qualifications The written plan shall be submitted to Ms. Conley for approval. Ms. Conley will notify Ms. Dixon orally and in writing, as to whether the written plan is approved or if modifications are needed. Once approved the written plan shall be immediately implemented and permanently incorporated into the facility’s operating procedures. A copy of the approved written plan shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. 5. Within two (2) weeks after the approval of the written plans in Item #3 and #4 of the Corrective Action Plan, a staff meeting shall be conducted to review the approved written plans. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory staff meeting. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. A signed attendance roster of staff attending the meeting shall be emailed to Ms. Conley within two (2) days after the meeting is conducted. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. The following violation was observed during today's visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 1809 The facility operator did not complete the corrective action as specified by the Division. Stipulation two should have been completed by April 24, 2024. I contacted the operator on May 1, 2024, to schedule the Rules Review. Stipulation three should have been completed by May 1, 2024. We reviewed and discussed this stipulation today. G.S. 110-105.6(d) TECHNICAL ASSITANCE: -Write out a plan for obtaining the desired education points towards earning a Star Rated License. List all your staff and what you and they have put in place to continue their education. List classes that they are taken and when they will be completed. List their goals and desired grade they are working towards. -Write out a plan for obtaining the desired program points towards earning a Star Rated License and what steps, goals, and timelines you have put in place to ensure that you program is able to put everything in place prior to the Provisional License expiring on October 17, 2024. -Write out the plan for increasing the scores on items that scored a four or below on the ITERS-R assessment conducted on March 14, 2024. The North Carolina Rated Licensing Assessment Project’s (NCRLAP) website ncrlap.org has resources and trainings specifically for the ITERS-R that may be beneficial for you and your staff. Include in your plan specific resources/trainings that you and your staff will take and use. Include in your plan that you and your staff will be working with Betty Trujillo, Early Education Program Lead at Smart Start Rowan. Include the date that you will be meeting with her. Consultation: -Here is a link on the DCDEE website that explains how points are earned. I also gave you a copy of the Program and Education Requirements for Child Care Centers that Provide Care to Preschool and School-Age Children as a reference for you as you work on your plan of achieving more stars in program and education standards. https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/How-Points-are-Earned. -Reach out to Kimberly Cruse, Child Care Health Consultant. She may be available to provide support in hand washing routines for staff and children. Office: (704) 216-8806 |Fax: (704) 216-7989 /Email address: kimberly.cruz@rowancountync.gov. REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by May 27, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor Erin Pickard at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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. 110-105 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/13/2024 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 5/13/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced An Administrative Action Follow Up Visit was conducted today. I was accompanied by Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant. I hand delivered the Acton to Ms. Dixon, owner of the facility, on April 17. 2024. Upon arrival, we were greeted by you, Ms. Dixon. You stated that Ms. Simpson, Director, would be arriving today between 2:00PM-3:00PM. The Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter and Corrective Action Plan were posted on the Parent Information board located near the entrance. The children were observed during a teacher directed activity, free choice activities outdoors and arrival procedures. We monitored the following during today’s visit: -Supervision -Staff/child ratios -Adequate/approved space -Criminal background checks -Permit posted -CPR and First -Special Training -Program Records Emergency drills and outdoor inspections are occurring as required. The fire inspection was conducted on April 4, 2024. A sanitation inspection was conducted on April 22, 2024, with two demerits and a superior rating. There was one new staff member hired and her file was monitored. We monitored WORKS and she has an account but there was not an evaluation completed. The staff member stated that she completed the NCECC Equivalency Certification. She contacted her previous employer and requested that they fax it to this facility. Please make sure that this staff member submits the information and requests to be evaluated as a Lead Teacher and other positions that she may take. We reviewed the Corrective Action Plan: 1. The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements, including but not limited to, the following: -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0714(a) regarding Director Qualification -Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 10A NCAC 09 .0710 (a-b) regarding Lead Teacher Qualifications 2. Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, Keshia Dixon, Owner, shall contact Carolyn Conley, Lead Child Care Consultant, PO Box 835, Kannapolis, NC 28082, telephone number 704-594-0149, email Carolyn.Conley@dhhs.nc.gov, to arrange for a complete review of all child care requirements. Special emphasis shall be placed on child care requirements in Item #1. Ms. Dixon and all staff members, including full-time, part-time, and auxiliary staff shall attend the mandatory training. No children shall be in care during the training. Documentation of the training shall include a training roster with the names and signatures of the participants, and the date and time the training was conducted. [I contacted you on May 1, 2024, to remind you that you need to schedule a Rules Review for you and all your staff. We were able to schedule the review for May 29, 2024, 6:30-8:30 at your facility.] 3. Within two (2) weeks after this Notice is received, Ms. Dixon shall submit a written plan on how the facility will obtain a star rated license after the Provisional License period. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: -Complete and submit a rated license application to request a Two through Five Star Rated License -Plan for obtaining the desired education points towards earning a Star Rated License -Plan for obtaining the desired program points towards earning a Star Rated License -Plan for increasing the score on items that scored a Four or below on the ITERS-R assessment conducted on March 14, 2024 [We discussed and reviewed this today. Please submit to me no later than May 27, 2024.] 4. Within two (2) weeks after the training required in Item #2 has been completed, Ms. Dixon shall develop a written plan to ensure compliance with director qualifications and lead teacher qualifications. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: -Plan to verify staff are meeting preservice administrator and lead teacher requirements prior to employment -Plan to verify staff qualifications using the WORKS status letter prior to employment -Plan for determining what position a new staff member can hold based on their current qualifications -Plan for a periodic review of staff qualifications The written plan shall be submitted to Ms. Conley for approval. Ms. Conley will notify Ms. Dixon orally and in writing, as to whether the written plan is approved or if modifications are needed. Once approved the written plan shall be immediately implemented and permanently incorporated into the facility’s operating procedures. A copy of the approved written plan shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. 5. Within two (2) weeks after the approval of the written plans in Item #3 and #4 of the Corrective Action Plan, a staff meeting shall be conducted to review the approved written plans. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory staff meeting. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. A signed attendance roster of staff attending the meeting shall be emailed to Ms. Conley within two (2) days after the meeting is conducted. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. The following violation was observed during today's visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 1809 The facility operator did not complete the corrective action as specified by the Division. Stipulation two should have been completed by April 24, 2024. I contacted the operator on May 1, 2024, to schedule the Rules Review. Stipulation three should have been completed by May 1, 2024. We reviewed and discussed this stipulation today. G.S. 110-105.6(d) TECHNICAL ASSITANCE: -Write out a plan for obtaining the desired education points towards earning a Star Rated License. List all your staff and what you and they have put in place to continue their education. List classes that they are taken and when they will be completed. List their goals and desired grade they are working towards. -Write out a plan for obtaining the desired program points towards earning a Star Rated License and what steps, goals, and timelines you have put in place to ensure that you program is able to put everything in place prior to the Provisional License expiring on October 17, 2024. -Write out the plan for increasing the scores on items that scored a four or below on the ITERS-R assessment conducted on March 14, 2024. The North Carolina Rated Licensing Assessment Project’s (NCRLAP) website ncrlap.org has resources and trainings specifically for the ITERS-R that may be beneficial for you and your staff. Include in your plan specific resources/trainings that you and your staff will take and use. Include in your plan that you and your staff will be working with Betty Trujillo, Early Education Program Lead at Smart Start Rowan. Include the date that you will be meeting with her. Consultation: -Here is a link on the DCDEE website that explains how points are earned. I also gave you a copy of the Program and Education Requirements for Child Care Centers that Provide Care to Preschool and School-Age Children as a reference for you as you work on your plan of achieving more stars in program and education standards. https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/How-Points-are-Earned. -Reach out to Kimberly Cruse, Child Care Health Consultant. She may be available to provide support in hand washing routines for staff and children. Office: (704) 216-8806 |Fax: (704) 216-7989 /Email address: kimberly.cruz@rowancountync.gov. REQUIRED RESPONSE: Violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written/typed, signed and dated statement to me at the address noted below or email me detailing how the violations were corrected with exact dates and details including how you plan to prevent reoccurrence of such violations which must be received by May 27, 2024. Failure to correct the violation(s) and send the written statement by the established deadline listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit or an administrative action may be recommended based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2200. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. or my supervisor Erin Pickard at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Lead Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/15/2024 Number Present: 5 Completed Date: 3/15/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 01:00 PM Time Out: 05:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the third temporary time period visit. Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, accompanied me during today’s visit. We were greeted by you, Keshia Dixon, owner of the facility, and we stated the reason for our visit. The administrator, Isha Holmes, was not present during today's visit. Currently, your facility operates with a temporary license issued on September 25, 2023. We observed the facility’s temporary license, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, daily schedule, emergency phone numbers, and NC Summary of Child Care Law poster all posted in a prominent area in the foyer of the facility. Upon arrival, I walked into classroom two and observed five children sleeping on cots and one staff member laying down between two of the children. I asked the staff member how many children were in the room and what their ages were. She stated that there were five children present, and one child was five years of age, two children were three years of age, and two children were two years of age. I monitored the attendance record located in the classroom and there were three children enrolled. The two additional children in the classroom are enrolled in classroom four. I walked into classroom four and observed a staff member completing the attendance record for the month of March. She stated that she has been documenting attendance but was unable to locate the form and stated that the children may have gotten it. I monitored the attendance record that she was completing and there are three children one year of age enrolled in this classroom. It was then brought to my attention that the two children in classroom two were one year of age and grouped with the older children. I discussed this with the staff member, and she stated that the children were combined so that she could clean. We discussed that children under two years of age cannot be combined with older children unless it is the first hour of operation or the last hour of operation. This was discussed with you during the visit conducted March 7, 2024. The staff member removed the two children one year of age from classroom two and transferred them to classroom four. We monitored for supervision, staff/child ratio, grouping of children, the use of approved space, and permit restrictions. We observed that the last monthly fire drill conducted was on March 13, 2024 . We observed the last monthly playground inspection was conducted on March 13, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed on April 5, 2023, with three demerits and a superior rating. The fire inspection was completed on April 4, 2023. There are six children enrolled and five children were present today and their files were monitored. There were two staff members hired since our last temporary time period visit and we monitored their files today. You stated that the two new staff members are the Lead Teachers (LT) in the two classrooms. The staff member hired on February 21, 2024, working in space two, meets minimum lead teacher requirements by having a high school diploma, 18 years of age, and 1.5 years of experience. The staff member hired on February 5, 2024, working in space four, is 18 years of age and a high school diploma, but has not earned the NC Early Childhood Credential and does not have at least one year of documented child care experience working in a licensed child care facility, and therefore, does not meet minimum requirements for a lead teacher. We monitored the Workforce Online Reporting and Knowledge System (WORKS) and the LT working in space two has registered with WORKS but there is no documentation that workforce has received her official transcripts (OT). You stated the OT for this staff member was sent out on March 12, 2024. The LT working in space four completed the first step of the registration process with WORKS but there is no record that the second step has been completed. During the visit conducted on March 7, 2024, we discussed that the administrator is required to be on site for at least 25 hours with a capacity of 74 children per Child Care Rule .0714(a). During today's visit as well as the visits conducted on November 16, 2023, January 4, 2024, and March 7, 2024, the administrator was not at the facility. We requested during the visit conducted on March 7, 2024, that you submit a copy of the administrator’s schedule between March 11, 2024, to March 22, 2024. An email reminder was sent to you on March 12, 2024, and an attempted phone call was made on March 13, 2024. As of today, we have not received the requested documentation from the administrator listed nor from you that the current administrator is working the required number of hours to meet minimum child care requirements. Rated License Discussion – We discussed that the facility is not meeting minimum child care requirements for staffing and therefore is not eligible for a star rated license. During the temporary time period visit conducted on November 16, 2023, January 4, 2024, and during the technical assistance visit conducted on March 7, 2024, we discussed the rated license process and how you will earn points towards a star rated license at the end of your temporary license that expires on March 25, 2024. We reviewed the overview of how you earn points towards your program standards, education standards, and one quality point. We reviewed the minimum requirements necessary to be eligible for a star rated license. You stated that the North Carolina Rating License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) assessors conducted an environmental rating scale assessments yesterday, March 14, 2024. We will contact you once we receive the completed assessments. We reminded you that you must earn a three star or higher in order to continue to accept DSS Subsidy. In addition, your facility must have a compliance history score of 75% or higher in order to be eligible for a star rated license at the end of the temporary license. Based on minimum child care requirements with staffing not being met, an administrative action may be issued according to section .2200 of the child care rules. We explained the administrative action process and that we are available for any questions you may have. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. In space 2 there were two children one year of age grouped with three children ages three to five years of age. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 1006 One or more persons who met the qualifications for administrator were not on site for number of hours per week required by capacity of center. During today’s visit, as well as the visits conducted on November 16, 2023, January 4, 2024, March 7, 2024, the administrator was not at the facility. As of today, we have not received the requested documentation from the administrator verifying that she is working on-site the required number of hours to meet minimum child care requirements. .0714(a) 1021 Individual responsible for a group of children did not meet the preservice requirements for a lead teacher or teacher. The lead teacher hired on February 5, 2024 to work in space four is at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma, but has not earned the NC Early Childhood Credential and does not have at least one year of documented experience working in a licensed child care facility, therefore, does not meet preservice requirements for a lead teacher. 10A NCAC 09 .0710 (a-b) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One staff member hired on 2/5/24 received a medical statement on 2/13/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. One staff member hired on 2/5/24 did not have a TB test completed until 2/10/24. