Along Came A Scholar

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/17/2026 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 3/17/2026 Age: From 2 To 4 Total Minutes: 405 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 05:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Lachrisa Petty, Lead Teacher, and Bonita Walls-Squire, Owner/Administrator, assisted me with the visit. You provided me with applicable program and staff records for review. The most recent annual compliance visit was conducted on September 12, 2025. The facility currently operates with a 4-stars rated license issued on September 17, 2020, earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care and enhanced space. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four and five star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled & using a developmentally appropriate curriculum (indicate which curriculum _____________ that addresses the five domains of development. The program’s compliance history was ninety-seven percent (97%) prior to today’s visit. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed on March 16, 2026, and Along Came A Scholar, Inc. was listed as active and current. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, Tiffani Sims, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Limited monitoring was conducted. A walkthrough of the facility was completed today, and all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in indoor free play, teacher directed activities, art, lunch, and naptime. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Files and applicable records for existing staff were reviewed. All staff were listed on the ABCMS Provider Portal roster for this facility. All staff were asked to confirm what their current work hours and days of the week worked at the child care program. I compared this information to the last staff and training worksheet that was completed and reviewed during the last annual compliance monitoring visit conducted in September 2025 for accuracy. The most recent approved fire inspection for your facility was conducted on February 5, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 6, 2026. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 13 demerits noted on the grade card. The analysis date for the most recent lead water test had no results available for review. Lead testing must be completed every three years. You may review your facilities results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. On March 16, 2026, I checked the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website again, and it stated that your facility’s had no results available for review for lead-water, lead based paint, or asbestos testing. You stated during your last annual compliance visit in September 2025, that your facility information is listed under your former business Above and Beyond Learning Academy LLC and when checked on March 16, 2026, the information was still shown under the previous name. The information available for review for this facility stated that lead water testing was completed on July 7, 2021. There was no information available for review for lead-based paint and asbestos testing. You also stated that you contacted Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids and are working on resolving this issue. I reminded you that these tasks must be completed by March 31, 2026. If not completed, possible violations may be cited at a future visit. The most recent monthly fire drill was conducted on February 19, 2026, at 10:15 am and recorded. The most recent quarterly lockdown emergency drill was conducted on November 26, 2026, at 10:36am and recorded. The most recent monthly playground inspection was completed on February 13, 2026, by Bonita Walls-Squire. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the handwritten Visit Summary that was left with you at the conclusion of this visit. The computer-generated Visit Summary will be sent to you. The following violations were observed and reviewed with you and technical assistance was provided to you 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. On February 26th, February 27th, 2026, in Space #2, one child two years of age and enrolled on May 4, 2024, was marked present on the attendance record, but the documentation available for review on the arrival and departure record was documented as absent. On February 18, 2026, In Space #2, one child two years of age was documented on the arrival and departure records as absent, but on the attendance recorded for that day the child was marked as present. On March 4,, 2026 and March 5th, 2026, in Space #2, one child two years of age and enrolled on May 4, 2024, did not have documentation available for review of arrival and/or departure times. On March 12, 2026. one child enrolled on February 17, 2025, the documentation available for review for showed that he was marked absent on the arrival and departure record but was marked present on the attendance record. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. The current menu available for review and posted was dated August 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In Space #2, two outlets were missing plugs. One outlet in the group time area was missing two outlet covers and one outlet in the dramatic play area was missing two outlet covers. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. In the Outdoor Gross Motor Space # 1 and Space #2, it was observed on ground of both playgrounds that hazardous materials of small broken plastic pieces of equipment and or toys with sharp edges were accessible to children. The small broken plastic pieces and/or trash included empty clear plastic water bottle, white and gray trash bags, plastic bottle, green broken picnic table, broken pieces of the purple caterpillar, small broken pieces of broken toys yellow, blue, red, and orange. The gate entrance to Gross Motor Space #2 had one hinge broken on the gate. The alligator rocking equipment had no handles, a purple broken slide was cracked, A purple riding/push toy had a cracked seat with missing pieces, and the red sand/water table had missing and broken jagged legs. In Gross Motor Space #1, the blue sand and water table had multiple broken plastic pieces. These hazards were accessible to children. Also in this space, a Little Tykes Tool bench had a cracked blue top and orange work surface. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 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 2 and was used by children two years of age, on a shelf were two plastic containers of Little Journey Sensitive baby wipe containers accessible to children. These disposable plastic baby wipe containers were accessible to children two years of age and had a written warning keep out of reach of young children. .0604(q) 899 The child care operator did not comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. An active ant hill was located on the outdoor gross motor Space #2. GS 110-91 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. The Administrator employed on September 17, 2018, the documentation available for review of a current ITS/SIDS training had expired on May 17, 2025. .1102(f) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. child enrolled in June 2023 in Space #4 – was marked absent on the attendance record, but documentation available for review of the arrival and departure records stated the child arrived at 8:32am and departure at 4:05pm. On March 4, 2026, two children in Space #3 and enrolled on July 6, 2021, had documentation available for review of being marked absent on the attendance record, but the arrival and departure documentation recorded their arrival time as 3:20pm and departure time as 4:02 pm. GS 110-91(9) 1328 Children's records were not made available for review. One child two years of age and enrolled on February 17, 2025, did not have a file available for review during today’s visit to document and verify his enrollment date for the violation that was cited. His file was reviewed during the last annual compliance monitoring visit conducted on September 12, 2025, G.S. 110-91(9) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. On or before March 31, 2026. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware that 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. Mail or email the information to: Tiffani Sims, Child Care Consultant PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Due to the nature of a violation observed, an unannounced follow-up visit may be made in the near future to verify correction of the violation. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Arrival and Departure Records/Attendance Records I discussed with you that arrival, departure and attendance records must match. I suggested that during naptime and/or at your morning cut-off time that staff check arrival and attendance records for accuracy. I also suggested that as a closing activity for the classroom that departure and attendance are checked for accuracy. I suggested that on Fridays all attendance, arrival and departure records are checked for accuracy. Posting of Menus: I reminded you that menus must be posted and current. I suggested printing a month’s worth of menus and placing them in a folder in the kitchen to make it easier for the kitchen staff to post the current week’s menu. This violation was corrected during the visit. ITS/SIDS Training: I discussed with you the child care rule that stated that the Administrator must keep up to date and current ITS/SIDS training. I suggested contact Rachel Lentz, Child Care Health Consultant to see if she has an earlier training schedule than the April 2026 date we discussed. Her contact information is 828-544-1532 or email rlentz@unc.edu. Electrical Outlets- -I suggested that you monitor all spaces throughout the day to ensure all electrical outlets not in use are covered with a safety plug. Instruct staff to check all electrical outlets at the beginning of the day. This is a repeated violation. Indoor/Outdoor Area- -Per Child Care Requirement 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p), you must monitor indoor and outdoor areas prior to children utilizing the playground to ensure debris and broken equipment is discarded. I suggested that each staff member or a designated staff member monitor classrooms and playgrounds each morning to discard trash and any broken items before children arrive or access the playground. I suggested that you create a daily safety checklist for staff to utilize each day to ensure a safe environment. This is a repeated violation Children’s Records: I discussed with you that children’s records must be available for review upon request. I suggested creating a filing system to organize all records, files, and documents in order to have easy access to these upon request. I also suggested that you share this information on the organization system with staff when you are not on site. I also suggested using the file checklists available on the DCDEE website under provider documents and forms to help in your organization of files and record keeping. Active Ant Hill: You discussed with me that a pest control company will be coming out in early April 2026 to spray the playground area. You also discussed with me that you will treat the active ant hill your self until it can be professionally treated. I suggest with monthly playground inspections are conducted that you be proactive in removing hazards as soon as possible. Plastic packing with written warnings Keep Out of Reach of Children: I reminded you that plastic packing may have a written warning in the packaging. Plastic packing with written warning must be kept 5 feet off the ground and made inaccessible to children under three years of age. I suggested placing the baby wipes containers either in a storage with a lid and out of the package and/or place in on the mantle out of reach. This violation was corrected during the visit. Consultation: We discussed the following during the visit: QRIS Pathways to the Stars: -On January 16, 2026, I conducted a QRIS Pathway Technical Assistance visit. We discussed that you would follow Pathway #2. I reviewed with you during that visit the requirements for the new QRIS Pathway to Stars and shared various resources with you. For more information on the QRIS Pathway, please visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. Your next rated license reassessment is due August 2027. Your facility must be transitioned to the new QRIS Pathway by September 2026. Additional Information: Pathway #2: Classroom and Instructional Quality We have gathered information and clarification on curriculum training for Pathway #2, Classroom and Instructional Quality Pathway, 10A NCAC 09 .3205(e)(9) and .3205(f)(9) regarding Curriculum and Formative Assessment Training. Per rule, training outlined in .3205(e & f)(9) does not specify that an approved trainer is required. An industry expert on curriculum or formative assessment tool can provide this training. The rule requires the verification of training completion to be in the individual’s file with no additional requirements. 10A NCAC 09 .3205(e)(9) The administrator shall complete training related to the approved curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by center staff with children, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Verification of this training shall be maintained in the administrator's personnel file. 10A NCAC 09 .3205(f)(9) The administrator and all lead teachers shall complete training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Verification of this training shall be maintained in the individual's' personnel file. -I suggested that you review Environment Rating Scale information and resources at www.ncrlap.org for the following assessments:ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U. -Reach out to your local Resource and Referral Agency for additional technical assistance and support. Reminders and Resources: For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time and assistance today. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me, Tiffani Sims, at 828-416-1648 or tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0901 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/17/2026 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 3/17/2026 Age: From 2 To 4 Total Minutes: 405 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 05:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Lachrisa Petty, Lead Teacher, and Bonita Walls-Squire, Owner/Administrator, assisted me with the visit. You provided me with applicable program and staff records for review. The most recent annual compliance visit was conducted on September 12, 2025. The facility currently operates with a 4-stars rated license issued on September 17, 2020, earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care and enhanced space. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four and five star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled & using a developmentally appropriate curriculum (indicate which curriculum _____________ that addresses the five domains of development. The program’s compliance history was ninety-seven percent (97%) prior to today’s visit. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed on March 16, 2026, and Along Came A Scholar, Inc. was listed as active and current. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, Tiffani Sims, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Limited monitoring was conducted. A walkthrough of the facility was completed today, and all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in indoor free play, teacher directed activities, art, lunch, and naptime. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Files and applicable records for existing staff were reviewed. All staff were listed on the ABCMS Provider Portal roster for this facility. All staff were asked to confirm what their current work hours and days of the week worked at the child care program. I compared this information to the last staff and training worksheet that was completed and reviewed during the last annual compliance monitoring visit conducted in September 2025 for accuracy. The most recent approved fire inspection for your facility was conducted on February 5, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 6, 2026. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 13 demerits noted on the grade card. The analysis date for the most recent lead water test had no results available for review. Lead testing must be completed every three years. You may review your facilities results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. On March 16, 2026, I checked the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website again, and it stated that your facility’s had no results available for review for lead-water, lead based paint, or asbestos testing. You stated during your last annual compliance visit in September 2025, that your facility information is listed under your former business Above and Beyond Learning Academy LLC and when checked on March 16, 2026, the information was still shown under the previous name. The information available for review for this facility stated that lead water testing was completed on July 7, 2021. There was no information available for review for lead-based paint and asbestos testing. You also stated that you contacted Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids and are working on resolving this issue. I reminded you that these tasks must be completed by March 31, 2026. If not completed, possible violations may be cited at a future visit. The most recent monthly fire drill was conducted on February 19, 2026, at 10:15 am and recorded. The most recent quarterly lockdown emergency drill was conducted on November 26, 2026, at 10:36am and recorded. The most recent monthly playground inspection was completed on February 13, 2026, by Bonita Walls-Squire. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the handwritten Visit Summary that was left with you at the conclusion of this visit. The computer-generated Visit Summary will be sent to you. The following violations were observed and reviewed with you and technical assistance was provided to you 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. On February 26th, February 27th, 2026, in Space #2, one child two years of age and enrolled on May 4, 2024, was marked present on the attendance record, but the documentation available for review on the arrival and departure record was documented as absent. On February 18, 2026, In Space #2, one child two years of age was documented on the arrival and departure records as absent, but on the attendance recorded for that day the child was marked as present. On March 4,, 2026 and March 5th, 2026, in Space #2, one child two years of age and enrolled on May 4, 2024, did not have documentation available for review of arrival and/or departure times. On March 12, 2026. one child enrolled on February 17, 2025, the documentation available for review for showed that he was marked absent on the arrival and departure record but was marked present on the attendance record. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. The current menu available for review and posted was dated August 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In Space #2, two outlets were missing plugs. One outlet in the group time area was missing two outlet covers and one outlet in the dramatic play area was missing two outlet covers. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. In the Outdoor Gross Motor Space # 1 and Space #2, it was observed on ground of both playgrounds that hazardous materials of small broken plastic pieces of equipment and or toys with sharp edges were accessible to children. The small broken plastic pieces and/or trash included empty clear plastic water bottle, white and gray trash bags, plastic bottle, green broken picnic table, broken pieces of the purple caterpillar, small broken pieces of broken toys yellow, blue, red, and orange. The gate entrance to Gross Motor Space #2 had one hinge broken on the gate. The alligator rocking equipment had no handles, a purple broken slide was cracked, A purple riding/push toy had a cracked seat with missing pieces, and the red sand/water table had missing and broken jagged legs. In Gross Motor Space #1, the blue sand and water table had multiple broken plastic pieces. These hazards were accessible to children. Also in this space, a Little Tykes Tool bench had a cracked blue top and orange work surface. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 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 2 and was used by children two years of age, on a shelf were two plastic containers of Little Journey Sensitive baby wipe containers accessible to children. These disposable plastic baby wipe containers were accessible to children two years of age and had a written warning keep out of reach of young children. .0604(q) 899 The child care operator did not comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. An active ant hill was located on the outdoor gross motor Space #2. GS 110-91 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. The Administrator employed on September 17, 2018, the documentation available for review of a current ITS/SIDS training had expired on May 17, 2025. .1102(f) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. child enrolled in June 2023 in Space #4 – was marked absent on the attendance record, but documentation available for review of the arrival and departure records stated the child arrived at 8:32am and departure at 4:05pm. On March 4, 2026, two children in Space #3 and enrolled on July 6, 2021, had documentation available for review of being marked absent on the attendance record, but the arrival and departure documentation recorded their arrival time as 3:20pm and departure time as 4:02 pm. GS 110-91(9) 1328 Children's records were not made available for review. One child two years of age and enrolled on February 17, 2025, did not have a file available for review during today’s visit to document and verify his enrollment date for the violation that was cited. His file was reviewed during the last annual compliance monitoring visit conducted on September 12, 2025, G.S. 110-91(9) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. On or before March 31, 2026. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware that 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. Mail or email the information to: Tiffani Sims, Child Care Consultant PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Due to the nature of a violation observed, an unannounced follow-up visit may be made in the near future to verify correction of the violation. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Arrival and Departure Records/Attendance Records I discussed with you that arrival, departure and attendance records must match. I suggested that during naptime and/or at your morning cut-off time that staff check arrival and attendance records for accuracy. I also suggested that as a closing activity for the classroom that departure and attendance are checked for accuracy. I suggested that on Fridays all attendance, arrival and departure records are checked for accuracy. Posting of Menus: I reminded you that menus must be posted and current. I suggested printing a month’s worth of menus and placing them in a folder in the kitchen to make it easier for the kitchen staff to post the current week’s menu. This violation was corrected during the visit. ITS/SIDS Training: I discussed with you the child care rule that stated that the Administrator must keep up to date and current ITS/SIDS training. I suggested contact Rachel Lentz, Child Care Health Consultant to see if she has an earlier training schedule than the April 2026 date we discussed. Her contact information is 828-544-1532 or email rlentz@unc.edu. Electrical Outlets- -I suggested that you monitor all spaces throughout the day to ensure all electrical outlets not in use are covered with a safety plug. Instruct staff to check all electrical outlets at the beginning of the day. This is a repeated violation. Indoor/Outdoor Area- -Per Child Care Requirement 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p), you must monitor indoor and outdoor areas prior to children utilizing the playground to ensure debris and broken equipment is discarded. I suggested that each staff member or a designated staff member monitor classrooms and playgrounds each morning to discard trash and any broken items before children arrive or access the playground. I suggested that you create a daily safety checklist for staff to utilize each day to ensure a safe environment. This is a repeated violation Children’s Records: I discussed with you that children’s records must be available for review upon request. I suggested creating a filing system to organize all records, files, and documents in order to have easy access to these upon request. I also suggested that you share this information on the organization system with staff when you are not on site. I also suggested using the file checklists available on the DCDEE website under provider documents and forms to help in your organization of files and record keeping. Active Ant Hill: You discussed with me that a pest control company will be coming out in early April 2026 to spray the playground area. You also discussed with me that you will treat the active ant hill your self until it can be professionally treated. I suggest with monthly playground inspections are conducted that you be proactive in removing hazards as soon as possible. Plastic packing with written warnings Keep Out of Reach of Children: I reminded you that plastic packing may have a written warning in the packaging. Plastic packing with written warning must be kept 5 feet off the ground and made inaccessible to children under three years of age. I suggested placing the baby wipes containers either in a storage with a lid and out of the package and/or place in on the mantle out of reach. This violation was corrected during the visit. Consultation: We discussed the following during the visit: QRIS Pathways to the Stars: -On January 16, 2026, I conducted a QRIS Pathway Technical Assistance visit. We discussed that you would follow Pathway #2. I reviewed with you during that visit the requirements for the new QRIS Pathway to Stars and shared various resources with you. For more information on the QRIS Pathway, please visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. Your next rated license reassessment is due August 2027. Your facility must be transitioned to the new QRIS Pathway by September 2026. Additional Information: Pathway #2: Classroom and Instructional Quality We have gathered information and clarification on curriculum training for Pathway #2, Classroom and Instructional Quality Pathway, 10A NCAC 09 .3205(e)(9) and .3205(f)(9) regarding Curriculum and Formative Assessment Training. Per rule, training outlined in .3205(e & f)(9) does not specify that an approved trainer is required. An industry expert on curriculum or formative assessment tool can provide this training. The rule requires the verification of training completion to be in the individual’s file with no additional requirements. 10A NCAC 09 .3205(e)(9) The administrator shall complete training related to the approved curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by center staff with children, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Verification of this training shall be maintained in the administrator's personnel file. 10A NCAC 09 .3205(f)(9) The administrator and all lead teachers shall complete training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Verification of this training shall be maintained in the individual's' personnel file. -I suggested that you review Environment Rating Scale information and resources at www.ncrlap.org for the following assessments:ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U. -Reach out to your local Resource and Referral Agency for additional technical assistance and support. Reminders and Resources: For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time and assistance today. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me, Tiffani Sims, at 828-416-1648 or tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0302 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/17/2026 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 3/17/2026 Age: From 2 To 4 Total Minutes: 405 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 05:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Lachrisa Petty, Lead Teacher, and Bonita Walls-Squire, Owner/Administrator, assisted me with the visit. You provided me with applicable program and staff records for review. The most recent annual compliance visit was conducted on September 12, 2025. The facility currently operates with a 4-stars rated license issued on September 17, 2020, earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care and enhanced space. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four and five star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled & using a developmentally appropriate curriculum (indicate which curriculum _____________ that addresses the five domains of development. The program’s compliance history was ninety-seven percent (97%) prior to today’s visit. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed on March 16, 2026, and Along Came A Scholar, Inc. was listed as active and current. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, Tiffani Sims, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Limited monitoring was conducted. A walkthrough of the facility was completed today, and all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in indoor free play, teacher directed activities, art, lunch, and naptime. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Files and applicable records for existing staff were reviewed. All staff were listed on the ABCMS Provider Portal roster for this facility. All staff were asked to confirm what their current work hours and days of the week worked at the child care program. I compared this information to the last staff and training worksheet that was completed and reviewed during the last annual compliance monitoring visit conducted in September 2025 for accuracy. The most recent approved fire inspection for your facility was conducted on February 5, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 6, 2026. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 13 demerits noted on the grade card. The analysis date for the most recent lead water test had no results available for review. Lead testing must be completed every three years. You may review your facilities results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. On March 16, 2026, I checked the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website again, and it stated that your facility’s had no results available for review for lead-water, lead based paint, or asbestos testing. You stated during your last annual compliance visit in September 2025, that your facility information is listed under your former business Above and Beyond Learning Academy LLC and when checked on March 16, 2026, the information was still shown under the previous name. The information available for review for this facility stated that lead water testing was completed on July 7, 2021. There was no information available for review for lead-based paint and asbestos testing. You also stated that you contacted Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids and are working on resolving this issue. I reminded you that these tasks must be completed by March 31, 2026. If not completed, possible violations may be cited at a future visit. The most recent monthly fire drill was conducted on February 19, 2026, at 10:15 am and recorded. The most recent quarterly lockdown emergency drill was conducted on November 26, 2026, at 10:36am and recorded. The most recent monthly playground inspection was completed on February 13, 2026, by Bonita Walls-Squire. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the handwritten Visit Summary that was left with you at the conclusion of this visit. The computer-generated Visit Summary will be sent to you. The following violations were observed and reviewed with you and technical assistance was provided to you 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. On February 26th, February 27th, 2026, in Space #2, one child two years of age and enrolled on May 4, 2024, was marked present on the attendance record, but the documentation available for review on the arrival and departure record was documented as absent. On February 18, 2026, In Space #2, one child two years of age was documented on the arrival and departure records as absent, but on the attendance recorded for that day the child was marked as present. On March 4,, 2026 and March 5th, 2026, in Space #2, one child two years of age and enrolled on May 4, 2024, did not have documentation available for review of arrival and/or departure times. On March 12, 2026. one child enrolled on February 17, 2025, the documentation available for review for showed that he was marked absent on the arrival and departure record but was marked present on the attendance record. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. The current menu available for review and posted was dated August 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In Space #2, two outlets were missing plugs. One outlet in the group time area was missing two outlet covers and one outlet in the dramatic play area was missing two outlet covers. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. In the Outdoor Gross Motor Space # 1 and Space #2, it was observed on ground of both playgrounds that hazardous materials of small broken plastic pieces of equipment and or toys with sharp edges were accessible to children. The small broken plastic pieces and/or trash included empty clear plastic water bottle, white and gray trash bags, plastic bottle, green broken picnic table, broken pieces of the purple caterpillar, small broken pieces of broken toys yellow, blue, red, and orange. The gate entrance to Gross Motor Space #2 had one hinge broken on the gate. The alligator rocking equipment had no handles, a purple broken slide was cracked, A purple riding/push toy had a cracked seat with missing pieces, and the red sand/water table had missing and broken jagged legs. In Gross Motor Space #1, the blue sand and water table had multiple broken plastic pieces. These hazards were accessible to children. Also in this space, a Little Tykes Tool bench had a cracked blue top and orange work surface. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 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 2 and was used by children two years of age, on a shelf were two plastic containers of Little Journey Sensitive baby wipe containers accessible to children. These disposable plastic baby wipe containers were accessible to children two years of age and had a written warning keep out of reach of young children. .0604(q) 899 The child care operator did not comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. An active ant hill was located on the outdoor gross motor Space #2. GS 110-91 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. The Administrator employed on September 17, 2018, the documentation available for review of a current ITS/SIDS training had expired on May 17, 2025. .1102(f) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. child enrolled in June 2023 in Space #4 – was marked absent on the attendance record, but documentation available for review of the arrival and departure records stated the child arrived at 8:32am and departure at 4:05pm. On March 4, 2026, two children in Space #3 and enrolled on July 6, 2021, had documentation available for review of being marked absent on the attendance record, but the arrival and departure documentation recorded their arrival time as 3:20pm and departure time as 4:02 pm. GS 110-91(9) 1328 Children's records were not made available for review. One child two years of age and enrolled on February 17, 2025, did not have a file available for review during today’s visit to document and verify his enrollment date for the violation that was cited. His file was reviewed during the last annual compliance monitoring visit conducted on September 12, 2025, G.S. 110-91(9) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. On or before March 31, 2026. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware that 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. Mail or email the information to: Tiffani Sims, Child Care Consultant PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Due to the nature of a violation observed, an unannounced follow-up visit may be made in the near future to verify correction of the violation. