Little Squires Preschool At Chatham Charter

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Little Squires PreSchool at Chatham Charter Facility ID: 19000419 Consultant: LEISA A. BENSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/13/2026 Number Present: 10 Completed Date: 1/13/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to the third temporary time period visit. This program currently operates with a temporary license effective August 28, 2025 to February 28, 2026. Applicable childcare requirements were discussed with Kianna Mason, Teacher. All indoor and outdoor areas approved for child care were monitored during this visit. During the visit, positive interactions were observed between staff and children. Children were observed participating in a whole-group story time activity and later engaging in center-based activities. The children were observed playing outside. Children were observed washing their hands as required. The staff were observed supervising children throughout this visit, and staff/child ratios were maintained at all times during this visit. The parents are responsible for providing all meals, snacks, and beverages for their child. During this visit, I was informed that no new staff have been hired since my last visit; therefore, individual staff files were not re-monitored. I did review the Staff and Training worksheets dated October 2, 2025 and November 19, 2025, to verify that all staff’s CPR/FA and criminal records checks were current. In addition, program records were monitored. Please note it is the staff’s responsibility to ensure that all required information is on file, current, and available for review at any time. During the visit conducted on November 19, 2025, it was discussed with you that a gate would need to be installed to prevent children from having access to the parking lot. During this visit, I observed that a gate had been installed so children don’t have access to the parking lot. Overall attendance and enrollment were collected today. The attached space, capacity and enrollment worksheet reflects the enrollment and attendance information along with the staff that were present and caring for children today. At the conclusion of the visit, the visit summary was reviewed with you, and you were provided with an opportunity to ask questions, seek clarification, and request technical assistance. You were also provided with an electronic copy of this visit summary for your records. Violation Number Comment Rule 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. The door to the closet that contained an aerosol spray was not closed and locked. This was corrected during the visit when the door was closed and locked. .2820(b) 1835 The medical action plan was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. The medical action plan for one child with a chronic illness was not updated annually. .0801(b) The two (2) violation/s documented above must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be mailed to me by January 27, 2026, stating that all violation/s have been corrected. The letter can be emailed to me at leisa.benson@dhhs.nc.gov. If you state in the compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, this will be considered falsification of information. If you cannot meet the requirements by January 27, 2026, you must contact me immediately with a purposed timeline of the corrections. In some cases, this timeline may be extended. You are required to always maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations. NC GS 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history score of at least 75% for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action. Violations cited during today’s visit, may negatively affect your compliance score. As of today’s, visit your compliance history is 91%. Your compliance history was reviewed with you, and you were also given a copy to keep for your records. Rated License: During this visit you informed me you will not apply for a higher star license at this time. You stated that you understood you would receive a one star license which indicates that you have met minimum requirements to be licensed. You also stated that you understood that a one star license does not qualify you to receive subsidy payments. To be eligible for subsidy, you need to receive a three to five star rated license. I discussed with you that you can apply for a higher star license at any time after receiving your one star license. For more information about the star-rated license you can visit www.ncchildcare.nc.gov or if you have questions about the QRIS Modernization (Reform) you may contact DCDEE at: DCDEE_QRIS@dhhs.nc.gov. Technical Assistance: During this visit, medication documentation was reviewed for one (1) child with a chronic medical condition. The child’s emergency medication and emergency medical plan had expired. A violation regarding the expiration of the child's medication was not cited because the medication had not been administered to the child. I discussed with you that the child's medication should be returned to the parent and they should provide medication that is current. The importance of regularly checking expiration dates on the medication and reviewing children’s files to ensure emergency medical care plans are current was discussed as technical assistance. Maintaining current medication and care plans ensures staff can respond appropriately and safely in the event of a medical emergency and helps prevent delays or unsafe treatment. Technical assistance was provided regarding the importance of maintaining hazardous cleaning supplies including those in aerosol containers in locked storage to prevent potential child access and ensure a safe learning environment. During the visit, you requested clarification regarding the provision of lunch to children. I discussed with you that, because an opt-out form is on file for each child enrolled, the center is not permitted to serve any food or beverages. The only exception is if parents don’t provide food or beverages, then the center can serve food and beverage that meet nutritional requirements. The intent of the opt-out form is that parents have the option to provide all foods and beverages for their child; this is an either/or option and not a shared responsibility. It was further discussed that if the center chooses to provide food and beverages parents will need to complete a new documentation