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff member hired on 2/5/24 did not have an emergency information form completed until 2/20/24. .0701(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. One employee hired on 2/5/24 did not have a criminal background check completed until 2/10/24. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. Space 4 did not have a record of daily attendance. GS 110-91(9) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. Five children's files did not have the date of enrollment documented on the discipline policy receipt. .1804(b) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. The staff files for two lead teachers did not have their health information stored in a separate file. .0701(d) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. Five children's files did not have the date of enrollment documented on the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome policy parent receipt. .0608(b)(1-6) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: -Staff cannot begin employment until you have received their criminal background qualification letter. This also means that you cannot begin new staff orientation prior to receiving the qualification letter. -Staffs’ health information is required to be in a sperate file from their personnel file. As you hire new staff designate two separate files for them and immediately place the health information (TB, medical statement and Health Questionnaire) in the health file. -Staff are required to have the following completed by medical professionals before they begin working: TB screening/test and medical statement. Include in a hiring packet a checklist for potential staff so that they are aware of what they are required to have and when. You can check the items as you receive them. -Receipt of the prevention of shaken baby policy and the discipline policy did not include the date of enrollment. Families are required to include the date of their children’s enrollment. Please include this line item on the acknowledgement form that you have developed. We provided technical assistance while reviewing the children files and the acknowledgement statement for the children currently enrolled was updated today. -As discussed with you during the technical assistance visit on March 7, 2024, children under two years of age cannot be grouped with older children except for first hour and last hour of the operating hours. Children under two years of age cannot be grouped with older children even during nap time while staff complete housekeeping duties. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 29, 2024, we must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. While the Division allows you time to explain how you have corrected violations when violations are cited, it is expected you correct all violations immediately. When you are asked to send a compliance letter to me, it is expected and required that your compliance letter be sent to me no later than the date indicated in this documentation. Your letter must include the following: -Name of your program -ID number of your program -Date of Letter -Violation number -Explain how you corrected the violation (send supporting documentation to show compliance) -Describe your plan to make sure you will not have that same violation in the future -Name or signature of the person who wrote the letter. (If emailing the letter, your email address will be considered your digital signature.) Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov or Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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 .0710 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/15/2024 Number Present: 5 Completed Date: 3/15/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 01:00 PM Time Out: 05:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the third temporary time period visit. Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, accompanied me during today’s visit. We were greeted by you, Keshia Dixon, owner of the facility, and we stated the reason for our visit. The administrator, Isha Holmes, was not present during today's visit. Currently, your facility operates with a temporary license issued on September 25, 2023. We observed the facility’s temporary license, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, daily schedule, emergency phone numbers, and NC Summary of Child Care Law poster all posted in a prominent area in the foyer of the facility. Upon arrival, I walked into classroom two and observed five children sleeping on cots and one staff member laying down between two of the children. I asked the staff member how many children were in the room and what their ages were. She stated that there were five children present, and one child was five years of age, two children were three years of age, and two children were two years of age. I monitored the attendance record located in the classroom and there were three children enrolled. The two additional children in the classroom are enrolled in classroom four. I walked into classroom four and observed a staff member completing the attendance record for the month of March. She stated that she has been documenting attendance but was unable to locate the form and stated that the children may have gotten it. I monitored the attendance record that she was completing and there are three children one year of age enrolled in this classroom. It was then brought to my attention that the two children in classroom two were one year of age and grouped with the older children. I discussed this with the staff member, and she stated that the children were combined so that she could clean. We discussed that children under two years of age cannot be combined with older children unless it is the first hour of operation or the last hour of operation. This was discussed with you during the visit conducted March 7, 2024. The staff member removed the two children one year of age from classroom two and transferred them to classroom four. We monitored for supervision, staff/child ratio, grouping of children, the use of approved space, and permit restrictions. We observed that the last monthly fire drill conducted was on March 13, 2024 . We observed the last monthly playground inspection was conducted on March 13, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed on April 5, 2023, with three demerits and a superior rating. The fire inspection was completed on April 4, 2023. There are six children enrolled and five children were present today and their files were monitored. There were two staff members hired since our last temporary time period visit and we monitored their files today. You stated that the two new staff members are the Lead Teachers (LT) in the two classrooms. The staff member hired on February 21, 2024, working in space two, meets minimum lead teacher requirements by having a high school diploma, 18 years of age, and 1.5 years of experience. The staff member hired on February 5, 2024, working in space four, is 18 years of age and a high school diploma, but has not earned the NC Early Childhood Credential and does not have at least one year of documented child care experience working in a licensed child care facility, and therefore, does not meet minimum requirements for a lead teacher. We monitored the Workforce Online Reporting and Knowledge System (WORKS) and the LT working in space two has registered with WORKS but there is no documentation that workforce has received her official transcripts (OT). You stated the OT for this staff member was sent out on March 12, 2024. The LT working in space four completed the first step of the registration process with WORKS but there is no record that the second step has been completed. During the visit conducted on March 7, 2024, we discussed that the administrator is required to be on site for at least 25 hours with a capacity of 74 children per Child Care Rule .0714(a). During today's visit as well as the visits conducted on November 16, 2023, January 4, 2024, and March 7, 2024, the administrator was not at the facility. We requested during the visit conducted on March 7, 2024, that you submit a copy of the administrator’s schedule between March 11, 2024, to March 22, 2024. An email reminder was sent to you on March 12, 2024, and an attempted phone call was made on March 13, 2024. As of today, we have not received the requested documentation from the administrator listed nor from you that the current administrator is working the required number of hours to meet minimum child care requirements. Rated License Discussion – We discussed that the facility is not meeting minimum child care requirements for staffing and therefore is not eligible for a star rated license. During the temporary time period visit conducted on November 16, 2023, January 4, 2024, and during the technical assistance visit conducted on March 7, 2024, we discussed the rated license process and how you will earn points towards a star rated license at the end of your temporary license that expires on March 25, 2024. We reviewed the overview of how you earn points towards your program standards, education standards, and one quality point. We reviewed the minimum requirements necessary to be eligible for a star rated license. You stated that the North Carolina Rating License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) assessors conducted an environmental rating scale assessments yesterday, March 14, 2024. We will contact you once we receive the completed assessments. We reminded you that you must earn a three star or higher in order to continue to accept DSS Subsidy. In addition, your facility must have a compliance history score of 75% or higher in order to be eligible for a star rated license at the end of the temporary license. Based on minimum child care requirements with staffing not being met, an administrative action may be issued according to section .2200 of the child care rules. We explained the administrative action process and that we are available for any questions you may have. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. In space 2 there were two children one year of age grouped with three children ages three to five years of age. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 1006 One or more persons who met the qualifications for administrator were not on site for number of hours per week required by capacity of center. During today’s visit, as well as the visits conducted on November 16, 2023, January 4, 2024, March 7, 2024, the administrator was not at the facility. As of today, we have not received the requested documentation from the administrator verifying that she is working on-site the required number of hours to meet minimum child care requirements. .0714(a) 1021 Individual responsible for a group of children did not meet the preservice requirements for a lead teacher or teacher. The lead teacher hired on February 5, 2024 to work in space four is at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma, but has not earned the NC Early Childhood Credential and does not have at least one year of documented experience working in a licensed child care facility, therefore, does not meet preservice requirements for a lead teacher. 10A NCAC 09 .0710 (a-b) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One staff member hired on 2/5/24 received a medical statement on 2/13/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. One staff member hired on 2/5/24 did not have a TB test completed until 2/10/24. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff member hired on 2/5/24 did not have an emergency information form completed until 2/20/24. .0701(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. One employee hired on 2/5/24 did not have a criminal background check completed until 2/10/24. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. Space 4 did not have a record of daily attendance. GS 110-91(9) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. Five children's files did not have the date of enrollment documented on the discipline policy receipt. .1804(b) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. The staff files for two lead teachers did not have their health information stored in a separate file. .0701(d) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. Five children's files did not have the date of enrollment documented on the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome policy parent receipt. .0608(b)(1-6) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: -Staff cannot begin employment until you have received their criminal background qualification letter. This also means that you cannot begin new staff orientation prior to receiving the qualification letter. -Staffs’ health information is required to be in a sperate file from their personnel file. As you hire new staff designate two separate files for them and immediately place the health information (TB, medical statement and Health Questionnaire) in the health file. -Staff are required to have the following completed by medical professionals before they begin working: TB screening/test and medical statement. Include in a hiring packet a checklist for potential staff so that they are aware of what they are required to have and when. You can check the items as you receive them. -Receipt of the prevention of shaken baby policy and the discipline policy did not include the date of enrollment. Families are required to include the date of their children’s enrollment. Please include this line item on the acknowledgement form that you have developed. We provided technical assistance while reviewing the children files and the acknowledgement statement for the children currently enrolled was updated today. -As discussed with you during the technical assistance visit on March 7, 2024, children under two years of age cannot be grouped with older children except for first hour and last hour of the operating hours. Children under two years of age cannot be grouped with older children even during nap time while staff complete housekeeping duties. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 29, 2024, we must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. While the Division allows you time to explain how you have corrected violations when violations are cited, it is expected you correct all violations immediately. When you are asked to send a compliance letter to me, it is expected and required that your compliance letter be sent to me no later than the date indicated in this documentation. Your letter must include the following: -Name of your program -ID number of your program -Date of Letter -Violation number -Explain how you corrected the violation (send supporting documentation to show compliance) -Describe your plan to make sure you will not have that same violation in the future -Name or signature of the person who wrote the letter. (If emailing the letter, your email address will be considered your digital signature.) Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov or Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/15/2024 Number Present: 5 Completed Date: 3/15/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 01:00 PM Time Out: 05:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the third temporary time period visit. Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, accompanied me during today’s visit. We were greeted by you, Keshia Dixon, owner of the facility, and we stated the reason for our visit. The administrator, Isha Holmes, was not present during today's visit. Currently, your facility operates with a temporary license issued on September 25, 2023. We observed the facility’s temporary license, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, daily schedule, emergency phone numbers, and NC Summary of Child Care Law poster all posted in a prominent area in the foyer of the facility. Upon arrival, I walked into classroom two and observed five children sleeping on cots and one staff member laying down between two of the children. I asked the staff member how many children were in the room and what their ages were. She stated that there were five children present, and one child was five years of age, two children were three years of age, and two children were two years of age. I monitored the attendance record located in the classroom and there were three children enrolled. The two additional children in the classroom are enrolled in classroom four. I walked into classroom four and observed a staff member completing the attendance record for the month of March. She stated that she has been documenting attendance but was unable to locate the form and stated that the children may have gotten it. I monitored the attendance record that she was completing and there are three children one year of age enrolled in this classroom. It was then brought to my attention that the two children in classroom two were one year of age and grouped with the older children. I discussed this with the staff member, and she stated that the children were combined so that she could clean. We discussed that children under two years of age cannot be combined with older children unless it is the first hour of operation or the last hour of operation. This was discussed with you during the visit conducted March 7, 2024. The staff member removed the two children one year of age from classroom two and transferred them to classroom four. We monitored for supervision, staff/child ratio, grouping of children, the use of approved space, and permit restrictions. We observed that the last monthly fire drill conducted was on March 13, 2024 . We observed the last monthly playground inspection was conducted on March 13, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed on April 5, 2023, with three demerits and a superior rating. The fire inspection was completed on April 4, 2023. There are six children enrolled and five children were present today and their files were monitored. There were two staff members hired since our last temporary time period visit and we monitored their files today. You stated that the two new staff members are the Lead Teachers (LT) in the two classrooms. The staff member hired on February 21, 2024, working in space two, meets minimum lead teacher requirements by having a high school diploma, 18 years of age, and 1.5 years of experience. The staff member hired on February 5, 2024, working in space four, is 18 years of age and a high school diploma, but has not earned the NC Early Childhood Credential and does not have at least one year of documented child care experience working in a licensed child care facility, and therefore, does not meet minimum requirements for a lead teacher. We monitored the Workforce Online Reporting and Knowledge System (WORKS) and the LT working in space two has registered with WORKS but there is no documentation that workforce has received her official transcripts (OT). You stated the OT for this staff member was sent out on March 12, 2024. The LT working in space four completed the first step of the registration process with WORKS but there is no record that the second step has been completed. During the visit conducted on March 7, 2024, we discussed that the administrator is required to be on site for at least 25 hours with a capacity of 74 children per Child Care Rule .0714(a). During today's visit as well as the visits conducted on November 16, 2023, January 4, 2024, and March 7, 2024, the administrator was not at the facility. We requested during the visit conducted on March 7, 2024, that you submit a copy of the administrator’s schedule between March 11, 2024, to March 22, 2024. An email reminder was sent to you on March 12, 2024, and an attempted phone call was made on March 13, 2024. As of today, we have not received the requested documentation from the administrator listed nor from you that the current administrator is working the required number of hours to meet minimum child care requirements. Rated License Discussion – We discussed that the facility is not meeting minimum child care requirements for staffing and therefore is not eligible for a star rated license. During the temporary time period visit conducted on November 16, 2023, January 4, 2024, and during the technical assistance visit conducted on March 7, 2024, we discussed the rated license process and how you will earn points towards a star rated license at the end of your temporary license that expires on March 25, 2024. We reviewed the overview of how you earn points towards your program standards, education standards, and one quality point. We reviewed the minimum requirements necessary to be eligible for a star rated license. You stated that the North Carolina Rating License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) assessors conducted an environmental rating scale assessments yesterday, March 14, 2024. We will contact you once we receive the completed assessments. We reminded you that you must earn a three star or higher in order to continue to accept DSS Subsidy. In addition, your facility must have a compliance history score of 75% or higher in order to be eligible for a star rated license at the end of the temporary license. Based on minimum child care requirements with staffing not being met, an administrative action may be issued according to section .2200 of the child care rules. We explained the administrative action process and that we are available for any questions you may have. