Apples OF Gold TOO

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: APPLES OF GOLD TOO Facility ID: 23000307 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/21/2026 Number Present: 7 Completed Date: 4/21/2026 Age: From 2 To 2 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit and to complete a rated license assessment. You, Misty Warlick, assisted me with the visit today. The facility currently operates with a five-star rated license issued on July 10, 2019, earning six (6) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards, and one (1) quality point. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care, meet enhanced space and meets enhanced ratios. 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. At this time there are no children four and five years of age currently children enrolled. The Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale (ECERS-R) score received on May 20, 20219, was 6.25. The Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale (ECERS-R) score received on May 15, 2019, was 5.06. The Infant/Toddler Environment Rating Scale (ITERS-R) score received on May 20, 2019, was 5.55 The last annual compliance monitoring visit was conducted on July 17, 2025. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on May 2, 2025. A superior sanitation classification was issued with zero (0) demerits noted on the grade card. The most recent approved fire inspection for your facility was conducted on February 11, 2026, for daytime care only. The most recent monthly fire drill was conducted on March 31, 2026, at 4:10pm and recorded. The most recent quarterly shelter-in-place emergency drill was conducted on March 16, 2026, at 9:00am and recorded. The facilities EPR Plan was reviewed on with staff on January 2, 2026, and updated on March 14, 2026. The most recent monthly playground inspection was completed on March 27, 2026, by Misty Warlick. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-nine (99%) percent as of April 20, 2026. The Secretary of State website was checked on April 20, 2026, and your business Apples of Gold South, Inc., 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. A walk-through of the facility was completed today; all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in the indoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance with child care rules. The classroom opened during the visit was Space #1. Children in Space #1 were participating in indoor free play, outdoor gross motor play, hand washing, bathroom routines, diapering, lunch time, and nap time. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children in care. Lunch time was observed and children were served chicken tacos in a soft shell, lettuce, tomatoes, black beans, and milk. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. The analysis date for the most recent lead water test was conducted March 27, 2024. Lead water testing must be completed every three years. You may review your facilities results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. On April 20, 2026, I checked the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, and it stated that your facility was exempt for lead-based paint or asbestos testing. The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids™ team determined that APPLES OF GOLD TOO was exempt from the lead-based paint assessment requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1978 and no lead-based paint was used in order to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C.1004. The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids™ team determined that APPLES OF GOLD TOO was exempt from asbestos inspection requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1988 to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C .1003. No additional action is required by the facility. You provided me with applicable program, staff, and children’s records for review. Files were reviewed for one (1) existing staff and two (2) new staff, and applicable records for all staff were reviewed. All staff were listed on the ABCMS Provider Portal roster for this facility. A sample of two (2) children’s records were reviewed. Pathway #3 Packet for Rated License: I reviewed Pathway #3: Accreditation and Head Start packet with you. The Pathway #3: Accreditation and Head Start packet included the Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers, the Classroom Staff to Child Ratio for Accreditation or Head Start form, Pathway #3-Request to Use Accreditation and Head Start Licensure Pathway to Earn a Star Rated License form, and the Office of Head Start verification documentation. I conducted a technical assistance visit with you on January 16. 2026, and reviewed the requirements and documentation for Pathway #3: Accreditation and Head Start. Rated License Information: The facility’s application for re-assessment was received from you on March 26, 2026, choosing the Accreditation and Head Start Pathway #3 option. Your new 5 Star License is based on the following: The license is based on the Head Start educational and programmatic requirements that are comparable or exceed NC QRIS requirements. Your program meets the Head Start Ratio. You completed a Classroom Staff to Child Ratio for Accreditation or Head Start form during today’s visit. This form is to be posted on each classroom space. I received this document that you emailed me on March 26, 2026. This form was revised during today’s visit. An award letter for the current budget period of September 1, 2025, through August 31, 2026, was provided to me on March 26, 2026. I completed and you signed the Pathway 3 Accreditation and Head Start Star Level Assessment for Child Care Centers during today’s visit. The program met the requirements for a 5 Star License. A new license will be mailed directly to you and must be posted upon receipt. At that time, please return the old license to me as it remains the property of the State of North Carolina. You were given an opportunity to ask questions. 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. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the electronic Visit Summary was left at the conclusion of this visit. You signed an electronic visit summary during the visit today and received a copy at the end of the visit. The following violations were observed: 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 2B, the classroom is used as a lunchroom for Space #1. The one outlet on the wall and under the window was missing a plug. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In the unlocked kitchen with the door opened, on the counter with the sink, was one bottle of Cerama Bryte Glass Ceramic Stovetop Cleaner. .2820(b) 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, the classroom used by children two years of age, I observed in the children’s cubbies were three plastic containers of Members Mark baby wipe containers and one container of Parent’s Choice baby wipe container. In the bathroom, where diaper changing of children occurs, one package of Members Mark baby wipes and one package of Parent’s Choice baby wipes were located on the middle and bottom shelf of the changing table. 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) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. Identifying information, such as photographs, for three school-age were not documented in their emergency information file used for transportation. This information was not available for review. One child was enrolled on July 15, 2025, and two children were enrolled on September 2, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. One child enrolled on August 20, 2024, did not have available for review an updated travel authorization form. The previous travel authorization form expired on December 31, 2025. .1003(i)(j) Technical assistance was provided on the following violations: 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 violation was corrected during the visit when an outlet cover was placed in the outlet. Emergency and identifying information for transportation- -We discussed that emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form must be in the vehicle for each child being transported. I suggested that you obtain a picture of children being transported prior to or on the first day of enrollment before the child is transported to ensure compliance with this requirement. If the child’s parent does not provide you with a picture of the child, request permission to take a picture of the child for transportation requirement purposes. This violation was corrected during the visit by the Administrator printing the missing photographs and the photographs were placed in the children’s file kept in the van. Plastic Container with Written Warnings: I reminded you that plastic packing that have 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 storage containers with a lid and/or placed on a shelf out of reach of children. This violation was corrected during the visit. The diaper changing station was moved to Space #2B, and the baby wipe containers were placed on the shelf above the diaper changing station that measure higher than five feet. Travel Authorization: I suggested that you review emergency information that is required to be on file when transporting children is reviewed quarterly to ensure all required documentation is complete. -Hazardous Materials I reminded you that 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 must be stored in a locked storage room or cabinet. I suggested that you monitor all areas of the child care facility each day to ensure all hazardous products are stored appropriately. I suggested that you remind staff to refrain from storing the key in the lock on cabinets or closets containing hazardous products or materials required to be kept in locked storage. I also suggested that you check all storage cabinets and closets to ensure the lock is operating properly. This violation was corrected during the visit. The hazardous materials was placed in a locked cabinet. -Provider Access to ABCMS I reviewed with you the documentation from the ABCMS Portal system that was available for review and compared that information with the facility’s staff and training worksheet. I found that all staff were listed on the staff and training worksheet were also listed in the ABCMS Portal. The ABCMS Portal was up to date and current. Compliance Documentation and Information Due Date: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 5, 2026. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: 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 If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 An unannounced visit may be made in the near future to verify correction of violations. Consultation: -Safe Environment/Supervision During Naptime: We discussed naptime classroom environment. I discussed with you and staff during the visit today 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 offer assistance to a child if needed. I conducted an observation of the classrooms during naptime and found that all child care rules were in compliance. 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 .1003 · Violation

Name of Operation: APPLES OF GOLD TOO Facility ID: 23000307 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/21/2026 Number Present: 7 Completed Date: 4/21/2026 Age: From 2 To 2 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit and to complete a rated license assessment. You, Misty Warlick, assisted me with the visit today. The facility currently operates with a five-star rated license issued on July 10, 2019, earning six (6) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards, and one (1) quality point. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care, meet enhanced space and meets enhanced ratios. 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. At this time there are no children four and five years of age currently children enrolled. The Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale (ECERS-R) score received on May 20, 20219, was 6.25. The Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale (ECERS-R) score received on May 15, 2019, was 5.06. The Infant/Toddler Environment Rating Scale (ITERS-R) score received on May 20, 2019, was 5.55 The last annual compliance monitoring visit was conducted on July 17, 2025. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on May 2, 2025. A superior sanitation classification was issued with zero (0) demerits noted on the grade card. The most recent approved fire inspection for your facility was conducted on February 11, 2026, for daytime care only. The most recent monthly fire drill was conducted on March 31, 2026, at 4:10pm and recorded. The most recent quarterly shelter-in-place emergency drill was conducted on March 16, 2026, at 9:00am and recorded. The facilities EPR Plan was reviewed on with staff on January 2, 2026, and updated on March 14, 2026. The most recent monthly playground inspection was completed on March 27, 2026, by Misty Warlick. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-nine (99%) percent as of April 20, 2026. The Secretary of State website was checked on April 20, 2026, and your business Apples of Gold South, Inc., 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. A walk-through of the facility was completed today; all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in the indoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance with child care rules. The classroom opened during the visit was Space #1. Children in Space #1 were participating in indoor free play, outdoor gross motor play, hand washing, bathroom routines, diapering, lunch time, and nap time. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children in care. Lunch time was observed and children were served chicken tacos in a soft shell, lettuce, tomatoes, black beans, and milk. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. The analysis date for the most recent lead water test was conducted March 27, 2024. Lead water testing must be completed every three years. You may review your facilities results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. On April 20, 2026, I checked the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, and it stated that your facility was exempt for lead-based paint or asbestos testing. The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids™ team determined that APPLES OF GOLD TOO was exempt from the lead-based paint assessment requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1978 and no lead-based paint was used in order to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C.1004. The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids™ team determined that APPLES OF GOLD TOO was exempt from asbestos inspection requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1988 to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C .1003. No additional action is required by the facility. You provided me with applicable program, staff, and children’s records for review. Files were reviewed for one (1) existing staff and two (2) new staff, and applicable records for all staff were reviewed. All staff were listed on the ABCMS Provider Portal roster for this facility. A sample of two (2) children’s records were reviewed. Pathway #3 Packet for Rated License: I reviewed Pathway #3: Accreditation and Head Start packet with you. The Pathway #3: Accreditation and Head Start packet included the Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers, the Classroom Staff to Child Ratio for Accreditation or Head Start form, Pathway #3-Request to Use Accreditation and Head Start Licensure Pathway to Earn a Star Rated License form, and the Office of Head Start verification documentation. I conducted a technical assistance visit with you on January 16. 2026, and reviewed the requirements and documentation for Pathway #3: Accreditation and Head Start. Rated License Information: The facility’s application for re-assessment was received from you on March 26, 2026, choosing the Accreditation and Head Start Pathway #3 option. Your new 5 Star License is based on the following: The license is based on the Head Start educational and programmatic requirements that are comparable or exceed NC QRIS requirements. Your program meets the Head Start Ratio. You completed a Classroom Staff to Child Ratio for Accreditation or Head Start form during today’s visit. This form is to be posted on each classroom space. I received this document that you emailed me on March 26, 2026. This form was revised during today’s visit. An award letter for the current budget period of September 1, 2025, through August 31, 2026, was provided to me on March 26, 2026. I completed and you signed the Pathway 3 Accreditation and Head Start Star Level Assessment for Child Care Centers during today’s visit. The program met the requirements for a 5 Star License. A new license will be mailed directly to you and must be posted upon receipt. At that time, please return the old license to me as it remains the property of the State of North Carolina. You were given an opportunity to ask questions. 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. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the electronic Visit Summary was left at the conclusion of this visit. You signed an electronic visit summary during the visit today and received a copy at the end of the visit. The following violations were observed: 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 2B, the classroom is used as a lunchroom for Space #1. The one outlet on the wall and under the window was missing a plug. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In the unlocked kitchen with the door opened, on the counter with the sink, was one bottle of Cerama Bryte Glass Ceramic Stovetop Cleaner. .2820(b) 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, the classroom used by children two years of age, I observed in the children’s cubbies were three plastic containers of Members Mark baby wipe containers and one container of Parent’s Choice baby wipe container. In the bathroom, where diaper changing of children occurs, one package of Members Mark baby wipes and one package of Parent’s Choice baby wipes were located on the middle and bottom shelf of the changing table. 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) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. Identifying information, such as photographs, for three school-age were not documented in their emergency information file used for transportation. This information was not available for review. One child was enrolled on July 15, 2025, and two children were enrolled on September 2, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. One child enrolled on August 20, 2024, did not have available for review an updated travel authorization form. The previous travel authorization form expired on December 31, 2025. .1003(i)(j) Technical assistance was provided on the following violations: 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 violation was corrected during the visit when an outlet cover was placed in the outlet. Emergency and identifying information for transportation- -We discussed that emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form must be in the vehicle for each child being transported. I suggested