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Arrival and Departure Records/Attendance Records I discussed with you that arrival, departure and attendance records must match. I suggested that during naptime and/or at your morning cut-off time that staff check arrival and attendance records for accuracy. I also suggested that as a closing activity for the classroom that departure and attendance are checked for accuracy. I suggested that on Fridays all attendance, arrival and departure records are checked for accuracy. Posting of Menus: I reminded you that menus must be posted and current. I suggested printing a month’s worth of menus and placing them in a folder in the kitchen to make it easier for the kitchen staff to post the current week’s menu. This violation was corrected during the visit. ITS/SIDS Training: I discussed with you the child care rule that stated that the Administrator must keep up to date and current ITS/SIDS training. I suggested contact Rachel Lentz, Child Care Health Consultant to see if she has an earlier training schedule than the April 2026 date we discussed. Her contact information is 828-544-1532 or email rlentz@unc.edu. Electrical Outlets- -I suggested that you monitor all spaces throughout the day to ensure all electrical outlets not in use are covered with a safety plug. Instruct staff to check all electrical outlets at the beginning of the day. This is a repeated violation. Indoor/Outdoor Area- -Per Child Care Requirement 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p), you must monitor indoor and outdoor areas prior to children utilizing the playground to ensure debris and broken equipment is discarded. I suggested that each staff member or a designated staff member monitor classrooms and playgrounds each morning to discard trash and any broken items before children arrive or access the playground. I suggested that you create a daily safety checklist for staff to utilize each day to ensure a safe environment. This is a repeated violation Children’s Records: I discussed with you that children’s records must be available for review upon request. I suggested creating a filing system to organize all records, files, and documents in order to have easy access to these upon request. I also suggested that you share this information on the organization system with staff when you are not on site. I also suggested using the file checklists available on the DCDEE website under provider documents and forms to help in your organization of files and record keeping. Active Ant Hill: You discussed with me that a pest control company will be coming out in early April 2026 to spray the playground area. You also discussed with me that you will treat the active ant hill your self until it can be professionally treated. I suggest with monthly playground inspections are conducted that you be proactive in removing hazards as soon as possible. Plastic packing with written warnings Keep Out of Reach of Children: I reminded you that plastic packing may have a written warning in the packaging. Plastic packing with written warning must be kept 5 feet off the ground and made inaccessible to children under three years of age. I suggested placing the baby wipes containers either in a storage with a lid and out of the package and/or place in on the mantle out of reach. This violation was corrected during the visit. Consultation: We discussed the following during the visit: QRIS Pathways to the Stars: -On January 16, 2026, I conducted a QRIS Pathway Technical Assistance visit. We discussed that you would follow Pathway #2. I reviewed with you during that visit the requirements for the new QRIS Pathway to Stars and shared various resources with you. For more information on the QRIS Pathway, please visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. Your next rated license reassessment is due August 2027. Your facility must be transitioned to the new QRIS Pathway by September 2026. Additional Information: Pathway #2: Classroom and Instructional Quality We have gathered information and clarification on curriculum training for Pathway #2, Classroom and Instructional Quality Pathway, 10A NCAC 09 .3205(e)(9) and .3205(f)(9) regarding Curriculum and Formative Assessment Training. Per rule, training outlined in .3205(e & f)(9) does not specify that an approved trainer is required. An industry expert on curriculum or formative assessment tool can provide this training. The rule requires the verification of training completion to be in the individual’s file with no additional requirements. 10A NCAC 09 .3205(e)(9) The administrator shall complete training related to the approved curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by center staff with children, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Verification of this training shall be maintained in the administrator's personnel file. 10A NCAC 09 .3205(f)(9) The administrator and all lead teachers shall complete training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Verification of this training shall be maintained in the individual's' personnel file. -I suggested that you review Environment Rating Scale information and resources at www.ncrlap.org for the following assessments:ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U. -Reach out to your local Resource and Referral Agency for additional technical assistance and support. Reminders and Resources: For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time and assistance today. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me, Tiffani Sims, at 828-416-1648 or tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/17/2026 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 3/17/2026 Age: From 2 To 4 Total Minutes: 405 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 05:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Lachrisa Petty, Lead Teacher, and Bonita Walls-Squire, Owner/Administrator, assisted me with the visit. You provided me with applicable program and staff records for review. The most recent annual compliance visit was conducted on September 12, 2025. The facility currently operates with a 4-stars rated license issued on September 17, 2020, earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care and enhanced space. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four and five star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled & using a developmentally appropriate curriculum (indicate which curriculum _____________ that addresses the five domains of development. The program’s compliance history was ninety-seven percent (97%) prior to today’s visit. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed on March 16, 2026, and Along Came A Scholar, Inc. was listed as active and current. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, Tiffani Sims, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Limited monitoring was conducted. A walkthrough of the facility was completed today, and all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in indoor free play, teacher directed activities, art, lunch, and naptime. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Files and applicable records for existing staff were reviewed. All staff were listed on the ABCMS Provider Portal roster for this facility. All staff were asked to confirm what their current work hours and days of the week worked at the child care program. I compared this information to the last staff and training worksheet that was completed and reviewed during the last annual compliance monitoring visit conducted in September 2025 for accuracy. The most recent approved fire inspection for your facility was conducted on February 5, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 6, 2026. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 13 demerits noted on the grade card. The analysis date for the most recent lead water test had no results available for review. Lead testing must be completed every three years. You may review your facilities results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. On March 16, 2026, I checked the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website again, and it stated that your facility’s had no results available for review for lead-water, lead based paint, or asbestos testing. You stated during your last annual compliance visit in September 2025, that your facility information is listed under your former business Above and Beyond Learning Academy LLC and when checked on March 16, 2026, the information was still shown under the previous name. The information available for review for this facility stated that lead water testing was completed on July 7, 2021. There was no information available for review for lead-based paint and asbestos testing. You also stated that you contacted Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids and are working on resolving this issue. I reminded you that these tasks must be completed by March 31, 2026. If not completed, possible violations may be cited at a future visit. The most recent monthly fire drill was conducted on February 19, 2026, at 10:15 am and recorded. The most recent quarterly lockdown emergency drill was conducted on November 26, 2026, at 10:36am and recorded. The most recent monthly playground inspection was completed on February 13, 2026, by Bonita Walls-Squire. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the handwritten Visit Summary that was left with you at the conclusion of this visit. The computer-generated Visit Summary will be sent to you. The following violations were observed and reviewed with you and technical assistance was provided to you 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. On February 26th, February 27th, 2026, in Space #2, one child two years of age and enrolled on May 4, 2024, was marked present on the attendance record, but the documentation available for review on the arrival and departure record was documented as absent. On February 18, 2026, In Space #2, one child two years of age was documented on the arrival and departure records as absent, but on the attendance recorded for that day the child was marked as present. On March 4,, 2026 and March 5th, 2026, in Space #2, one child two years of age and enrolled on May 4, 2024, did not have documentation available for review of arrival and/or departure times. On March 12, 2026. one child enrolled on February 17, 2025, the documentation available for review for showed that he was marked absent on the arrival and departure record but was marked present on the attendance record. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. The current menu available for review and posted was dated August 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In Space #2, two outlets were missing plugs. One outlet in the group time area was missing two outlet covers and one outlet in the dramatic play area was missing two outlet covers. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. In the Outdoor Gross Motor Space # 1 and Space #2, it was observed on ground of both playgrounds that hazardous materials of small broken plastic pieces of equipment and or toys with sharp edges were accessible to children. The small broken plastic pieces and/or trash included empty clear plastic water bottle, white and gray trash bags, plastic bottle, green broken picnic table, broken pieces of the purple caterpillar, small broken pieces of broken toys yellow, blue, red, and orange. The gate entrance to Gross Motor Space #2 had one hinge broken on the gate. The alligator rocking equipment had no handles, a purple broken slide was cracked, A purple riding/push toy had a cracked seat with missing pieces, and the red sand/water table had missing and broken jagged legs. In Gross Motor Space #1, the blue sand and water table had multiple broken plastic pieces. These hazards were accessible to children. Also in this space, a Little Tykes Tool bench had a cracked blue top and orange work surface. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 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 2 and was used by children two years of age, on a shelf were two plastic containers of Little Journey Sensitive baby wipe containers accessible to children. These disposable plastic baby wipe containers were accessible to children two years of age and had a written warning keep out of reach of young children. .0604(q) 899 The child care operator did not comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. An active ant hill was located on the outdoor gross motor Space #2. GS 110-91 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. The Administrator employed on September 17, 2018, the documentation available for review of a current ITS/SIDS training had expired on May 17, 2025. .1102(f) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. child enrolled in June 2023 in Space #4 – was marked absent on the attendance record, but documentation available for review of the arrival and departure records stated the child arrived at 8:32am and departure at 4:05pm. On March 4, 2026, two children in Space #3 and enrolled on July 6, 2021, had documentation available for review of being marked absent on the attendance record, but the arrival and departure documentation recorded their arrival time as 3:20pm and departure time as 4:02 pm. GS 110-91(9) 1328 Children's records were not made available for review. One child two years of age and enrolled on February 17, 2025, did not have a file available for review during today’s visit to document and verify his enrollment date for the violation that was cited. His file was reviewed during the last annual compliance monitoring visit conducted on September 12, 2025, G.S. 110-91(9) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. On or before March 31, 2026. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware that 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. Mail or email the information to: Tiffani Sims, Child Care Consultant PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Due to the nature of a violation observed, an unannounced follow-up visit may be made in the near future to verify correction of the violation. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Arrival and Departure Records/Attendance Records I discussed with you that arrival, departure and attendance records must match. I suggested that during naptime and/or at your morning cut-off time that staff check arrival and attendance records for accuracy. I also suggested that as a closing activity for the classroom that departure and attendance are checked for accuracy. I suggested that on Fridays all attendance, arrival and departure records are checked for accuracy. Posting of Menus: I reminded you that menus must be posted and current. I suggested printing a month’s worth of menus and placing them in a folder in the kitchen to make it easier for the kitchen staff to post the current week’s menu. This violation was corrected during the visit. ITS/SIDS Training: I discussed with you the child care rule that stated that the Administrator must keep up to date and current ITS/SIDS training. I suggested contact Rachel Lentz, Child Care Health Consultant to see if she has an earlier training schedule than the April 2026 date we discussed. Her contact information is 828-544-1532 or email rlentz@unc.edu. Electrical Outlets- -I suggested that you monitor all spaces throughout the day to ensure all electrical outlets not in use are covered with a safety plug. Instruct staff to check all electrical outlets at the beginning of the day. This is a repeated violation. Indoor/Outdoor Area- -Per Child Care Requirement 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p), you must monitor indoor and outdoor areas prior to children utilizing the playground to ensure debris and broken equipment is discarded. I suggested that each staff member or a designated staff member monitor classrooms and playgrounds each morning to discard trash and any broken items before children arrive or access the playground. I suggested that you create a daily safety checklist for staff to utilize each day to ensure a safe environment. This is a repeated violation Children’s Records: I discussed with you that children’s records must be available for review upon request. I suggested creating a filing system to organize all records, files, and documents in order to have easy access to these upon request. I also suggested that you share this information on the organization system with staff when you are not on site. I also suggested using the file checklists available on the DCDEE website under provider documents and forms to help in your organization of files and record keeping. Active Ant Hill: You discussed with me that a pest control company will be coming out in early April 2026 to spray the playground area. You also discussed with me that you will treat the active ant hill your self until it can be professionally treated. I suggest with monthly playground inspections are conducted that you be proactive in removing hazards as soon as possible. Plastic packing with written warnings Keep Out of Reach of Children: I reminded you that plastic packing may have a written warning in the packaging. Plastic packing with written warning must be kept 5 feet off the ground and made inaccessible to children under three years of age. I suggested placing the baby wipes containers either in a storage with a lid and out of the package and/or place in on the mantle out of reach. This violation was corrected during the visit. Consultation: We discussed the following during the visit: QRIS Pathways to the Stars: -On January 16, 2026, I conducted a QRIS Pathway Technical Assistance visit. We discussed that you would follow Pathway #2. I reviewed with you during that visit the requirements for the new QRIS Pathway to Stars and shared various resources with you. For more information on the QRIS Pathway, please visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. Your next rated license reassessment is due August 2027. Your facility must be transitioned to the new QRIS Pathway by September 2026. Additional Information: Pathway #2: Classroom and Instructional Quality We have gathered information and clarification on curriculum training for Pathway #2, Classroom and Instructional Quality Pathway, 10A NCAC 09 .3205(e)(9) and .3205(f)(9) regarding Curriculum and Formative Assessment Training. Per rule, training outlined in .3205(e & f)(9) does not specify that an approved trainer is required. An industry expert on curriculum or formative assessment tool can provide this training. The rule requires the verification of training completion to be in the individual’s file with no additional requirements. 10A NCAC 09 .3205(e)(9) The administrator shall complete training related to the approved curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by center staff with children, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Verification of this training shall be maintained in the administrator's personnel file. 10A NCAC 09 .3205(f)(9) The administrator and all lead teachers shall complete training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Verification of this training shall be maintained in the individual's' personnel file. -I suggested that you review Environment Rating Scale information and resources at www.ncrlap.org for the following assessments:ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U. -Reach out to your local Resource and Referral Agency for additional technical assistance and support. Reminders and Resources: For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time and assistance today. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me, Tiffani Sims, at 828-416-1648 or tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .3205 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/17/2026 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 3/17/2026 Age: From 2 To 4 Total Minutes: 405 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 05:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Lachrisa Petty, Lead Teacher, and Bonita Walls-Squire, Owner/Administrator, assisted me with the visit. You provided me with applicable program and staff records for review. The most recent annual compliance visit was conducted on September 12, 2025. The facility currently operates with a 4-stars rated license issued on September 17, 2020, earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care and enhanced space. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four and five star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled & using a developmentally appropriate curriculum (indicate which curriculum _____________ that addresses the five domains of development. The program’s compliance history was ninety-seven percent (97%) prior to today’s visit. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed on March 16, 2026, and Along Came A Scholar, Inc. was listed as active and current. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, Tiffani Sims, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Limited monitoring was conducted. A walkthrough of the facility was completed today, and all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in indoor free play, teacher directed activities, art, lunch, and naptime. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Files and applicable records for existing staff were reviewed. All staff were listed on the ABCMS Provider Portal roster for this facility. All staff were asked to confirm what their current work hours and days of the week worked at the child care program. I compared this information to the last staff and training worksheet that was completed and reviewed during the last annual compliance monitoring visit conducted in September 2025 for accuracy. The most recent approved fire inspection for your facility was conducted on February 5, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 6, 2026. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 13 demerits noted on the grade card. The analysis date for the most recent lead water test had no results available for review. Lead testing must be completed every three years. You may review your facilities results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. On March 16, 2026, I checked the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website again, and it stated that your facility’s had no results available for review for lead-water, lead based paint, or asbestos testing. You stated during your last annual compliance visit in September 2025, that your facility information is listed under your former business Above and Beyond Learning Academy LLC and when checked on March 16, 2026, the information was still shown under the previous name. The information available for review for this facility stated that lead water testing was completed on July 7, 2021. There was no information available for review for lead-based paint and asbestos testing. You also stated that you contacted Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids and are working on resolving this issue. I reminded you that these tasks must be completed by March 31, 2026. If not completed, possible violations may be cited at a future visit. The most recent monthly fire drill was conducted on February 19, 2026, at 10:15 am and recorded. The most recent quarterly lockdown emergency drill was conducted on November 26, 2026, at 10:36am and recorded. The most recent monthly playground inspection was completed on February 13, 2026, by Bonita Walls-Squire. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the handwritten Visit Summary that was left with you at the conclusion of this visit. The computer-generated Visit Summary will be sent to you. The following violations were observed and reviewed with you and technical assistance was provided to you 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. On February 26th, February 27th, 2026, in Space #2, one child two years of age and enrolled on May 4, 2024, was marked present on the attendance record, but the documentation available for review on the arrival and departure record was documented as absent. On February 18, 2026, In Space #2, one child two years of age was documented on the arrival and departure records as absent, but on the attendance recorded for that day the child was marked as present. On March 4,, 2026 and March 5th, 2026, in Space #2, one child two years of age and enrolled on May 4, 2024, did not have documentation available for review of arrival and/or departure times. On March 12, 2026. one child enrolled on February 17, 2025, the documentation available for review for showed that he was marked absent on the arrival and departure record but was marked present on the attendance record. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. The current menu available for review and posted was dated August 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In Space #2, two outlets were missing plugs. One outlet in the group time area was missing two outlet covers and one outlet in the dramatic play area was missing two outlet covers. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. In the Outdoor Gross Motor Space # 1 and Space #2, it was observed on ground of both playgrounds that hazardous materials of small broken plastic pieces of equipment and or toys with sharp edges were accessible to children. The small broken plastic pieces and/or trash included empty clear plastic water bottle, white and gray trash bags, plastic bottle, green broken picnic table, broken pieces of the purple caterpillar, small broken pieces of broken toys yellow, blue, red, and orange. The gate entrance to Gross Motor Space #2 had one hinge broken on the gate. The alligator rocking equipment had no handles, a purple broken slide was cracked, A purple riding/push toy had a cracked seat with missing pieces, and the red sand/water table had missing and broken jagged legs. In Gross Motor Space #1, the blue sand and water table had multiple broken plastic pieces. These hazards were accessible to children. Also in this space, a Little Tykes Tool bench had a cracked blue top and orange work surface. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 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 2 and was used by children two years of age, on a shelf were two plastic containers of Little Journey Sensitive baby wipe containers accessible to children. These disposable plastic baby wipe containers were accessible to children two years of age and had a written warning keep out of reach of young children. .0604(q) 899 The child care operator did not comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. An active ant hill was located on the outdoor gross motor Space #2. GS 110-91 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. The Administrator employed on September 17, 2018, the documentation available for review of a current ITS/SIDS training had expired on May 17, 2025. .1102(f) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. child enrolled in June 2023 in Space #4 – was marked absent on the attendance record, but documentation available for review of the arrival and departure records stated the child arrived at 8:32am and departure at 4:05pm. On March 4, 2026, two children in Space #3 and enrolled on July 6, 2021, had documentation available for review of being marked absent on the attendance record, but the arrival and departure documentation recorded their arrival time as 3:20pm and departure time as 4:02 pm. GS 110-91(9) 1328 Children's records were not made available for review. One child two years of age and enrolled on February 17, 2025, did not have a file available for review during today’s visit to document and verify his enrollment date for the violation that was cited. His file was reviewed during the last annual compliance monitoring visit conducted on September 12, 2025, G.S. 110-91(9) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. On or before March 31, 2026. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware that 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. Mail or email the information to: Tiffani Sims, Child Care Consultant PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Due to the nature of a violation observed, an unannounced follow-up visit may be made in the near future to verify correction of the violation. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Arrival and Departure Records/Attendance Records I discussed with you that arrival, departure and attendance records must match. I suggested that during naptime and/or at your morning cut-off time that staff check arrival and attendance records for accuracy. I also suggested that as a closing activity for the classroom that departure and attendance are checked for accuracy. I suggested that on Fridays all attendance, arrival and departure records are checked for accuracy. Posting of Menus: I reminded you that menus must be posted and current. I suggested printing a month’s worth of menus and placing them in a folder in the kitchen to make it easier for the kitchen staff to post the current week’s menu. This violation was corrected during the visit. ITS/SIDS Training: I discussed with you the child care rule that stated that the Administrator must keep up to date and current ITS/SIDS training. I suggested contact Rachel Lentz, Child Care Health Consultant to see if she has an earlier training schedule than the April 2026 date we discussed. Her contact information is 828-544-1532 or email rlentz@unc.edu. Electrical Outlets- -I suggested that you monitor all spaces throughout the day to ensure all electrical outlets not in use are covered with a safety plug. Instruct staff to check all electrical outlets at the beginning of the day. This is a repeated violation. Indoor/Outdoor Area- -Per Child Care Requirement 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p), you must monitor indoor and outdoor areas prior to children utilizing the playground to ensure debris and broken equipment is discarded. I suggested that each staff member or a designated staff member monitor classrooms and playgrounds each morning to discard trash and any broken items before children arrive or access the playground. I suggested that you create a daily safety checklist for staff to utilize each day to ensure a safe environment. This is a repeated violation Children’s Records: I discussed with you that children’s records must be available for review upon request. I suggested creating a filing system to organize all records, files, and documents in order to have easy access to these upon request. I also suggested that you share this information on the organization system with staff when you are not on site. I also suggested using the file checklists available on the DCDEE website under provider documents and forms to help in your organization of files and record keeping. Active Ant Hill: You discussed with me that a pest control company will be coming out in early April 2026 to spray the playground area. You also discussed with me that you will treat the active ant hill your self until it can be professionally treated. I suggest with monthly playground inspections are conducted that you be proactive in removing hazards as soon as possible. Plastic packing with written warnings Keep Out of Reach of Children: I reminded you that plastic packing may have a written warning in the packaging. Plastic packing with written warning must be kept 5 feet off the ground and made inaccessible to children under three years of age. I suggested placing the baby wipes containers either in a storage with a lid and out of the package and/or place in on the mantle out of reach. This violation was corrected during the visit. Consultation: We discussed the following during the visit: QRIS Pathways to the Stars: -On January 16, 2026, I conducted a QRIS Pathway Technical Assistance visit. We discussed that you would follow Pathway #2. I reviewed with you during that visit the requirements for the new QRIS Pathway to Stars and shared various resources with you. For more information on the QRIS Pathway, please visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. Your next rated license reassessment is due August 2027. Your facility must be transitioned to the new QRIS Pathway by September 2026. Additional Information: Pathway #2: Classroom and Instructional Quality We have gathered information and clarification on curriculum training for Pathway #2, Classroom and Instructional Quality Pathway, 10A NCAC 09 .3205(e)(9) and .3205(f)(9) regarding Curriculum and Formative Assessment Training. Per rule, training outlined in .3205(e & f)(9) does not specify that an approved trainer is required. An industry expert on curriculum or formative assessment tool can provide this training. The rule requires the verification of training completion to be in the individual’s file with no additional requirements. 10A NCAC 09 .3205(e)(9) The administrator shall complete training related to the approved curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by center staff with children, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Verification of this training shall be maintained in the administrator's personnel file. 10A NCAC 09 .3205(f)(9) The administrator and all lead teachers shall complete training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Verification of this training shall be maintained in the individual's' personnel file. -I suggested that you review Environment Rating Scale information and resources at www.ncrlap.org for the following assessments:ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U. -Reach out to your local Resource and Referral Agency for additional technical assistance and support. Reminders and Resources: For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time and assistance today. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me, Tiffani Sims, at 828-416-1648 or tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/17/2026 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 3/17/2026 Age: From 2 To 4 Total Minutes: 405 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 05:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Lachrisa Petty, Lead Teacher, and Bonita Walls-Squire, Owner/Administrator, assisted me with the visit. You provided me with applicable program and staff records for review. The most recent annual compliance visit was conducted on September 12, 2025. The facility currently operates with a 4-stars rated license issued on September 17, 2020, earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care and enhanced space. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four and five star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled & using a developmentally appropriate curriculum (indicate which curriculum _____________ that addresses the five domains of development. The program’s compliance history was ninety-seven percent (97%) prior to today’s visit. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed on March 16, 2026, and Along Came A Scholar, Inc. was listed as active and current. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, Tiffani Sims, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Limited monitoring was conducted. A walkthrough of the facility was completed today, and all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in indoor free play, teacher directed activities, art, lunch, and naptime. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Files and applicable records for existing staff were reviewed. All staff were listed on the ABCMS Provider Portal roster for this facility. All staff were asked to confirm what their current work hours and days of the week worked at the child care program. I compared this information to the last staff and training worksheet that was completed and reviewed during the last annual compliance monitoring visit conducted in September 2025 for accuracy. The most recent approved fire inspection for your facility was conducted on February 5, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 6, 2026. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 13 demerits noted on the grade card. The analysis date for the most recent lead water test had no results available for review. Lead testing must be completed every three years. You may review your facilities results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. On March 16, 2026, I checked the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website again, and it stated that your facility’s had no results available for review for lead-water, lead based paint, or asbestos testing. You stated during your last annual compliance visit in September 2025, that your facility information is listed under your former business Above and Beyond Learning Academy LLC and when checked on March 16, 2026, the information was still shown under the previous name. The information available for review for this facility stated that lead water testing was completed on July 7, 2021. There was no information available for review for lead-based paint and asbestos testing. You also stated that you contacted Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids and are working on resolving this issue. I reminded you that these tasks must be completed by March 31, 2026. If not completed, possible violations may be cited at a future visit. The most recent monthly fire drill was conducted on February 19, 2026, at 10:15 am and recorded. The most recent quarterly lockdown emergency drill was conducted on November 26, 2026, at 10:36am and recorded. The most recent monthly playground inspection was completed on February 13, 2026, by Bonita Walls-Squire. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the handwritten Visit Summary that was left with you at the conclusion of this visit. The computer-generated Visit Summary will be sent to you. The following violations were observed and reviewed with you and technical assistance was provided to you 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. On February 26th, February 27th, 2026, in Space #2, one child two years of age and enrolled on May 4, 2024, was marked present on the attendance record, but the documentation available for review on the arrival and departure record was documented as absent. On February 18, 2026, In Space #2, one child two years of age was documented on the arrival and departure records as absent, but on the attendance recorded for that day the child was marked as present. On March 4,, 2026 and March 5th, 2026, in Space #2, one child two years of age and enrolled on May 4, 2024, did not have documentation available for review of arrival and/or departure times. On March 12, 2026. one child enrolled on February 17, 2025, the documentation available for review for showed that he was marked absent on the arrival and departure record but was marked present on the attendance record. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. The current menu available for review and posted was dated August 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In Space #2, two outlets were missing plugs. One outlet in the group time area was missing two outlet covers and one outlet in the dramatic play area was missing two outlet covers. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. In the Outdoor Gross Motor Space # 1 and Space #2, it was observed on ground of both playgrounds that hazardous materials of small broken plastic pieces of equipment and or toys with sharp edges were accessible to children. The small broken plastic pieces and/or trash included empty clear plastic water bottle, white and gray trash bags, plastic bottle, green broken picnic table, broken pieces of the purple caterpillar, small broken pieces of broken toys yellow, blue, red, and orange. The gate entrance to Gross Motor Space #2 had one hinge broken on the gate. The alligator rocking equipment had no handles, a purple broken slide was cracked, A purple riding/push toy had a cracked seat with missing pieces, and the red sand/water table had missing and broken jagged legs. In Gross Motor Space #1, the blue sand and water table had multiple broken plastic pieces. These hazards were accessible to children. Also in this space, a Little Tykes Tool bench had a cracked blue top and orange work surface. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 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 2 and was used by children two years of age, on a shelf were two plastic containers of Little Journey Sensitive baby wipe containers accessible to children. These disposable plastic baby wipe containers were accessible to children two years of age and had a written warning keep out of reach of young children. .0604(q) 899 The child care operator did not comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. An active ant hill was located on the outdoor gross motor Space #2. GS 110-91 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. The Administrator employed on September 17, 2018, the documentation available for review of a current ITS/SIDS training had expired on May 17, 2025. .1102(f) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. child enrolled in June 2023 in Space #4 – was marked absent on the attendance record, but documentation available for review of the arrival and departure records stated the child arrived at 8:32am and departure at 4:05pm. On March 4, 2026, two children in Space #3 and enrolled on July 6, 2021, had documentation available for review of being marked absent on the attendance record, but the arrival and departure documentation recorded their arrival time as 3:20pm and departure time as 4:02 pm. GS 110-91(9) 1328 Children's records were not made available for review. One child two years of age and enrolled on February 17, 2025, did not have a file available for review during today’s visit to document and verify his enrollment date for the violation that was cited. His file was reviewed during the last annual compliance monitoring visit conducted on September 12, 2025, G.S. 110-91(9) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. On or before March 31, 2026. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware that 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. Mail or email the information to: Tiffani Sims, Child Care Consultant PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Due to the nature of a violation observed, an unannounced follow-up visit may be made in the near future to verify correction of the violation. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Arrival and Departure Records/Attendance Records I discussed with you that arrival, departure and attendance records must match. I suggested that during naptime and/or at your morning cut-off time that staff check arrival and attendance records for accuracy. I also suggested that as a closing activity for the classroom that departure and attendance are checked for accuracy. I suggested that on Fridays all attendance, arrival and departure records are checked for accuracy. Posting of Menus: I reminded you that menus must be posted and current. I suggested printing a month’s worth of menus and placing them in a folder in the kitchen to make it easier for the kitchen staff to post the current week’s menu. This violation was corrected during the visit. ITS/SIDS Training: I discussed with you the child care rule that stated that the Administrator must keep up to date and current ITS/SIDS training. I suggested contact Rachel Lentz, Child Care Health Consultant to see if she has an earlier training schedule than the April 2026 date we discussed. Her contact information is 828-544-1532 or email rlentz@unc.edu. Electrical Outlets- -I suggested that you monitor all spaces throughout the day to ensure all electrical outlets not in use are covered with a safety plug. Instruct staff to check all electrical outlets at the beginning of the day. This is a repeated violation. Indoor/Outdoor Area- -Per Child Care Requirement 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p), you must monitor indoor and outdoor areas prior to children utilizing the playground to ensure debris and broken equipment is discarded. I suggested that each staff member or a designated staff member monitor classrooms and playgrounds each morning to discard trash and any broken items before children arrive or access the playground. I suggested that you create a daily safety checklist for staff to utilize each day to ensure a safe environment. This is a repeated violation Children’s Records: I discussed with you that children’s records must be available for review upon request. I suggested creating a filing system to organize all records, files, and documents in order to have easy access to these upon request. I also suggested that you share this information on the organization system with staff when you are not on site. I also suggested using the file checklists available on the DCDEE website under provider documents and forms to help in your organization of files and record keeping. Active Ant Hill: You discussed with me that a pest control company will be coming out in early April 2026 to spray the playground area. You also discussed with me that you will treat the active ant hill your self until it can be professionally treated. I suggest with monthly playground inspections are conducted that you be proactive in removing hazards as soon as possible. Plastic packing with written warnings Keep Out of Reach of Children: I reminded you that plastic packing may have a written warning in the packaging. Plastic packing with written warning must be kept 5 feet off the ground and made inaccessible to children under three years of age. I suggested placing the baby wipes containers either in a storage with a lid and out of the package and/or place in on the mantle out of reach. This violation was corrected during the visit. Consultation: We discussed the following during the visit: QRIS Pathways to the Stars: -On January 16, 2026, I conducted a QRIS Pathway Technical Assistance visit. We discussed that you would follow Pathway #2. I reviewed with you during that visit the requirements for the new QRIS Pathway to Stars and shared various resources with you. For more information on the QRIS Pathway, please visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. Your next rated license reassessment is due August 2027. Your facility must be transitioned to the new QRIS Pathway by September 2026. Additional Information: Pathway #2: Classroom and Instructional Quality We have gathered information and clarification on curriculum training for Pathway #2, Classroom and Instructional Quality Pathway, 10A NCAC 09 .3205(e)(9) and .3205(f)(9) regarding Curriculum and Formative Assessment Training. Per rule, training outlined in .3205(e & f)(9) does not specify that an approved trainer is required. An industry expert on curriculum or formative assessment tool can provide this training. The rule requires the verification of training completion to be in the individual’s file with no additional requirements. 10A NCAC 09 .3205(e)(9) The administrator shall complete training related to the approved curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by center staff with children, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Verification of this training shall be maintained in the administrator's personnel file. 10A NCAC 09 .3205(f)(9) The administrator and all lead teachers shall complete training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Verification of this training shall be maintained in the individual's' personnel file. -I suggested that you review Environment Rating Scale information and resources at www.ncrlap.org for the following assessments:ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U. -Reach out to your local Resource and Referral Agency for additional technical assistance and support. Reminders and Resources: For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time and assistance today. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me, Tiffani Sims, at 828-416-1648 or tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/17/2026 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 3/17/2026 Age: From 2 To 4 Total Minutes: 405 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 05:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Lachrisa Petty, Lead Teacher, and Bonita Walls-Squire, Owner/Administrator, assisted me with the visit. You provided me with applicable program and staff records for review. The most recent annual compliance visit was conducted on September 12, 2025. The facility currently operates with a 4-stars rated license issued on September 17, 2020, earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care and enhanced space. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four and five star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled & using a developmentally appropriate curriculum (indicate which curriculum _____________ that addresses the five domains of development. The program’s compliance history was ninety-seven percent (97%) prior to today’s visit. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed on March 16, 2026, and Along Came A Scholar, Inc. was listed as active and current. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, Tiffani Sims, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Limited monitoring was conducted. A walkthrough of the facility was completed today, and all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in indoor free play, teacher directed activities, art, lunch, and naptime. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Files and applicable records for existing staff were reviewed. All staff were listed on the ABCMS Provider Portal roster for this facility. All staff were asked to confirm what their current work hours and days of the week worked at the child care program. I compared this information to the last staff and training worksheet that was completed and reviewed during the last annual compliance monitoring visit conducted in September 2025 for accuracy. The most recent approved fire inspection for your facility was conducted on February 5, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 6, 2026. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 13 demerits noted on the grade card. The analysis date for the most recent lead water test had no results available for review. Lead testing must be completed every three years. You may review your facilities results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. On March 16, 2026, I checked the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website again, and it stated that your facility’s had no results available for review for lead-water, lead based paint, or asbestos testing. You stated during your last annual compliance visit in September 2025, that your facility information is listed under your former business Above and Beyond Learning Academy LLC and when checked on March 16, 2026, the information was still shown under the previous name. The information available for review for this facility stated that lead water testing was completed on July 7, 2021. There was no information available for review for lead-based paint and asbestos testing. You also stated that you contacted Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids and are working on resolving this issue. I reminded you that these tasks must be completed by March 31, 2026. If not completed, possible violations may be cited at a future visit. The most recent monthly fire drill was conducted on February 19, 2026, at 10:15 am and recorded. The most recent quarterly lockdown emergency drill was conducted on November 26, 2026, at 10:36am and recorded. The most recent monthly playground inspection was completed on February 13, 2026, by Bonita Walls-Squire. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the handwritten Visit Summary that was left with you at the conclusion of this visit. The computer-generated Visit Summary will be sent to you. The following violations were observed and reviewed with you and technical assistance was provided to you 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. On February 26th, February 27th, 2026, in Space #2, one child two years of age and enrolled on May 4, 2024, was marked present on the attendance record, but the documentation available for review on the arrival and departure record was documented as absent. On February 18, 2026, In Space #2, one child two years of age was documented on the arrival and departure records as absent, but on the attendance recorded for that day the child was marked as present. On March 4,, 2026 and March 5th, 2026, in Space #2, one child two years of age and enrolled on May 4, 2024, did not have documentation available for review of arrival and/or departure times. On March 12, 2026. one child enrolled on February 17, 2025, the documentation available for review for showed that he was marked absent on the arrival and departure record but was marked present on the attendance record. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. The current menu available for review and posted was dated August 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In Space #2, two outlets were missing plugs. One outlet in the group time area was missing two outlet covers and one outlet in the dramatic play area was missing two outlet covers. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. In the Outdoor Gross Motor Space # 1 and Space #2, it was observed on ground of both playgrounds that hazardous materials of small broken plastic pieces of equipment and or toys with sharp edges were accessible to children. The small broken plastic pieces and/or trash included empty clear plastic water bottle, white and gray trash bags, plastic bottle, green broken picnic table, broken pieces of the purple caterpillar, small broken pieces of broken toys yellow, blue, red, and orange. The gate entrance to Gross Motor Space #2 had one hinge broken on the gate. The alligator rocking equipment had no handles, a purple broken slide was cracked, A purple riding/push toy had a cracked seat with missing pieces, and the red sand/water table had missing and broken jagged legs. In Gross Motor Space #1, the blue sand and water table had multiple broken plastic pieces. These hazards were accessible to children. Also in this space, a Little Tykes Tool bench had a cracked blue top and orange work surface. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 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 2 and was used by children two years of age, on a shelf were two plastic containers of Little Journey Sensitive baby wipe containers accessible to children. These disposable plastic baby wipe containers were accessible to children two years of age and had a written warning keep out of reach of young children. .0604(q) 899 The child care operator did not comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. An active ant hill was located on the outdoor gross motor Space #2. GS 110-91 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. The Administrator employed on September 17, 2018, the documentation available for review of a current ITS/SIDS training had expired on May 17, 2025. .1102(f) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. child enrolled in June 2023 in Space #4 – was marked absent on the attendance record, but documentation available for review of the arrival and departure records stated the child arrived at 8:32am and departure at 4:05pm. On March 4, 2026, two children in Space #3 and enrolled on July 6, 2021, had documentation available for review of being marked absent on the attendance record, but the arrival and departure documentation recorded their arrival time as 3:20pm and departure time as 4:02 pm. GS 110-91(9) 1328 Children's records were not made available for review. One child two years of age and enrolled on February 17, 2025, did not have a file available for review during today’s visit to document and verify his enrollment date for the violation that was cited. His file was reviewed during the last annual compliance monitoring visit conducted on September 12, 2025, G.S. 110-91(9) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. On or before March 31, 2026. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware that 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. Mail or email the information to: Tiffani Sims, Child Care Consultant PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Due to the nature of a violation observed, an unannounced follow-up visit may be made in the near future to verify correction of the violation. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Arrival and Departure Records/Attendance Records I discussed with you that arrival, departure and attendance records must match. I suggested that during naptime and/or at your morning cut-off time that staff check arrival and attendance records for accuracy. I also suggested that as a closing activity for the classroom that departure and attendance are checked for accuracy. I suggested that on Fridays all attendance, arrival and departure records are checked for accuracy. Posting of Menus: I reminded you that menus must be posted and current. I suggested printing a month’s worth of menus and placing them in a folder in the kitchen to make it easier for the kitchen staff to post the current week’s menu. This violation was corrected during the visit. ITS/SIDS Training: I discussed with you the child care rule that stated that the Administrator must keep up to date and current ITS/SIDS training. I suggested contact Rachel Lentz, Child Care Health Consultant to see if she has an earlier training schedule than the April 2026 date we discussed. Her contact information is 828-544-1532 or email rlentz@unc.edu. Electrical Outlets- -I suggested that you monitor all spaces throughout the day to ensure all electrical outlets not in use are covered with a safety plug. Instruct staff to check all electrical outlets at the beginning of the day. This is a repeated violation. Indoor/Outdoor Area- -Per Child Care Requirement 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p), you must monitor indoor and outdoor areas prior to children utilizing the playground to ensure debris and broken equipment is discarded. I suggested that each staff member or a designated staff member monitor classrooms and playgrounds each morning to discard trash and any broken items before children arrive or access the playground. I suggested that you create a daily safety checklist for staff to utilize each day to ensure a safe environment. This is a repeated violation Children’s Records: I discussed with you that children’s records must be available for review upon request. I suggested creating a filing system to organize all records, files, and documents in order to have easy access to these upon request. I also suggested that you share this information on the organization system with staff when you are not on site. I also suggested using the file checklists available on the DCDEE website under provider documents and forms to help in your organization of files and record keeping. Active Ant Hill: You discussed with me that a pest control company will be coming out in early April 2026 to spray the playground area. You also discussed with me that you will treat the active ant hill your self until it can be professionally treated. I suggest with monthly playground inspections are conducted that you be proactive in removing hazards as soon as possible. Plastic packing with written warnings Keep Out of Reach of Children: I reminded you that plastic packing may have a written warning in the packaging. Plastic packing with written warning must be kept 5 feet off the ground and made inaccessible to children under three years of age. I suggested placing the baby wipes containers either in a storage with a lid and out of the package and/or place in on the mantle out of reach. This violation was corrected during the visit. Consultation: We discussed the following during the visit: QRIS Pathways to the Stars: -On January 16, 2026, I conducted a QRIS Pathway Technical Assistance visit. We discussed that you would follow Pathway #2. I reviewed with you during that visit the requirements for the new QRIS Pathway to Stars and shared various resources with you. For more information on the QRIS Pathway, please visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. Your next rated license reassessment is due August 2027. Your facility must be transitioned to the new QRIS Pathway by September 2026. Additional Information: Pathway #2: Classroom and Instructional Quality We have gathered information and clarification on curriculum training for Pathway #2, Classroom and Instructional Quality Pathway, 10A NCAC 09 .3205(e)(9) and .3205(f)(9) regarding Curriculum and Formative Assessment Training. Per rule, training outlined in .3205(e & f)(9) does not specify that an approved trainer is required. An industry expert on curriculum or formative assessment tool can provide this training. The rule requires the verification of training completion to be in the individual’s file with no additional requirements. 10A NCAC 09 .3205(e)(9) The administrator shall complete training related to the approved curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by center staff with children, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Verification of this training shall be maintained in the administrator's personnel file. 10A NCAC 09 .3205(f)(9) The administrator and all lead teachers shall complete training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Verification of this training shall be maintained in the individual's' personnel file. -I suggested that you review Environment Rating Scale information and resources at www.ncrlap.org for the following assessments:ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U. -Reach out to your local Resource and Referral Agency for additional technical assistance and support. Reminders and Resources: For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time and assistance today. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me, Tiffani Sims, at 828-416-1648 or tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/17/2026 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 3/17/2026 Age: From 2 To 4 Total Minutes: 405 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 05:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Lachrisa Petty, Lead Teacher, and Bonita Walls-Squire, Owner/Administrator, assisted me with the visit. You provided me with applicable program and staff records for review. The most recent annual compliance visit was conducted on September 12, 2025. The facility currently operates with a 4-stars rated license issued on September 17, 2020, earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care and enhanced space. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four and five star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled & using a developmentally appropriate curriculum (indicate which curriculum _____________ that addresses the five domains of development. The program’s compliance history was ninety-seven percent (97%) prior to today’s visit. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed on March 16, 2026, and Along Came A Scholar, Inc. was listed as active and current. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, Tiffani Sims, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Limited monitoring was conducted. A walkthrough of the facility was completed today, and all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in indoor free play, teacher directed activities, art, lunch, and naptime. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Files and applicable records for existing staff were reviewed. All staff were listed on the ABCMS Provider Portal roster for this facility. All staff were asked to confirm what their current work hours and days of the week worked at the child care program. I compared this information to the last staff and training worksheet that was completed and reviewed during the last annual compliance monitoring visit conducted in September 2025 for accuracy. The most recent approved fire inspection for your facility was conducted on February 5, 2026. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 6, 2026. A superior sanitation classification was issued with 13 demerits noted on the grade card. The analysis date for the most recent lead water test had no results available for review. Lead testing must be completed every three years. You may review your facilities results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. On March 16, 2026, I checked the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website again, and it stated that your facility’s had no results available for review for lead-water, lead based paint, or asbestos testing. You stated during your last annual compliance visit in September 2025, that your facility information is listed under your former business Above and Beyond Learning Academy LLC and when checked on March 16, 2026, the information was still shown under the previous name. The information available for review for this facility stated that lead water testing was completed on July 7, 2021. There was no information available for review for lead-based paint and asbestos testing. You also stated that you contacted Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids and are working on resolving this issue. I reminded you that these tasks must be completed by March 31, 2026. If not completed, possible violations may be cited at a future visit. The most recent monthly fire drill was conducted on February 19, 2026, at 10:15 am and recorded. The most recent quarterly lockdown emergency drill was conducted on November 26, 2026, at 10:36am and recorded. The most recent monthly playground inspection was completed on February 13, 2026, by Bonita Walls-Squire. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the handwritten Visit Summary that was left with you at the conclusion of this visit. The computer-generated Visit Summary will be sent to you. The following violations were observed and reviewed with you and technical assistance was provided to you 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. On February 26th, February 27th, 2026, in Space #2, one child two years of age and enrolled on May 4, 2024, was marked present on the attendance record, but the documentation available for review on the arrival and departure record was documented as absent. On February 18, 2026, In Space #2, one child two years of age was documented on the arrival and departure records as absent, but on the attendance recorded for that day the child was marked as present. On March 4,, 2026 and March 5th, 2026, in Space #2, one child two years of age and enrolled on May 4, 2024, did not have documentation available for review of arrival and/or departure times. On March 12, 2026. one child enrolled on February 17, 2025, the documentation available for review for showed that he was marked absent on the arrival and departure record but was marked present on the attendance record. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. The current menu available for review and posted was dated August 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In Space #2, two outlets were missing plugs. One outlet in the group time area was missing two outlet covers and one outlet in the dramatic play area was missing two outlet covers. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. In the Outdoor Gross Motor Space # 1 and Space #2, it was observed on ground of both playgrounds that hazardous materials of small broken plastic pieces of equipment and or toys with sharp edges were accessible to children. The small broken plastic pieces and/or trash included empty clear plastic water bottle, white and gray trash bags, plastic bottle, green broken picnic table, broken pieces of the purple caterpillar, small broken pieces of broken toys yellow, blue, red, and orange. The gate entrance to Gross Motor Space #2 had one hinge broken on the gate. The alligator rocking equipment had no handles, a purple broken slide was cracked, A purple riding/push toy had a cracked seat with missing pieces, and the red sand/water table had missing and broken jagged legs. In Gross Motor Space #1, the blue sand and water table had multiple broken plastic pieces. These hazards were accessible to children. Also in this space, a Little Tykes Tool bench had a cracked blue top and orange work surface. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 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 2 and was used by children two years of age, on a shelf were two plastic containers of Little Journey Sensitive baby wipe containers accessible to children. These disposable plastic baby wipe containers were accessible to children two years of age and had a written warning keep out of reach of young children. .0604(q) 899 The child care operator did not comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. An active ant hill was located on the outdoor gross motor Space #2. GS 110-91 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. The Administrator employed on September 17, 2018, the documentation available for review of a current ITS/SIDS training had expired on May 17, 2025. .1102(f) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. child enrolled in June 2023 in Space #4 – was marked absent on the attendance record, but documentation available for review of the arrival and departure records stated the child arrived at 8:32am and departure at 4:05pm. On March 4, 2026, two children in Space #3 and enrolled on July 6, 2021, had documentation available for review of being marked absent on the attendance record, but the arrival and departure documentation recorded their arrival time as 3:20pm and departure time as 4:02 pm. GS 110-91(9) 1328 Children's records were not made available for review. One child two years of age and enrolled on February 17, 2025, did not have a file available for review during today’s visit to document and verify his enrollment date for the violation that was cited. His file was reviewed during the last annual compliance monitoring visit conducted on September 12, 2025, G.S. 110-91(9) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. On or before March 31, 2026. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware that 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. Mail or email the information to: Tiffani Sims, Child Care Consultant PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Due to the nature of a violation observed, an unannounced follow-up visit may be made in the near future to verify correction of the violation. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Arrival and Departure Records/Attendance Records I discussed with you that arrival, departure and attendance records must match. I suggested that during naptime and/or at your morning cut-off time that staff check arrival and attendance records for accuracy. I also suggested that as a closing activity for the classroom that departure and attendance are checked for accuracy. I suggested that on Fridays all attendance, arrival and departure records are checked for accuracy. Posting of Menus: I reminded you that menus must be posted and current. I suggested printing a month’s worth of menus and placing them in a folder in the kitchen to make it easier for the kitchen staff to post the current week’s menu. This violation was corrected during the visit. ITS/SIDS Training: I discussed with you the child care rule that stated that the Administrator must keep up to date and current ITS/SIDS training. I suggested contact Rachel Lentz, Child Care Health Consultant to see if she has an earlier training schedule than the April 2026 date we discussed. Her contact information is 828-544-1532 or email rlentz@unc.edu. Electrical Outlets- -I suggested that you monitor all spaces throughout the day to ensure all electrical outlets not in use are covered with a safety plug. Instruct staff to check all electrical outlets at the beginning of the day. This is a repeated violation. Indoor/Outdoor Area- -Per Child Care Requirement 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p), you must monitor indoor and outdoor areas prior to children utilizing the playground to ensure debris and broken equipment is discarded. I suggested that each staff member or a designated staff member monitor classrooms and playgrounds each morning to discard trash and any broken items before children arrive or access the playground. I suggested that you create a daily safety checklist for staff to utilize each day to ensure a safe environment. This is a repeated violation Children’s Records: I discussed with you that children’s records must be available for review upon request. I suggested creating a filing system to organize all records, files, and documents in order to have easy access to these upon request. I also suggested that you share this information on the organization system with staff when you are not on site. I also suggested using the file checklists available on the DCDEE website under provider documents and forms to help in your organization of files and record keeping. Active Ant Hill: You discussed with me that a pest control company will be coming out in early April 2026 to spray the playground area. You also discussed with me that you will treat the active ant hill your self until it can be professionally treated. I suggest with monthly playground inspections are conducted that you be proactive in removing hazards as soon as possible. Plastic packing with written warnings Keep Out of Reach of Children: I reminded you that plastic packing may have a written warning in the packaging. Plastic packing with written warning must be kept 5 feet off the ground and made inaccessible to children under three years of age. I suggested placing the baby wipes containers either in a storage with a lid and out of the package and/or place in on the mantle out of reach. This violation was corrected during the visit. Consultation: We discussed the following during the visit: QRIS Pathways to the Stars: -On January 16, 2026, I conducted a QRIS Pathway Technical Assistance visit. We discussed that you would follow Pathway #2. I reviewed with you during that visit the requirements for the new QRIS Pathway to Stars and shared various resources with you. For more information on the QRIS Pathway, please visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. Your next rated license reassessment is due August 2027. Your facility must be transitioned to the new QRIS Pathway by September 2026. Additional Information: Pathway #2: Classroom and Instructional Quality We have gathered information and clarification on curriculum training for Pathway #2, Classroom and Instructional Quality Pathway, 10A NCAC 09 .3205(e)(9) and .3205(f)(9) regarding Curriculum and Formative Assessment Training. Per rule, training outlined in .3205(e & f)(9) does not specify that an approved trainer is required. An industry expert on curriculum or formative assessment tool can provide this training. The rule requires the verification of training completion to be in the individual’s file with no additional requirements. 10A NCAC 09 .3205(e)(9) The administrator shall complete training related to the approved curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by center staff with children, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Verification of this training shall be maintained in the administrator's personnel file. 10A NCAC 09 .3205(f)(9) The administrator and all lead teachers shall complete training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Verification of this training shall be maintained in the individual's' personnel file. -I suggested that you review Environment Rating Scale information and resources at www.ncrlap.org for the following assessments:ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U. -Reach out to your local Resource and Referral Agency for additional technical assistance and support. Reminders and Resources: For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time and assistance today. If you have any questions about today’s visit, please contact me or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard, at Tammy.McGalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If I can be of further assistance, you may contact me, Tiffani Sims, at 828-416-1648 or tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: LORI HERRICK Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0226-310A Visit Date: 3/2/2026 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 3/2/2026 Age: From 2 To 4 Total Minutes: 190 Time In: 11:35 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. LaChrisa Petty, staff member, was on site. I was unaccompanied during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. Petty and two additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. The following violation was confirmed during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 1328 Children's records were not made available for review. One child's record/file was not available for review during the visit. G.S. 110-91(9) Violations must be corrected immediately. Within one week, on or before, March 10, 2026, you must submit documentation of the corrections you made and your plan to maintain compliance with the identified child care requirements to me at Lori Herrick, Investigations Consultant, 828-782-0613, lori.herrick@dhhs.nc.gov. You may contact me at Lori Herrick, Investigations Consultant, 828-782-0613, lori.herrick@dhhs.nc.gov. or Natosha Lambeth, Natosha.lambeth@dhhs.nc.gov Thank you for your time. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/12/2025 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 9/12/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 320 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 02:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements including health and safety requirements. You, Bonita Walls-Squire, Administrator, assisted me with the visit today. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed on September 11, 2025, and Along Came A Scholar, Inc. was listed as active, but not current. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, Tiffani Sims, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. I contacted you by telephone on September 11, 2025, to discuss this matter and you stated you would investigate this issue, and you would inform me of the outcome. I received an email from you on September 11, 2025, stating that this issue had been resolved and the Secretary of State’s website should be update by September 15, 2025. The facility currently operates with a 4-stars rated license issued on September 17, 2020, earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care and enhanced space. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, and all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. The notice of administrative action, cover letter, and Corrective Action Plan were posted in a location visible to parents and visitors near the entrance of the facility in Space #2. This must remain posted throughout the Administrative Action period. During today’s visit, the children were observed during indoor free play, music and movement, art activities, lunch, and nap time. Inspections/Emergency Drills: Fire Inspection: The last fire inspection was completed on February 5, 2025. Sanitation Inspection: The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 17, 2025. A superior sanitation classification was issued with six (6) demerits noted on the grade card. Emergency Drills/Playground Inspections: The last lockdown emergency drill was completed on July 31, 2025, at 9:40am and recorded. The last playground inspection was completed on June 18, 2025. The last fire drill was completed on August 26, 2025, at 10:00am and recorded. A complete walkthrough of licensed indoor and outdoor spaces was conducted. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Files Reviewed: Children’s files, program files, and staff files were monitored today. Three (3) children's files were reviewed during today’s visit. One (1) staff file was reviewed today. I discussed the Staff and Training Worksheet and the Children’s Record form with you today. Both forms were completed and verified during the visit. The following violations were observed during the visit today. I discussed these violations with you in detail at the end of the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In Space #3, the electrical outlet in the book area was missing a cover. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. In the Outdoor Gross Motor Space # 1 and Space #2, it was observed on ground of both playgrounds that hazardous materials of small broken plastic pieces of equipment and or toys with sharp edges were accessible to children. The small broken plastic pieces and/or trash included empty clear plastic water bottle, white trash bag, plastic piece of clear wrapper, green broken picnic table, broken pieces of the purple's caterpillar, broken blue children’s chair, gray children’s rocking chair, pieces of broken toys (2) orange, and (4) blue. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 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 the hallway bathroom adjacent to Space #2 and was used by children ages one year of age and two years of age, on the sink was a box of disposable plastic diaper bags. These disposable diaper bags were accessible to children under two years of age and had a written warning keep out of reach of young children. .0604(q) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The documentation of the last playground inspection available for review was dated June 18, 2025. Documentation of April 2025, July 2025, and August 2025, playground inspections were not available for review. .0605(q) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. One child two years and four months of age and enrolled on February 17, 2025, did not have documentation available for review of completing a medical exam. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child two years and four months of age and enrolled on February 17, 2025, did not have documentation available for review of completing a medical exam. GS110-91(1) 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. One child two years and four months of age and enrolled on Februaryb17, 2025, did not have documentation available for review of having a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. .0608(b)(1-6) The following Technical Assistance regarding the violations observed during today’s visit was provided: Electrical Outlets- -I suggested that you monitor all spaces throughout the day to ensure all electrical outlets not in use are covered with a safety plug. Instruct staff to check all electrical outlets at the beginning of the day. Choking Hazards- Plastic Bags w/ Written Warnings Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed must be inaccessible to children under three years of age. I suggested that administrative staff monitor all classrooms for children under three years of age daily to ensure plastic bags, plastic packaging, small toys, small art supplies, and other potential choking hazards are inaccessible to children or removed from the classroom. I suggested that you review safety requirements with all staff members individually and during an upcoming staff meeting. I suggested that you create a daily safety checklist for staff to utilize each day to ensure a safe environment. Playground Inspections: I reminded you that playground inspections are required to be completed monthly and that documentation must be kept and available for review. I suggested making a checklist to put with the completed playground inspections and document monthly when the inspections are completed and filed. Indoor/Outdoor Area- -Per Child Care Requirement 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p), you must monitor indoor and outdoor areas prior to children utilizing the playground to ensure debris and broken equipment is discarded. I suggested that each staff member or a designated staff member monitor classrooms and playgrounds each morning to discard trash and any broken items before children arrive or access the playground. I suggested that you create a daily safety checklist for staff to utilize each day to ensure a safe environment. Children’s medical records- -Children’s medical exam or health assessment must be received and on file within thirty days of the child’s enrollment. I suggested that you request children’s medical exams and immunization records prior to enrollment and/or by the fifteen day of enrollment to ensure compliance with this requirement. Review/Receipt of Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma Policy: I discussed with you that you must have on file and have available for review when children are enrolled for having reviewed with parents/caregivers a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. I suggest using the children’s file checklist and look over upon enrollment and to set up a system of when children’s files are reviewed to ensure all required documents and/or information are included in the child’s file. Compliance History: You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required. Prior to today’s visit your compliance history was eighty-eight (88%). Please note any violations cited during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to a recommended administrative action. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by September 26, 2025. Please include in that letter each item number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov Tiffani Sims PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will 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 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. Consultation: -Provider Access to ABCMS I reviewed the ABCMS Portal Roster for your child care program on August 22, 2025, and you have linked staff to the facility’s ABCMS Portal page. I reviewed for accuracy the ABCMS Portal to the staff and training worksheet that you had provided to me prior to today’s visit. I discussed that when new staff are hired and/or when staff are terminated you are required to update the ABCMS Portal Page. -Child Care Rule Effective January 1, 2024 Lead Testing: Child Care Rule .0601(f)- Safe Environments We discussed the test results that were available for review on the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website for lead testing water testing, lead-based paint testing, and asbestos testing for your facility. On September 11, 2025, I checked the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, and it stated that your facility’s had no results available for review for lead-water, lead based paint, or asbestos testing. You stated that your facility information is listed under your former business Above and Beyond Learning Academy LLC. The information available for review for this facility stated that lead water testing was completed on July 7, 2021. There was no information available for review for lead-based paint and asbestos testing. You also stated that you contacted Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids and are working on resolving this issue. I reminded you that these tasks must be completed as soon as possible. If not completed possible violation may be cited at a future visit. -QRIS Moderation For more information on the new QRIS system, please visit the DCDEE website, homepage click the What’s new Tab and click onto the QRIS System link. I discussed with you the three different pathways available through the new QRIS System and the resources available for review on the DCDEE website. Information was discussed included the following: the Continuous Quality Improvement Plan for each staff and the program, Enhanced Education standards for the different staff positions, Family and Community Engagement Standards, curriculum, Staff/Child Ratios requirements, and approved Early Childhood Formative Assessments. We discussed you letting me know by October 8, 2025, which of the three pathways for stars you have chosen for your facility. I reminded you of the in-person QRIS meeting that will be held on October 8, 2025, at the Child Care Connections of Cleveland County office at 12:30pm. Links for Resources Approved Curriculum: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/2/2023_Approved_Curriculum.pdf?ver=Hxr2QwCIRb8kdaccUr3ETA%3d%3d2023 NC Child Care Commission Approved Formative Assessments: ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/2/2023_Approved_Curriculum.pdf?ver=Hxr2QwCIRb8kdaccUr3ETA%3d%3d Technical Assistance for QRIS and ERS-3 & SACERS-U: I suggested that you contact Child Care Connections of Cleveland County for technical assistance and trainings. I have provided their contact information below. Southwestern Child Development Commission for SACERS-U (828)586-5561 Tina Williams, Director of Provider Services ShaKaren Dade, Birth-Three Specialist (704) 487-7397 Resource: Healthychildren.org, powered by the American Academy of Pediatrics Link: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/Pages/default.aspx -Updating DCDEE WORKS Account: We discussed updating and/or creating an account on the DCDEE WORKS portal for staff’s education to be evaluated for the upcoming Pathways to the Stars process. The link is the following: https://dcdee.works.nc.gov/ and scroll down to the DCDEE WORKS logon link. An updated DCDEE WORKS account is required for all staff to process the education standard for your program. Education will be evaluated for administrators and staff who provide direct care to children. I reminded you to review staff files to ensure all requirement information is included. If staff has completed college course, have them submit to you for their files a student’s copy of the college transcript and any diplomas and/or certification. Additional trainings and resources can be accessed from the NC Rated License Assessment Project for the Environment Rating Scales Third Edition for the SACERS-U, ITERS-3 & ECERS-3. -Safe Environment/Supervision During Naptime: We discussed naptime classroom environment during the visit today. I reminded you that the naptime classrooms are not allowed to be pitch dark and that lighting should be provided in the classroom to allow staff to supervise and/or aid a child if needed. I also discussed that naptime music should not be so loud that staff are unable to hear children in case assistance is needed. I reviewed with you the child care rules concerning the safe environment and supervision. Child Care Rule References: 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS Children shall be adequately supervised at all times in child care centers. Adequate supervision shall mean that: (1) staff must be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance; (2) staff must interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor area; (3) staff must know where each child is located and be aware of the children's activities at all times; (4) staff must provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs, and capabilities of each child; 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT All child care centers shall provide a safe indoor and outdoor environment for the children in care. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. As we continue expanding our training offerings, DCDEE has established a new email address and phone number for Moodle support. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. DCDEE Updates: What’s New Tab I encourage you to click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting childcare in North Carolina. If I can be of assistance in the future, or if you have any questions about this visit, please feel free to contact me at Tiffani Sims; PO Box 185, Glen Alpine, NC 28628; (828) 417-1648; tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of North Carolina. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/12/2025 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 9/12/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 320 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 02:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements including health and safety requirements. You, Bonita Walls-Squire, Administrator, assisted me with the visit today. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed on September 11, 2025, and Along Came A Scholar, Inc. was listed as active, but not current. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, Tiffani Sims, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. I contacted you by telephone on September 11, 2025, to discuss this matter and you stated you would investigate this issue, and you would inform me of the outcome. I received an email from you on September 11, 2025, stating that this issue had been resolved and the Secretary of State’s website should be update by September 15, 2025. The facility currently operates with a 4-stars rated license issued on September 17, 2020, earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care and enhanced space. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, and all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. The notice of administrative action, cover letter, and Corrective Action Plan were posted in a location visible to parents and visitors near the entrance of the facility in Space #2. This must remain posted throughout the Administrative Action period. During today’s visit, the children were observed during indoor free play, music and movement, art activities, lunch, and nap time. Inspections/Emergency Drills: Fire Inspection: The last fire inspection was completed on February 5, 2025. Sanitation Inspection: The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 17, 2025. A superior sanitation classification was issued with six (6) demerits noted on the grade card. Emergency Drills/Playground Inspections: The last lockdown emergency drill was completed on July 31, 2025, at 9:40am and recorded. The last playground inspection was completed on June 18, 2025. The last fire drill was completed on August 26, 2025, at 10:00am and recorded. A complete walkthrough of licensed indoor and outdoor spaces was conducted. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Files Reviewed: Children’s files, program files, and staff files were monitored today. Three (3) children's files were reviewed during today’s visit. One (1) staff file was reviewed today. I discussed the Staff and Training Worksheet and the Children’s Record form with you today. Both forms were completed and verified during the visit. The following violations were observed during the visit today. I discussed these violations with you in detail at the end of the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In Space #3, the electrical outlet in the book area was missing a cover. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. In the Outdoor Gross Motor Space # 1 and Space #2, it was observed on ground of both playgrounds that hazardous materials of small broken plastic pieces of equipment and or toys with sharp edges were accessible to children. The small broken plastic pieces and/or trash included empty clear plastic water bottle, white trash bag, plastic piece of clear wrapper, green broken picnic table, broken pieces of the purple's caterpillar, broken blue children’s chair, gray children’s rocking chair, pieces of broken toys (2) orange, and (4) blue. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 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 the hallway bathroom adjacent to Space #2 and was used by children ages one year of age and two years of age, on the sink was a box of disposable plastic diaper bags. These disposable diaper bags were accessible to children under two years of age and had a written warning keep out of reach of young children. .0604(q) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The documentation of the last playground inspection available for review was dated June 18, 2025. Documentation of April 2025, July 2025, and August 2025, playground inspections were not available for review. .0605(q) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. One child two years and four months of age and enrolled on February 17, 2025, did not have documentation available for review of completing a medical exam. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child two years and four months of age and enrolled on February 17, 2025, did not have documentation available for review of completing a medical exam. GS110-91(1) 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. One child two years and four months of age and enrolled on Februaryb17, 2025, did not have documentation available for review of having a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. .0608(b)(1-6) The following Technical Assistance regarding the violations observed during today’s visit was provided: Electrical Outlets- -I suggested that you monitor all spaces throughout the day to ensure all electrical outlets not in use are covered with a safety plug. Instruct staff to check all electrical outlets at the beginning of the day. Choking Hazards- Plastic Bags w/ Written Warnings Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed must be inaccessible to children under three years of age. I suggested that administrative staff monitor all classrooms for children under three years of age daily to ensure plastic bags, plastic packaging, small toys, small art supplies, and other potential choking hazards are inaccessible to children or removed from the classroom. I suggested that you review safety requirements with all staff members individually and during an upcoming staff meeting. I suggested that you create a daily safety checklist for staff to utilize each day to ensure a safe environment. Playground Inspections: I reminded you that playground inspections are required to be completed monthly and that documentation must be kept and available for review. I suggested making a checklist to put with the completed playground inspections and document monthly when the inspections are completed and filed. Indoor/Outdoor Area- -Per Child Care Requirement 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p), you must monitor indoor and outdoor areas prior to children utilizing the playground to ensure debris and broken equipment is discarded. I suggested that each staff member or a designated staff member monitor classrooms and playgrounds each morning to discard trash and any broken items before children arrive or access the playground. I suggested that you create a daily safety checklist for staff to utilize each day to ensure a safe environment. Children’s medical records- -Children’s medical exam or health assessment must be received and on file within thirty days of the child’s enrollment. I suggested that you request children’s medical exams and immunization records prior to enrollment and/or by the fifteen day of enrollment to ensure compliance with this requirement. Review/Receipt of Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma Policy: I discussed with you that you must have on file and have available for review when children are enrolled for having reviewed with parents/caregivers a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. I suggest using the children’s file checklist and look over upon enrollment and to set up a system of when children’s files are reviewed to ensure all required documents and/or information are included in the child’s file. Compliance History: You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required. Prior to today’s visit your compliance history was eighty-eight (88%). Please note any violations cited during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to a recommended administrative action. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by September 26, 2025. Please include in that letter each item number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov Tiffani Sims PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will 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 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. Consultation: -Provider Access to ABCMS I reviewed the ABCMS Portal Roster for your child care program on August 22, 2025, and you have linked staff to the facility’s ABCMS Portal page. I reviewed for accuracy the ABCMS Portal to the staff and training worksheet that you had provided to me prior to today’s visit. I discussed that when new staff are hired and/or when staff are terminated you are required to update the ABCMS Portal Page. -Child Care Rule Effective January 1, 2024 Lead Testing: Child Care Rule .0601(f)- Safe Environments We discussed the test results that were available for review on the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website for lead testing water testing, lead-based paint testing, and asbestos testing for your facility. On September 11, 2025, I checked the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, and it stated that your facility’s had no results available for review for lead-water, lead based paint, or asbestos testing. You stated that your facility information is listed under your former business Above and Beyond Learning Academy LLC. The information available for review for this facility stated that lead water testing was completed on July 7, 2021. There was no information available for review for lead-based paint and asbestos testing. You also stated that you contacted Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids and are working on resolving this issue. I reminded you that these tasks must be completed as soon as possible. If not completed possible violation may be cited at a future visit. -QRIS Moderation For more information on the new QRIS system, please visit the DCDEE website, homepage click the What’s new Tab and click onto the QRIS System link. I discussed with you the three different pathways available through the new QRIS System and the resources available for review on the DCDEE website. Information was discussed included the following: the Continuous Quality Improvement Plan for each staff and the program, Enhanced Education standards for the different staff positions, Family and Community Engagement Standards, curriculum, Staff/Child Ratios requirements, and approved Early Childhood Formative Assessments. We discussed you letting me know by October 8, 2025, which of the three pathways for stars you have chosen for your facility. I reminded you of the in-person QRIS meeting that will be held on October 8, 2025, at the Child Care Connections of Cleveland County office at 12:30pm. Links for Resources Approved Curriculum: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/2/2023_Approved_Curriculum.pdf?ver=Hxr2QwCIRb8kdaccUr3ETA%3d%3d2023 NC Child Care Commission Approved Formative Assessments: ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/2/2023_Approved_Curriculum.pdf?ver=Hxr2QwCIRb8kdaccUr3ETA%3d%3d Technical Assistance for QRIS and ERS-3 & SACERS-U: I suggested that you contact Child Care Connections of Cleveland County for technical assistance and trainings. I have provided their contact information below. Southwestern Child Development Commission for SACERS-U (828)586-5561 Tina Williams, Director of Provider Services ShaKaren Dade, Birth-Three Specialist (704) 487-7397 Resource: Healthychildren.org, powered by the American Academy of Pediatrics Link: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/Pages/default.aspx -Updating DCDEE WORKS Account: We discussed updating and/or creating an account on the DCDEE WORKS portal for staff’s education to be evaluated for the upcoming Pathways to the Stars process. The link is the following: https://dcdee.works.nc.gov/ and scroll down to the DCDEE WORKS logon link. An updated DCDEE WORKS account is required for all staff to process the education standard for your program. Education will be evaluated for administrators and staff who provide direct care to children. I reminded you to review staff files to ensure all requirement information is included. If staff has completed college course, have them submit to you for their files a student’s copy of the college transcript and any diplomas and/or certification. Additional trainings and resources can be accessed from the NC Rated License Assessment Project for the Environment Rating Scales Third Edition for the SACERS-U, ITERS-3 & ECERS-3. -Safe Environment/Supervision During Naptime: We discussed naptime classroom environment during the visit today. I reminded you that the naptime classrooms are not allowed to be pitch dark and that lighting should be provided in the classroom to allow staff to supervise and/or aid a child if needed. I also discussed that naptime music should not be so loud that staff are unable to hear children in case assistance is needed. I reviewed with you the child care rules concerning the safe environment and supervision. Child Care Rule References: 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS Children shall be adequately supervised at all times in child care centers. Adequate supervision shall mean that: (1) staff must be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance; (2) staff must interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor area; (3) staff must know where each child is located and be aware of the children's activities at all times; (4) staff must provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs, and capabilities of each child; 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT All child care centers shall provide a safe indoor and outdoor environment for the children in care. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. As we continue expanding our training offerings, DCDEE has established a new email address and phone number for Moodle support. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. DCDEE Updates: What’s New Tab I encourage you to click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting childcare in North Carolina. If I can be of assistance in the future, or if you have any questions about this visit, please feel free to contact me at Tiffani Sims; PO Box 185, Glen Alpine, NC 28628; (828) 417-1648; tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of North Carolina. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/12/2025 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 9/12/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 320 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 02:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements including health and safety requirements. You, Bonita Walls-Squire, Administrator, assisted me with the visit today. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed on September 11, 2025, and Along Came A Scholar, Inc. was listed as active, but not current. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, Tiffani Sims, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. I contacted you by telephone on September 11, 2025, to discuss this matter and you stated you would investigate this issue, and you would inform me of the outcome. I received an email from you on September 11, 2025, stating that this issue had been resolved and the Secretary of State’s website should be update by September 15, 2025. The facility currently operates with a 4-stars rated license issued on September 17, 2020, earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care and enhanced space. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, and all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. The notice of administrative action, cover letter, and Corrective Action Plan were posted in a location visible to parents and visitors near the entrance of the facility in Space #2. This must remain posted throughout the Administrative Action period. During today’s visit, the children were observed during indoor free play, music and movement, art activities, lunch, and nap time. Inspections/Emergency Drills: Fire Inspection: The last fire inspection was completed on February 5, 2025. Sanitation Inspection: The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 17, 2025. A superior sanitation classification was issued with six (6) demerits noted on the grade card. Emergency Drills/Playground Inspections: The last lockdown emergency drill was completed on July 31, 2025, at 9:40am and recorded. The last playground inspection was completed on June 18, 2025. The last fire drill was completed on August 26, 2025, at 10:00am and recorded. A complete walkthrough of licensed indoor and outdoor spaces was conducted. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Files Reviewed: Children’s files, program files, and staff files were monitored today. Three (3) children's files were reviewed during today’s visit. One (1) staff file was reviewed today. I discussed the Staff and Training Worksheet and the Children’s Record form with you today. Both forms were completed and verified during the visit. The following violations were observed during the visit today. I discussed these violations with you in detail at the end of the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In Space #3, the electrical outlet in the book area was missing a cover. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. In the Outdoor Gross Motor Space # 1 and Space #2, it was observed on ground of both playgrounds that hazardous materials of small broken plastic pieces of equipment and or toys with sharp edges were accessible to children. The small broken plastic pieces and/or trash included empty clear plastic water bottle, white trash bag, plastic piece of clear wrapper, green broken picnic table, broken pieces of the purple's caterpillar, broken blue children’s chair, gray children’s rocking chair, pieces of broken toys (2) orange, and (4) blue. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 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 the hallway bathroom adjacent to Space #2 and was used by children ages one year of age and two years of age, on the sink was a box of disposable plastic diaper bags. These disposable diaper bags were accessible to children under two years of age and had a written warning keep out of reach of young children. .0604(q) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The documentation of the last playground inspection available for review was dated June 18, 2025. Documentation of April 2025, July 2025, and August 2025, playground inspections were not available for review. .0605(q) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. One child two years and four months of age and enrolled on February 17, 2025, did not have documentation available for review of completing a medical exam. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child two years and four months of age and enrolled on February 17, 2025, did not have documentation available for review of completing a medical exam. GS110-91(1) 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. One child two years and four months of age and enrolled on Februaryb17, 2025, did not have documentation available for review of having a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. .0608(b)(1-6) The following Technical Assistance regarding the violations observed during today’s visit was provided: Electrical Outlets- -I suggested that you monitor all spaces throughout the day to ensure all electrical outlets not in use are covered with a safety plug. Instruct staff to check all electrical outlets at the beginning of the day. Choking Hazards- Plastic Bags w/ Written Warnings Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed must be inaccessible to children under three years of age. I suggested that administrative staff monitor all classrooms for children under three years of age daily to ensure plastic bags, plastic packaging, small toys, small art supplies, and other potential choking hazards are inaccessible to children or removed from the classroom. I suggested that you review safety requirements with all staff members individually and during an upcoming staff meeting. I suggested that you create a daily safety checklist for staff to utilize each day to ensure a safe environment. Playground Inspections: I reminded you that playground inspections are required to be completed monthly and that documentation must be kept and available for review. I suggested making a checklist to put with the completed playground inspections and document monthly when the inspections are completed and filed. Indoor/Outdoor Area- -Per Child Care Requirement 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p), you must monitor indoor and outdoor areas prior to children utilizing the playground to ensure debris and broken equipment is discarded. I suggested that each staff member or a designated staff member monitor classrooms and playgrounds each morning to discard trash and any broken items before children arrive or access the playground. I suggested that you create a daily safety checklist for staff to utilize each day to ensure a safe environment. Children’s medical records- -Children’s medical exam or health assessment must be received and on file within thirty days of the child’s enrollment. I suggested that you request children’s medical exams and immunization records prior to enrollment and/or by the fifteen day of enrollment to ensure compliance with this requirement. Review/Receipt of Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma Policy: I discussed with you that you must have on file and have available for review when children are enrolled for having reviewed with parents/caregivers a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. I suggest using the children’s file checklist and look over upon enrollment and to set up a system of when children’s files are reviewed to ensure all required documents and/or information are included in the child’s file. Compliance History: You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required. Prior to today’s visit your compliance history was eighty-eight (88%). Please note any violations cited during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to a recommended administrative action. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by September 26, 2025. Please include in that letter each item number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov Tiffani Sims PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will 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 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. Consultation: -Provider Access to ABCMS I reviewed the ABCMS Portal Roster for your child care program on August 22, 2025, and you have linked staff to the facility’s ABCMS Portal page. I reviewed for accuracy the ABCMS Portal to the staff and training worksheet that you had provided to me prior to today’s visit. I discussed that when new staff are hired and/or when staff are terminated you are required to update the ABCMS Portal Page. -Child Care Rule Effective January 1, 2024 Lead Testing: Child Care Rule .0601(f)- Safe Environments We discussed the test results that were available for review on the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website for lead testing water testing, lead-based paint testing, and asbestos testing for your facility. On September 11, 2025, I checked the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, and it stated that your facility’s had no results available for review for lead-water, lead based paint, or asbestos testing. You stated that your facility information is listed under your former business Above and Beyond Learning Academy LLC. The information available for review for this facility stated that lead water testing was completed on July 7, 2021. There was no information available for review for lead-based paint and asbestos testing. You also stated that you contacted Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids and are working on resolving this issue. I reminded you that these tasks must be completed as soon as possible. If not completed possible violation may be cited at a future visit. -QRIS Moderation For more information on the new QRIS system, please visit the DCDEE website, homepage click the What’s new Tab and click onto the QRIS System link. I discussed with you the three different pathways available through the new QRIS System and the resources available for review on the DCDEE website. Information was discussed included the following: the Continuous Quality Improvement Plan for each staff and the program, Enhanced Education standards for the different staff positions, Family and Community Engagement Standards, curriculum, Staff/Child Ratios requirements, and approved Early Childhood Formative Assessments. We discussed you letting me know by October 8, 2025, which of the three pathways for stars you have chosen for your facility. I reminded you of the in-person QRIS meeting that will be held on October 8, 2025, at the Child Care Connections of Cleveland County office at 12:30pm. Links for Resources Approved Curriculum: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/2/2023_Approved_Curriculum.pdf?ver=Hxr2QwCIRb8kdaccUr3ETA%3d%3d2023 NC Child Care Commission Approved Formative Assessments: ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/2/2023_Approved_Curriculum.pdf?ver=Hxr2QwCIRb8kdaccUr3ETA%3d%3d Technical Assistance for QRIS and ERS-3 & SACERS-U: I suggested that you contact Child Care Connections of Cleveland County for technical assistance and trainings. I have provided their contact information below. Southwestern Child Development Commission for SACERS-U (828)586-5561 Tina Williams, Director of Provider Services ShaKaren Dade, Birth-Three Specialist (704) 487-7397 Resource: Healthychildren.org, powered by the American Academy of Pediatrics Link: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/Pages/default.aspx -Updating DCDEE WORKS Account: We discussed updating and/or creating an account on the DCDEE WORKS portal for staff’s education to be evaluated for the upcoming Pathways to the Stars process. The link is the following: https://dcdee.works.nc.gov/ and scroll down to the DCDEE WORKS logon link. An updated DCDEE WORKS account is required for all staff to process the education standard for your program. Education will be evaluated for administrators and staff who provide direct care to children. I reminded you to review staff files to ensure all requirement information is included. If staff has completed college course, have them submit to you for their files a student’s copy of the college transcript and any diplomas and/or certification. Additional trainings and resources can be accessed from the NC Rated License Assessment Project for the Environment Rating Scales Third Edition for the SACERS-U, ITERS-3 & ECERS-3. -Safe Environment/Supervision During Naptime: We discussed naptime classroom environment during the visit today. I reminded you that the naptime classrooms are not allowed to be pitch dark and that lighting should be provided in the classroom to allow staff to supervise and/or aid a child if needed. I also discussed that naptime music should not be so loud that staff are unable to hear children in case assistance is needed. I reviewed with you the child care rules concerning the safe environment and supervision. Child Care Rule References: 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS Children shall be adequately supervised at all times in child care centers. Adequate supervision shall mean that: (1) staff must be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance; (2) staff must interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor area; (3) staff must know where each child is located and be aware of the children's activities at all times; (4) staff must provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs, and capabilities of each child; 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT All child care centers shall provide a safe indoor and outdoor environment for the children in care. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. As we continue expanding our training offerings, DCDEE has established a new email address and phone number for Moodle support. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. DCDEE Updates: What’s New Tab I encourage you to click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting childcare in North Carolina. If I can be of assistance in the future, or if you have any questions about this visit, please feel free to contact me at Tiffani Sims; PO Box 185, Glen Alpine, NC 28628; (828) 417-1648; tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of North Carolina. 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 .1801 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/12/2025 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 9/12/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 320 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 02:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements including health and safety requirements. You, Bonita Walls-Squire, Administrator, assisted me with the visit today. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed on September 11, 2025, and Along Came A Scholar, Inc. was listed as active, but not current. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, Tiffani Sims, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. I contacted you by telephone on September 11, 2025, to discuss this matter and you stated you would investigate this issue, and you would inform me of the outcome. I received an email from you on September 11, 2025, stating that this issue had been resolved and the Secretary of State’s website should be update by September 15, 2025. The facility currently operates with a 4-stars rated license issued on September 17, 2020, earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care and enhanced space. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, and all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. The notice of administrative action, cover letter, and Corrective Action Plan were posted in a location visible to parents and visitors near the entrance of the facility in Space #2. This must remain posted throughout the Administrative Action period. During today’s visit, the children were observed during indoor free play, music and movement, art activities, lunch, and nap time. Inspections/Emergency Drills: Fire Inspection: The last fire inspection was completed on February 5, 2025. Sanitation Inspection: The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 17, 2025. A superior sanitation classification was issued with six (6) demerits noted on the grade card. Emergency Drills/Playground Inspections: The last lockdown emergency drill was completed on July 31, 2025, at 9:40am and recorded. The last playground inspection was completed on June 18, 2025. The last fire drill was completed on August 26, 2025, at 10:00am and recorded. A complete walkthrough of licensed indoor and outdoor spaces was conducted. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Files Reviewed: Children’s files, program files, and staff files were monitored today. Three (3) children's files were reviewed during today’s visit. One (1) staff file was reviewed today. I discussed the Staff and Training Worksheet and the Children’s Record form with you today. Both forms were completed and verified during the visit. The following violations were observed during the visit today. I discussed these violations with you in detail at the end of the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In Space #3, the electrical outlet in the book area was missing a cover. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. In the Outdoor Gross Motor Space # 1 and Space #2, it was observed on ground of both playgrounds that hazardous materials of small broken plastic pieces of equipment and or toys with sharp edges were accessible to children. The small broken plastic pieces and/or trash included empty clear plastic water bottle, white trash bag, plastic piece of clear wrapper, green broken picnic table, broken pieces of the purple's caterpillar, broken blue children’s chair, gray children’s rocking chair, pieces of broken toys (2) orange, and (4) blue. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 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 the hallway bathroom adjacent to Space #2 and was used by children ages one year of age and two years of age, on the sink was a box of disposable plastic diaper bags. These disposable diaper bags were accessible to children under two years of age and had a written warning keep out of reach of young children. .0604(q) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The documentation of the last playground inspection available for review was dated June 18, 2025. Documentation of April 2025, July 2025, and August 2025, playground inspections were not available for review. .0605(q) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. One child two years and four months of age and enrolled on February 17, 2025, did not have documentation available for review of completing a medical exam. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child two years and four months of age and enrolled on February 17, 2025, did not have documentation available for review of completing a medical exam. GS110-91(1) 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. One child two years and four months of age and enrolled on Februaryb17, 2025, did not have documentation available for review of having a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. .0608(b)(1-6) The following Technical Assistance regarding the violations observed during today’s visit was provided: Electrical Outlets- -I suggested that you monitor all spaces throughout the day to ensure all electrical outlets not in use are covered with a safety plug. Instruct staff to check all electrical outlets at the beginning of the day. Choking Hazards- Plastic Bags w/ Written Warnings Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed must be inaccessible to children under three years of age. I suggested that administrative staff monitor all classrooms for children under three years of age daily to ensure plastic bags, plastic packaging, small toys, small art supplies, and other potential choking hazards are inaccessible to children or removed from the classroom. I suggested that you review safety requirements with all staff members individually and during an upcoming staff meeting. I suggested that you create a daily safety checklist for staff to utilize each day to ensure a safe environment. Playground Inspections: I reminded you that playground inspections are required to be completed monthly and that documentation must be kept and available for review. I suggested making a checklist to put with the completed playground inspections and document monthly when the inspections are completed and filed. Indoor/Outdoor Area- -Per Child Care Requirement 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p), you must monitor indoor and outdoor areas prior to children utilizing the playground to ensure debris and broken equipment is discarded. I suggested that each staff member or a designated staff member monitor classrooms and playgrounds each morning to discard trash and any broken items before children arrive or access the playground. I suggested that you create a daily safety checklist for staff to utilize each day to ensure a safe environment. Children’s medical records- -Children’s medical exam or health assessment must be received and on file within thirty days of the child’s enrollment. I suggested that you request children’s medical exams and immunization records prior to enrollment and/or by the fifteen day of enrollment to ensure compliance with this requirement. Review/Receipt of Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma Policy: I discussed with you that you must have on file and have available for review when children are enrolled for having reviewed with parents/caregivers a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. I suggest using the children’s file checklist and look over upon enrollment and to set up a system of when children’s files are reviewed to ensure all required documents and/or information are included in the child’s file. Compliance History: You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required. Prior to today’s visit your compliance history was eighty-eight (88%). Please note any violations cited during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to a recommended administrative action. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by September 26, 2025. Please include in that letter each item number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov Tiffani Sims PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will 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 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. Consultation: -Provider Access to ABCMS I reviewed the ABCMS Portal Roster for your child care program on August 22, 2025, and you have linked staff to the facility’s ABCMS Portal page. I reviewed for accuracy the ABCMS Portal to the staff and training worksheet that you had provided to me prior to today’s visit. I discussed that when new staff are hired and/or when staff are terminated you are required to update the ABCMS Portal Page. -Child Care Rule Effective January 1, 2024 Lead Testing: Child Care Rule .0601(f)- Safe Environments We discussed the test results that were available for review on the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website for lead testing water testing, lead-based paint testing, and asbestos testing for your facility. On September 11, 2025, I checked the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, and it stated that your facility’s had no results available for review for lead-water, lead based paint, or asbestos testing. You stated that your facility information is listed under your former business Above and Beyond Learning Academy LLC. The information available for review for this facility stated that lead water testing was completed on July 7, 2021. There was no information available for review for lead-based paint and asbestos testing. You also stated that you contacted Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids and are working on resolving this issue. I reminded you that these tasks must be completed as soon as possible. If not completed possible violation may be cited at a future visit. -QRIS Moderation For more information on the new QRIS system, please visit the DCDEE website, homepage click the What’s new Tab and click onto the QRIS System link. I discussed with you the three different pathways available through the new QRIS System and the resources available for review on the DCDEE website. Information was discussed included the following: the Continuous Quality Improvement Plan for each staff and the program, Enhanced Education standards for the different staff positions, Family and Community Engagement Standards, curriculum, Staff/Child Ratios requirements, and approved Early Childhood Formative Assessments. We discussed you letting me know by October 8, 2025, which of the three pathways for stars you have chosen for your facility. I reminded you of the in-person QRIS meeting that will be held on October 8, 2025, at the Child Care Connections of Cleveland County office at 12:30pm. Links for Resources Approved Curriculum: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/2/2023_Approved_Curriculum.pdf?ver=Hxr2QwCIRb8kdaccUr3ETA%3d%3d2023 NC Child Care Commission Approved Formative Assessments: ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/2/2023_Approved_Curriculum.pdf?ver=Hxr2QwCIRb8kdaccUr3ETA%3d%3d Technical Assistance for QRIS and ERS-3 & SACERS-U: I suggested that you contact Child Care Connections of Cleveland County for technical assistance and trainings. I have provided their contact information below. Southwestern Child Development Commission for SACERS-U (828)586-5561 Tina Williams, Director of Provider Services ShaKaren Dade, Birth-Three Specialist (704) 487-7397 Resource: Healthychildren.org, powered by the American Academy of Pediatrics Link: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/Pages/default.aspx -Updating DCDEE WORKS Account: We discussed updating and/or creating an account on the DCDEE WORKS portal for staff’s education to be evaluated for the upcoming Pathways to the Stars process. The link is the following: https://dcdee.works.nc.gov/ and scroll down to the DCDEE WORKS logon link. An updated DCDEE WORKS account is required for all staff to process the education standard for your program. Education will be evaluated for administrators and staff who provide direct care to children. I reminded you to review staff files to ensure all requirement information is included. If staff has completed college course, have them submit to you for their files a student’s copy of the college transcript and any diplomas and/or certification. Additional trainings and resources can be accessed from the NC Rated License Assessment Project for the Environment Rating Scales Third Edition for the SACERS-U, ITERS-3 & ECERS-3. -Safe Environment/Supervision During Naptime: We discussed naptime classroom environment during the visit today. I reminded you that the naptime classrooms are not allowed to be pitch dark and that lighting should be provided in the classroom to allow staff to supervise and/or aid a child if needed. I also discussed that naptime music should not be so loud that staff are unable to hear children in case assistance is needed. I reviewed with you the child care rules concerning the safe environment and supervision. Child Care Rule References: 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS Children shall be adequately supervised at all times in child care centers. Adequate supervision shall mean that: (1) staff must be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance; (2) staff must interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor area; (3) staff must know where each child is located and be aware of the children's activities at all times; (4) staff must provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs, and capabilities of each child; 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT All child care centers shall provide a safe indoor and outdoor environment for the children in care. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. As we continue expanding our training offerings, DCDEE has established a new email address and phone number for Moodle support. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. DCDEE Updates: What’s New Tab I encourage you to click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting childcare in North Carolina. If I can be of assistance in the future, or if you have any questions about this visit, please feel free to contact me at Tiffani Sims; PO Box 185, Glen Alpine, NC 28628; (828) 417-1648; tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of North Carolina. 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: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/12/2025 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 9/12/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 320 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 02:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements including health and safety requirements. You, Bonita Walls-Squire, Administrator, assisted me with the visit today. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed on September 11, 2025, and Along Came A Scholar, Inc. was listed as active, but not current. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, Tiffani Sims, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. I contacted you by telephone on September 11, 2025, to discuss this matter and you stated you would investigate this issue, and you would inform me of the outcome. I received an email from you on September 11, 2025, stating that this issue had been resolved and the Secretary of State’s website should be update by September 15, 2025. The facility currently operates with a 4-stars rated license issued on September 17, 2020, earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care and enhanced space. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, and all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. The notice of administrative action, cover letter, and Corrective Action Plan were posted in a location visible to parents and visitors near the entrance of the facility in Space #2. This must remain posted throughout the Administrative Action period. During today’s visit, the children were observed during indoor free play, music and movement, art activities, lunch, and nap time. Inspections/Emergency Drills: Fire Inspection: The last fire inspection was completed on February 5, 2025. Sanitation Inspection: The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 17, 2025. A superior sanitation classification was issued with six (6) demerits noted on the grade card. Emergency Drills/Playground Inspections: The last lockdown emergency drill was completed on July 31, 2025, at 9:40am and recorded. The last playground inspection was completed on June 18, 2025. The last fire drill was completed on August 26, 2025, at 10:00am and recorded. A complete walkthrough of licensed indoor and outdoor spaces was conducted. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Files Reviewed: Children’s files, program files, and staff files were monitored today. Three (3) children's files were reviewed during today’s visit. One (1) staff file was reviewed today. I discussed the Staff and Training Worksheet and the Children’s Record form with you today. Both forms were completed and verified during the visit. The following violations were observed during the visit today. I discussed these violations with you in detail at the end of the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In Space #3, the electrical outlet in the book area was missing a cover. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. In the Outdoor Gross Motor Space # 1 and Space #2, it was observed on ground of both playgrounds that hazardous materials of small broken plastic pieces of equipment and or toys with sharp edges were accessible to children. The small broken plastic pieces and/or trash included empty clear plastic water bottle, white trash bag, plastic piece of clear wrapper, green broken picnic table, broken pieces of the purple's caterpillar, broken blue children’s chair, gray children’s rocking chair, pieces of broken toys (2) orange, and (4) blue. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 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 the hallway bathroom adjacent to Space #2 and was used by children ages one year of age and two years of age, on the sink was a box of disposable plastic diaper bags. These disposable diaper bags were accessible to children under two years of age and had a written warning keep out of reach of young children. .0604(q) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The documentation of the last playground inspection available for review was dated June 18, 2025. Documentation of April 2025, July 2025, and August 2025, playground inspections were not available for review. .0605(q) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. One child two years and four months of age and enrolled on February 17, 2025, did not have documentation available for review of completing a medical exam. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child two years and four months of age and enrolled on February 17, 2025, did not have documentation available for review of completing a medical exam. GS110-91(1) 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. One child two years and four months of age and enrolled on Februaryb17, 2025, did not have documentation available for review of having a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. .0608(b)(1-6) The following Technical Assistance regarding the violations observed during today’s visit was provided: Electrical Outlets- -I suggested that you monitor all spaces throughout the day to ensure all electrical outlets not in use are covered with a safety plug. Instruct staff to check all electrical outlets at the beginning of the day. Choking Hazards- Plastic Bags w/ Written Warnings Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed must be inaccessible to children under three years of age. I suggested that administrative staff monitor all classrooms for children under three years of age daily to ensure plastic bags, plastic packaging, small toys, small art supplies, and other potential choking hazards are inaccessible to children or removed from the classroom. I suggested that you review safety requirements with all staff members individually and during an upcoming staff meeting. I suggested that you create a daily safety checklist for staff to utilize each day to ensure a safe environment. Playground Inspections: I reminded you that playground inspections are required to be completed monthly and that documentation must be kept and available for review. I suggested making a checklist to put with the completed playground inspections and document monthly when the inspections are completed and filed. Indoor/Outdoor Area- -Per Child Care Requirement 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p), you must monitor indoor and outdoor areas prior to children utilizing the playground to ensure debris and broken equipment is discarded. I suggested that each staff member or a designated staff member monitor classrooms and playgrounds each morning to discard trash and any broken items before children arrive or access the playground. I suggested that you create a daily safety checklist for staff to utilize each day to ensure a safe environment. Children’s medical records- -Children’s medical exam or health assessment must be received and on file within thirty days of the child’s enrollment. I suggested that you request children’s medical exams and immunization records prior to enrollment and/or by the fifteen day of enrollment to ensure compliance with this requirement. Review/Receipt of Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma Policy: I discussed with you that you must have on file and have available for review when children are enrolled for having reviewed with parents/caregivers a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. I suggest using the children’s file checklist and look over upon enrollment and to set up a system of when children’s files are reviewed to ensure all required documents and/or information are included in the child’s file. Compliance History: You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required. Prior to today’s visit your compliance history was eighty-eight (88%). Please note any violations cited during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to a recommended administrative action. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by September 26, 2025. Please include in that letter each item number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov Tiffani Sims PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will 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 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. Consultation: -Provider Access to ABCMS I reviewed the ABCMS Portal Roster for your child care program on August 22, 2025, and you have linked staff to the facility’s ABCMS Portal page. I reviewed for accuracy the ABCMS Portal to the staff and training worksheet that you had provided to me prior to today’s visit. I discussed that when new staff are hired and/or when staff are terminated you are required to update the ABCMS Portal Page. -Child Care Rule Effective January 1, 2024 Lead Testing: Child Care Rule .0601(f)- Safe Environments We discussed the test results that were available for review on the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website for lead testing water testing, lead-based paint testing, and asbestos testing for your facility. On September 11, 2025, I checked the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, and it stated that your facility’s had no results available for review for lead-water, lead based paint, or asbestos testing. You stated that your facility information is listed under your former business Above and Beyond Learning Academy LLC. The information available for review for this facility stated that lead water testing was completed on July 7, 2021. There was no information available for review for lead-based paint and asbestos testing. You also stated that you contacted Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids and are working on resolving this issue. I reminded you that these tasks must be completed as soon as possible. If not completed possible violation may be cited at a future visit. -QRIS Moderation For more information on the new QRIS system, please visit the DCDEE website, homepage click the What’s new Tab and click onto the QRIS System link. I discussed with you the three different pathways available through the new QRIS System and the resources available for review on the DCDEE website. Information was discussed included the following: the Continuous Quality Improvement Plan for each staff and the program, Enhanced Education standards for the different staff positions, Family and Community Engagement Standards, curriculum, Staff/Child Ratios requirements, and approved Early Childhood Formative Assessments. We discussed you letting me know by October 8, 2025, which of the three pathways for stars you have chosen for your facility. I reminded you of the in-person QRIS meeting that will be held on October 8, 2025, at the Child Care Connections of Cleveland County office at 12:30pm. Links for Resources Approved Curriculum: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/2/2023_Approved_Curriculum.pdf?ver=Hxr2QwCIRb8kdaccUr3ETA%3d%3d2023 NC Child Care Commission Approved Formative Assessments: ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/2/2023_Approved_Curriculum.pdf?ver=Hxr2QwCIRb8kdaccUr3ETA%3d%3d Technical Assistance for QRIS and ERS-3 & SACERS-U: I suggested that you contact Child Care Connections of Cleveland County for technical assistance and trainings. I have provided their contact information below. Southwestern Child Development Commission for SACERS-U (828)586-5561 Tina Williams, Director of Provider Services ShaKaren Dade, Birth-Three Specialist (704) 487-7397 Resource: Healthychildren.org, powered by the American Academy of Pediatrics Link: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/Pages/default.aspx -Updating DCDEE WORKS Account: We discussed updating and/or creating an account on the DCDEE WORKS portal for staff’s education to be evaluated for the upcoming Pathways to the Stars process. The link is the following: https://dcdee.works.nc.gov/ and scroll down to the DCDEE WORKS logon link. An updated DCDEE WORKS account is required for all staff to process the education standard for your program. Education will be evaluated for administrators and staff who provide direct care to children. I reminded you to review staff files to ensure all requirement information is included. If staff has completed college course, have them submit to you for their files a student’s copy of the college transcript and any diplomas and/or certification. Additional trainings and resources can be accessed from the NC Rated License Assessment Project for the Environment Rating Scales Third Edition for the SACERS-U, ITERS-3 & ECERS-3. -Safe Environment/Supervision During Naptime: We discussed naptime classroom environment during the visit today. I reminded you that the naptime classrooms are not allowed to be pitch dark and that lighting should be provided in the classroom to allow staff to supervise and/or aid a child if needed. I also discussed that naptime music should not be so loud that staff are unable to hear children in case assistance is needed. I reviewed with you the child care rules concerning the safe environment and supervision. Child Care Rule References: 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS Children shall be adequately supervised at all times in child care centers. Adequate supervision shall mean that: (1) staff must be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance; (2) staff must interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor area; (3) staff must know where each child is located and be aware of the children's activities at all times; (4) staff must provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs, and capabilities of each child; 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT All child care centers shall provide a safe indoor and outdoor environment for the children in care. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. As we continue expanding our training offerings, DCDEE has established a new email address and phone number for Moodle support. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. DCDEE Updates: What’s New Tab I encourage you to click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting childcare in North Carolina. If I can be of assistance in the future, or if you have any questions about this visit, please feel free to contact me at Tiffani Sims; PO Box 185, Glen Alpine, NC 28628; (828) 417-1648; tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of North Carolina. 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

GS110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/12/2025 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 9/12/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 320 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 02:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements including health and safety requirements. You, Bonita Walls-Squire, Administrator, assisted me with the visit today. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed on September 11, 2025, and Along Came A Scholar, Inc. was listed as active, but not current. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, Tiffani Sims, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. I contacted you by telephone on September 11, 2025, to discuss this matter and you stated you would investigate this issue, and you would inform me of the outcome. I received an email from you on September 11, 2025, stating that this issue had been resolved and the Secretary of State’s website should be update by September 15, 2025. The facility currently operates with a 4-stars rated license issued on September 17, 2020, earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care and enhanced space. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, and all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. The notice of administrative action, cover letter, and Corrective Action Plan were posted in a location visible to parents and visitors near the entrance of the facility in Space #2. This must remain posted throughout the Administrative Action period. During today’s visit, the children were observed during indoor free play, music and movement, art activities, lunch, and nap time. Inspections/Emergency Drills: Fire Inspection: The last fire inspection was completed on February 5, 2025. Sanitation Inspection: The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 17, 2025. A superior sanitation classification was issued with six (6) demerits noted on the grade card. Emergency Drills/Playground Inspections: The last lockdown emergency drill was completed on July 31, 2025, at 9:40am and recorded. The last playground inspection was completed on June 18, 2025. The last fire drill was completed on August 26, 2025, at 10:00am and recorded. A complete walkthrough of licensed indoor and outdoor spaces was conducted. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Files Reviewed: Children’s files, program files, and staff files were monitored today. Three (3) children's files were reviewed during today’s visit. One (1) staff file was reviewed today. I discussed the Staff and Training Worksheet and the Children’s Record form with you today. Both forms were completed and verified during the visit. The following violations were observed during the visit today. I discussed these violations with you in detail at the end of the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In Space #3, the electrical outlet in the book area was missing a cover. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. In the Outdoor Gross Motor Space # 1 and Space #2, it was observed on ground of both playgrounds that hazardous materials of small broken plastic pieces of equipment and or toys with sharp edges were accessible to children. The small broken plastic pieces and/or trash included empty clear plastic water bottle, white trash bag, plastic piece of clear wrapper, green broken picnic table, broken pieces of the purple's caterpillar, broken blue children’s chair, gray children’s rocking chair, pieces of broken toys (2) orange, and (4) blue. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 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 the hallway bathroom adjacent to Space #2 and was used by children ages one year of age and two years of age, on the sink was a box of disposable plastic diaper bags. These disposable diaper bags were accessible to children under two years of age and had a written warning keep out of reach of young children. .0604(q) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The documentation of the last playground inspection available for review was dated June 18, 2025. Documentation of April 2025, July 2025, and August 2025, playground inspections were not available for review. .0605(q) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. One child two years and four months of age and enrolled on February 17, 2025, did not have documentation available for review of completing a medical exam. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child two years and four months of age and enrolled on February 17, 2025, did not have documentation available for review of completing a medical exam. GS110-91(1) 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. One child two years and four months of age and enrolled on Februaryb17, 2025, did not have documentation available for review of having a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. .0608(b)(1-6) The following Technical Assistance regarding the violations observed during today’s visit was provided: Electrical Outlets- -I suggested that you monitor all spaces throughout the day to ensure all electrical outlets not in use are covered with a safety plug. Instruct staff to check all electrical outlets at the beginning of the day. Choking Hazards- Plastic Bags w/ Written Warnings Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed must be inaccessible to children under three years of age. I suggested that administrative staff monitor all classrooms for children under three years of age daily to ensure plastic bags, plastic packaging, small toys, small art supplies, and other potential choking hazards are inaccessible to children or removed from the classroom. I suggested that you review safety requirements with all staff members individually and during an upcoming staff meeting. I suggested that you create a daily safety checklist for staff to utilize each day to ensure a safe environment. Playground Inspections: I reminded you that playground inspections are required to be completed monthly and that documentation must be kept and available for review. I suggested making a checklist to put with the completed playground inspections and document monthly when the inspections are completed and filed. Indoor/Outdoor Area- -Per Child Care Requirement 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p), you must monitor indoor and outdoor areas prior to children utilizing the playground to ensure debris and broken equipment is discarded. I suggested that each staff member or a designated staff member monitor classrooms and playgrounds each morning to discard trash and any broken items before children arrive or access the playground. I suggested that you create a daily safety checklist for staff to utilize each day to ensure a safe environment. Children’s medical records- -Children’s medical exam or health assessment must be received and on file within thirty days of the child’s enrollment. I suggested that you request children’s medical exams and immunization records prior to enrollment and/or by the fifteen day of enrollment to ensure compliance with this requirement. Review/Receipt of Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma Policy: I discussed with you that you must have on file and have available for review when children are enrolled for having reviewed with parents/caregivers a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. I suggest using the children’s file checklist and look over upon enrollment and to set up a system of when children’s files are reviewed to ensure all required documents and/or information are included in the child’s file. Compliance History: You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required. Prior to today’s visit your compliance history was eighty-eight (88%). Please note any violations cited during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to a recommended administrative action. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by September 26, 2025. Please include in that letter each item number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov Tiffani Sims PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will 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 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. Consultation: -Provider Access to ABCMS I reviewed the ABCMS Portal Roster for your child care program on August 22, 2025, and you have linked staff to the facility’s ABCMS Portal page. I reviewed for accuracy the ABCMS Portal to the staff and training worksheet that you had provided to me prior to today’s visit. I discussed that when new staff are hired and/or when staff are terminated you are required to update the ABCMS Portal Page. -Child Care Rule Effective January 1, 2024 Lead Testing: Child Care Rule .0601(f)- Safe Environments We discussed the test results that were available for review on the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website for lead testing water testing, lead-based paint testing, and asbestos testing for your facility. On September 11, 2025, I checked the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, and it stated that your facility’s had no results available for review for lead-water, lead based paint, or asbestos testing. You stated that your facility information is listed under your former business Above and Beyond Learning Academy LLC. The information available for review for this facility stated that lead water testing was completed on July 7, 2021. There was no information available for review for lead-based paint and asbestos testing. You also stated that you contacted Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids and are working on resolving this issue. I reminded you that these tasks must be completed as soon as possible. If not completed possible violation may be cited at a future visit. -QRIS Moderation For more information on the new QRIS system, please visit the DCDEE website, homepage click the What’s new Tab and click onto the QRIS System link. I discussed with you the three different pathways available through the new QRIS System and the resources available for review on the DCDEE website. Information was discussed included the following: the Continuous Quality Improvement Plan for each staff and the program, Enhanced Education standards for the different staff positions, Family and Community Engagement Standards, curriculum, Staff/Child Ratios requirements, and approved Early Childhood Formative Assessments. We discussed you letting me know by October 8, 2025, which of the three pathways for stars you have chosen for your facility. I reminded you of the in-person QRIS meeting that will be held on October 8, 2025, at the Child Care Connections of Cleveland County office at 12:30pm. Links for Resources Approved Curriculum: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/2/2023_Approved_Curriculum.pdf?ver=Hxr2QwCIRb8kdaccUr3ETA%3d%3d2023 NC Child Care Commission Approved Formative Assessments: ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/2/2023_Approved_Curriculum.pdf?ver=Hxr2QwCIRb8kdaccUr3ETA%3d%3d Technical Assistance for QRIS and ERS-3 & SACERS-U: I suggested that you contact Child Care Connections of Cleveland County for technical assistance and trainings. I have provided their contact information below. Southwestern Child Development Commission for SACERS-U (828)586-5561 Tina Williams, Director of Provider Services ShaKaren Dade, Birth-Three Specialist (704) 487-7397 Resource: Healthychildren.org, powered by the American Academy of Pediatrics Link: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/Pages/default.aspx -Updating DCDEE WORKS Account: We discussed updating and/or creating an account on the DCDEE WORKS portal for staff’s education to be evaluated for the upcoming Pathways to the Stars process. The link is the following: https://dcdee.works.nc.gov/ and scroll down to the DCDEE WORKS logon link. An updated DCDEE WORKS account is required for all staff to process the education standard for your program. Education will be evaluated for administrators and staff who provide direct care to children. I reminded you to review staff files to ensure all requirement information is included. If staff has completed college course, have them submit to you for their files a student’s copy of the college transcript and any diplomas and/or certification. Additional trainings and resources can be accessed from the NC Rated License Assessment Project for the Environment Rating Scales Third Edition for the SACERS-U, ITERS-3 & ECERS-3. -Safe Environment/Supervision During Naptime: We discussed naptime classroom environment during the visit today. I reminded you that the naptime classrooms are not allowed to be pitch dark and that lighting should be provided in the classroom to allow staff to supervise and/or aid a child if needed. I also discussed that naptime music should not be so loud that staff are unable to hear children in case assistance is needed. I reviewed with you the child care rules concerning the safe environment and supervision. Child Care Rule References: 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS Children shall be adequately supervised at all times in child care centers. Adequate supervision shall mean that: (1) staff must be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance; (2) staff must interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor area; (3) staff must know where each child is located and be aware of the children's activities at all times; (4) staff must provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs, and capabilities of each child; 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT All child care centers shall provide a safe indoor and outdoor environment for the children in care. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. As we continue expanding our training offerings, DCDEE has established a new email address and phone number for Moodle support. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. DCDEE Updates: What’s New Tab I encourage you to click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting childcare in North Carolina. If I can be of assistance in the future, or if you have any questions about this visit, please feel free to contact me at Tiffani Sims; PO Box 185, Glen Alpine, NC 28628; (828) 417-1648; tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of North Carolina. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/26/2025 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 3/26/2025 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:40 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements, including health and safety for a routine unannounced visit. You, Bonita Walls-Squire, Administrator, assisted me with the visit today. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed on March 25, 2025, and Along Came A Scholar, Inc. was listed as current and active. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, Tiffani Sims, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The facility currently operates with a 4-stars rated license issued on September 17, 2020, earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care and enhanced space. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, and all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. Staff and children were observed during indoor free play, art activities, music and movement, lunch, and naptime. Inspections/Drills: The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 17, 2025. A superior sanitation classification was issued with six (6) demerits noted on the grade card. The most recent fire inspection for your facility was conducted on February 5, 2025. The last fire inspection was conducted on January 24, 2024. The most recent fire drill was conducted on February 4, 2025, at 10:48am and recorded. The most recent shelter in place emergency drill was conducted on January 6, 2025, at 1:56pm and recorded. The most recent playground safety inspection was conducted on February 28, 2025. You stated no new staff have been hired since your most recent annual compliance visit conducted on September 17, 2024. Limited monitoring of staff files was conducted for the purpose of reviewing training regarding CPR/First Aid, EPR, Playground Safety, ITS-SIDS, Special Training including Health and Safety Training and Criminal Background Checks. The following violations of child care requirements were observed and documented 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. This facility received an approved fire inspection on February 5, 2025. The fire inspection did not occur within 12 months of the previous inspection, which was conducted on January 24, 2024. The approved fire inspection form was not received within one week. The approved fire inspection was received on March 26, 2025, during the routine unannounced visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In the kitchen, the following hazardous materials with written warnings keep out of the reach of young children were stored in an unlocked cabinet located under the sink. The kitchen is opened to Space#2 with a child’s gate to prevent access. The hazardous materials included one can of Ajax Cleaner with Bleach, one (1) aerosol can of Great Value Disinfectant Spray, one (1) spray bottle of Only for Bathroom Antibacterial Cleaner, and one (1) spray bottle of Fantastik Multi-Surface Degreaser. .2820(b) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. In the Outdoor Gross Motor Space # 1 and Space #2, it was observed on ground of both playgrounds that hazardous materials of small broken plastic pieces of toys with sharp edges were accessible to children. The small broken plastic pieces included four (4) yellow, three (3) pink, three (3) blue, eight (8) white, one (1) red, and one (1) green. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 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 #1, on the shelves of the diaper changing station and was accessible to children one years of age with a written warning keep out of reach of young children, were four (4) packages of Parent Choice Size 2 wrapped in plastic, one (1) plastic package of Pamper Complete Clean Diaper Wipes, one (1) plastic package of Huggies Simply Clean Diaper Wipes, and one (1) plastic package of Huggies Natural Care Diaper Wipes. .0604(q) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). Two staff members both employed on September 18, 2017, did not have valid qualifying letters on file available for review prior to the expiration dates. One staff member qualifying letter had expired on November 14, 2024, and did not receive an approved qualifying letter until March 24, 2025. The second qualifying letter expired on August 27, 2024, and her qualifying letter is in the process of being reviewed from Criminal Background Unit as of March 26, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member employed on July 8, 2019, did not have documentation on file and the documentation was not available for review of completing the required first aid training. The staff member first aid training expired in September 2024. One staff member employed on September 18, 2017, did not have documentation on file and the documentation was not available for review of completing the required first aid training. The staff member first aid training expired in February 2025. Both staff member renewed the first aid training on March 23, 2025. The Administrator accessed the training portal to show the documentation of completing the first aid training and is waiting for the first aid cards to be sent. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member employed on July 8, 2019, did not have documentation on file and the documentation was not available for review of completing the required CPR training. The staff member CPR training expired in September 2024. One staff member employed on September 18, 2017, did not have documentation on file and the documentation was not available for review of completing the required CPR training. The staff member CPR training expired in February 2025. Both staff member renewed the CPR training on March 23, 2025. The Administrator accessed the training portal to show the documentation of completing the CPR training and is waiting for the CPR cards to be sent. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member employed on September 18, 20217, did not have valid qualifying letters on file available. The staff member qualifying letter had expired on August 27, 2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Technical Assistance regarding the violations observed during today’s visit: - Fire Inspection I reminded you that once you have received an approved fire inspection, you have seven (7) days to submit a copy to your DCDEE Child Care Consultant. I suggested that you add a reminder to your calendar to send a copy of the approved fire inspection. I also suggested that you contact the Fire Marshall’s office at least four to six weeks prior to when the fire inspection is due to ensure that the fire inspection would not be delinquent. -Hazardous Materials/Plastic Bags with Written Warnings: We discussed that hazardous materials with written warnings must be kept in locked cabinets. We also discussed what approved locks that can be used to lock up hazardous materials which are a combination lock, a key lock, and/or a magnetic lock. We also discussed that in classrooms caring for children three years of age and younger that all diapers and diaper wipes in plastic packaging must either must keep kept five feet up and out of reach of children, and/or removed from the plastic packaging due to the safety hazard. I suggested adding a plastic case for each child to hold the diaper wipes needed daily and put the extra plastic package of diaper wipes on the wooden shelf and make it inaccessible to children in care. I also suggest removing the diapers from the plastic packaging or placing them package of diapers on the wooden shelf to make it inaccessible to children. -Hazardous Items/Broken Equipment/Debris on Playground I suggested that prior to children using the playgrounds, that all outdoor playground areas are monitored for hazards and/or debris. I also suggest to have a staff member in the morning complete a daily walkthrough each morning before the children have access to the outdoor playgrounds and to remove any hazards and/or debris found on the outdoor playgrounds areas. I suggested creating a daily playground safety checklist for staff to use to ensure a hazard free outdoor play space. -Expired Qualifying Letters/Required Training Renewal Dates: I discussed with you that staff employed at the child care facility must have a current qualifying letter on file and be available for review to care for children. I suggest reviewing all staff files and creating a list of when qualifying letters are due and posting the list for easy reference to ensure that the qualifying letters do not expire. We also discussed creating a chart and posting it in the office to document when specific trainings, such as CPR/First Aid, ITS/SIDS, Health and Safety trainings are due. This chart documenting due dates can be used as visual reminder, so expiration dates are not missed. Compliance Letter Documentation: The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the violation item number, statement of compliance, date of the visit and license ID number in the letter. I must receive your compliance letter by April 9, 2025. Please send your compliance letter to Tiffani Sims PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Compliance History: You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required. Prior to today’s visit your compliance history was ninety-four percent (94%). Please note any violations cited during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to a recommended administrative action. Consultation: -Provider Access to ABCMS North Carolina Child Care Providers can obtain access to the Provider Access to ABCMS after completing the Moodle training and completing the form afterward. Once you are logged in, you can access codes to allow your staff and applicants to create a connecting application to link themselves to your facility. The links include help documents to assist you. -Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment Training To access the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment Training, please review the following information: •This training does not use your NCID username and password •For this training providers must create a separate username and password for this course. •If you need further assistance, contact info@preventchildabusenc.org or call 919-829-8009. •The link to access Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment Training, is the following https://preventchildabusenc-lms.org/ -Child Care Rule Effective January 1, 2024 Lead Testing: Child Care Rule .0601(f)- Safe Environments We discussed the test result that were available for review on the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website for lead testing water testing, lead-based paint testing, and asbestos testing for your facility. On March 25, 2025, I checked the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, and it stated that your facility had no results available for lead water testing, lead-based paint testing, or asbestos testing. You may review your results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. -Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan Help Request We discussed your issue of accessing the facility’s Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan from the Emergency Management Portal. You requested information on receiving help with your EPR Plan and access. I provided you with the following information. EPR Help Requests need to be emailed to DCDEE at dcdee.inservice.training@dhhs.nc.gov. To request EPR help, please call 919-814-6365. The more information you provide, the easier it is to transfer a plan. In the subject line of the email, indicate your request (i.e. Request to Transfer EPR Plan to New NCID). Provide the following information in the message body of the email: Old user’s email address and old user’s NCID username •New user’s email address and new users NCID username •Your contact information •EPR Plan title, facility name, and the city and county name for facility location -Staff and Training Worksheet I discussed with you that all information on the staff and training worksheet must be current for accuracy. I also discussed with you that there should be no blanks on the form and required information should be documented. I suggested that you add new staff’s information, once hired after the facility’s annual compliance visit, to the Staff and Training Worksheet. -On-going Trainings: Please visit Moodle on the DCDEE website to obtain necessary on-going training hours as required annually. Additional trainings and resources on the Environment Rating Scales Third Edition can be found on the NC Rated License Assessment Project website at www.ncrlap.org. -How to Access Health and Safety Training on DCDEE Moodle I have provided information and on how to access CCDF Health and Safety in Child Care or Medication in Child Care trainings on Moodle: 1. If you can log into Moodle with your MyNCID but need support with completing CCDF Health and Safety in Child Care or Medication in Child Care training, use this contact form: healthychildcare.unc.edu/contact-us-form If you cannot log into Moodle, try visiting https://myncid.nc.gov/ for technical support unlocking or resetting your NCID password. 2. If you still cannot access Moodle, one alternative to completing the CCDF Health and Safety in Child Care Trainings or Medication in Child Care training on Moodle is to contact a primary Child Care Health Consultant (CCHC) for training options: healthychildcare.unc.edu/find-a-cchc. However, while CCHCs have the ability to provide CCDF trainings equivalent to what is available in Moodle, their capacity is dependent on their current working priorities. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. As we continue expanding our training offerings, DCDEE has established a new email address and phone number for Moodle support. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. DCDEE Updates: What’s New Tab Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest COVID-19 information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting childcare in North Carolina. If I can be of assistance in the future, or if you have any questions about this visit, please feel free to contact me at Tiffani Sims; PO Box 185, Glen Alpine, NC 28628; (828) 417-1648; tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of North Carolina. 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: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/26/2025 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 3/26/2025 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:40 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements, including health and safety for a routine unannounced visit. You, Bonita Walls-Squire, Administrator, assisted me with the visit today. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed on March 25, 2025, and Along Came A Scholar, Inc. was listed as current and active. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, Tiffani Sims, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The facility currently operates with a 4-stars rated license issued on September 17, 2020, earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care and enhanced space. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, and all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. Staff and children were observed during indoor free play, art activities, music and movement, lunch, and naptime. Inspections/Drills: The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 17, 2025. A superior sanitation classification was issued with six (6) demerits noted on the grade card. The most recent fire inspection for your facility was conducted on February 5, 2025. The last fire inspection was conducted on January 24, 2024. The most recent fire drill was conducted on February 4, 2025, at 10:48am and recorded. The most recent shelter in place emergency drill was conducted on January 6, 2025, at 1:56pm and recorded. The most recent playground safety inspection was conducted on February 28, 2025. You stated no new staff have been hired since your most recent annual compliance visit conducted on September 17, 2024. Limited monitoring of staff files was conducted for the purpose of reviewing training regarding CPR/First Aid, EPR, Playground Safety, ITS-SIDS, Special Training including Health and Safety Training and Criminal Background Checks. The following violations of child care requirements were observed and documented 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. This facility received an approved fire inspection on February 5, 2025. The fire inspection did not occur within 12 months of the previous inspection, which was conducted on January 24, 2024. The approved fire inspection form was not received within one week. The approved fire inspection was received on March 26, 2025, during the routine unannounced visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In the kitchen, the following hazardous materials with written warnings keep out of the reach of young children were stored in an unlocked cabinet located under the sink. The kitchen is opened to Space#2 with a child’s gate to prevent access. The hazardous materials included one can of Ajax Cleaner with Bleach, one (1) aerosol can of Great Value Disinfectant Spray, one (1) spray bottle of Only for Bathroom Antibacterial Cleaner, and one (1) spray bottle of Fantastik Multi-Surface Degreaser. .2820(b) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. In the Outdoor Gross Motor Space # 1 and Space #2, it was observed on ground of both playgrounds that hazardous materials of small broken plastic pieces of toys with sharp edges were accessible to children. The small broken plastic pieces included four (4) yellow, three (3) pink, three (3) blue, eight (8) white, one (1) red, and one (1) green. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 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 #1, on the shelves of the diaper changing station and was accessible to children one years of age with a written warning keep out of reach of young children, were four (4) packages of Parent Choice Size 2 wrapped in plastic, one (1) plastic package of Pamper Complete Clean Diaper Wipes, one (1) plastic package of Huggies Simply Clean Diaper Wipes, and one (1) plastic package of Huggies Natural Care Diaper Wipes. .0604(q) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). Two staff members both employed on September 18, 2017, did not have valid qualifying letters on file available for review prior to the expiration dates. One staff member qualifying letter had expired on November 14, 2024, and did not receive an approved qualifying letter until March 24, 2025. The second qualifying letter expired on August 27, 2024, and her qualifying letter is in the process of being reviewed from Criminal Background Unit as of March 26, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member employed on July 8, 2019, did not have documentation on file and the documentation was not available for review of completing the required first aid training. The staff member first aid training expired in September 2024. One staff member employed on September 18, 2017, did not have documentation on file and the documentation was not available for review of completing the required first aid training. The staff member first aid training expired in February 2025. Both staff member renewed the first aid training on March 23, 2025. The Administrator accessed the training portal to show the documentation of completing the first aid training and is waiting for the first aid cards to be sent. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member employed on July 8, 2019, did not have documentation on file and the documentation was not available for review of completing the required CPR training. The staff member CPR training expired in September 2024. One staff member employed on September 18, 2017, did not have documentation on file and the documentation was not available for review of completing the required CPR training. The staff member CPR training expired in February 2025. Both staff member renewed the CPR training on March 23, 2025. The Administrator accessed the training portal to show the documentation of completing the CPR training and is waiting for the CPR cards to be sent. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member employed on September 18, 20217, did not have valid qualifying letters on file available. The staff member qualifying letter had expired on August 27, 2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Technical Assistance regarding the violations observed during today’s visit: - Fire Inspection I reminded you that once you have received an approved fire inspection, you have seven (7) days to submit a copy to your DCDEE Child Care Consultant. I suggested that you add a reminder to your calendar to send a copy of the approved fire inspection. I also suggested that you contact the Fire Marshall’s office at least four to six weeks prior to when the fire inspection is due to ensure that the fire inspection would not be delinquent. -Hazardous Materials/Plastic Bags with Written Warnings: We discussed that hazardous materials with written warnings must be kept in locked cabinets. We also discussed what approved locks that can be used to lock up hazardous materials which are a combination lock, a key lock, and/or a magnetic lock. We also discussed that in classrooms caring for children three years of age and younger that all diapers and diaper wipes in plastic packaging must either must keep kept five feet up and out of reach of children, and/or removed from the plastic packaging due to the safety hazard. I suggested adding a plastic case for each child to hold the diaper wipes needed daily and put the extra plastic package of diaper wipes on the wooden shelf and make it inaccessible to children in care. I also suggest removing the diapers from the plastic packaging or placing them package of diapers on the wooden shelf to make it inaccessible to children. -Hazardous Items/Broken Equipment/Debris on Playground I suggested that prior to children using the playgrounds, that all outdoor playground areas are monitored for hazards and/or debris. I also suggest to have a staff member in the morning complete a daily walkthrough each morning before the children have access to the outdoor playgrounds and to remove any hazards and/or debris found on the outdoor playgrounds areas. I suggested creating a daily playground safety checklist for staff to use to ensure a hazard free outdoor play space. -Expired Qualifying Letters/Required Training Renewal Dates: I discussed with you that staff employed at the child care facility must have a current qualifying letter on file and be available for review to care for children. I suggest reviewing all staff files and creating a list of when qualifying letters are due and posting the list for easy reference to ensure that the qualifying letters do not expire. We also discussed creating a chart and posting it in the office to document when specific trainings, such as CPR/First Aid, ITS/SIDS, Health and Safety trainings are due. This chart documenting due dates can be used as visual reminder, so expiration dates are not missed. Compliance Letter Documentation: The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the violation item number, statement of compliance, date of the visit and license ID number in the letter. I must receive your compliance letter by April 9, 2025. Please send your compliance letter to Tiffani Sims PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Compliance History: You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required. Prior to today’s visit your compliance history was ninety-four percent (94%). Please note any violations cited during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to a recommended administrative action. Consultation: -Provider Access to ABCMS North Carolina Child Care Providers can obtain access to the Provider Access to ABCMS after completing the Moodle training and completing the form afterward. Once you are logged in, you can access codes to allow your staff and applicants to create a connecting application to link themselves to your facility. The links include help documents to assist you. -Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment Training To access the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment Training, please review the following information: •This training does not use your NCID username and password •For this training providers must create a separate username and password for this course. •If you need further assistance, contact info@preventchildabusenc.org or call 919-829-8009. •The link to access Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment Training, is the following https://preventchildabusenc-lms.org/ -Child Care Rule Effective January 1, 2024 Lead Testing: Child Care Rule .0601(f)- Safe Environments We discussed the test result that were available for review on the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website for lead testing water testing, lead-based paint testing, and asbestos testing for your facility. On March 25, 2025, I checked the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, and it stated that your facility had no results available for lead water testing, lead-based paint testing, or asbestos testing. You may review your results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. -Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan Help Request We discussed your issue of accessing the facility’s Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan from the Emergency Management Portal. You requested information on receiving help with your EPR Plan and access. I provided you with the following information. EPR Help Requests need to be emailed to DCDEE at dcdee.inservice.training@dhhs.nc.gov. To request EPR help, please call 919-814-6365. The more information you provide, the easier it is to transfer a plan. In the subject line of the email, indicate your request (i.e. Request to Transfer EPR Plan to New NCID). Provide the following information in the message body of the email: Old user’s email address and old user’s NCID username •New user’s email address and new users NCID username •Your contact information •EPR Plan title, facility name, and the city and county name for facility location -Staff and Training Worksheet I discussed with you that all information on the staff and training worksheet must be current for accuracy. I also discussed with you that there should be no blanks on the form and required information should be documented. I suggested that you add new staff’s information, once hired after the facility’s annual compliance visit, to the Staff and Training Worksheet. -On-going Trainings: Please visit Moodle on the DCDEE website to obtain necessary on-going training hours as required annually. Additional trainings and resources on the Environment Rating Scales Third Edition can be found on the NC Rated License Assessment Project website at www.ncrlap.org. -How to Access Health and Safety Training on DCDEE Moodle I have provided information and on how to access CCDF Health and Safety in Child Care or Medication in Child Care trainings on Moodle: 1. If you can log into Moodle with your MyNCID but need support with completing CCDF Health and Safety in Child Care or Medication in Child Care training, use this contact form: healthychildcare.unc.edu/contact-us-form If you cannot log into Moodle, try visiting https://myncid.nc.gov/ for technical support unlocking or resetting your NCID password. 2. If you still cannot access Moodle, one alternative to completing the CCDF Health and Safety in Child Care Trainings or Medication in Child Care training on Moodle is to contact a primary Child Care Health Consultant (CCHC) for training options: healthychildcare.unc.edu/find-a-cchc. However, while CCHCs have the ability to provide CCDF trainings equivalent to what is available in Moodle, their capacity is dependent on their current working priorities. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. As we continue expanding our training offerings, DCDEE has established a new email address and phone number for Moodle support. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. DCDEE Updates: What’s New Tab Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest COVID-19 information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting childcare in North Carolina. If I can be of assistance in the future, or if you have any questions about this visit, please feel free to contact me at Tiffani Sims; PO Box 185, Glen Alpine, NC 28628; (828) 417-1648; tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of North Carolina. 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: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/26/2025 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 3/26/2025 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:40 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements, including health and safety for a routine unannounced visit. You, Bonita Walls-Squire, Administrator, assisted me with the visit today. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed on March 25, 2025, and Along Came A Scholar, Inc. was listed as current and active. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, Tiffani Sims, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The facility currently operates with a 4-stars rated license issued on September 17, 2020, earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care and enhanced space. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, and all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. Staff and children were observed during indoor free play, art activities, music and movement, lunch, and naptime. Inspections/Drills: The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on March 17, 2025. A superior sanitation classification was issued with six (6) demerits noted on the grade card. The most recent fire inspection for your facility was conducted on February 5, 2025. The last fire inspection was conducted on January 24, 2024. The most recent fire drill was conducted on February 4, 2025, at 10:48am and recorded. The most recent shelter in place emergency drill was conducted on January 6, 2025, at 1:56pm and recorded. The most recent playground safety inspection was conducted on February 28, 2025. You stated no new staff have been hired since your most recent annual compliance visit conducted on September 17, 2024. Limited monitoring of staff files was conducted for the purpose of reviewing training regarding CPR/First Aid, EPR, Playground Safety, ITS-SIDS, Special Training including Health and Safety Training and Criminal Background Checks. The following violations of child care requirements were observed and documented 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. This facility received an approved fire inspection on February 5, 2025. The fire inspection did not occur within 12 months of the previous inspection, which was conducted on January 24, 2024. The approved fire inspection form was not received within one week. The approved fire inspection was received on March 26, 2025, during the routine unannounced visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In the kitchen, the following hazardous materials with written warnings keep out of the reach of young children were stored in an unlocked cabinet located under the sink. The kitchen is opened to Space#2 with a child’s gate to prevent access. The hazardous materials included one can of Ajax Cleaner with Bleach, one (1) aerosol can of Great Value Disinfectant Spray, one (1) spray bottle of Only for Bathroom Antibacterial Cleaner, and one (1) spray bottle of Fantastik Multi-Surface Degreaser. .2820(b) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. In the Outdoor Gross Motor Space # 1 and Space #2, it was observed on ground of both playgrounds that hazardous materials of small broken plastic pieces of toys with sharp edges were accessible to children. The small broken plastic pieces included four (4) yellow, three (3) pink, three (3) blue, eight (8) white, one (1) red, and one (1) green. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 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 #1, on the shelves of the diaper changing station and was accessible to children one years of age with a written warning keep out of reach of young children, were four (4) packages of Parent Choice Size 2 wrapped in plastic, one (1) plastic package of Pamper Complete Clean Diaper Wipes, one (1) plastic package of Huggies Simply Clean Diaper Wipes, and one (1) plastic package of Huggies Natural Care Diaper Wipes. .0604(q) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). Two staff members both employed on September 18, 2017, did not have valid qualifying letters on file available for review prior to the expiration dates. One staff member qualifying letter had expired on November 14, 2024, and did not receive an approved qualifying letter until March 24, 2025. The second qualifying letter expired on August 27, 2024, and her qualifying letter is in the process of being reviewed from Criminal Background Unit as of March 26, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member employed on July 8, 2019, did not have documentation on file and the documentation was not available for review of completing the required first aid training. The staff member first aid training expired in September 2024. One staff member employed on September 18, 2017, did not have documentation on file and the documentation was not available for review of completing the required first aid training. The staff member first aid training expired in February 2025. Both staff member renewed the first aid training on March 23, 2025. The Administrator accessed the training portal to show the documentation of completing the first aid training and is waiting for the first aid cards to be sent. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member employed on July 8, 2019, did not have documentation on file and the documentation was not available for review of completing the required CPR training. The staff member CPR training expired in September 2024. One staff member employed on September 18, 2017, did not have documentation on file and the documentation was not available for review of completing the required CPR training. The staff member CPR training expired in February 2025. Both staff member renewed the CPR training on March 23, 2025. The Administrator accessed the training portal to show the documentation of completing the CPR training and is waiting for the CPR cards to be sent. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member employed on September 18, 20217, did not have valid qualifying letters on file available. The staff member qualifying letter had expired on August 27, 2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Technical Assistance regarding the violations observed during today’s visit: - Fire Inspection I reminded you that once you have received an approved fire inspection, you have seven (7) days to submit a copy to your DCDEE Child Care Consultant. I suggested that you add a reminder to your calendar to send a copy of the approved fire inspection. I also suggested that you contact the Fire Marshall’s office at least four to six weeks prior to when the fire inspection is due to ensure that the fire inspection would not be delinquent. -Hazardous Materials/Plastic Bags with Written Warnings: We discussed that hazardous materials with written warnings must be kept in locked cabinets. We also discussed what approved locks that can be used to lock up hazardous materials which are a combination lock, a key lock, and/or a magnetic lock. We also discussed that in classrooms caring for children three years of age and younger that all diapers and diaper wipes in plastic packaging must either must keep kept five feet up and out of reach of children, and/or removed from the plastic packaging due to the safety hazard. I suggested adding a plastic case for each child to hold the diaper wipes needed daily and put the extra plastic package of diaper wipes on the wooden shelf and make it inaccessible to children in care. I also suggest removing the diapers from the plastic packaging or placing them package of diapers on the wooden shelf to make it inaccessible to children. -Hazardous Items/Broken Equipment/Debris on Playground I suggested that prior to children using the playgrounds, that all outdoor playground areas are monitored for hazards and/or debris. I also suggest to have a staff member in the morning complete a daily walkthrough each morning before the children have access to the outdoor playgrounds and to remove any hazards and/or debris found on the outdoor playgrounds areas. I suggested creating a daily playground safety checklist for staff to use to ensure a hazard free outdoor play space. -Expired Qualifying Letters/Required Training Renewal Dates: I discussed with you that staff employed at the child care facility must have a current qualifying letter on file and be available for review to care for children. I suggest reviewing all staff files and creating a list of when qualifying letters are due and posting the list for easy reference to ensure that the qualifying letters do not expire. We also discussed creating a chart and posting it in the office to document when specific trainings, such as CPR/First Aid, ITS/SIDS, Health and Safety trainings are due. This chart documenting due dates can be used as visual reminder, so expiration dates are not missed. Compliance Letter Documentation: The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the violation item number, statement of compliance, date of the visit and license ID number in the letter. I must receive your compliance letter by April 9, 2025. Please send your compliance letter to Tiffani Sims PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. The Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Compliance History: You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required. Prior to today’s visit your compliance history was ninety-four percent (94%). Please note any violations cited during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to a recommended administrative action. Consultation: -Provider Access to ABCMS North Carolina Child Care Providers can obtain access to the Provider Access to ABCMS after completing the Moodle training and completing the form afterward. Once you are logged in, you can access codes to allow your staff and applicants to create a connecting application to link themselves to your facility. The links include help documents to assist you. -Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment Training To access the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment Training, please review the following information: •This training does not use your NCID username and password •For this training providers must create a separate username and password for this course. •If you need further assistance, contact info@preventchildabusenc.org or call 919-829-8009. •The link to access Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment Training, is the following https://preventchildabusenc-lms.org/ -Child Care Rule Effective January 1, 2024 Lead Testing: Child Care Rule .0601(f)- Safe Environments We discussed the test result that were available for review on the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website for lead testing water testing, lead-based paint testing, and asbestos testing for your facility. On March 25, 2025, I checked the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, and it stated that your facility had no results available for lead water testing, lead-based paint testing, or asbestos testing. You may review your results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. -Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan Help Request We discussed your issue of accessing the facility’s Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan from the Emergency Management Portal. You requested information on receiving help with your EPR Plan and access. I provided you with the following information. EPR Help Requests need to be emailed to DCDEE at dcdee.inservice.training@dhhs.nc.gov. To request EPR help, please call 919-814-6365. The more information you provide, the easier it is to transfer a plan. In the subject line of the email, indicate your request (i.e. Request to Transfer EPR Plan to New NCID). Provide the following information in the message body of the email: Old user’s email address and old user’s NCID username •New user’s email address and new users NCID username •Your contact information •EPR Plan title, facility name, and the city and county name for facility location -Staff and Training Worksheet I discussed with you that all information on the staff and training worksheet must be current for accuracy. I also discussed with you that there should be no blanks on the form and required information should be documented. I suggested that you add new staff’s information, once hired after the facility’s annual compliance visit, to the Staff and Training Worksheet. -On-going Trainings: Please visit Moodle on the DCDEE website to obtain necessary on-going training hours as required annually. Additional trainings and resources on the Environment Rating Scales Third Edition can be found on the NC Rated License Assessment Project website at www.ncrlap.org. -How to Access Health and Safety Training on DCDEE Moodle I have provided information and on how to access CCDF Health and Safety in Child Care or Medication in Child Care trainings on Moodle: 1. If you can log into Moodle with your MyNCID but need support with completing CCDF Health and Safety in Child Care or Medication in Child Care training, use this contact form: healthychildcare.unc.edu/contact-us-form If you cannot log into Moodle, try visiting https://myncid.nc.gov/ for technical support unlocking or resetting your NCID password. 2. If you still cannot access Moodle, one alternative to completing the CCDF Health and Safety in Child Care Trainings or Medication in Child Care training on Moodle is to contact a primary Child Care Health Consultant (CCHC) for training options: healthychildcare.unc.edu/find-a-cchc. However, while CCHCs have the ability to provide CCDF trainings equivalent to what is available in Moodle, their capacity is dependent on their current working priorities. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. As we continue expanding our training offerings, DCDEE has established a new email address and phone number for Moodle support. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. DCDEE Updates: What’s New Tab Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest COVID-19 information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting childcare in North Carolina. If I can be of assistance in the future, or if you have any questions about this visit, please feel free to contact me at Tiffani Sims; PO Box 185, Glen Alpine, NC 28628; (828) 417-1648; tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of North Carolina. 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: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: LORI HERRICK Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-194A Visit Date: 3/18/2025 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 3/18/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 10:20 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Bonita Squire, administrator, was on site. Ms. Squire accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. Det. Hannah Moore, Shelby Police Department, arrived at the facility after I completed a walk through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. Squire and additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. The following violations were confirmed during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. On March 11, 2025, a staff member, left four children ages three through five unsupervised in the classroom. .1801(a)(1-5) 904 A child was handled in a rough way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking. A staff member hit a three-year-old child and the child had an injury to the lip. The same staff member hit children with objects on more than one occasion. .1803(a)(1) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance).Two staff members did not complete and submit required forms to complete criminal background check prior to the expiration date. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1810 There was a substantiation of child maltreatment. Pursuant to its investigation, the Division has confirmed sufficient information to determine child maltreatment GS 110-105.6(a) Violations must be corrected immediately. Within one week, on or before, March 25, 2025 you must submit documentation of the corrections you made and your plan to maintain compliance with the identified child care requirements to me at Lori Herrick, Investigations Consultant, 828-782-0613, lori.herrick@dhhs.nc.gov. You may contact me at Lori Herrick, Investigations Consultant, 828-782-0613, lori.herrick@dhhs.nc.gov. or Natosha Lambeth, Natosha.lambeth@dhhs.nc.gov Thank you for your time. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-105 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: LORI HERRICK Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-194A Visit Date: 3/18/2025 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 3/18/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 10:20 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Bonita Squire, administrator, was on site. Ms. Squire accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. Det. Hannah Moore, Shelby Police Department, arrived at the facility after I completed a walk through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. Squire and additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. The following violations were confirmed during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. On March 11, 2025, a staff member, left four children ages three through five unsupervised in the classroom. .1801(a)(1-5) 904 A child was handled in a rough way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking. A staff member hit a three-year-old child and the child had an injury to the lip. The same staff member hit children with objects on more than one occasion. .1803(a)(1) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance).Two staff members did not complete and submit required forms to complete criminal background check prior to the expiration date. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1810 There was a substantiation of child maltreatment. Pursuant to its investigation, the Division has confirmed sufficient information to determine child maltreatment GS 110-105.6(a) Violations must be corrected immediately. Within one week, on or before, March 25, 2025 you must submit documentation of the corrections you made and your plan to maintain compliance with the identified child care requirements to me at Lori Herrick, Investigations Consultant, 828-782-0613, lori.herrick@dhhs.nc.gov. You may contact me at Lori Herrick, Investigations Consultant, 828-782-0613, lori.herrick@dhhs.nc.gov. or Natosha Lambeth, Natosha.lambeth@dhhs.nc.gov Thank you for your time. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0901 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/17/2024 Number Present: 14 Completed Date: 9/17/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 265 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 01:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements including health and safety requirements. You, Bonita Walls-Squire, Administrator, assisted me with the visit today. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed on September 16, 2024, and Along Came A Scholar, Inc. was listed as current and active. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, Tiffani Sims, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The facility currently operates with a 4-stars rated license issued on September 17, 2020, earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care and enhanced space. During today’s visit, the children were observed indoor free play, story time, music and movement, lunch time, and nap time. Inspections/Emergency Drills: Fire Inspection: The last fire inspection was completed on January 24, 2024. The next fire inspection is due by January 24, 2025. Sanitation Inspection: The last sanitation inspection was completed on August 17, 2024. A “superior” classification was issued with thirteen (13) demerits noted on the grade card. The next sanitation inspection needs to be completed by August 31, 2025. Emergency Drills/Playground Inspections: The last lockdown emergency drill was completed on August 20, 2024, at 10:53am and recorded. The last playground inspection was completed on August 29, 2024. The last fire drill was completed on August 24, 2024, at 10:51am and recorded. A complete walkthrough of licensed indoor and outdoor spaces was conducted. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Files Reviewed: Children’s files, program files, and staff files were monitored today. Four (4) children’s files were reviewed during today’s visit. One (1) file was reviewed and one (1) new staff file was reviewed today. I discussed the Staff and Training Worksheet and the Children’s Record form with you today. Both forms were completed and verified during the visit. The following violations were observed during the visit today. I discussed these violation(s) with you in detail at the end of the visit Violation Number Comment Rule 526 Menus for all meals and snacks were not current or posted where easily seen by parents and cook. The menu posted and available for review was dated for April 20, 2024, through April 30, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 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 employed on August 28, 2023, did not have current documentation on file and available for review of their emergency information documentation. The last documentation available for review was dated August 28, 2023. .0701(a) 1308 Application did not include the names of individuals to whom the center may release the child, as authorized by the person who signs the application. One child enrolled on July 6, 2024, did not have documentation on file available for review of emergency contact information. This information was left blank. .0801(a)(7) 1832 Application did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. One child enrolled on July 6, 2024, did not have documentation on file available for review of the required information of their health care needs section of their application. This information was left blank. .0801 (a)(5) 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 staff member employed on August 28, 2023, did not have current documentation on file and available for review of their health questionnaire documentation. The last documentation available for review was dated August 25, 2023. .0701(d) The following Technical Assistance regarding the violations observed during today’s visit was provided: Children’s Applications (Emergency Information & Health Care Needs): I reminded to review all children’s applications upon enrollment and annually to ensure there are no blanks on the application and that all information listed is current. I also suggested to use the children’s file checklist to ensure all required information are in the children’s files. Documentation of Staff’s Health Questionnaire/Emergency Information: I suggested that you create a schedule of when specific documents are required to be completed and placed in staff’s files by using the staff file checklist available on the DCDEE website under Provider Forms and Documents. I also suggested using a calendar and color code with a highlighter for when staff documentation needs to be completed. Menus: I reminded you that menus must be posted and current and made available for review. I suggested creating a Monday Morning checklist as a reminder of what needs to be completed on Monday mornings and add display current menu as one of items that needed to be completed. Compliance History: You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required. Prior to today’s visit your compliance history was ninety-three percent (93%). Please note any violations cited during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to a recommended administrative action. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by October 1, 2024. Please include in that letter each item number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov Tiffani Sims PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will 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 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. Consultation: -RaiseNC Toolkit and Other Resources: Raise your voice to Raise NC is a good resource for you and your staff to explore and download the full suite of easy-to-use educational and promotional materials, including flyers, social media posts, graphics, talking points and more. Whether you’re an organization or an individual, these materials are free and available on the website RaiseNC.nc.gov. The link is https://www.ncdhhs.gov/about/department-initiatives/raise-nc/toolkit. -Natural Learning Initiative: The Green Desk (Resource) For natural learning environment resources, consider using The Green Desk that is provided by the Natural Learning Initiative. The Green Desk contains numerous resources meant to improve outdoor learning environments and promote health, natural child development, physical activity, and nature-based learning. To access this page, Go to www.naturalearning.org, hover on the link for ‘resources’, click on the link for ‘The Green Desk’. -Child Care Rule Effective January 1, 2024 Lead Testing: Child Care Rule .0601(f)- Safe Environments We discussed that you had not completed the lead water, lead-based paint, and asbestos testing for your facility as of September 16, 2024. There were no results listed on the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website for your program. You stated that the water was tested under the child care facility’s name Above and Beyond Learning Academy, LLC. I reminded you to contact the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids to start the lead testing process. Lead Testing: Child Care Rule .0601(f)- Safe Environments Rule Amendment- This rule was amended to include the specific requirements that child care centers must be free of asbestos hazards. This is in addition to the existing requirement that they be free of lead poisoning hazards. In addition to the updates to this rule, 10A NCAC 41C .1001 through .1007 and 15A NCAC 18A .2816 require all child care facilities (homes and centers) to test for lead in drinking, water, identify lead-based paint hazard, and mitigate or restrict access to identified hazards. The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program is designed to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure, while providing child care facilities with the support needed to meet all rule requirements. The program is free, and the first step is to watch one of the pre-enrollment webinars, which are available at www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar All licensed child care programs must register by November 1, 2024, at www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina and watch one of the pre-enrollment webinars. Child Care Centers have until July 1, 2024, to complete the required lead testing. -Resuming Star Rated License Reassessment Information Hold harmless has been extended until the new QRIS system is implemented. Programs still have the option to choose to voluntarily complete the star rated license reassessment if they so desire. -Challenging Behaviors Helpline by Healthy Social Behavior Project The Healthy Social Behavior Project is offering technical assistance with challenging behaviors to programs. Please see the link below for more information. Website Link: https://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/challenging-behaviors-helpline To speak to a Healthy Social Behavior Specialist, please contact the helpline at 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. -On-going Trainings: Please visit Moodle on the DCDEE website to obtain necessary on-going training hours as required annually. -How to Access Health and Safety Training on DCDEE Moodle I have provided information and on how to access CCDF Health and Safety in Child Care or Medication in Child Care trainings on Moodle: 1. If you can log into Moodle with your MyNCID but need support with completing CCDF Health and Safety in Child Care or Medication in Child Care training, use this contact form: healthychildcare.unc.edu/contact-us-form If you cannot log into Moodle, try visiting https://myncid.nc.gov/ for technical support unlocking or resetting your NCID password. 2. If you still cannot access Moodle, one alternative to completing the CCDF Health and Safety in Child Care Trainings or Medication in Child Care training on Moodle is to contact a primary Child Care Health Consultant (CCHC) for training options: healthychildcare.unc.edu/find-a-cchc. However, while CCHCs have the ability to provide CCDF trainings equivalent to what is available in Moodle, their capacity is dependent on their current working priorities. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. As we continue expanding our training offerings, DCDEE has established a new email address and phone number for Moodle support. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. DCDEE Updates: What’s New Tab Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest COVID-19 information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting childcare in North Carolina. If I can be of assistance in the future, or if you have any questions about this visit, please feel free to contact me at Tiffani Sims; PO Box 185, Glen Alpine, NC 28628; (828) 417-1648; tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of North Carolina. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/26/2024 Number Present: 15 Completed Date: 3/26/2024 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 185 Time In: 10:55 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced routine unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements including health and safety requirements. You, Bonita Walls-Squire, Owner/Administrator, assisted me with the visit today. The Secretary of State website was checked on March 25, 2024, and your business, Along Came A Scholar LLC., is active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, Tiffani Sims, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The facility currently operates with a 4-star rated license issued on September 17, 2020, 2 earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care, meets enhanced ratios, and meets enhance space. Inspections/Emergency Drills: Fire Inspection: The last fire inspection was completed on January 24, 2024. Sanitation Inspection: The last sanitation inspection was completed on March 7, 2024. A “superior” classification was issued with thirteen (13) demerits noted on the grade card. Emergency Drills/Playground Inspections: The shelter in place emergency drill was completed on February 22, 2024, at 10:am and recorded. The last playground inspection was completed on February 22, 2024. The last fire drill was completed on February 22, 2024, at 10:00am and recorded. A complete walkthrough of licensed indoor and outdoor spaces was conducted. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Staff and children were observed during indoor free play, art activities, lunch time, nap time, and music. No new staff has been hired since the most recent annual compliance visit conducted on September 29, 2023. Limited monitoring of staff files was conducted for the purpose of reviewing training regarding CPR/First Aid, EPR, Playground Safety, ITS-SIDS, Special Training including Health and Safety Training and Criminal Background Checks. The following violation of child care requirements were observed and documented 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. In Space #3, on March 5, 2024, one child’s departure time was not documented; on March 6, 2024, one child’s departure time was not documented; March 7, 2024, three children’s departure times were not documented; on March 8, 2024, one child’s departure time was not documented; on March 12, 2024, one child’s departure time was not documented; on March 13, 2024, three children's departure times were not documented; on March 15, 2024, one child’s departure time was not documented; and on March 18, 2024, one child’s departure time was not documented. In Space #4, on March 19, 2024, one child’s departure time was not documented. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. On the playground used by school-age children in care, it was observed on ground of the playground broken plastic pieces with sharp edges that were accessible to children. On the playground used by infants, toddlers and preschool aged children in care, it was observed on the ground small broken pieces of plastic from broken toys, a push toy with broken wheels and a broken seat, and a tricycle with a broken seat. Each piece of broken equipment and small plastic pieces were accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) Technical Assistance regarding the violations observed during today’s visit: -Arrival/Departure Times As a reminder, daily sign-in and sign-out times must be recorded when children arrive and depart from the child care facility each day to ensure accurate records are kept. I suggest creating a system to check during the mid-day to ensure arrival times have been recorded. I also suggested as a closing activity having a staff member to check to make sure departure times have been recorded. Hazardous Items/Broken Equipment/Debris on Playground As a reminder, prior to use, monitor the outdoor area for hazards and/or debris. I suggest having a staff member in the morning to complete a daily walkthrough of the playgrounds before the children have access to the outdoor playgrounds and remove any hazards and/or debris found on the outdoor playgrounds. Compliance History: You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required. Prior to today’s visit your compliance history was ninety-one percent (91%). Please note any violations cited during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to a recommended administrative action. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by April 9, 2024. Please include in that letter each item number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov Tiffani Sims PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will 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 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. Consultation: -Baby Talk: Resources to Support the People Who Work with Infants and Toddlers I shared the flyer with information and resources to support the child care staff who work with infants and toddlers. -Resuming Star Rated License Reassessment Information I shared information concerning resuming the star rated license reassessment. Along Came A Scholar is in cohort #1 for resuming the star rated license reassessment. Your child care program’s prep year will begin on July 1, 2023, and go on June 30, 2024. Your child care program’s reassessment year will begin on July 1, 2024, and go on through June 30, 2025. For more information, please visit the DCDEE website under the providers tab. You will then scroll to the Licensing tab, scroll to the Star Rated License tab, and then click on the Resuming Star Rated License tab. The link is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License -Challenging Behaviors Helpline by Healthy Social Behavior Project The Healthy Social Behavior Project is offering technical assistance with challenging behaviors to programs. Please see the link below for more information. I shared information on the Challenging Behaviors Helpline. Website Link: https://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/challenging-behaviors-helpline To speak to a Healthy Social Behavior Specialist, please contact the helpline at 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. -On-going Trainings: Please visit Moodle on the DCDEE website to obtain necessary on-going training hours as required annually. Additional training resources on the Environment Rating Scales can be found on the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project website. The website is ncrlap.org. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. As we continue expanding our training offerings, DCDEE has established a new email address and phone number for Moodle support. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. -How to Access Health and Safety Training on DCDEE Moodle I have provided information and on how to access CCDF Health and Safety in Child Care or Medication in Child Care trainings on Moodle: 1. If you can log into Moodle with your MyNCID but need support with completing CCDF Health and Safety in Child Care or Medication in Child Care training, use this contact form: healthychildcare.unc.edu/contact-us-form If you cannot log into Moodle, try visiting https://myncid.nc.gov/ for technical support unlocking or resetting your NCID password. 2. If you still cannot access Moodle, one alternative to completing the CCDF Health and Safety in Child Care Trainings or Medication in Child Care training on Moodle is to contact a primary Child Care Health Consultant (CCHC) for training options: healthychildcare.unc.edu/find-a-cchc. However, while CCHCs have the ability to provide CCDF trainings equivalent to what is available in Moodle, their capacity is dependent on their current working priorities. DCDEE Updates: What’s New Tab Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest COVID-19 information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting childcare in North Carolina. If I can be of assistance in the future, or if you have any questions about this visit, please feel free to contact me at Tiffani Sims; PO Box 185, Glen Alpine, NC 28628; (828) 417-1648; tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of North Carolina. 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: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/26/2024 Number Present: 15 Completed Date: 3/26/2024 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 185 Time In: 10:55 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced routine unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements including health and safety requirements. You, Bonita Walls-Squire, Owner/Administrator, assisted me with the visit today. The Secretary of State website was checked on March 25, 2024, and your business, Along Came A Scholar LLC., is active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, Tiffani Sims, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The facility currently operates with a 4-star rated license issued on September 17, 2020, 2 earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care, meets enhanced ratios, and meets enhance space. Inspections/Emergency Drills: Fire Inspection: The last fire inspection was completed on January 24, 2024. Sanitation Inspection: The last sanitation inspection was completed on March 7, 2024. A “superior” classification was issued with thirteen (13) demerits noted on the grade card. Emergency Drills/Playground Inspections: The shelter in place emergency drill was completed on February 22, 2024, at 10:am and recorded. The last playground inspection was completed on February 22, 2024. The last fire drill was completed on February 22, 2024, at 10:00am and recorded. A complete walkthrough of licensed indoor and outdoor spaces was conducted. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Staff and children were observed during indoor free play, art activities, lunch time, nap time, and music. No new staff has been hired since the most recent annual compliance visit conducted on September 29, 2023. Limited monitoring of staff files was conducted for the purpose of reviewing training regarding CPR/First Aid, EPR, Playground Safety, ITS-SIDS, Special Training including Health and Safety Training and Criminal Background Checks. The following violation of child care requirements were observed and documented 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. In Space #3, on March 5, 2024, one child’s departure time was not documented; on March 6, 2024, one child’s departure time was not documented; March 7, 2024, three children’s departure times were not documented; on March 8, 2024, one child’s departure time was not documented; on March 12, 2024, one child’s departure time was not documented; on March 13, 2024, three children's departure times were not documented; on March 15, 2024, one child’s departure time was not documented; and on March 18, 2024, one child’s departure time was not documented. In Space #4, on March 19, 2024, one child’s departure time was not documented. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. On the playground used by school-age children in care, it was observed on ground of the playground broken plastic pieces with sharp edges that were accessible to children. On the playground used by infants, toddlers and preschool aged children in care, it was observed on the ground small broken pieces of plastic from broken toys, a push toy with broken wheels and a broken seat, and a tricycle with a broken seat. Each piece of broken equipment and small plastic pieces were accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) Technical Assistance regarding the violations observed during today’s visit: -Arrival/Departure Times As a reminder, daily sign-in and sign-out times must be recorded when children arrive and depart from the child care facility each day to ensure accurate records are kept. I suggest creating a system to check during the mid-day to ensure arrival times have been recorded. I also suggested as a closing activity having a staff member to check to make sure departure times have been recorded. Hazardous Items/Broken Equipment/Debris on Playground As a reminder, prior to use, monitor the outdoor area for hazards and/or debris. I suggest having a staff member in the morning to complete a daily walkthrough of the playgrounds before the children have access to the outdoor playgrounds and remove any hazards and/or debris found on the outdoor playgrounds. Compliance History: You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required. Prior to today’s visit your compliance history was ninety-one percent (91%). Please note any violations cited during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to a recommended administrative action. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by April 9, 2024. Please include in that letter each item number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov Tiffani Sims PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will 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 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. Consultation: -Baby Talk: Resources to Support the People Who Work with Infants and Toddlers I shared the flyer with information and resources to support the child care staff who work with infants and toddlers. -Resuming Star Rated License Reassessment Information I shared information concerning resuming the star rated license reassessment. Along Came A Scholar is in cohort #1 for resuming the star rated license reassessment. Your child care program’s prep year will begin on July 1, 2023, and go on June 30, 2024. Your child care program’s reassessment year will begin on July 1, 2024, and go on through June 30, 2025. For more information, please visit the DCDEE website under the providers tab. You will then scroll to the Licensing tab, scroll to the Star Rated License tab, and then click on the Resuming Star Rated License tab. The link is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License -Challenging Behaviors Helpline by Healthy Social Behavior Project The Healthy Social Behavior Project is offering technical assistance with challenging behaviors to programs. Please see the link below for more information. I shared information on the Challenging Behaviors Helpline. Website Link: https://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/challenging-behaviors-helpline To speak to a Healthy Social Behavior Specialist, please contact the helpline at 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. -On-going Trainings: Please visit Moodle on the DCDEE website to obtain necessary on-going training hours as required annually. Additional training resources on the Environment Rating Scales can be found on the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project website. The website is ncrlap.org. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. As we continue expanding our training offerings, DCDEE has established a new email address and phone number for Moodle support. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. -How to Access Health and Safety Training on DCDEE Moodle I have provided information and on how to access CCDF Health and Safety in Child Care or Medication in Child Care trainings on Moodle: 1. If you can log into Moodle with your MyNCID but need support with completing CCDF Health and Safety in Child Care or Medication in Child Care training, use this contact form: healthychildcare.unc.edu/contact-us-form If you cannot log into Moodle, try visiting https://myncid.nc.gov/ for technical support unlocking or resetting your NCID password. 2. If you still cannot access Moodle, one alternative to completing the CCDF Health and Safety in Child Care Trainings or Medication in Child Care training on Moodle is to contact a primary Child Care Health Consultant (CCHC) for training options: healthychildcare.unc.edu/find-a-cchc. However, while CCHCs have the ability to provide CCDF trainings equivalent to what is available in Moodle, their capacity is dependent on their current working priorities. DCDEE Updates: What’s New Tab Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest COVID-19 information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting childcare in North Carolina. If I can be of assistance in the future, or if you have any questions about this visit, please feel free to contact me at Tiffani Sims; PO Box 185, Glen Alpine, NC 28628; (828) 417-1648; tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of North Carolina. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/29/2023 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 9/29/2023 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 233 Time In: 09:27 AM Time Out: 01:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements including health and safety requirements. You, Bonita Walls-Squire, Administrator, assisted me with the visit today. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed on September 28, 2023, and Along Came A Scholar, Inc. was listed as current and active. The facility currently operates with a 4-stars rated license issued on September 17, 2020, earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care, enhanced ratios, and enhanced space. Inspections/Emergency Drills: Fire Inspection: The last fire inspection was completed on January 17, 2023. Sanitation Inspection: The last sanitation inspection was completed on June 9, 2023. A “superior” classification was issued with twelve (12) demerits noted on the grade card. Emergency Drills/Playground Inspections: The last shelter-in-place drill was completed on August 31, 2023, at 4:50pm and recorded. The last playground inspection was completed on August 25, 2023. The last fire drill was completed on August 3, 2023 at 5:00pm and recorded. A complete walkthrough of licensed indoor and outdoor spaces was conducted. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Staff and children were observed during outdoor free play, indoor free play, lunch, nap time, and group time. Files Reviewed: Children’s files, program files, and staff files were monitored today. Four (4) children's files were reviewed during today’s visit. One (1) staff file and two (2) new staff files were reviewed today. I discussed the Staff and Training Worksheet and the Children’s Record form with you today. Both forms were completed and verified during the visit. The following violations were observed during the walk through today. I discussed these violations with you in detail at the end of the 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. In Space #2, on September 19, 2023, one child’s departure times was not documented; on September 22, three children’s departure times were not documented; on September 27, 2023, one child’s departure time was not documented; and on September 28, 2023, one child’s departure time was not documented. In Space #3, on September 26, 2023, two children’s departure times were not documented and on September 28, 2023, one child’s departure time was not documented. In Space #4, on September 1, 2023, one child’s departure time was not documented; on September 6, 2023, two children’s departure times were not documented; on September 8, 2023, four children’s departure times were not documented; on September 19, 2023, two children’s departure times were not documented; on September 21, 2023, four children’s departure times were not documented; on September 27, 2023, one child’s departure time was not documented; and on September 28, 2023, one child’s departure time was not documented. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. There were broken pieces of plastic, sharp metal siding, and trash on the playground. Some of the broken plastic pieces and metal siding had sharp edges and were accessible to children ages infants to school-age. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In Space #1, on September 27, 2023, the sleep positions were not documented for one child at 11:30am, 11:45am, and 12:00pm. .0606(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child enrolled on October 10, 2022, had a health assessment on file for review dated February 13, 2023. The health assessment needed to be on file for review by November 10, 2022. One child enrolled August 17, 2023, did not have a health assessment on file for review. The health assessment needed to be on file for review by September 17, 2023. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child enrolled on October 10, 2022, had an immunization on file for review dated February 13, 2023. The immunization record needed to be on file for review by November 10, 2022. One child enrolled August 17, 2023, did not have an immunization record on file for review. The immunization record needed to be on file for review by September 17, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) The following Technical Assistance regarding the violation observed during today’s visit was provided: -Arrival/Departure Times As a reminder, daily sign-in and sign-out times must be recorded when children arrive and depart from the child care facility each day to ensure accurate records are kept. I suggested creating a system to check during the mid-day to ensure arrival times have been recorded. I also suggested as a closing activity having a staff member to check to make sure departure times have been recorded. -Safe Sleep Checks: I suggested reviewing with staff on how to complete the safe sleep check chart and how to record the safe sleep positions. I also suggested creating a system where the safe sleep documentation is reviewed and checked for accuracy. Children’s Health Assessments/Immunization Documentation: As a reminder children’s health assessment and immunization records are required to be on file within thirty (30) days of a child’s enrollment. I suggested reviewing your policy on when health assessments and immunization records are due and create a reminder system to ensure these records are received within thirty (30) days of a child’s enrollment. Hazardous Items/Broken Equipment/Debris on Playground Every day, prior to use, you were required to monitor the indoor and outdoor area for hazards or debris. I suggest having the first staff that arrives in the morning to complete these observations before the children have access to the outdoor playgrounds. I also suggested having the first staff member, who uses the playground, to monitor this area for any hazards and/or debris and remove any hazards and/or debris found on the outdoor playgrounds before children have access. Compliance History: You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required. Prior to today’s visit your compliance history was one hundred percent (100) %. Please note any violations cited during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to a recommended administrative action. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by October 13, 2023. Please include in that letter each item number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov Tiffani Sims PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will 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 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. Consultation: -COVID-19 Information and Resources: I share information and resources about COVID-19 vaccines, visit MySpot.nc.gov, call the CDC-INFO Contact Center at 800-CDC-INFO, or visit ncdhhs.gov/LHD to contact a local health department. Read the CDC’s full statement about recommending the updated COVID-19 vaccine for the fall/winter virus season. Info/Guidance for Educators & Child Care Providers Link: https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/guidance-for-educators-and-child-care-providers Current Guidance for COVID-19 Protection – link below https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/index.html -Resuming Star Rated License Reassessment Information I shared information concerning resuming the star rated license reassessment. Grace Christian Academy of Kings Mountain, Inc. is in cohort #1 for resuming the star rated license reassessment. Your child care program’s prep year will begin on July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024. Your child care program’s reassessment year will begin on July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025. For more information, please visit the DCDEE website under the providers tab. You will then scroll to Licensing tab, scroll to the Star Rated License tab, and then click on to the Resuming Star Rated License tab. The link is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License -Early Childhood Equivalency Exam The North Carolina Early Childhood Equivalency Exam is a new pathway option comparable to a NC Early Childhood Credential. Applicants who achieve a score of 80% or higher on the NC Early Childhood Equivalency Exam earn the new North Carolina Early Childhood Equivalency Certificate. This certificate is equivalent to a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential and will qualify the individual to be a lead teacher in an early childhood classroom. or more information, visit the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New/north-carolina-early-childhood-equivalency-exam-now-available. -On-going Trainings: Please visit Moodle on the DCDEE website to obtain necessary on-going training hours as required annually. -Health and Safety Trainings We discussed staff completing the required Health/Safety trainings. -Challenging Behaviors Helpline by Healthy Social Behavior Project The Healthy Social Behavior Project is offering technical assistance with challenging behaviors to programs. Please see the link below for more information. I shared the flier with you with information on the Challenging Behaviors Helpline. Website Link: https://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/challenging-behaviors-helpline To speak to a Healthy Social Behavior Specialist, please contact the helpline at 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. As we continue expanding our training offerings, DCDEE has established a new email address and phone number for Moodle support. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. -Criminal Background Check Legislative Changes: The 2022-2023 Appropriations Bill (HB 103) signed by Governor Cooper on July 11, 2022, made two important changes to North Carolina General Statute 110-90-2 regarding child care Criminal Background Checks. 1. The period for background check qualification renewals was revised from three years to five years. 2. The provisional qualification period was reduced to forty-five days. DCDEE Updates: What’s New Tab Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest COVID-19 information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting childcare in North Carolina. If I can be of assistance in the future, or if you have any questions about this visit, please feel free to contact me at Tiffani Sims; PO Box 185, Glen Alpine, NC 28628; (828) 417-1648; tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of North Carolina. 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: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/29/2023 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 9/29/2023 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 233 Time In: 09:27 AM Time Out: 01:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements including health and safety requirements. You, Bonita Walls-Squire, Administrator, assisted me with the visit today. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed on September 28, 2023, and Along Came A Scholar, Inc. was listed as current and active. The facility currently operates with a 4-stars rated license issued on September 17, 2020, earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care, enhanced ratios, and enhanced space. Inspections/Emergency Drills: Fire Inspection: The last fire inspection was completed on January 17, 2023. Sanitation Inspection: The last sanitation inspection was completed on June 9, 2023. A “superior” classification was issued with twelve (12) demerits noted on the grade card. Emergency Drills/Playground Inspections: The last shelter-in-place drill was completed on August 31, 2023, at 4:50pm and recorded. The last playground inspection was completed on August 25, 2023. The last fire drill was completed on August 3, 2023 at 5:00pm and recorded. A complete walkthrough of licensed indoor and outdoor spaces was conducted. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Staff and children were observed during outdoor free play, indoor free play, lunch, nap time, and group time. Files Reviewed: Children’s files, program files, and staff files were monitored today. Four (4) children's files were reviewed during today’s visit. One (1) staff file and two (2) new staff files were reviewed today. I discussed the Staff and Training Worksheet and the Children’s Record form with you today. Both forms were completed and verified during the visit. The following violations were observed during the walk through today. I discussed these violations with you in detail at the end of the 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. In Space #2, on September 19, 2023, one child’s departure times was not documented; on September 22, three children’s departure times were not documented; on September 27, 2023, one child’s departure time was not documented; and on September 28, 2023, one child’s departure time was not documented. In Space #3, on September 26, 2023, two children’s departure times were not documented and on September 28, 2023, one child’s departure time was not documented. In Space #4, on September 1, 2023, one child’s departure time was not documented; on September 6, 2023, two children’s departure times were not documented; on September 8, 2023, four children’s departure times were not documented; on September 19, 2023, two children’s departure times were not documented; on September 21, 2023, four children’s departure times were not documented; on September 27, 2023, one child’s departure time was not documented; and on September 28, 2023, one child’s departure time was not documented. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. There were broken pieces of plastic, sharp metal siding, and trash on the playground. Some of the broken plastic pieces and metal siding had sharp edges and were accessible to children ages infants to school-age. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In Space #1, on September 27, 2023, the sleep positions were not documented for one child at 11:30am, 11:45am, and 12:00pm. .0606(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child enrolled on October 10, 2022, had a health assessment on file for review dated February 13, 2023. The health assessment needed to be on file for review by November 10, 2022. One child enrolled August 17, 2023, did not have a health assessment on file for review. The health assessment needed to be on file for review by September 17, 2023. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child enrolled on October 10, 2022, had an immunization on file for review dated February 13, 2023. The immunization record needed to be on file for review by November 10, 2022. One child enrolled August 17, 2023, did not have an immunization record on file for review. The immunization record needed to be on file for review by September 17, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) The following Technical Assistance regarding the violation observed during today’s visit was provided: -Arrival/Departure Times As a reminder, daily sign-in and sign-out times must be recorded when children arrive and depart from the child care facility each day to ensure accurate records are kept. I suggested creating a system to check during the mid-day to ensure arrival times have been recorded. I also suggested as a closing activity having a staff member to check to make sure departure times have been recorded. -Safe Sleep Checks: I suggested reviewing with staff on how to complete the safe sleep check chart and how to record the safe sleep positions. I also suggested creating a system where the safe sleep documentation is reviewed and checked for accuracy. Children’s Health Assessments/Immunization Documentation: As a reminder children’s health assessment and immunization records are required to be on file within thirty (30) days of a child’s enrollment. I suggested reviewing your policy on when health assessments and immunization records are due and create a reminder system to ensure these records are received within thirty (30) days of a child’s enrollment. Hazardous Items/Broken Equipment/Debris on Playground Every day, prior to use, you were required to monitor the indoor and outdoor area for hazards or debris. I suggest having the first staff that arrives in the morning to complete these observations before the children have access to the outdoor playgrounds. I also suggested having the first staff member, who uses the playground, to monitor this area for any hazards and/or debris and remove any hazards and/or debris found on the outdoor playgrounds before children have access. Compliance History: You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required. Prior to today’s visit your compliance history was one hundred percent (100) %. Please note any violations cited during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to a recommended administrative action. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by October 13, 2023. Please include in that letter each item number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov Tiffani Sims PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will 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 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. Consultation: -COVID-19 Information and Resources: I share information and resources about COVID-19 vaccines, visit MySpot.nc.gov, call the CDC-INFO Contact Center at 800-CDC-INFO, or visit ncdhhs.gov/LHD to contact a local health department. Read the CDC’s full statement about recommending the updated COVID-19 vaccine for the fall/winter virus season. Info/Guidance for Educators & Child Care Providers Link: https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/guidance-for-educators-and-child-care-providers Current Guidance for COVID-19 Protection – link below https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/index.html -Resuming Star Rated License Reassessment Information I shared information concerning resuming the star rated license reassessment. Grace Christian Academy of Kings Mountain, Inc. is in cohort #1 for resuming the star rated license reassessment. Your child care program’s prep year will begin on July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024. Your child care program’s reassessment year will begin on July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025. For more information, please visit the DCDEE website under the providers tab. You will then scroll to Licensing tab, scroll to the Star Rated License tab, and then click on to the Resuming Star Rated License tab. The link is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License -Early Childhood Equivalency Exam The North Carolina Early Childhood Equivalency Exam is a new pathway option comparable to a NC Early Childhood Credential. Applicants who achieve a score of 80% or higher on the NC Early Childhood Equivalency Exam earn the new North Carolina Early Childhood Equivalency Certificate. This certificate is equivalent to a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential and will qualify the individual to be a lead teacher in an early childhood classroom. or more information, visit the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New/north-carolina-early-childhood-equivalency-exam-now-available. -On-going Trainings: Please visit Moodle on the DCDEE website to obtain necessary on-going training hours as required annually. -Health and Safety Trainings We discussed staff completing the required Health/Safety trainings. -Challenging Behaviors Helpline by Healthy Social Behavior Project The Healthy Social Behavior Project is offering technical assistance with challenging behaviors to programs. Please see the link below for more information. I shared the flier with you with information on the Challenging Behaviors Helpline. Website Link: https://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/challenging-behaviors-helpline To speak to a Healthy Social Behavior Specialist, please contact the helpline at 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. As we continue expanding our training offerings, DCDEE has established a new email address and phone number for Moodle support. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. -Criminal Background Check Legislative Changes: The 2022-2023 Appropriations Bill (HB 103) signed by Governor Cooper on July 11, 2022, made two important changes to North Carolina General Statute 110-90-2 regarding child care Criminal Background Checks. 1. The period for background check qualification renewals was revised from three years to five years. 2. The provisional qualification period was reduced to forty-five days. DCDEE Updates: What’s New Tab Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest COVID-19 information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting childcare in North Carolina. If I can be of assistance in the future, or if you have any questions about this visit, please feel free to contact me at Tiffani Sims; PO Box 185, Glen Alpine, NC 28628; (828) 417-1648; tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of North Carolina. 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

GS110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALONG CAME A SCHOLAR Facility ID: 23000466 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/29/2023 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 9/29/2023 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 233 Time In: 09:27 AM Time Out: 01:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements including health and safety requirements. You, Bonita Walls-Squire, Administrator, assisted me with the visit today. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed on September 28, 2023, and Along Came A Scholar, Inc. was listed as current and active. The facility currently operates with a 4-stars rated license issued on September 17, 2020, earning five (5) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care, enhanced ratios, and enhanced space. Inspections/Emergency Drills: Fire Inspection: The last fire inspection was completed on January 17, 2023. Sanitation Inspection: The last sanitation inspection was completed on June 9, 2023. A “superior” classification was issued with twelve (12) demerits noted on the grade card. Emergency Drills/Playground Inspections: The last shelter-in-place drill was completed on August 31, 2023, at 4:50pm and recorded. The last playground inspection was completed on August 25, 2023. The last fire drill was completed on August 3, 2023 at 5:00pm and recorded. A complete walkthrough of licensed indoor and outdoor spaces was conducted. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Staff and children were observed during outdoor free play, indoor free play, lunch, nap time, and group time. Files Reviewed: Children’s files, program files, and staff files were monitored today. Four (4) children's files were reviewed during today’s visit. One (1) staff file and two (2) new staff files were reviewed today. I discussed the Staff and Training Worksheet and the Children’s Record form with you today. Both forms were completed and verified during the visit. The following violations were observed during the walk through today. I discussed these violations with you in detail at the end of the 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. In Space #2, on September 19, 2023, one child’s departure times was not documented; on September 22, three children’s departure times were not documented; on September 27, 2023, one child’s departure time was not documented; and on September 28, 2023, one child’s departure time was not documented. In Space #3, on September 26, 2023, two children’s departure times were not documented and on September 28, 2023, one child’s departure time was not documented. In Space #4, on September 1, 2023, one child’s departure time was not documented; on September 6, 2023, two children’s departure times were not documented; on September 8, 2023, four children’s departure times were not documented; on September 19, 2023, two children’s departure times were not documented; on September 21, 2023, four children’s departure times were not documented; on September 27, 2023, one child’s departure time was not documented; and on September 28, 2023, one child’s departure time was not documented. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. There were broken pieces of plastic, sharp metal siding, and trash on the playground. Some of the broken plastic pieces and metal siding had sharp edges and were accessible to children ages infants to school-age. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In Space #1, on September 27, 2023, the sleep positions were not documented for one child at 11:30am, 11:45am, and 12:00pm. .0606(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child enrolled on October 10, 2022, had a health assessment on file for review dated February 13, 2023. The health assessment needed to be on file for review by November 10, 2022. One child enrolled August 17, 2023, did not have a health assessment on file for review. The health assessment needed to be on file for review by September 17, 2023. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child enrolled on October 10, 2022, had an immunization on file for review dated February 13, 2023. The immunization record needed to be on file for review by November 10, 2022. One child enrolled August 17, 2023, did not have an immunization record on file for review. The immunization record needed to be on file for review by September 17, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) The following Technical Assistance regarding the violation observed during today’s visit was provided: -Arrival/Departure Times As a reminder, daily sign-in and sign-out times must be recorded when children arrive and depart from the child care facility each day to ensure accurate records are kept. I suggested creating a system to check during the mid-day to ensure arrival times have been recorded. I also suggested as a closing activity having a staff member to check to make sure departure times have been recorded. -Safe Sleep Checks: I suggested reviewing with staff on how to complete the safe sleep check chart and how to record the safe sleep positions. I also suggested creating a system where the safe sleep documentation is reviewed and checked for accuracy. Children’s Health Assessments/Immunization Documentation: As a reminder children’s health assessment and immunization records are required to be on file within thirty (30) days of a child’s enrollment. I suggested reviewing your policy on when health assessments and immunization records are due and create a reminder system to ensure these records are received within thirty (30) days of a child’s enrollment. Hazardous Items/Broken Equipment/Debris on Playground Every day, prior to use, you were required to monitor the indoor and outdoor area for hazards or debris. I suggest having the first staff that arrives in the morning to complete these observations before the children have access to the outdoor playgrounds. I also suggested having the first staff member, who uses the playground, to monitor this area for any hazards and/or debris and remove any hazards and/or debris found on the outdoor playgrounds before children have access. Compliance History: You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required. Prior to today’s visit your compliance history was one hundred percent (100) %. Please note any violations cited during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to a recommended administrative action. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by October 13, 2023. Please include in that letter each item number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov Tiffani Sims PO Box 185 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will 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 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. Consultation: -COVID-19 Information and Resources: I share information and resources about COVID-19 vaccines, visit MySpot.nc.gov, call the CDC-INFO Contact Center at 800-CDC-INFO, or visit ncdhhs.gov/LHD to contact a local health department. Read the CDC’s full statement about recommending the updated COVID-19 vaccine for the fall/winter virus season. Info/Guidance for Educators & Child Care Providers Link: https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/guidance-for-educators-and-child-care-providers Current Guidance for COVID-19 Protection – link below https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/index.html -Resuming Star Rated License Reassessment Information I shared information concerning resuming the star rated license reassessment. Grace Christian Academy of Kings Mountain, Inc. is in cohort #1 for resuming the star rated license reassessment. Your child care program’s prep year will begin on July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024. Your child care program’s reassessment year will begin on July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025. For more information, please visit the DCDEE website under the providers tab. You will then scroll to Licensing tab, scroll to the Star Rated License tab, and then click on to the Resuming Star Rated License tab. The link is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License -Early Childhood Equivalency Exam The North Carolina Early Childhood Equivalency Exam is a new pathway option comparable to a NC Early Childhood Credential. Applicants who achieve a score of 80% or higher on the NC Early Childhood Equivalency Exam earn the new North Carolina Early Childhood Equivalency Certificate. This certificate is equivalent to a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential and will qualify the individual to be a lead teacher in an early childhood classroom. or more information, visit the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New/north-carolina-early-childhood-equivalency-exam-now-available. -On-going Trainings: Please visit Moodle on the DCDEE website to obtain necessary on-going training hours as required annually. -Health and Safety Trainings We discussed staff completing the required Health/Safety trainings. -Challenging Behaviors Helpline by Healthy Social Behavior Project The Healthy Social Behavior Project is offering technical assistance with challenging behaviors to programs. Please see the link below for more information. I shared the flier with you with information on the Challenging Behaviors Helpline. Website Link: https://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/challenging-behaviors-helpline To speak to a Healthy Social Behavior Specialist, please contact the helpline at 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. -Moodle Support: The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through our online learning platform Moodle. As we continue expanding our training offerings, DCDEE has established a new email address and phone number for Moodle support. To get help with Moodle, email at DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. -Criminal Background Check Legislative Changes: The 2022-2023 Appropriations Bill (HB 103) signed by Governor Cooper on July 11, 2022, made two important changes to North Carolina General Statute 110-90-2 regarding child care Criminal Background Checks. 1. The period for background check qualification renewals was revised from three years to five years. 2. The provisional qualification period was reduced to forty-five days. DCDEE Updates: What’s New Tab Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest COVID-19 information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. I encourage you to click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting childcare in North Carolina. If I can be of assistance in the future, or if you have any questions about this visit, please feel free to contact me at Tiffani Sims; PO Box 185, Glen Alpine, NC 28628; (828) 417-1648; tiffani.sims@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time today. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of North Carolina. 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