withdrawing from the opt-out option. In that case, the center would be responsible for providing all foods and beverages that meet nutritional requirements. A menu would be required to be posted where children will eat so it can be easily seen by parents. A menu and food allergy list would also need to be posted in the food prep area. All foods and beverages, including those brought from home, should meet nutritional requirements. If the food and beverages brought from home is missing a component, then it would be the responsibility of the center to provide the missing component. For more information about the FDA nutritional requirements you can visit: www.fns.usda.gov. Once you receive your one star license you are required to create a staff roster in the ABCMS Provider Portal. I provided you with information on how to access the ABCMS Provider Portal. If you have any questions please contact me at (919) 819-9348 or, email: leisa.benson@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: Little Squires PreSchool at Chatham Charter Facility ID: 19000419 Consultant: LEISA A. BENSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/19/2025 Number Present: 10 Completed Date: 11/19/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to the first Temporary Time Period Visit. This program currently operates with a temporary license effective August 28, 2025 to February 28, 2026. Applicable childcare requirements were discussed with you, Morgan Mincey, Lead Teacher. Janet Edwards, Licensing Supervisor accompanied me during today's visit. During the visit, children were observed engaging in free play and routine activities. Children were observed playing outside. The teachers and children demonstrated appropriate interactions, and adequate supervision was maintained. The indoor and outdoor areas approved for child care were also monitored during the visit. The following were also observed during today’s visit: staff/child ratios; storage of hazardous products; adequate/approved space; posted license and permit restrictions. Parents are responsible for providing all meals, snacks, and beverages. During the visit one (1) new staff file and two (2) children's files were reviewed. In addition, the required center program records were also monitored. It is your responsibility to review all files to ensure they are complete and accurate. Overall attendance and enrollment were collected today. The attached space, capacity and enrollment worksheet reflects the enrollment and attendance information along with the staff that were present and caring for children today. At the completion of the visit, I reviewed the Visit Summary with you, and a computerized copy was also given to you for your records. Violation Number Comment Rule 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. The storage cabinet that contained hazardous cleaning supplies and aerosol containers was not locked. This was corrected when the door to the closet that contained the storage cabinet was locked. .2820(b) 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. Four electrical space heaters were being used, this did not comply with fire code requirements. This was corrected during the visit when all heaters were removed from the classroom. GS 110-91 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. This was not on file for one staff. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. One new staff did not complete orientation within the required timeframe. .1101(a)(b) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. This was not reviewed with one staff prior to caring for children. .0608(d)(1-4) 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. Medical information was not stored separately for one staff. This was corrected when this information was removed and placed in a separate file during the visit. .0701(d) The violations that were not corrected during the visit must be corrected immediately. I must receive a signed and dated letter of compliance from you no later than December 3, 2025, stating that all violations have been corrected. You can email your compliance letter to: leisa.benson@dhhs.nc.gov. If you cannot meet the requirements by the above date, you must contact me with a proposed timeline of the corrections. In some cases, this timeline may be extended. If I don’t receive your compliance letter or you haven’t contacted me by December 3, 2025, Follow-up Visit could be conducted and violations cited. If you state in the compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, this will be considered falsification of information. You are required to always maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations. NC GS 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history score of at least 75% for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action. Violations cited during this visit may negatively affect your compliance score. As of today, your compliance history is 90%. Your compliance history was reviewed with you, and you were also given a copy to keep for your records. Rated License: Pathways to the Stars: The NC Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS) QRIS is a systemic approach to assess, improve, and communicate the level of quality in child care. It encourages programs to engage in continuous quality improvement and families may use the star rating to make informed decisions when choosing a child care facility. During the visit you were provided with information about the three (3) QRIS Pathways. It was discussed with you that you should begin to review the different pathways and choose the best pathway for your facility. You stated that after reviewing the different pathways you may consider going with Pathway 2. A new Pathways to the Stars Rules Roll Out module is now available in the DCDEE Moodle digital learning platform. During the visit you were given an Application for Assessment for a Rated License for a Center. To access the links on the application you can visit: the DCDEE website at: www.ncchildcare.nc.gov and click on the provider tab and then scroll down and click on the provider documents and forms and then click on the Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers. Questions about QRIS Modernization (Reform) may be sent to DCDEE_QRIS@dhhs.nc.gov. Keep in mind that In order to be eligible for subsidy payments at the end of the temporary time period, the facility must transition to a three