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. In space 2 there were two children one year of age grouped with three children ages three to five years of age. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 1006 One or more persons who met the qualifications for administrator were not on site for number of hours per week required by capacity of center. During today’s visit, as well as the visits conducted on November 16, 2023, January 4, 2024, March 7, 2024, the administrator was not at the facility. As of today, we have not received the requested documentation from the administrator verifying that she is working on-site the required number of hours to meet minimum child care requirements. .0714(a) 1021 Individual responsible for a group of children did not meet the preservice requirements for a lead teacher or teacher. The lead teacher hired on February 5, 2024 to work in space four is at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma, but has not earned the NC Early Childhood Credential and does not have at least one year of documented experience working in a licensed child care facility, therefore, does not meet preservice requirements for a lead teacher. 10A NCAC 09 .0710 (a-b) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One staff member hired on 2/5/24 received a medical statement on 2/13/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. One staff member hired on 2/5/24 did not have a TB test completed until 2/10/24. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff member hired on 2/5/24 did not have an emergency information form completed until 2/20/24. .0701(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. One employee hired on 2/5/24 did not have a criminal background check completed until 2/10/24. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. Space 4 did not have a record of daily attendance. GS 110-91(9) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. Five children's files did not have the date of enrollment documented on the discipline policy receipt. .1804(b) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. The staff files for two lead teachers did not have their health information stored in a separate file. .0701(d) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. Five children's files did not have the date of enrollment documented on the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome policy parent receipt. .0608(b)(1-6) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: -Staff cannot begin employment until you have received their criminal background qualification letter. This also means that you cannot begin new staff orientation prior to receiving the qualification letter. -Staffs’ health information is required to be in a sperate file from their personnel file. As you hire new staff designate two separate files for them and immediately place the health information (TB, medical statement and Health Questionnaire) in the health file. -Staff are required to have the following completed by medical professionals before they begin working: TB screening/test and medical statement. Include in a hiring packet a checklist for potential staff so that they are aware of what they are required to have and when. You can check the items as you receive them. -Receipt of the prevention of shaken baby policy and the discipline policy did not include the date of enrollment. Families are required to include the date of their children’s enrollment. Please include this line item on the acknowledgement form that you have developed. We provided technical assistance while reviewing the children files and the acknowledgement statement for the children currently enrolled was updated today. -As discussed with you during the technical assistance visit on March 7, 2024, children under two years of age cannot be grouped with older children except for first hour and last hour of the operating hours. Children under two years of age cannot be grouped with older children even during nap time while staff complete housekeeping duties. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 29, 2024, we must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. While the Division allows you time to explain how you have corrected violations when violations are cited, it is expected you correct all violations immediately. When you are asked to send a compliance letter to me, it is expected and required that your compliance letter be sent to me no later than the date indicated in this documentation. Your letter must include the following: -Name of your program -ID number of your program -Date of Letter -Violation number -Explain how you corrected the violation (send supporting documentation to show compliance) -Describe your plan to make sure you will not have that same violation in the future -Name or signature of the person who wrote the letter. (If emailing the letter, your email address will be considered your digital signature.) Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov or Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/15/2024 Number Present: 5 Completed Date: 3/15/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 01:00 PM Time Out: 05:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the third temporary time period visit. Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, accompanied me during today’s visit. We were greeted by you, Keshia Dixon, owner of the facility, and we stated the reason for our visit. The administrator, Isha Holmes, was not present during today's visit. Currently, your facility operates with a temporary license issued on September 25, 2023. We observed the facility’s temporary license, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, daily schedule, emergency phone numbers, and NC Summary of Child Care Law poster all posted in a prominent area in the foyer of the facility. Upon arrival, I walked into classroom two and observed five children sleeping on cots and one staff member laying down between two of the children. I asked the staff member how many children were in the room and what their ages were. She stated that there were five children present, and one child was five years of age, two children were three years of age, and two children were two years of age. I monitored the attendance record located in the classroom and there were three children enrolled. The two additional children in the classroom are enrolled in classroom four. I walked into classroom four and observed a staff member completing the attendance record for the month of March. She stated that she has been documenting attendance but was unable to locate the form and stated that the children may have gotten it. I monitored the attendance record that she was completing and there are three children one year of age enrolled in this classroom. It was then brought to my attention that the two children in classroom two were one year of age and grouped with the older children. I discussed this with the staff member, and she stated that the children were combined so that she could clean. We discussed that children under two years of age cannot be combined with older children unless it is the first hour of operation or the last hour of operation. This was discussed with you during the visit conducted March 7, 2024. The staff member removed the two children one year of age from classroom two and transferred them to classroom four. We monitored for supervision, staff/child ratio, grouping of children, the use of approved space, and permit restrictions. We observed that the last monthly fire drill conducted was on March 13, 2024 . We observed the last monthly playground inspection was conducted on March 13, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed on April 5, 2023, with three demerits and a superior rating. The fire inspection was completed on April 4, 2023. There are six children enrolled and five children were present today and their files were monitored. There were two staff members hired since our last temporary time period visit and we monitored their files today. You stated that the two new staff members are the Lead Teachers (LT) in the two classrooms. The staff member hired on February 21, 2024, working in space two, meets minimum lead teacher requirements by having a high school diploma, 18 years of age, and 1.5 years of experience. The staff member hired on February 5, 2024, working in space four, is 18 years of age and a high school diploma, but has not earned the NC Early Childhood Credential and does not have at least one year of documented child care experience working in a licensed child care facility, and therefore, does not meet minimum requirements for a lead teacher. We monitored the Workforce Online Reporting and Knowledge System (WORKS) and the LT working in space two has registered with WORKS but there is no documentation that workforce has received her official transcripts (OT). You stated the OT for this staff member was sent out on March 12, 2024. The LT working in space four completed the first step of the registration process with WORKS but there is no record that the second step has been completed. During the visit conducted on March 7, 2024, we discussed that the administrator is required to be on site for at least 25 hours with a capacity of 74 children per Child Care Rule .0714(a). During today's visit as well as the visits conducted on November 16, 2023, January 4, 2024, and March 7, 2024, the administrator was not at the facility. We requested during the visit conducted on March 7, 2024, that you submit a copy of the administrator’s schedule between March 11, 2024, to March 22, 2024. An email reminder was sent to you on March 12, 2024, and an attempted phone call was made on March 13, 2024. As of today, we have not received the requested documentation from the administrator listed nor from you that the current administrator is working the required number of hours to meet minimum child care requirements. Rated License Discussion – We discussed that the facility is not meeting minimum child care requirements for staffing and therefore is not eligible for a star rated license. During the temporary time period visit conducted on November 16, 2023, January 4, 2024, and during the technical assistance visit conducted on March 7, 2024, we discussed the rated license process and how you will earn points towards a star rated license at the end of your temporary license that expires on March 25, 2024. We reviewed the overview of how you earn points towards your program standards, education standards, and one quality point. We reviewed the minimum requirements necessary to be eligible for a star rated license. You stated that the North Carolina Rating License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) assessors conducted an environmental rating scale assessments yesterday, March 14, 2024. We will contact you once we receive the completed assessments. We reminded you that you must earn a three star or higher in order to continue to accept DSS Subsidy. In addition, your facility must have a compliance history score of 75% or higher in order to be eligible for a star rated license at the end of the temporary license. Based on minimum child care requirements with staffing not being met, an administrative action may be issued according to section .2200 of the child care rules. We explained the administrative action process and that we are available for any questions you may have. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. In space 2 there were two children one year of age grouped with three children ages three to five years of age. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 1006 One or more persons who met the qualifications for administrator were not on site for number of hours per week required by capacity of center. During today’s visit, as well as the visits conducted on November 16, 2023, January 4, 2024, March 7, 2024, the administrator was not at the facility. As of today, we have not received the requested documentation from the administrator verifying that she is working on-site the required number of hours to meet minimum child care requirements. .0714(a) 1021 Individual responsible for a group of children did not meet the preservice requirements for a lead teacher or teacher. The lead teacher hired on February 5, 2024 to work in space four is at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma, but has not earned the NC Early Childhood Credential and does not have at least one year of documented experience working in a licensed child care facility, therefore, does not meet preservice requirements for a lead teacher. 10A NCAC 09 .0710 (a-b) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One staff member hired on 2/5/24 received a medical statement on 2/13/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. One staff member hired on 2/5/24 did not have a TB test completed until 2/10/24. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff member hired on 2/5/24 did not have an emergency information form completed until 2/20/24. .0701(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. One employee hired on 2/5/24 did not have a criminal background check completed until 2/10/24. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. Space 4 did not have a record of daily attendance. GS 110-91(9) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. Five children's files did not have the date of enrollment documented on the discipline policy receipt. .1804(b) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. The staff files for two lead teachers did not have their health information stored in a separate file. .0701(d) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. Five children's files did not have the date of enrollment documented on the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome policy parent receipt. .0608(b)(1-6) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: -Staff cannot begin employment until you have received their criminal background qualification letter. This also means that you cannot begin new staff orientation prior to receiving the qualification letter. -Staffs’ health information is required to be in a sperate file from their personnel file. As you hire new staff designate two separate files for them and immediately place the health information (TB, medical statement and Health Questionnaire) in the health file. -Staff are required to have the following completed by medical professionals before they begin working: TB screening/test and medical statement. Include in a hiring packet a checklist for potential staff so that they are aware of what they are required to have and when. You can check the items as you receive them. -Receipt of the prevention of shaken baby policy and the discipline policy did not include the date of enrollment. Families are required to include the date of their children’s enrollment. Please include this line item on the acknowledgement form that you have developed. We provided technical assistance while reviewing the children files and the acknowledgement statement for the children currently enrolled was updated today. -As discussed with you during the technical assistance visit on March 7, 2024, children under two years of age cannot be grouped with older children except for first hour and last hour of the operating hours. Children under two years of age cannot be grouped with older children even during nap time while staff complete housekeeping duties. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 29, 2024, we must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. While the Division allows you time to explain how you have corrected violations when violations are cited, it is expected you correct all violations immediately. When you are asked to send a compliance letter to me, it is expected and required that your compliance letter be sent to me no later than the date indicated in this documentation. Your letter must include the following: -Name of your program -ID number of your program -Date of Letter -Violation number -Explain how you corrected the violation (send supporting documentation to show compliance) -Describe your plan to make sure you will not have that same violation in the future -Name or signature of the person who wrote the letter. (If emailing the letter, your email address will be considered your digital signature.) Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov or Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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 .0901 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/4/2024 Number Present: 2 Completed Date: 1/4/2024 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the second temporary time period visit. Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, accompanied me during today’s visit. We were greeted by you, Kiesha Dixon, owner of the facility, and we stated the reason for my visit. Currently, your facility operates with a temporary license issued on September 25, 2023. We observed the facility’s temporary license, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, daily schedule, emergency phone numbers posted in a prominent area. The NC Summary of Child Care Law poster was posted but it was from 2021. This has been revised in September 2023. The activity plan posted in the classroom was from August 2023. This was also posted during the visit conducted November 16, 2023. Ms. Conley discussed this with the staff member and the staff member did have a current activity in her bag and posted it during today’s visit. We observed the children free choice activities indoors, lunch and nap time. We observed supervision, staff/child ratio, grouping of children, the use of approved space, and permit restrictions in compliance during today’s visit. We observed that the last monthly fire drill conducted was on December 12, 2023. We observed the last monthly playground inspection was conducted on November 14, 2023. The sanitation inspection was completed on April 5, 2023, with three demerits and a superior rating. The fire inspection was completed on April 4, 2023. There are two children enrolled and present today and their files were monitored previously. There was one staff member hired since our last visit and we monitored her file today. Rated License Discussion – We discussed the rated license process and how you will earn points towards a star rated license at the end of your temporary license that expires on March 25, 2024. We reviewed the overview of how you earn points towards your program standards, education standards, and one quality point. You signed the Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License today. You signed the Rated License Assessment Request Review form today. Program Standards-your program standard points earned on the star rated license will be determined by your score earned on the environmental rating scale assessment. We will request the environmental rating scale within two weeks. To help your staff prepare for the assessment, they can access resources regarding the ECERS-R assessment at www.ncrlap.org. Staff can also complete the ECERS-R training with Smart Start Rowan to prepare for the environmental rating scale assessment. Education Standards-the points earned will be determined by the education of your Administrator and lead teacher(s). All staff must have their current education in WORKS. We discussed to have the Administrator complete BSAC training and send it to workforce. In addition, the Administrator should request in her WORKS account to be evaluated as a lead teacher, program coordinator, and group leader. Quality Point-you may earn one additional point by meeting an enhanced requirement listed on the Quality Point options list provided to you today. We discussed the options during today’s visit. I reminded you that you must earn a three star or higher in order to continue to accept DSS Subsidy. In addition, your facility must have a compliance history score of 75% or higher in order to be eligible for a star rated license at the end of the temporary license. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space 2, the lesson plan posted was dated August 2023. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. The monthly menu was missing food components for lunch on four days. Today's lunch did not contain the food items listed on the menu. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. Space 2 did not have a cot list showing what cots the two children in care utilize and where they are placed during naptime. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The last playground inspection was completed on 11/14/23. .0605(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. One employee who was hired on 12/19/23 did not have a criminal background check completed until 1/3/24. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. One staff member that was employed on 12/19/23 did not complete one of the topic areas required within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: -We discussed and reviewed with you and staff that prepares meals the meal guidelines and the required components for meals. This was also discussed during the visit conducted on November 16, 2023. You stated the children do not eat the food served. We discussed that licensed child care programs are required to follow the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). We disused portion size and introducing children to new foods. You could mix a vegetable with a vegetable they enjoy. You could prepare casseroles or soups with the components assuring that the portion sizes are correct. As enrollment increases that will help as well because the children will see other children eating different foods. -The activity plan needs to include activities intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development, available on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_foundations.asp: (1) emotional and social development; (2) health and physical development; (3) approaches to play and learning; (4) language development and communication; and (5) cognitive development. The activity plan is required to: (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. -We discussed with staff that each child needs to be assigned a cot. List the children on the cot list with a number. Write the number on the individual cot for each child. -Develop a schedule as to when you will complete the new staff orientation with new staff. Each day cover a topic during nap time, or first or last have hour of the day when you have coverage in the classroom that you are able to spend time with the new staff member. -Place a reminder in your phone monthly to remind you to conduct the playground inspections. You can conduct the inspection the same day as the fire inspection. CONSULTATION: -We discussed that it would be beneficial for staff to go North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development training. https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/index.php?categoryid=23 -You stated that you are thinking about providing transportation for school-aged children. You will need to contact Carolyn Conley before providing transportation so that she can monitor the vehicle for compliance. Please review CC RULE .1000 that covers the transportation standards. -The NC Summary of the Law had been updated in September 2023. This document can be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents”. Please print and replace the copy that is posted in the hallway. You will also want to assure that all new family members receive the most current document. -You will need to complete the Emergency Preparedness (EPR) training through Smart Start Rowan within your first 12 months of operation. -We discussed with you and staff that it is a child care requirement that children go outside for at least one hour a day weather permitting. Please refer to the Child Care Weather Watch document that is posted in the classrooms. If children tell staff that they do not want to go outside that is the perfect opportunity for staff to role model and engage with children outdoors. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before January 18, 2024, We must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. While the Division allows you time to explain how you have corrected violations when violations are cited, it is expected you correct all violations immediately. When you are asked to send a compliance letter to me, it is expected and required that your compliance letter be sent to me no later than the date indicated in this documentation. Your letter must include the following: -Name of your program -ID number of your program -Date of Letter -Violation number -Explain how you corrected the violation (send supporting documentation to show compliance) -Describe your plan to make sure you will not have that same violation in the future -Name or signature of the person who wrote the letter. (If emailing the letter, your email address will be considered your digital signature.) Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed with you and a copy was emailed to you. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/4/2024 Number Present: 2 Completed Date: 1/4/2024 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the second temporary time period visit. Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, accompanied me during today’s visit. We were greeted by you, Kiesha Dixon, owner of the facility, and we stated the reason for my visit. Currently, your facility operates with a temporary license issued on September 25, 2023. We observed the facility’s temporary license, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, daily schedule, emergency phone numbers posted in a prominent area. The NC Summary of Child Care Law poster was posted but it was from 2021. This has been revised in September 2023. The activity plan posted in the classroom was from August 2023. This was also posted during the visit conducted November 16, 2023. Ms. Conley discussed this with the staff member and the staff member did have a current activity in her bag and posted it during today’s visit. We observed the children free choice activities indoors, lunch and nap time. We observed supervision, staff/child ratio, grouping of children, the use of approved space, and permit restrictions in compliance during today’s visit. We observed that the last monthly fire drill conducted was on December 12, 2023. We observed the last monthly playground inspection was conducted on November 14, 2023. The sanitation inspection was completed on April 5, 2023, with three demerits and a superior rating. The fire inspection was completed on April 4, 2023. There are two children enrolled and present today and their files were monitored previously. There was one staff member hired since our last visit and we monitored her file today. Rated License Discussion – We discussed the rated license process and how you will earn points towards a star rated license at the end of your temporary license that expires on March 25, 2024. We reviewed the overview of how you earn points towards your program standards, education standards, and one quality point. You signed the Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License today. You signed the Rated License Assessment Request Review form today. Program Standards-your program standard points earned on the star rated license will be determined by your score earned on the environmental rating scale assessment. We will request the environmental rating scale within two weeks. To help your staff prepare for the assessment, they can access resources regarding the ECERS-R assessment at www.ncrlap.org. Staff can also complete the ECERS-R training with Smart Start Rowan to prepare for the environmental rating scale assessment. Education Standards-the points earned will be determined by the education of your Administrator and lead teacher(s). All staff must have their current education in WORKS. We discussed to have the Administrator complete BSAC training and send it to workforce. In addition, the Administrator should request in her WORKS account to be evaluated as a lead teacher, program coordinator, and group leader. Quality Point-you may earn one additional point by meeting an enhanced requirement listed on the Quality Point options list provided to you today. We discussed the options during today’s visit. I reminded you that you must earn a three star or higher in order to continue to accept DSS Subsidy. In addition, your facility must have a compliance history score of 75% or higher in order to be eligible for a star rated license at the end of the temporary license. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space 2, the lesson plan posted was dated August 2023. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. The monthly menu was missing food components for lunch on four days. Today's lunch did not contain the food items listed on the menu. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. Space 2 did not have a cot list showing what cots the two children in care utilize and where they are placed during naptime. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The last playground inspection was completed on 11/14/23. .0605(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. One employee who was hired on 12/19/23 did not have a criminal background check completed until 1/3/24. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. One staff member that was employed on 12/19/23 did not complete one of the topic areas required within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: -We discussed and reviewed with you and staff that prepares meals the meal guidelines and the required components for meals. This was also discussed during the visit conducted on November 16, 2023. You stated the children do not eat the food served. We discussed that licensed child care programs are required to follow the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). We disused portion size and introducing children to new foods. You could mix a vegetable with a vegetable they enjoy. You could prepare casseroles or soups with the components assuring that the portion sizes are correct. As enrollment increases that will help as well because the children will see other children eating different foods. -The activity plan needs to include activities intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development, available on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_foundations.asp: (1) emotional and social development; (2) health and physical development; (3) approaches to play and learning; (4) language development and communication; and (5) cognitive development. The activity plan is required to: (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. -We discussed with staff that each child needs to be assigned a cot. List the children on the cot list with a number. Write the number on the individual cot for each child. -Develop a schedule as to when you will complete the new staff orientation with new staff. Each day cover a topic during nap time, or first or last have hour of the day when you have coverage in the classroom that you are able to spend time with the new staff member. -Place a reminder in your phone monthly to remind you to conduct the playground inspections. You can conduct the inspection the same day as the fire inspection. CONSULTATION: -We discussed that it would be beneficial for staff to go North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development training. https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/index.php?categoryid=23 -You stated that you are thinking about providing transportation for school-aged children. You will need to contact Carolyn Conley before providing transportation so that she can monitor the vehicle for compliance. Please review CC RULE .1000 that covers the transportation standards. -The NC Summary of the Law had been updated in September 2023. This document can be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents”. Please print and replace the copy that is posted in the hallway. You will also want to assure that all new family members receive the most current document. -You will need to complete the Emergency Preparedness (EPR) training through Smart Start Rowan within your first 12 months of operation. -We discussed with you and staff that it is a child care requirement that children go outside for at least one hour a day weather permitting. Please refer to the Child Care Weather Watch document that is posted in the classrooms. If children tell staff that they do not want to go outside that is the perfect opportunity for staff to role model and engage with children outdoors. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before January 18, 2024, We must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. While the Division allows you time to explain how you have corrected violations when violations are cited, it is expected you correct all violations immediately. When you are asked to send a compliance letter to me, it is expected and required that your compliance letter be sent to me no later than the date indicated in this documentation. Your letter must include the following: -Name of your program -ID number of your program -Date of Letter -Violation number -Explain how you corrected the violation (send supporting documentation to show compliance) -Describe your plan to make sure you will not have that same violation in the future -Name or signature of the person who wrote the letter. (If emailing the letter, your email address will be considered your digital signature.) Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed with you and a copy was emailed to you. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/4/2024 Number Present: 2 Completed Date: 1/4/2024 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the second temporary time period visit. Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, accompanied me during today’s visit. We were greeted by you, Kiesha Dixon, owner of the facility, and we stated the reason for my visit. Currently, your facility operates with a temporary license issued on September 25, 2023. We observed the facility’s temporary license, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, daily schedule, emergency phone numbers posted in a prominent area. The NC Summary of Child Care Law poster was posted but it was from 2021. This has been revised in September 2023. The activity plan posted in the classroom was from August 2023. This was also posted during the visit conducted November 16, 2023. Ms. Conley discussed this with the staff member and the staff member did have a current activity in her bag and posted it during today’s visit. We observed the children free choice activities indoors, lunch and nap time. We observed supervision, staff/child ratio, grouping of children, the use of approved space, and permit restrictions in compliance during today’s visit. We observed that the last monthly fire drill conducted was on December 12, 2023. We observed the last monthly playground inspection was conducted on November 14, 2023. The sanitation inspection was completed on April 5, 2023, with three demerits and a superior rating. The fire inspection was completed on April 4, 2023. There are two children enrolled and present today and their files were monitored previously. There was one staff member hired since our last visit and we monitored her file today. Rated License Discussion – We discussed the rated license process and how you will earn points towards a star rated license at the end of your temporary license that expires on March 25, 2024. We reviewed the overview of how you earn points towards your program standards, education standards, and one quality point. You signed the Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License today. You signed the Rated License Assessment Request Review form today. Program Standards-your program standard points earned on the star rated license will be determined by your score earned on the environmental rating scale assessment. We will request the environmental rating scale within two weeks. To help your staff prepare for the assessment, they can access resources regarding the ECERS-R assessment at www.ncrlap.org. Staff can also complete the ECERS-R training with Smart Start Rowan to prepare for the environmental rating scale assessment. Education Standards-the points earned will be determined by the education of your Administrator and lead teacher(s). All staff must have their current education in WORKS. We discussed to have the Administrator complete BSAC training and send it to workforce. In addition, the Administrator should request in her WORKS account to be evaluated as a lead teacher, program coordinator, and group leader. Quality Point-you may earn one additional point by meeting an enhanced requirement listed on the Quality Point options list provided to you today. We discussed the options during today’s visit. I reminded you that you must earn a three star or higher in order to continue to accept DSS Subsidy. In addition, your facility must have a compliance history score of 75% or higher in order to be eligible for a star rated license at the end of the temporary license. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space 2, the lesson plan posted was dated August 2023. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. The monthly menu was missing food components for lunch on four days. Today's lunch did not contain the food items listed on the menu. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. Space 2 did not have a cot list showing what cots the two children in care utilize and where they are placed during naptime. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The last playground inspection was completed on 11/14/23. .0605(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. One employee who was hired on 12/19/23 did not have a criminal background check completed until 1/3/24. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. One staff member that was employed on 12/19/23 did not complete one of the topic areas required within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: -We discussed and reviewed with you and staff that prepares meals the meal guidelines and the required components for meals. This was also discussed during the visit conducted on November 16, 2023. You stated the children do not eat the food served. We discussed that licensed child care programs are required to follow the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). We disused portion size and introducing children to new foods. You could mix a vegetable with a vegetable they enjoy. You could prepare casseroles or soups with the components assuring that the portion sizes are correct. As enrollment increases that will help as well because the children will see other children eating different foods. -The activity plan needs to include activities intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development, available on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_foundations.asp: (1) emotional and social development; (2) health and physical development; (3) approaches to play and learning; (4) language development and communication; and (5) cognitive development. The activity plan is required to: (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. -We discussed with staff that each child needs to be assigned a cot. List the children on the cot list with a number. Write the number on the individual cot for each child. -Develop a schedule as to when you will complete the new staff orientation with new staff. Each day cover a topic during nap time, or first or last have hour of the day when you have coverage in the classroom that you are able to spend time with the new staff member. -Place a reminder in your phone monthly to remind you to conduct the playground inspections. You can conduct the inspection the same day as the fire inspection. CONSULTATION: -We discussed that it would be beneficial for staff to go North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development training. https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/index.php?categoryid=23 -You stated that you are thinking about providing transportation for school-aged children. You will need to contact Carolyn Conley before providing transportation so that she can monitor the vehicle for compliance. Please review CC RULE .1000 that covers the transportation standards. -The NC Summary of the Law had been updated in September 2023. This document can be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents”. Please print and replace the copy that is posted in the hallway. You will also want to assure that all new family members receive the most current document. -You will need to complete the Emergency Preparedness (EPR) training through Smart Start Rowan within your first 12 months of operation. -We discussed with you and staff that it is a child care requirement that children go outside for at least one hour a day weather permitting. Please refer to the Child Care Weather Watch document that is posted in the classrooms. If children tell staff that they do not want to go outside that is the perfect opportunity for staff to role model and engage with children outdoors. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before January 18, 2024, We must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. While the Division allows you time to explain how you have corrected violations when violations are cited, it is expected you correct all violations immediately. When you are asked to send a compliance letter to me, it is expected and required that your compliance letter be sent to me no later than the date indicated in this documentation. Your letter must include the following: -Name of your program -ID number of your program -Date of Letter -Violation number -Explain how you corrected the violation (send supporting documentation to show compliance) -Describe your plan to make sure you will not have that same violation in the future -Name or signature of the person who wrote the letter. (If emailing the letter, your email address will be considered your digital signature.) Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed with you and a copy was emailed to you. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: CAROLYN CONLEY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/4/2024 Number Present: 2 Completed Date: 1/4/2024 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the second temporary time period visit. Erin Pickard, Licensing Supervisor, accompanied me during today’s visit. We were greeted by you, Kiesha Dixon, owner of the facility, and we stated the reason for my visit. Currently, your facility operates with a temporary license issued on September 25, 2023. We observed the facility’s temporary license, Classroom Staff to Child Ratio chart, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency medical care plan, evacuation plan, daily schedule, emergency phone numbers posted in a prominent area. The NC Summary of Child Care Law poster was posted but it was from 2021. This has been revised in September 2023. The activity plan posted in the classroom was from August 2023. This was also posted during the visit conducted November 16, 2023. Ms. Conley discussed this with the staff member and the staff member did have a current activity in her bag and posted it during today’s visit. We observed the children free choice activities indoors, lunch and nap time. We observed supervision, staff/child ratio, grouping of children, the use of approved space, and permit restrictions in compliance during today’s visit. We observed that the last monthly fire drill conducted was on December 12, 2023. We observed the last monthly playground inspection was conducted on November 14, 2023. The sanitation inspection was completed on April 5, 2023, with three demerits and a superior rating. The fire inspection was completed on April 4, 2023. There are two children enrolled and present today and their files were monitored previously. There was one staff member hired since our last visit and we monitored her file today. Rated License Discussion – We discussed the rated license process and how you will earn points towards a star rated license at the end of your temporary license that expires on March 25, 2024. We reviewed the overview of how you earn points towards your program standards, education standards, and one quality point. You signed the Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License today. You signed the Rated License Assessment Request Review form today. Program Standards-your program standard points earned on the star rated license will be determined by your score earned on the environmental rating scale assessment. We will request the environmental rating scale within two weeks. To help your staff prepare for the assessment, they can access resources regarding the ECERS-R assessment at www.ncrlap.org. Staff can also complete the ECERS-R training with Smart Start Rowan to prepare for the environmental rating scale assessment. Education Standards-the points earned will be determined by the education of your Administrator and lead teacher(s). All staff must have their current education in WORKS. We discussed to have the Administrator complete BSAC training and send it to workforce. In addition, the Administrator should request in her WORKS account to be evaluated as a lead teacher, program coordinator, and group leader. Quality Point-you may earn one additional point by meeting an enhanced requirement listed on the Quality Point options list provided to you today. We discussed the options during today’s visit. I reminded you that you must earn a three star or higher in order to continue to accept DSS Subsidy. In addition, your facility must have a compliance history score of 75% or higher in order to be eligible for a star rated license at the end of the temporary license. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space 2, the lesson plan posted was dated August 2023. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. The monthly menu was missing food components for lunch on four days. Today's lunch did not contain the food items listed on the menu. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. Space 2 did not have a cot list showing what cots the two children in care utilize and where they are placed during naptime. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The last playground inspection was completed on 11/14/23. .0605(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. One employee who was hired on 12/19/23 did not have a criminal background check completed until 1/3/24. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. One staff member that was employed on 12/19/23 did not complete one of the topic areas required within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: -We discussed and reviewed with you and staff that prepares meals the meal guidelines and the required components for meals. This was also discussed during the visit conducted on November 16, 2023. You stated the children do not eat the food served. We discussed that licensed child care programs are required to follow the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). We disused portion size and introducing children to new foods. You could mix a vegetable with a vegetable they enjoy. You could prepare casseroles or soups with the components assuring that the portion sizes are correct. As enrollment increases that will help as well because the children will see other children eating different foods. -The activity plan needs to include activities intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development, available on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_foundations.asp: (1) emotional and social development; (2) health and physical development; (3) approaches to play and learning; (4) language development and communication; and (5) cognitive development. The activity plan is required to: (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. -We discussed with staff that each child needs to be assigned a cot. List the children on the cot list with a number. Write the number on the individual cot for each child. -Develop a schedule as to when you will complete the new staff orientation with new staff. Each day cover a topic during nap time, or first or last have hour of the day when you have coverage in the classroom that you are able to spend time with the new staff member. -Place a reminder in your phone monthly to remind you to conduct the playground inspections. You can conduct the inspection the same day as the fire inspection. CONSULTATION: -We discussed that it would be beneficial for staff to go North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development training. https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/index.php?categoryid=23 -You stated that you are thinking about providing transportation for school-aged children. You will need to contact Carolyn Conley before providing transportation so that she can monitor the vehicle for compliance. Please review CC RULE .1000 that covers the transportation standards. -The NC Summary of the Law had been updated in September 2023. This document can be found on the DCDEE website under “Provider Documents”. Please print and replace the copy that is posted in the hallway. You will also want to assure that all new family members receive the most current document. -You will need to complete the Emergency Preparedness (EPR) training through Smart Start Rowan within your first 12 months of operation. -We discussed with you and staff that it is a child care requirement that children go outside for at least one hour a day weather permitting. Please refer to the Child Care Weather Watch document that is posted in the classrooms. If children tell staff that they do not want to go outside that is the perfect opportunity for staff to role model and engage with children outdoors. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before January 18, 2024, We must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. While the Division allows you time to explain how you have corrected violations when violations are cited, it is expected you correct all violations immediately. When you are asked to send a compliance letter to me, it is expected and required that your compliance letter be sent to me no later than the date indicated in this documentation. Your letter must include the following: -Name of your program -ID number of your program -Date of Letter -Violation number -Explain how you corrected the violation (send supporting documentation to show compliance) -Describe your plan to make sure you will not have that same violation in the future -Name or signature of the person who wrote the letter. (If emailing the letter, your email address will be considered your digital signature.) Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed with you and a copy was emailed to you. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, please contact me at: 704-594-0149 or carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. Carolyn Conley Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section/DHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education Post Office Box 835 Kannapolis, NC 28082-0835 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 .0901 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: ERIN PICKARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/16/2023 Number Present: 2 Completed Date: 11/16/2023 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the first temporary time period visit. You Keshia Dixon, Owner, assisted with today’s visit. Carolyn Conley, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on September 25, 2023 with the following restrictions: First and second shift care. The owner of the facility is a Sole Proprietor owner. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was completed. Children were observed participating in free choice play inside and outside and eating lunch. The center's temporary license, NC child care law summary, safe arrival and departure procedures, and Emergency Medical Care Plan were prominently posted. The following was monitored during today’s visit: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, group size, capacity, adequate and approved space, hazardous product storage. You stated that you do not have your program files at the facility today due to them being moved when you changed office desks. The sanitation inspection was completed on April 5, 2023, and you received a superior rating and three demerits. The last fire inspection was completed on April 4, 2023. Four staff files were monitored. Two children’s files were monitored. The menu for this week was missing a vegetable and/or fruit for lunch each day. Lunch is required to have all five food components which should include milk, protein, grain, vegetable, and fruit or two vegetables. The type of milk required to be served to children is determined by their age. The two children in attendance today are three and five years of age, therefore low-fat milk should be served for this age of children. We discussed the rated license process and how you will earn points towards a star rated license at the end of your temporary license that expires on March 25, 2024. We reviewed the overview of how you earn points towards your program standards, education standards, and one quality point. Program Standards-you will earn two points in program standards unless you request to have the environmental rating scale completed. If you request to have the environmental rating scale completed, the program points earned will be determined by your score earned on the environmental rating scale assessment. Education Standards-the points earned will be determined by the education of your Administrator and classroom staff. All staff must have their current education in WORKS. We discussed to have the Administrator complete BSAC training and send it to workforce. In addition, the Administrator should request in her WORKS account to be evaluated as a lead teacher, program coordinator, and group leader. Quality Point-you may earn one additional point by meeting an enhanced requirement listed on the Quality Point options list provided to you today. Please send me what quality point you would like to meet in order for it to be verified and approved. You were given the Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License today. You stated that your goal is to earn a three to five star rated license in order to continue to receive DSS Subsidy. Please complete and sign this Application form to request a two through five star rated license and return it to Carolyn Conley, Child Care Consultant. You were given the Rated License Assessment Request Review form. This form explains the environmental rating scale assessment process. If you would like to request for the environmental rating scale assessment (ECERS-R assessment) to be completed, please initial each statement and sign the bottom of the form and return both forms to Carolyn Conley at Carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. If you are requesting to have the environmental rating scale completed, Carolyn must request it by January 8, 2024. Please request assistance to prepare for the assessments from Smart Start Rowan. You can also access resources at www.ncrlap.org. I reminded you that programs with less than a three-star license will not be eligible to receive subsidy funding. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. There was no documentation that the parent of the two children enrolled has signed and dated that they have received and reviewed the law. GS 110-102 124 The center did not maintain records as required in rule, and/or were not made available to the Division for review. The playground inspections and emergency drills report were not on site and were not available for review. G.S. 110-91(9); .0304(g); .2318 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plan posted in the classroom was from August 2023. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. This week's menu was missing components. Monday and Wednesday needed an additional vegetable or fruit listed and served. Friday needed a grain, two vegetables or one fruit and one vegetable listed and served. The children were served whole milk. Children older than two years of age should be served low fat milk. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. The owner and the three staff hired at this facility have no documentation that they reviewed the EMC plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. A staff member that was hired on 11/13/23 did not have a medical report in her file. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. There are two staff members that were hired on 10/2/23 and 10/3/23 that have not completed at least 16 hours of orientation. .1101(a) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. A staff member hired on 10/2/23 and a staff member hired on 11/13/23 did not have signed acknowledgement for this policy. .0608(d)(1-4) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. The two children enrolled did not have documentation that the parent signed and dated acknowledging that they have received this policy. .0608(b)(1-6) Technical Assistance: We discussed and reviewed with you and staff that prepares meals the meal guidelines and the required components for meals. The activity plan needs to include activities intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development, available on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_foundations.asp: (1) emotional and social development; (2) health and physical development; (3) approaches to play and learning; (4) language development and communication; and (5) cognitive development. The activity plan is required to: (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. All required records, including program records, should remain on site for monitoring. The first two weeks of staff orientation must equal six hours. The second four weeks of staff orientation must equal ten hours. The total number of staff orientation should equal sixteen hours. Before hiring a staff member, they must have a physical completed on the DCDEE staff medical report. All staff should sign that they have received a copy of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. All staff should sign that the administrator has reviewed the Emergency Medical Care Plan that is posted in the foyer. Consultation: We discussed that all training certificates need to be placed in staffs' files and listed on the In-Service Training Log. DCDEE Representatives need to have access to the certificates for review. We discussed the Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPR). You stated that you have completed the ERR training. We discussed that you will need to complete the EPR Plan within four months from completing the training. We discussed that you want to make sure when you and staff register for CPR/FA that it includes “Infant” or “Pediatric” on the card and certificate. We discussed that you will want to contact the fire inspector at least 30 days before April 4, 2024 so that you can assure that your fire inspection is completed within 12 months. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher Compliance History to be eligible to apply for a child care license. Your Compliance History will continue to build over an 18-month period. The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your center. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your six month temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a rated license. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher compliance history to maintain your star license. If your center's compliance history drops below 75% you may receive an administrative action. The Administrator and all staff working in the school-age classroom must complete BSAC training. Health and Safety Training must be completed by all staff within one year of employment unless the staff member has completed all health and safety training within one year of employment at your facility. Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. CPR and First Aid training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. Ensure that CPR and First Aid training is taken in-person, by an approved trainer and training agency, as well as the type of training is Pediatric or Infant/Child CPR and First Aid training. New staff must have a current criminal background check, medical exam, and TB test or TB screening completed prior to employment. Federal law requires that an employer keep all medical information confidential and in separate medical files. Any staff medical statements, any proof of tuberculosis test or screening, and any completed health questionnaires must be included in a staff member's medical file, which must be maintained separately from that staff member's individual personnel file. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received by me no later than 11/30/23, stating how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Please mail or email me a signed copy of the letter to Erin.Pickard@dhhs.nc.gov or P.O. Box 971, Kannapolis, NC 28082. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. If a letter is not received by the required date an unannounced follow-up visit may be conducted to confirm the violations were corrected or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A https://www.msn.com/en-us/feedNCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education 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 Note: Please be aware that any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Child care programs are required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. Contact me at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-594-0153 or Carolyn Conley at carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-594-0149 if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: ERIN PICKARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/16/2023 Number Present: 2 Completed Date: 11/16/2023 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the first temporary time period visit. You Keshia Dixon, Owner, assisted with today’s visit. Carolyn Conley, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on September 25, 2023 with the following restrictions: First and second shift care. The owner of the facility is a Sole Proprietor owner. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was completed. Children were observed participating in free choice play inside and outside and eating lunch. The center's temporary license, NC child care law summary, safe arrival and departure procedures, and Emergency Medical Care Plan were prominently posted. The following was monitored during today’s visit: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, group size, capacity, adequate and approved space, hazardous product storage. You stated that you do not have your program files at the facility today due to them being moved when you changed office desks. The sanitation inspection was completed on April 5, 2023, and you received a superior rating and three demerits. The last fire inspection was completed on April 4, 2023. Four staff files were monitored. Two children’s files were monitored. The menu for this week was missing a vegetable and/or fruit for lunch each day. Lunch is required to have all five food components which should include milk, protein, grain, vegetable, and fruit or two vegetables. The type of milk required to be served to children is determined by their age. The two children in attendance today are three and five years of age, therefore low-fat milk should be served for this age of children. We discussed the rated license process and how you will earn points towards a star rated license at the end of your temporary license that expires on March 25, 2024. We reviewed the overview of how you earn points towards your program standards, education standards, and one quality point. Program Standards-you will earn two points in program standards unless you request to have the environmental rating scale completed. If you request to have the environmental rating scale completed, the program points earned will be determined by your score earned on the environmental rating scale assessment. Education Standards-the points earned will be determined by the education of your Administrator and classroom staff. All staff must have their current education in WORKS. We discussed to have the Administrator complete BSAC training and send it to workforce. In addition, the Administrator should request in her WORKS account to be evaluated as a lead teacher, program coordinator, and group leader. Quality Point-you may earn one additional point by meeting an enhanced requirement listed on the Quality Point options list provided to you today. Please send me what quality point you would like to meet in order for it to be verified and approved. You were given the Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License today. You stated that your goal is to earn a three to five star rated license in order to continue to receive DSS Subsidy. Please complete and sign this Application form to request a two through five star rated license and return it to Carolyn Conley, Child Care Consultant. You were given the Rated License Assessment Request Review form. This form explains the environmental rating scale assessment process. If you would like to request for the environmental rating scale assessment (ECERS-R assessment) to be completed, please initial each statement and sign the bottom of the form and return both forms to Carolyn Conley at Carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. If you are requesting to have the environmental rating scale completed, Carolyn must request it by January 8, 2024. Please request assistance to prepare for the assessments from Smart Start Rowan. You can also access resources at www.ncrlap.org. I reminded you that programs with less than a three-star license will not be eligible to receive subsidy funding. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. There was no documentation that the parent of the two children enrolled has signed and dated that they have received and reviewed the law. GS 110-102 124 The center did not maintain records as required in rule, and/or were not made available to the Division for review. The playground inspections and emergency drills report were not on site and were not available for review. G.S. 110-91(9); .0304(g); .2318 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plan posted in the classroom was from August 2023. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. This week's menu was missing components. Monday and Wednesday needed an additional vegetable or fruit listed and served. Friday needed a grain, two vegetables or one fruit and one vegetable listed and served. The children were served whole milk. Children older than two years of age should be served low fat milk. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. The owner and the three staff hired at this facility have no documentation that they reviewed the EMC plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. A staff member that was hired on 11/13/23 did not have a medical report in her file. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. There are two staff members that were hired on 10/2/23 and 10/3/23 that have not completed at least 16 hours of orientation. .1101(a) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. A staff member hired on 10/2/23 and a staff member hired on 11/13/23 did not have signed acknowledgement for this policy. .0608(d)(1-4) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. The two children enrolled did not have documentation that the parent signed and dated acknowledging that they have received this policy. .0608(b)(1-6) Technical Assistance: We discussed and reviewed with you and staff that prepares meals the meal guidelines and the required components for meals. The activity plan needs to include activities intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development, available on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_foundations.asp: (1) emotional and social development; (2) health and physical development; (3) approaches to play and learning; (4) language development and communication; and (5) cognitive development. The activity plan is required to: (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. All required records, including program records, should remain on site for monitoring. The first two weeks of staff orientation must equal six hours. The second four weeks of staff orientation must equal ten hours. The total number of staff orientation should equal sixteen hours. Before hiring a staff member, they must have a physical completed on the DCDEE staff medical report. All staff should sign that they have received a copy of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. All staff should sign that the administrator has reviewed the Emergency Medical Care Plan that is posted in the foyer. Consultation: We discussed that all training certificates need to be placed in staffs' files and listed on the In-Service Training Log. DCDEE Representatives need to have access to the certificates for review. We discussed the Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPR). You stated that you have completed the ERR training. We discussed that you will need to complete the EPR Plan within four months from completing the training. We discussed that you want to make sure when you and staff register for CPR/FA that it includes “Infant” or “Pediatric” on the card and certificate. We discussed that you will want to contact the fire inspector at least 30 days before April 4, 2024 so that you can assure that your fire inspection is completed within 12 months. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher Compliance History to be eligible to apply for a child care license. Your Compliance History will continue to build over an 18-month period. The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your center. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your six month temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a rated license. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher compliance history to maintain your star license. If your center's compliance history drops below 75% you may receive an administrative action. The Administrator and all staff working in the school-age classroom must complete BSAC training. Health and Safety Training must be completed by all staff within one year of employment unless the staff member has completed all health and safety training within one year of employment at your facility. Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. CPR and First Aid training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. Ensure that CPR and First Aid training is taken in-person, by an approved trainer and training agency, as well as the type of training is Pediatric or Infant/Child CPR and First Aid training. New staff must have a current criminal background check, medical exam, and TB test or TB screening completed prior to employment. Federal law requires that an employer keep all medical information confidential and in separate medical files. Any staff medical statements, any proof of tuberculosis test or screening, and any completed health questionnaires must be included in a staff member's medical file, which must be maintained separately from that staff member's individual personnel file. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received by me no later than 11/30/23, stating how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Please mail or email me a signed copy of the letter to Erin.Pickard@dhhs.nc.gov or P.O. Box 971, Kannapolis, NC 28082. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. If a letter is not received by the required date an unannounced follow-up visit may be conducted to confirm the violations were corrected or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A https://www.msn.com/en-us/feedNCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education 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 Note: Please be aware that any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Child care programs are required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. Contact me at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-594-0153 or Carolyn Conley at carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-594-0149 if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0802 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: ERIN PICKARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/16/2023 Number Present: 2 Completed Date: 11/16/2023 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the first temporary time period visit. You Keshia Dixon, Owner, assisted with today’s visit. Carolyn Conley, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on September 25, 2023 with the following restrictions: First and second shift care. The owner of the facility is a Sole Proprietor owner. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was completed. Children were observed participating in free choice play inside and outside and eating lunch. The center's temporary license, NC child care law summary, safe arrival and departure procedures, and Emergency Medical Care Plan were prominently posted. The following was monitored during today’s visit: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, group size, capacity, adequate and approved space, hazardous product storage. You stated that you do not have your program files at the facility today due to them being moved when you changed office desks. The sanitation inspection was completed on April 5, 2023, and you received a superior rating and three demerits. The last fire inspection was completed on April 4, 2023. Four staff files were monitored. Two children’s files were monitored. The menu for this week was missing a vegetable and/or fruit for lunch each day. Lunch is required to have all five food components which should include milk, protein, grain, vegetable, and fruit or two vegetables. The type of milk required to be served to children is determined by their age. The two children in attendance today are three and five years of age, therefore low-fat milk should be served for this age of children. We discussed the rated license process and how you will earn points towards a star rated license at the end of your temporary license that expires on March 25, 2024. We reviewed the overview of how you earn points towards your program standards, education standards, and one quality point. Program Standards-you will earn two points in program standards unless you request to have the environmental rating scale completed. If you request to have the environmental rating scale completed, the program points earned will be determined by your score earned on the environmental rating scale assessment. Education Standards-the points earned will be determined by the education of your Administrator and classroom staff. All staff must have their current education in WORKS. We discussed to have the Administrator complete BSAC training and send it to workforce. In addition, the Administrator should request in her WORKS account to be evaluated as a lead teacher, program coordinator, and group leader. Quality Point-you may earn one additional point by meeting an enhanced requirement listed on the Quality Point options list provided to you today. Please send me what quality point you would like to meet in order for it to be verified and approved. You were given the Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License today. You stated that your goal is to earn a three to five star rated license in order to continue to receive DSS Subsidy. Please complete and sign this Application form to request a two through five star rated license and return it to Carolyn Conley, Child Care Consultant. You were given the Rated License Assessment Request Review form. This form explains the environmental rating scale assessment process. If you would like to request for the environmental rating scale assessment (ECERS-R assessment) to be completed, please initial each statement and sign the bottom of the form and return both forms to Carolyn Conley at Carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. If you are requesting to have the environmental rating scale completed, Carolyn must request it by January 8, 2024. Please request assistance to prepare for the assessments from Smart Start Rowan. You can also access resources at www.ncrlap.org. I reminded you that programs with less than a three-star license will not be eligible to receive subsidy funding. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. There was no documentation that the parent of the two children enrolled has signed and dated that they have received and reviewed the law. GS 110-102 124 The center did not maintain records as required in rule, and/or were not made available to the Division for review. The playground inspections and emergency drills report were not on site and were not available for review. G.S. 110-91(9); .0304(g); .2318 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plan posted in the classroom was from August 2023. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. This week's menu was missing components. Monday and Wednesday needed an additional vegetable or fruit listed and served. Friday needed a grain, two vegetables or one fruit and one vegetable listed and served. The children were served whole milk. Children older than two years of age should be served low fat milk. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. The owner and the three staff hired at this facility have no documentation that they reviewed the EMC plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. A staff member that was hired on 11/13/23 did not have a medical report in her file. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. There are two staff members that were hired on 10/2/23 and 10/3/23 that have not completed at least 16 hours of orientation. .1101(a) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. A staff member hired on 10/2/23 and a staff member hired on 11/13/23 did not have signed acknowledgement for this policy. .0608(d)(1-4) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. The two children enrolled did not have documentation that the parent signed and dated acknowledging that they have received this policy. .0608(b)(1-6) Technical Assistance: We discussed and reviewed with you and staff that prepares meals the meal guidelines and the required components for meals. The activity plan needs to include activities intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development, available on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_foundations.asp: (1) emotional and social development; (2) health and physical development; (3) approaches to play and learning; (4) language development and communication; and (5) cognitive development. The activity plan is required to: (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. All required records, including program records, should remain on site for monitoring. The first two weeks of staff orientation must equal six hours. The second four weeks of staff orientation must equal ten hours. The total number of staff orientation should equal sixteen hours. Before hiring a staff member, they must have a physical completed on the DCDEE staff medical report. All staff should sign that they have received a copy of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. All staff should sign that the administrator has reviewed the Emergency Medical Care Plan that is posted in the foyer. Consultation: We discussed that all training certificates need to be placed in staffs' files and listed on the In-Service Training Log. DCDEE Representatives need to have access to the certificates for review. We discussed the Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPR). You stated that you have completed the ERR training. We discussed that you will need to complete the EPR Plan within four months from completing the training. We discussed that you want to make sure when you and staff register for CPR/FA that it includes “Infant” or “Pediatric” on the card and certificate. We discussed that you will want to contact the fire inspector at least 30 days before April 4, 2024 so that you can assure that your fire inspection is completed within 12 months. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher Compliance History to be eligible to apply for a child care license. Your Compliance History will continue to build over an 18-month period. The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your center. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your six month temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a rated license. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher compliance history to maintain your star license. If your center's compliance history drops below 75% you may receive an administrative action. The Administrator and all staff working in the school-age classroom must complete BSAC training. Health and Safety Training must be completed by all staff within one year of employment unless the staff member has completed all health and safety training within one year of employment at your facility. Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. CPR and First Aid training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. Ensure that CPR and First Aid training is taken in-person, by an approved trainer and training agency, as well as the type of training is Pediatric or Infant/Child CPR and First Aid training. New staff must have a current criminal background check, medical exam, and TB test or TB screening completed prior to employment. Federal law requires that an employer keep all medical information confidential and in separate medical files. Any staff medical statements, any proof of tuberculosis test or screening, and any completed health questionnaires must be included in a staff member's medical file, which must be maintained separately from that staff member's individual personnel file. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received by me no later than 11/30/23, stating how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Please mail or email me a signed copy of the letter to Erin.Pickard@dhhs.nc.gov or P.O. Box 971, Kannapolis, NC 28082. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. If a letter is not received by the required date an unannounced follow-up visit may be conducted to confirm the violations were corrected or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A https://www.msn.com/en-us/feedNCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education 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 Note: Please be aware that any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Child care programs are required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. Contact me at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-594-0153 or Carolyn Conley at carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-594-0149 if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: ERIN PICKARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/16/2023 Number Present: 2 Completed Date: 11/16/2023 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the first temporary time period visit. You Keshia Dixon, Owner, assisted with today’s visit. Carolyn Conley, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on September 25, 2023 with the following restrictions: First and second shift care. The owner of the facility is a Sole Proprietor owner. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was completed. Children were observed participating in free choice play inside and outside and eating lunch. The center's temporary license, NC child care law summary, safe arrival and departure procedures, and Emergency Medical Care Plan were prominently posted. The following was monitored during today’s visit: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, group size, capacity, adequate and approved space, hazardous product storage. You stated that you do not have your program files at the facility today due to them being moved when you changed office desks. The sanitation inspection was completed on April 5, 2023, and you received a superior rating and three demerits. The last fire inspection was completed on April 4, 2023. Four staff files were monitored. Two children’s files were monitored. The menu for this week was missing a vegetable and/or fruit for lunch each day. Lunch is required to have all five food components which should include milk, protein, grain, vegetable, and fruit or two vegetables. The type of milk required to be served to children is determined by their age. The two children in attendance today are three and five years of age, therefore low-fat milk should be served for this age of children. We discussed the rated license process and how you will earn points towards a star rated license at the end of your temporary license that expires on March 25, 2024. We reviewed the overview of how you earn points towards your program standards, education standards, and one quality point. Program Standards-you will earn two points in program standards unless you request to have the environmental rating scale completed. If you request to have the environmental rating scale completed, the program points earned will be determined by your score earned on the environmental rating scale assessment. Education Standards-the points earned will be determined by the education of your Administrator and classroom staff. All staff must have their current education in WORKS. We discussed to have the Administrator complete BSAC training and send it to workforce. In addition, the Administrator should request in her WORKS account to be evaluated as a lead teacher, program coordinator, and group leader. Quality Point-you may earn one additional point by meeting an enhanced requirement listed on the Quality Point options list provided to you today. Please send me what quality point you would like to meet in order for it to be verified and approved. You were given the Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License today. You stated that your goal is to earn a three to five star rated license in order to continue to receive DSS Subsidy. Please complete and sign this Application form to request a two through five star rated license and return it to Carolyn Conley, Child Care Consultant. You were given the Rated License Assessment Request Review form. This form explains the environmental rating scale assessment process. If you would like to request for the environmental rating scale assessment (ECERS-R assessment) to be completed, please initial each statement and sign the bottom of the form and return both forms to Carolyn Conley at Carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. If you are requesting to have the environmental rating scale completed, Carolyn must request it by January 8, 2024. Please request assistance to prepare for the assessments from Smart Start Rowan. You can also access resources at www.ncrlap.org. I reminded you that programs with less than a three-star license will not be eligible to receive subsidy funding. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. There was no documentation that the parent of the two children enrolled has signed and dated that they have received and reviewed the law. GS 110-102 124 The center did not maintain records as required in rule, and/or were not made available to the Division for review. The playground inspections and emergency drills report were not on site and were not available for review. G.S. 110-91(9); .0304(g); .2318 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plan posted in the classroom was from August 2023. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. This week's menu was missing components. Monday and Wednesday needed an additional vegetable or fruit listed and served. Friday needed a grain, two vegetables or one fruit and one vegetable listed and served. The children were served whole milk. Children older than two years of age should be served low fat milk. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. The owner and the three staff hired at this facility have no documentation that they reviewed the EMC plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. A staff member that was hired on 11/13/23 did not have a medical report in her file. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. There are two staff members that were hired on 10/2/23 and 10/3/23 that have not completed at least 16 hours of orientation. .1101(a) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. A staff member hired on 10/2/23 and a staff member hired on 11/13/23 did not have signed acknowledgement for this policy. .0608(d)(1-4) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. The two children enrolled did not have documentation that the parent signed and dated acknowledging that they have received this policy. .0608(b)(1-6) Technical Assistance: We discussed and reviewed with you and staff that prepares meals the meal guidelines and the required components for meals. The activity plan needs to include activities intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development, available on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_foundations.asp: (1) emotional and social development; (2) health and physical development; (3) approaches to play and learning; (4) language development and communication; and (5) cognitive development. The activity plan is required to: (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. All required records, including program records, should remain on site for monitoring. The first two weeks of staff orientation must equal six hours. The second four weeks of staff orientation must equal ten hours. The total number of staff orientation should equal sixteen hours. Before hiring a staff member, they must have a physical completed on the DCDEE staff medical report. All staff should sign that they have received a copy of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. All staff should sign that the administrator has reviewed the Emergency Medical Care Plan that is posted in the foyer. Consultation: We discussed that all training certificates need to be placed in staffs' files and listed on the In-Service Training Log. DCDEE Representatives need to have access to the certificates for review. We discussed the Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPR). You stated that you have completed the ERR training. We discussed that you will need to complete the EPR Plan within four months from completing the training. We discussed that you want to make sure when you and staff register for CPR/FA that it includes “Infant” or “Pediatric” on the card and certificate. We discussed that you will want to contact the fire inspector at least 30 days before April 4, 2024 so that you can assure that your fire inspection is completed within 12 months. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher Compliance History to be eligible to apply for a child care license. Your Compliance History will continue to build over an 18-month period. The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your center. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your six month temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a rated license. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher compliance history to maintain your star license. If your center's compliance history drops below 75% you may receive an administrative action. The Administrator and all staff working in the school-age classroom must complete BSAC training. Health and Safety Training must be completed by all staff within one year of employment unless the staff member has completed all health and safety training within one year of employment at your facility. Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. CPR and First Aid training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. Ensure that CPR and First Aid training is taken in-person, by an approved trainer and training agency, as well as the type of training is Pediatric or Infant/Child CPR and First Aid training. New staff must have a current criminal background check, medical exam, and TB test or TB screening completed prior to employment. Federal law requires that an employer keep all medical information confidential and in separate medical files. Any staff medical statements, any proof of tuberculosis test or screening, and any completed health questionnaires must be included in a staff member's medical file, which must be maintained separately from that staff member's individual personnel file. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received by me no later than 11/30/23, stating how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Please mail or email me a signed copy of the letter to Erin.Pickard@dhhs.nc.gov or P.O. Box 971, Kannapolis, NC 28082. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. If a letter is not received by the required date an unannounced follow-up visit may be conducted to confirm the violations were corrected or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A https://www.msn.com/en-us/feedNCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education 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 Note: Please be aware that any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Child care programs are required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. Contact me at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-594-0153 or Carolyn Conley at carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-594-0149 if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-102 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: ERIN PICKARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/16/2023 Number Present: 2 Completed Date: 11/16/2023 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the first temporary time period visit. You Keshia Dixon, Owner, assisted with today’s visit. Carolyn Conley, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on September 25, 2023 with the following restrictions: First and second shift care. The owner of the facility is a Sole Proprietor owner. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was completed. Children were observed participating in free choice play inside and outside and eating lunch. The center's temporary license, NC child care law summary, safe arrival and departure procedures, and Emergency Medical Care Plan were prominently posted. The following was monitored during today’s visit: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, group size, capacity, adequate and approved space, hazardous product storage. You stated that you do not have your program files at the facility today due to them being moved when you changed office desks. The sanitation inspection was completed on April 5, 2023, and you received a superior rating and three demerits. The last fire inspection was completed on April 4, 2023. Four staff files were monitored. Two children’s files were monitored. The menu for this week was missing a vegetable and/or fruit for lunch each day. Lunch is required to have all five food components which should include milk, protein, grain, vegetable, and fruit or two vegetables. The type of milk required to be served to children is determined by their age. The two children in attendance today are three and five years of age, therefore low-fat milk should be served for this age of children. We discussed the rated license process and how you will earn points towards a star rated license at the end of your temporary license that expires on March 25, 2024. We reviewed the overview of how you earn points towards your program standards, education standards, and one quality point. Program Standards-you will earn two points in program standards unless you request to have the environmental rating scale completed. If you request to have the environmental rating scale completed, the program points earned will be determined by your score earned on the environmental rating scale assessment. Education Standards-the points earned will be determined by the education of your Administrator and classroom staff. All staff must have their current education in WORKS. We discussed to have the Administrator complete BSAC training and send it to workforce. In addition, the Administrator should request in her WORKS account to be evaluated as a lead teacher, program coordinator, and group leader. Quality Point-you may earn one additional point by meeting an enhanced requirement listed on the Quality Point options list provided to you today. Please send me what quality point you would like to meet in order for it to be verified and approved. You were given the Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License today. You stated that your goal is to earn a three to five star rated license in order to continue to receive DSS Subsidy. Please complete and sign this Application form to request a two through five star rated license and return it to Carolyn Conley, Child Care Consultant. You were given the Rated License Assessment Request Review form. This form explains the environmental rating scale assessment process. If you would like to request for the environmental rating scale assessment (ECERS-R assessment) to be completed, please initial each statement and sign the bottom of the form and return both forms to Carolyn Conley at Carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. If you are requesting to have the environmental rating scale completed, Carolyn must request it by January 8, 2024. Please request assistance to prepare for the assessments from Smart Start Rowan. You can also access resources at www.ncrlap.org. I reminded you that programs with less than a three-star license will not be eligible to receive subsidy funding. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. There was no documentation that the parent of the two children enrolled has signed and dated that they have received and reviewed the law. GS 110-102 124 The center did not maintain records as required in rule, and/or were not made available to the Division for review. The playground inspections and emergency drills report were not on site and were not available for review. G.S. 110-91(9); .0304(g); .2318 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plan posted in the classroom was from August 2023. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. This week's menu was missing components. Monday and Wednesday needed an additional vegetable or fruit listed and served. Friday needed a grain, two vegetables or one fruit and one vegetable listed and served. The children were served whole milk. Children older than two years of age should be served low fat milk. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. The owner and the three staff hired at this facility have no documentation that they reviewed the EMC plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. A staff member that was hired on 11/13/23 did not have a medical report in her file. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. There are two staff members that were hired on 10/2/23 and 10/3/23 that have not completed at least 16 hours of orientation. .1101(a) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. A staff member hired on 10/2/23 and a staff member hired on 11/13/23 did not have signed acknowledgement for this policy. .0608(d)(1-4) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. The two children enrolled did not have documentation that the parent signed and dated acknowledging that they have received this policy. .0608(b)(1-6) Technical Assistance: We discussed and reviewed with you and staff that prepares meals the meal guidelines and the required components for meals. The activity plan needs to include activities intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development, available on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_foundations.asp: (1) emotional and social development; (2) health and physical development; (3) approaches to play and learning; (4) language development and communication; and (5) cognitive development. The activity plan is required to: (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. All required records, including program records, should remain on site for monitoring. The first two weeks of staff orientation must equal six hours. The second four weeks of staff orientation must equal ten hours. The total number of staff orientation should equal sixteen hours. Before hiring a staff member, they must have a physical completed on the DCDEE staff medical report. All staff should sign that they have received a copy of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. All staff should sign that the administrator has reviewed the Emergency Medical Care Plan that is posted in the foyer. Consultation: We discussed that all training certificates need to be placed in staffs' files and listed on the In-Service Training Log. DCDEE Representatives need to have access to the certificates for review. We discussed the Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPR). You stated that you have completed the ERR training. We discussed that you will need to complete the EPR Plan within four months from completing the training. We discussed that you want to make sure when you and staff register for CPR/FA that it includes “Infant” or “Pediatric” on the card and certificate. We discussed that you will want to contact the fire inspector at least 30 days before April 4, 2024 so that you can assure that your fire inspection is completed within 12 months. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher Compliance History to be eligible to apply for a child care license. Your Compliance History will continue to build over an 18-month period. The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your center. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your six month temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a rated license. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher compliance history to maintain your star license. If your center's compliance history drops below 75% you may receive an administrative action. The Administrator and all staff working in the school-age classroom must complete BSAC training. Health and Safety Training must be completed by all staff within one year of employment unless the staff member has completed all health and safety training within one year of employment at your facility. Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. CPR and First Aid training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. Ensure that CPR and First Aid training is taken in-person, by an approved trainer and training agency, as well as the type of training is Pediatric or Infant/Child CPR and First Aid training. New staff must have a current criminal background check, medical exam, and TB test or TB screening completed prior to employment. Federal law requires that an employer keep all medical information confidential and in separate medical files. Any staff medical statements, any proof of tuberculosis test or screening, and any completed health questionnaires must be included in a staff member's medical file, which must be maintained separately from that staff member's individual personnel file. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received by me no later than 11/30/23, stating how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Please mail or email me a signed copy of the letter to Erin.Pickard@dhhs.nc.gov or P.O. Box 971, Kannapolis, NC 28082. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. If a letter is not received by the required date an unannounced follow-up visit may be conducted to confirm the violations were corrected or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A https://www.msn.com/en-us/feedNCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education 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 Note: Please be aware that any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Child care programs are required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. Contact me at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-594-0153 or Carolyn Conley at carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-594-0149 if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING TOOLS CENTER Facility ID: 80000410 Consultant: ERIN PICKARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/16/2023 Number Present: 2 Completed Date: 11/16/2023 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the first temporary time period visit. You Keshia Dixon, Owner, assisted with today’s visit. Carolyn Conley, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on today’s visit. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on September 25, 2023 with the following restrictions: First and second shift care. The owner of the facility is a Sole Proprietor owner. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was completed. Children were observed participating in free choice play inside and outside and eating lunch. The center's temporary license, NC child care law summary, safe arrival and departure procedures, and Emergency Medical Care Plan were prominently posted. The following was monitored during today’s visit: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, group size, capacity, adequate and approved space, hazardous product storage. You stated that you do not have your program files at the facility today due to them being moved when you changed office desks. The sanitation inspection was completed on April 5, 2023, and you received a superior rating and three demerits. The last fire inspection was completed on April 4, 2023. Four staff files were monitored. Two children’s files were monitored. The menu for this week was missing a vegetable and/or fruit for lunch each day. Lunch is required to have all five food components which should include milk, protein, grain, vegetable, and fruit or two vegetables. The type of milk required to be served to children is determined by their age. The two children in attendance today are three and five years of age, therefore low-fat milk should be served for this age of children. We discussed the rated license process and how you will earn points towards a star rated license at the end of your temporary license that expires on March 25, 2024. We reviewed the overview of how you earn points towards your program standards, education standards, and one quality point. Program Standards-you will earn two points in program standards unless you request to have the environmental rating scale completed. If you request to have the environmental rating scale completed, the program points earned will be determined by your score earned on the environmental rating scale assessment. Education Standards-the points earned will be determined by the education of your Administrator and classroom staff. All staff must have their current education in WORKS. We discussed to have the Administrator complete BSAC training and send it to workforce. In addition, the Administrator should request in her WORKS account to be evaluated as a lead teacher, program coordinator, and group leader. Quality Point-you may earn one additional point by meeting an enhanced requirement listed on the Quality Point options list provided to you today. Please send me what quality point you would like to meet in order for it to be verified and approved. You were given the Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License today. You stated that your goal is to earn a three to five star rated license in order to continue to receive DSS Subsidy. Please complete and sign this Application form to request a two through five star rated license and return it to Carolyn Conley, Child Care Consultant. You were given the Rated License Assessment Request Review form. This form explains the environmental rating scale assessment process. If you would like to request for the environmental rating scale assessment (ECERS-R assessment) to be completed, please initial each statement and sign the bottom of the form and return both forms to Carolyn Conley at Carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov. If you are requesting to have the environmental rating scale completed, Carolyn must request it by January 8, 2024. Please request assistance to prepare for the assessments from Smart Start Rowan. You can also access resources at www.ncrlap.org. I reminded you that programs with less than a three-star license will not be eligible to receive subsidy funding. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. There was no documentation that the parent of the two children enrolled has signed and dated that they have received and reviewed the law. GS 110-102 124 The center did not maintain records as required in rule, and/or were not made available to the Division for review. The playground inspections and emergency drills report were not on site and were not available for review. G.S. 110-91(9); .0304(g); .2318 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plan posted in the classroom was from August 2023. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. This week's menu was missing components. Monday and Wednesday needed an additional vegetable or fruit listed and served. Friday needed a grain, two vegetables or one fruit and one vegetable listed and served. The children were served whole milk. Children older than two years of age should be served low fat milk. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. The owner and the three staff hired at this facility have no documentation that they reviewed the EMC plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. A staff member that was hired on 11/13/23 did not have a medical report in her file. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. There are two staff members that were hired on 10/2/23 and 10/3/23 that have not completed at least 16 hours of orientation. .1101(a) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. A staff member hired on 10/2/23 and a staff member hired on 11/13/23 did not have signed acknowledgement for this policy. .0608(d)(1-4) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. The two children enrolled did not have documentation that the parent signed and dated acknowledging that they have received this policy. .0608(b)(1-6) Technical Assistance: We discussed and reviewed with you and staff that prepares meals the meal guidelines and the required components for meals. The activity plan needs to include activities intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development, available on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_foundations.asp: (1) emotional and social development; (2) health and physical development; (3) approaches to play and learning; (4) language development and communication; and (5) cognitive development. The activity plan is required to: (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. All required records, including program records, should remain on site for monitoring. The first two weeks of staff orientation must equal six hours. The second four weeks of staff orientation must equal ten hours. The total number of staff orientation should equal sixteen hours. Before hiring a staff member, they must have a physical completed on the DCDEE staff medical report. All staff should sign that they have received a copy of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. All staff should sign that the administrator has reviewed the Emergency Medical Care Plan that is posted in the foyer. Consultation: We discussed that all training certificates need to be placed in staffs' files and listed on the In-Service Training Log. DCDEE Representatives need to have access to the certificates for review. We discussed the Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPR). You stated that you have completed the ERR training. We discussed that you will need to complete the EPR Plan within four months from completing the training. We discussed that you want to make sure when you and staff register for CPR/FA that it includes “Infant” or “Pediatric” on the card and certificate. We discussed that you will want to contact the fire inspector at least 30 days before April 4, 2024 so that you can assure that your fire inspection is completed within 12 months. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher Compliance History to be eligible to apply for a child care license. Your Compliance History will continue to build over an 18-month period. The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your center. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your six month temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a rated license. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher compliance history to maintain your star license. If your center's compliance history drops below 75% you may receive an administrative action. The Administrator and all staff working in the school-age classroom must complete BSAC training. Health and Safety Training must be completed by all staff within one year of employment unless the staff member has completed all health and safety training within one year of employment at your facility. Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. CPR and First Aid training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. Ensure that CPR and First Aid training is taken in-person, by an approved trainer and training agency, as well as the type of training is Pediatric or Infant/Child CPR and First Aid training. New staff must have a current criminal background check, medical exam, and TB test or TB screening completed prior to employment. Federal law requires that an employer keep all medical information confidential and in separate medical files. Any staff medical statements, any proof of tuberculosis test or screening, and any completed health questionnaires must be included in a staff member's medical file, which must be maintained separately from that staff member's individual personnel file. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received by me no later than 11/30/23, stating how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Please mail or email me a signed copy of the letter to Erin.Pickard@dhhs.nc.gov or P.O. Box 971, Kannapolis, NC 28082. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. If a letter is not received by the required date an unannounced follow-up visit may be conducted to confirm the violations were corrected or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A https://www.msn.com/en-us/feedNCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education 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 Note: Please be aware that any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Child care programs are required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. Contact me at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-594-0153 or Carolyn Conley at carolyn.conley@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-594-0149 if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times