that you obtain a picture of children being transported prior to or on the first day of enrollment before the child is transported to ensure compliance with this requirement. If the child’s parent does not provide you with a picture of the child, request permission to take a picture of the child for transportation requirement purposes. This violation was corrected during the visit by the Administrator printing the missing photographs and the photographs were placed in the children’s file kept in the van. Plastic Container with Written Warnings: I reminded you that plastic packing that have 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 storage containers with a lid and/or placed on a shelf out of reach of children. This violation was corrected during the visit. The diaper changing station was moved to Space #2B, and the baby wipe containers were placed on the shelf above the diaper changing station that measure higher than five feet. Travel Authorization: I suggested that you review emergency information that is required to be on file when transporting children is reviewed quarterly to ensure all required documentation is complete. -Hazardous Materials I reminded you that 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 must be stored in a locked storage room or cabinet. I suggested that you monitor all areas of the child care facility each day to ensure all hazardous products are stored appropriately. I suggested that you remind staff to refrain from storing the key in the lock on cabinets or closets containing hazardous products or materials required to be kept in locked storage. I also suggested that you check all storage cabinets and closets to ensure the lock is operating properly. This violation was corrected during the visit. The hazardous materials was placed in a locked cabinet. -Provider Access to ABCMS I reviewed with you the documentation from the ABCMS Portal system that was available for review and compared that information with the facility’s staff and training worksheet. I found that all staff were listed on the staff and training worksheet were also listed in the ABCMS Portal. The ABCMS Portal was up to date and current. Compliance Documentation and Information Due Date: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 5, 2026. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: 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 If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 An unannounced visit may be made in the near future to verify correction of violations. Consultation: -Safe Environment/Supervision During Naptime: We discussed naptime classroom environment. I discussed with you and staff during the visit today 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 offer assistance to a child if needed. I conducted an observation of the classrooms during naptime and found that all child care rules were in compliance. 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

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: APPLES OF GOLD TOO Facility ID: 23000307 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/21/2026 Number Present: 7 Completed Date: 4/21/2026 Age: From 2 To 2 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit and to complete a rated license assessment. You, Misty Warlick, assisted me with the visit today. The facility currently operates with a five-star rated license issued on July 10, 2019, earning six (6) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards, and one (1) quality point. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care, meet enhanced space and meets enhanced ratios. 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. At this time there are no children four and five years of age currently children enrolled. The Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale (ECERS-R) score received on May 20, 20219, was 6.25. The Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale (ECERS-R) score received on May 15, 2019, was 5.06. The Infant/Toddler Environment Rating Scale (ITERS-R) score received on May 20, 2019, was 5.55 The last annual compliance monitoring visit was conducted on July 17, 2025. The most recent sanitation inspection for your facility was conducted on May 2, 2025. A superior sanitation classification was issued with zero (0) demerits noted on the grade card. The most recent approved fire inspection for your facility was conducted on February 11, 2026, for daytime care only. The most recent monthly fire drill was conducted on March 31, 2026, at 4:10pm and recorded. The most recent quarterly shelter-in-place emergency drill was conducted on March 16, 2026, at 9:00am and recorded. The facilities EPR Plan was reviewed on with staff on January 2, 2026, and updated on March 14, 2026. The most recent monthly playground inspection was completed on March 27, 2026, by Misty Warlick. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-nine (99%) percent as of April 20, 2026. The Secretary of State website was checked on April 20, 2026, and your business Apples of Gold South, Inc., 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. A walk-through of the facility was completed today; all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in the indoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance with child care rules. The classroom opened during the visit was Space #1. Children in Space #1 were participating in indoor free play, outdoor gross motor play, hand washing, bathroom routines, diapering, lunch time, and nap time. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children in care. Lunch time was observed and children were served chicken tacos in a soft shell, lettuce, tomatoes, black beans, and milk. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. The analysis date for the most recent lead water test was conducted March 27, 2024. Lead water testing must be completed every three years. You may review your facilities results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. On April 20, 2026, I checked the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, and it stated that your facility was exempt for lead-based paint or asbestos testing. The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids™ team determined that APPLES OF GOLD TOO was exempt from the lead-based paint assessment requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1978 and no lead-based paint was used in order to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C.1004. The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids™ team determined that APPLES OF GOLD TOO was exempt from asbestos inspection requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1988 to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C .1003. No additional action is required by the facility. You provided me with applicable program, staff, and children’s records for review. Files were reviewed for one (1) existing staff and two (2) new staff, and applicable records for all staff were reviewed. All staff were listed on the ABCMS Provider Portal roster for this facility. A sample of two (2) children’s records were reviewed. Pathway #3 Packet for Rated License: I reviewed Pathway #3: Accreditation and Head Start packet with you. The Pathway #3: Accreditation and Head Start packet included the Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers, the Classroom Staff to Child Ratio for Accreditation or Head Start form, Pathway #3-Request to Use Accreditation and Head Start Licensure Pathway to Earn a Star Rated License form, and the Office of Head Start verification documentation. I conducted a technical assistance visit with you on January 16. 2026, and reviewed the requirements and documentation for Pathway #3: Accreditation and Head Start. Rated License Information: The facility’s application for re-assessment was received from you on March 26, 2026, choosing the Accreditation and Head Start Pathway #3 option. Your new 5 Star License is based on the following: The license is based on the Head Start educational and programmatic requirements that are comparable or exceed NC QRIS requirements. Your program meets the Head Start Ratio. You completed a Classroom Staff to Child Ratio for Accreditation or Head Start form during today’s visit. This form is to be posted on each classroom space. I received this document that you emailed me on March 26, 2026. This form was revised during today’s visit. An award letter for the current budget period of September 1, 2025, through August 31, 2026, was provided to me on March 26, 2026. I completed and you signed the Pathway 3 Accreditation and Head Start Star Level Assessment for Child Care Centers during today’s visit. The program met the requirements for a 5 Star License. A new license will be mailed directly to you and must be posted upon receipt. At that time, please return the old license to me as it remains the property of the State of North Carolina. You were given an opportunity to ask questions. 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. Violations observed today were discussed with you and documented in the electronic Visit Summary was left at the conclusion of this visit. You signed an electronic visit summary during the visit today and received a copy at the end of the visit. The following violations were observed: 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 2B, the classroom is used as a lunchroom for Space #1. The one outlet on the wall and under the window was missing a plug. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In the unlocked kitchen with the door opened, on the counter with the sink, was one bottle of Cerama Bryte Glass Ceramic Stovetop Cleaner. .2820(b) 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, the classroom used by children two years of age, I observed in the children’s cubbies were three plastic containers of Members Mark baby wipe containers and one container of Parent’s Choice baby wipe container. In the bathroom, where diaper changing of children occurs, one package of Members Mark baby wipes and one package of Parent’s Choice baby wipes were located on the middle and bottom shelf of the changing table. 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) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. Identifying information, such as photographs, for three school-age were not documented in their emergency information file used for transportation. This information was not available for review. One child was enrolled on July 15, 2025, and two children were enrolled on September 2, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. One child enrolled on August 20, 2024, did not have available for review an updated travel authorization form. The previous travel authorization form expired on December 31, 2025. .1003(i)(j) Technical assistance was provided on the following violations: 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 violation was corrected during the visit when an outlet cover was placed in the outlet. Emergency and identifying information for transportation- -We discussed that emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form must be in the vehicle for each child being transported. I suggested that you obtain a picture of children being transported prior to or on the first day of enrollment before the child is transported to ensure compliance with this requirement. If the child’s parent does not provide you with a picture of the child, request permission to take a picture of the child for transportation requirement purposes. This violation was corrected during the visit by the Administrator printing the missing photographs and the photographs were placed in the children’s file kept in the van. Plastic Container with Written Warnings: I reminded you that plastic packing that have 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 storage containers with a lid and/or placed on a shelf out of reach of children. This violation was corrected during the visit. The diaper changing station was moved to Space #2B, and the baby wipe containers were placed on the shelf above the diaper changing station that measure higher than five feet. Travel Authorization: I suggested that you review emergency information that is required to be on file when transporting children is reviewed quarterly to ensure all required documentation is complete. -Hazardous Materials I reminded you that 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 must be stored in a locked storage room or cabinet. I suggested that you monitor all areas of the child care facility each day to ensure all hazardous products are stored appropriately. I suggested that you remind staff to refrain from storing the key in the lock on cabinets or closets containing hazardous products or materials required to be kept in locked storage. I also suggested that you check all storage cabinets and closets to ensure the lock is operating properly. This violation was corrected during the visit. The hazardous materials was placed in a locked cabinet. -Provider Access to ABCMS I reviewed with you the documentation from the ABCMS Portal system that was available for review and compared that information with the facility’s staff and training worksheet. I found that all staff were listed on the staff and training worksheet were also listed in the ABCMS Portal. The ABCMS Portal was up to date and current. Compliance Documentation and Information Due Date: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 5, 2026. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: 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 If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 An unannounced visit may be made in the near future to verify correction of violations. Consultation: -Safe Environment/Supervision During Naptime: We discussed naptime classroom environment. I discussed with you and staff during the visit today 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 offer assistance to a child if needed. I conducted an observation of the classrooms during naptime and found that all child care rules were in compliance. 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 .0102 · Violation

Name of Operation: APPLES OF GOLD TOO Facility ID: 23000307 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/17/2025 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 7/17/2025 Age: From 5 To 6 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:15 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, Misty Warlick, assisted me with the visit today. The Secretary of State website was checked on July 14, 2025, and your business Apples of Gold South, Inc, 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 five-star rated license issued on July 10, 2019, earning six (6) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards, and one (1) quality point. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care, meet enhanced space and meets enhanced ratios. During today’s visit, the children were observed during indoor free play, outdoor free play, music and movement, and lunch. Children enrolled in Space #2a went on a field trip at 1:00pm. Naptime did not occur during the visit today. Inspections/Emergency Drills: Fire Inspection: The last fire inspection was completed on February 10, 2025. Sanitation Inspection: The last sanitation inspection was completed on May 2, 2025, 2024. A “superior” classification was issued with zero (0) demerits noted on the grade card. Emergency Drills/Playground Inspections: The last shelter in place drill was completed on May 30, 2025, at 9:00am and recorded. The last playground inspection was completed on July 16, 2025. The last fire drill was completed on June 24, 2025, at 8:55am 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. Two (2) 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 visit today. I discussed these violations with you in detail at the end of the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. In Space #2a, one child five years of age enrolled on September 22, 2022, did not have available for review of all the required information documented on incident reports dated July 19, 2025. The missing information included the type of medical treatment received, witnesses and cause of injury. In Space #2a, one child five years of age enrolled on July 14, 2024, did not have available for review of all the required information documented on incident reports dated July 7, 2025. The missing information included the witness of the incident. In Space #2a, one child five years of age enrolled on February 20, 2023, did not have available for review of all the required information documented on incident reports dated June 9, 2025. The missing information included the type of injury, the type of medical treatment received, location of the incident, witness, and cause of injury. In Space #2a, one child five years of age enrolled on September 8, 2020, did not have available for review of all the required information documented on incident reports dated June 11, 2025. The missing information included the type of injury, the type of medical treatment received, location of the incident, witness, and cause of injury. .0802 (e) 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 February 20, 2023, 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) The following Technical Assistance regarding the violations observed during today’s visit was provided: Incident reports- -We discussed the information required by rule for incident reports and suggested that you review incident report requirements with all staff. I suggested that you review all incident reports once received to ensure all required information is obtained. This will allow you to gather any missing information from staff to be recorded prior to filing. Child care rule .0802(e) states the child care provider shall complete an incident report each time a child is injured as a result of an incident occurring while the child is in care. This incident report shall include: (1) facility identifying information; (2) the child's name; (3) date and time of the incident; (4) witness to the incident; (5) time the parent is notified of the incident and by whom; (6) piece of equipment involved, if applicable; (7) cause of injury, if applicable; (8) type of injury, if applicable; (9) body part injured, if applicable; (10) where the child received medical treatment, if applicable; (11) description of how and where the incident occurred, and the First Aid received; and (12) steps taken to prevent reoccurrence. This report shall be signed by the person completing it and by the parent, a copy given to the parent or a parent signature declining a copy and the report maintained in the child's file. A copy of the form may be found on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/pdf_forms/DCDEE-0058.pdf. Children’s Applications: Health Care Needs: I discussed with you the child care rule concerning information required on a child’s application. I reminded you there should not be any blanks on a child’s application. I also discussed with you reviewing children’s applications during the enrollment process and reviewing existing applications of children enrolled to ensure accuracy and completeness. 