to five star rated license. Technical Assistance: During the pre-licensing process, they were not required to have a gate on the deck. However, after monitoring the playground with my supervisor it was determined that a gate should be installed to ensure that children don't have access to the ramp which leads directly to the playground. This should be corrected before my next visit. If it isn't corrected by that time a violation could be cited. Technical assistance was provided on maintaining required child care files. Guidance was given on the importance of keeping files organized, complete, and up to date for staff records. REMINDERS: You can visit the DCDEE website at www.ncchildcare.nc.gov for updated information, resources, and provider forms. Please contact me at 919-819-9348 or, email leisa.benson@dhhs.nc.gov if you have any questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Little Squires PreSchool at Chatham Charter Facility ID: 19000419 Consultant: LEISA A. BENSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/19/2025 Number Present: 10 Completed Date: 11/19/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to the first Temporary Time Period Visit. This program currently operates with a temporary license effective August 28, 2025 to February 28, 2026. Applicable childcare requirements were discussed with you, Morgan Mincey, Lead Teacher. Janet Edwards, Licensing Supervisor accompanied me during today's visit. During the visit, children were observed engaging in free play and routine activities. Children were observed playing outside. The teachers and children demonstrated appropriate interactions, and adequate supervision was maintained. The indoor and outdoor areas approved for child care were also monitored during the visit. The following were also observed during today’s visit: staff/child ratios; storage of hazardous products; adequate/approved space; posted license and permit restrictions. Parents are responsible for providing all meals, snacks, and beverages. During the visit one (1) new staff file and two (2) children's files were reviewed. In addition, the required center program records were also monitored. It is your responsibility to review all files to ensure they are complete and accurate. Overall attendance and enrollment were collected today. The attached space, capacity and enrollment worksheet reflects the enrollment and attendance information along with the staff that were present and caring for children today. At the completion of the visit, I reviewed the Visit Summary with you, and a computerized copy was also given to you for your records. Violation Number Comment Rule 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. The storage cabinet that contained hazardous cleaning supplies and aerosol containers was not locked. This was corrected when the door to the closet that contained the storage cabinet was locked. .2820(b) 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. Four electrical space heaters were being used, this did not comply with fire code requirements. This was corrected during the visit when all heaters were removed from the classroom. GS 110-91 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. This was not on file for one staff. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. One new staff did not complete orientation within the required timeframe. .1101(a)(b) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. This was not reviewed with one staff prior to caring for children. .0608(d)(1-4) 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. Medical information was not stored separately for one staff. This was corrected when this information was removed and placed in a separate file during the visit. .0701(d) The violations that were not corrected during the visit must be corrected immediately. I must receive a signed and dated letter of compliance from you no later than December 3, 2025, stating that all violations have been corrected. You can email your compliance letter to: leisa.benson@dhhs.nc.gov. If you cannot meet the requirements by the above date, you must contact me with a proposed timeline of the corrections. In some cases, this timeline may be extended. If I don’t receive your compliance letter or you haven’t contacted me by December 3, 2025, Follow-up Visit could be conducted and violations cited. If you state in the compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, this will be considered falsification of information. You are required to always maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations. NC GS 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history score of at least 75% for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action. Violations cited during this visit may negatively affect your compliance score. As of today, your compliance history is 90%. Your compliance history was reviewed with you, and you were also given a copy to keep for your records. Rated License: Pathways to the Stars: The NC Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS) QRIS is a systemic approach to assess, improve, and communicate the level of quality in child care. It encourages programs to engage in continuous quality improvement and families may use the star rating to make informed decisions when choosing a child care facility. During the visit you were provided with information about the three (3) QRIS Pathways. It was discussed with you that you should begin to review the different pathways and choose the best pathway for your facility. You stated that after reviewing the different pathways you may consider going with Pathway 2. A new Pathways to the Stars Rules Roll Out module is now available in the DCDEE Moodle digital learning platform. During the visit you were given an Application for Assessment for a Rated License for a Center. To access the links on the application you can visit: the DCDEE website at: www.ncchildcare.nc.gov and click on the provider tab and then scroll down and click on the provider documents and forms and then click on the Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers. Questions about QRIS Modernization (Reform) may be sent to DCDEE_QRIS@dhhs.nc.gov. Keep in mind that In order to be eligible for subsidy payments at the end of the temporary time period, the facility must transition to a three to five star rated license. Technical Assistance: During the pre-licensing process, they were not required to have a gate on the deck. However, after monitoring the playground with my supervisor it was determined that a gate should be installed to ensure that children don't have access to the ramp which leads directly to the playground. This should be corrected before my next visit. If it isn't corrected by that time a violation could be cited. Technical assistance was provided on maintaining required child care files. Guidance was given on the importance of keeping files organized, complete, and up to date for staff records. REMINDERS: You can visit the DCDEE website at www.ncchildcare.nc.gov for updated information, resources, and provider forms. Please contact me at 919-819-9348 or, email leisa.benson@dhhs.nc.gov if you have any questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: Little Squires PreSchool at Chatham Charter Facility ID: 19000419 Consultant: LEISA A. BENSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/2/2025 Number Present: 10 Completed Date: 10/2/2025 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 175 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to the first Temporary Time Period Visit. This program currently operates with a temporary license effective August 28, 2025 to February 28, 2026. Applicable childcare requirements were discussed with you, Clint Fields Administrator and Kianna Taysor, Teacher. The administrator was on site and available if needed. During the visit, children were observed engaging in free play and routine activities. The teacher and children demonstrated appropriate interactions, and adequate supervision was maintained. The indoor and outdoor areas approved for child care were also monitored during the visit. The following were also observed during today’s visit: staff/child ratios; storage of hazardous products; adequate/approved space; posted license and permit restrictions. All meals, snacks, and beverages are provided by parents. Each child had an Opt Out Form on file. During the visit three (3) staff files, including the administrator’s, file and three (3) children’s files were reviewed. In addition, the required center program records were also monitored. It is your responsibility to review all files to ensure they are complete and accurate. Overall attendance and enrollment were collected today. The attached space, capacity and enrollment worksheet reflects the enrollment and attendance information along with the staff that were present and caring for children today. At the completion of the visit, I reviewed the Visit Summary with you, and a computerized copy was also given to you for your records. Violation Number Comment Rule 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. This was not completed monthly. .0605(q) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One staff did not have a medical assessment prior to employment. This was corrected when the staff received their medical assessment and it was placed in their file. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. This was not completed for one staff within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) The three (3) violations cited during the visit must be corrected immediately. Violation #1032 was corrected during the visit. I must receive a signed and dated letter of compliance from you no later than October 16, 2025, stating that all violations have been corrected. You can email your compliance letter to: leisa.benson@dhhs.nc.gov. If you cannot meet the requirements by the above date, you must contact me with a purposed timeline of the corrections. In some cases, this timeline may be extended. If I don’t receive your compliance letter or you haven’t contacted me by October 16, 2025, a Follow-up Visit could be conducted and violations cited. If you state in the compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, this will be considered falsification of information. You are required to always maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations. NC GS 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history score of at least 75% for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action. Violations cited during this visit may negatively affect your compliance score. As of today, your compliance history is 94%. Your compliance history was reviewed with you, and you were also given a copy to keep for your records. Rated License: Pathways to the Stars: The NC Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS) QRIS is a systemic approach to assess, improve, and communicate the level of quality in child care. It encourages programs to engage in continuous quality improvement and families may use the star rating to make informed decisions when choosing a child care facility. During the visit you were provided with information about the three (3) QRIS Pathways. It was discussed with you that you should begin to review the different pathways and choose the best pathway for your facility. You stated that after reviewing the different pathways you may consider going with Pathway 2. A new Pathways to the Stars Rules Roll Out module is now available in the DCDEE Moodle digital learning platform. During the visit you were given an Application for Assessment for a Rated License for a Center. To access the links in the application you can visit: the DCDEE website at: www.ncchildcare.nc.gov and click on the provider tab and then scroll down and click on the provider documents and forms and then click on the Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers. During the visit I also demonstrated how to access the QRI information and the application located on the DCDEE website: www.ncchildcare.nc.gov. Questions about QRIS Modernization (Reform) may be sent to DCDEE_QRIS@dhhs.nc.gov. I did verify that all current staff's education information has been evaluated by WORKS-current education information was on file for each staff. As a reminder if you receive additional education it should also be evaluated by WORKS. Keep in mind that In order to be eligible for subsidy payments at the end of the temporary time period, the facility must transition to a three to five star rated license. Technical Assistance: I discussed with you the importance of conducting playground safety inspections on a monthly basis using the form provided by DCDEE. I demonstrated how to access that form on the DCDEE website. Orientation is important in child care because it ensures that all staff understand licensing requirements