10A NCAC 09 .0801 APPLICATION FOR ENROLLMENT Each child in care shall have an individual application for enrollment completed and signed by the child's parent, as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102. The completed, signed application shall be on file in the center on the first day the child attends and shall include the following information: (5) any health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for these health care needs or concerns; 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-eight percent (98%). 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 July 31, 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 have reviewed the ABCMS Portal Roster for your child care program and the documentation available for review as of July 16, 2025, showed that you have linked two staff. You stated that you are unable to link the third staff to the facility’s ABCMS Portal page. You tried to access the ABCMS Portal during the visit and got an error message not allowing you access. You stated that you have left messages and emailed the Criminal Background Check Unit and are waiting for a response. -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. The lead water testing results were completed on March 27, 2024. On July 14, 2025, I checked the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, and it stated that your facility was exempt for lead-based paint or asbestos testing. Lead water testing must be completed every three years. You may review your results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. -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. For more information, please visit the DCDEE website. On the home page scroll down on the link for What’s New and click on the link QRIS Moderation. The link is ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. I discussed with the three different pathway options and the resources titled Pathways in Brief available for review on the QRIS Modernization webpage. -On-going Trainings: Please visit Moodle on the DCDEE website to obtain necessary on-going training hours as required annually. I also shared with you free trainings resources available for the ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U on the NC Rated License Assessment Project website 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 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 .0801 · Violation

Name of Operation: APPLES OF GOLD TOO Facility ID: 23000307 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/17/2025 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 7/17/2025 Age: From 5 To 6 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:15 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, Misty Warlick, assisted me with the visit today. The Secretary of State website was checked on July 14, 2025, and your business Apples of Gold South, Inc, 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 five-star rated license issued on July 10, 2019, earning six (6) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards, and one (1) quality point. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care, meet enhanced space and meets enhanced ratios. During today’s visit, the children were observed during indoor free play, outdoor free play, music and movement, and lunch. Children enrolled in Space #2a went on a field trip at 1:00pm. Naptime did not occur during the visit today. Inspections/Emergency Drills: Fire Inspection: The last fire inspection was completed on February 10, 2025. Sanitation Inspection: The last sanitation inspection was completed on May 2, 2025, 2024. A “superior” classification was issued with zero (0) demerits noted on the grade card. Emergency Drills/Playground Inspections: The last shelter in place drill was completed on May 30, 2025, at 9:00am and recorded. The last playground inspection was completed on July 16, 2025. The last fire drill was completed on June 24, 2025, at 8:55am 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. Two (2) 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 visit today. I discussed these violations with you in detail at the end of the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. In Space #2a, one child five years of age enrolled on September 22, 2022, did not have available for review of all the required information documented on incident reports dated July 19, 2025. The missing information included the type of medical treatment received, witnesses and cause of injury. In Space #2a, one child five years of age enrolled on July 14, 2024, did not have available for review of all the required information documented on incident reports dated July 7, 2025. The missing information included the witness of the incident. In Space #2a, one child five years of age enrolled on February 20, 2023, did not have available for review of all the required information documented on incident reports dated June 9, 2025. The missing information included the type of injury, the type of medical treatment received, location of the incident, witness, and cause of injury. In Space #2a, one child five years of age enrolled on September 8, 2020, did not have available for review of all the required information documented on incident reports dated June 11, 2025. The missing information included the type of injury, the type of medical treatment received, location of the incident, witness, and cause of injury. .0802 (e) 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 February 20, 2023, 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) The following Technical Assistance regarding the violations observed during today’s visit was provided: Incident reports- -We discussed the information required by rule for incident reports and suggested that you review incident report requirements with all staff. I suggested that you review all incident reports once received to ensure all required information is obtained. This will allow you to gather any missing information from staff to be recorded prior to filing. Child care rule .0802(e) states the child care provider shall complete an incident report each time a child is injured as a result of an incident occurring while the child is in care. This incident report shall include: (1) facility identifying information; (2) the child's name; (3) date and time of the incident; (4) witness to the incident; (5) time the parent is notified of the incident and by whom; (6) piece of equipment involved, if applicable; (7) cause of injury, if applicable; (8) type of injury, if applicable; (9) body part injured, if applicable; (10) where the child received medical treatment, if applicable; (11) description of how and where the incident occurred, and the First Aid received; and (12) steps taken to prevent reoccurrence. This report shall be signed by the person completing it and by the parent, a copy given to the parent or a parent signature declining a copy and the report maintained in the child's file. A copy of the form may be found on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/pdf_forms/DCDEE-0058.pdf. Children’s Applications: Health Care Needs: I discussed with you the child care rule concerning information required on a child’s application. I reminded you there should not be any blanks on a child’s application. I also discussed with you reviewing children’s applications during the enrollment process and reviewing existing applications of children enrolled to ensure accuracy and completeness. 10A NCAC 09 .0801 APPLICATION FOR ENROLLMENT Each child in care shall have an individual application for enrollment completed and signed by the child's parent, as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102. The completed, signed application shall be on file in the center on the first day the child attends and shall include the following information: (5) any health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for these health care needs or concerns; 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-eight percent (98%). 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 July 31, 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 have reviewed the ABCMS Portal Roster for your child care program and the documentation available for review as of July 16, 2025, showed that you have linked two staff. You stated that you are unable to link the third staff to the facility’s ABCMS Portal page. You tried to access the ABCMS Portal during the visit and got an error message not allowing you access. You stated that you have left messages and emailed the Criminal Background Check Unit and are waiting for a response. -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. The lead water testing results were completed on March 27, 2024. On July 14, 2025, I checked the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, and it stated that your facility was exempt for lead-based paint or asbestos testing. Lead water testing must be completed every three years. You may review your results by visiting https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. -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. For more information, please visit the DCDEE website. On the home page scroll down on the link for What’s New and click on the link QRIS Moderation. The link is ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. I discussed with the three different pathway options and the resources titled Pathways in Brief available for review on the QRIS Modernization webpage. -On-going Trainings: Please visit Moodle on the DCDEE website to obtain necessary on-going training hours as required annually. I also shared with you free trainings resources available for the ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and SACERS-U on the NC Rated License Assessment Project website 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 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: APPLES OF GOLD TOO Facility ID: 23000307 Consultant: TIFFANI SIMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/29/2024 Number Present: 8 Completed Date: 7/29/2024 Age: From 2 To 6 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 12:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements including health and safety requirements. You, Misty Warlick, assisted me with the visit today. The Secretary of State website was checked on July 29, 2024_, and your business Apples of Gold South, Inc, 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 five-star rated license issued on July 10, 2019, earning six (6) points in staff education and six (6) points in the program standards, and one (1) quality point. The program's license restrictions include the following: daytime care, meets enhanced space and meets enhanced ratios. During today’s visit, the children were observed indoor free play, art activities, outdoor free play, and lunch. Inspections/Emergency Drills: Fire Inspection: The last fire inspection was completed on February 23, 2024. The next fire inspection is due by February 23, 2025. Sanitation Inspection: The last sanitation inspection was completed on June 11, 2024. A “superior” classification was issued with zero (0) demerits noted on the grade card. The next sanitation inspection needs to be completed by June 30, 2025. Emergency Drills/Playground Inspections: The last shelter in place/lockdown drills were completed on June 21, 2024, at 3:10pm and recorded. The last playground inspection was completed on July 26, 2024. The last fire drill was completed on July 25, 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. 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, one (1) new staff file, and one (1) volunteer staff file 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 violation was observed during the visit today. I discussed this violation 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 #2a, three different electrical outlets located in the block center area, books/cozy area, and on the wall near the exit door did not have outlet safety covers in each of the outlets plugs. These areas were accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) The following Technical Assistance regarding the violations observed during today’s visit was provided: -Outlet Safety Covers I reminded you to conduct daily safety checks of each classroom to ensure all outlet covers either have safety covers and/or something is plugged into the outlet to make it in accessible to children. 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-nine percent (89) %. 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 August 12, 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: -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 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. We discussed if you had completed the Lead testing water testing and have received the result and you also stated that you are in working with Cleveland County Environmental Health on the Lead Paint and Asbestos testing. -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 -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