and health and safety practices. A thorough orientation promotes consistency, supports compliance, and helps create a safe and nurturing environment for children and families. You can visit the DCDEE website at www.ncchildcare.nc.gov for updated information, resources, and provider forms. You should look for the Raise NC Newsletter that is emailed each Friday. If you are not receiving it check your spam mail or contact me. Please contact me at 919-819-9348 or, email leisa.benson@dhhs.nc.gov if you have any questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Little Squires PreSchool at Chatham Charter Facility ID: 19000419 Consultant: LEISA A. BENSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/2/2025 Number Present: 10 Completed Date: 10/2/2025 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 175 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to the first Temporary Time Period Visit. This program currently operates with a temporary license effective August 28, 2025 to February 28, 2026. Applicable childcare requirements were discussed with you, Clint Fields Administrator and Kianna Taysor, Teacher. The administrator was on site and available if needed. During the visit, children were observed engaging in free play and routine activities. The teacher and children demonstrated appropriate interactions, and adequate supervision was maintained. The indoor and outdoor areas approved for child care were also monitored during the visit. The following were also observed during today’s visit: staff/child ratios; storage of hazardous products; adequate/approved space; posted license and permit restrictions. All meals, snacks, and beverages are provided by parents. Each child had an Opt Out Form on file. During the visit three (3) staff files, including the administrator’s, file and three (3) children’s files were reviewed. In addition, the required center program records were also monitored. It is your responsibility to review all files to ensure they are complete and accurate. Overall attendance and enrollment were collected today. The attached space, capacity and enrollment worksheet reflects the enrollment and attendance information along with the staff that were present and caring for children today. At the completion of the visit, I reviewed the Visit Summary with you, and a computerized copy was also given to you for your records. Violation Number Comment Rule 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. This was not completed monthly. .0605(q) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One staff did not have a medical assessment prior to employment. This was corrected when the staff received their medical assessment and it was placed in their file. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. This was not completed for one staff within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) The three (3) violations cited during the visit must be corrected immediately. Violation #1032 was corrected during the visit. I must receive a signed and dated letter of compliance from you no later than October 16, 2025, stating that all violations have been corrected. You can email your compliance letter to: leisa.benson@dhhs.nc.gov. If you cannot meet the requirements by the above date, you must contact me with a purposed timeline of the corrections. In some cases, this timeline may be extended. If I don’t receive your compliance letter or you haven’t contacted me by October 16, 2025, a Follow-up Visit could be conducted and violations cited. If you state in the compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, this will be considered falsification of information. You are required to always maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations. NC GS 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history score of at least 75% for the past eighteen (18) months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action. Violations cited during this visit may negatively affect your compliance score. As of today, your compliance history is 94%. Your compliance history was reviewed with you, and you were also given a copy to keep for your records. Rated License: Pathways to the Stars: The NC Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS) QRIS is a systemic approach to assess, improve, and communicate the level of quality in child care. It encourages programs to engage in continuous quality improvement and families may use the star rating to make informed decisions when choosing a child care facility. During the visit you were provided with information about the three (3) QRIS Pathways. It was discussed with you that you should begin to review the different pathways and choose the best pathway for your facility. You stated that after reviewing the different pathways you may consider going with Pathway 2. A new Pathways to the Stars Rules Roll Out module is now available in the DCDEE Moodle digital learning platform. During the visit you were given an Application for Assessment for a Rated License for a Center. To access the links in the application you can visit: the DCDEE website at: www.ncchildcare.nc.gov and click on the provider tab and then scroll down and click on the provider documents and forms and then click on the Application for Assessment for a Rated License for Centers. During the visit I also demonstrated how to access the QRI information and the application located on the DCDEE website: www.ncchildcare.nc.gov. Questions about QRIS Modernization (Reform) may be sent to DCDEE_QRIS@dhhs.nc.gov. I did verify that all current staff's education information has been evaluated by WORKS-current education information was on file for each staff. As a reminder if you receive additional education it should also be evaluated by WORKS. Keep in mind that In order to be eligible for subsidy payments at the end of the temporary time period, the facility must transition to a three to five star rated license. Technical Assistance: I discussed with you the importance of conducting playground safety inspections on a monthly basis using the form provided by DCDEE. I demonstrated how to access that form on the DCDEE website. Orientation is important in child care because it ensures that all staff understand licensing requirements and health and safety practices. A thorough orientation promotes consistency, supports compliance, and helps create a safe and nurturing environment for children and families. You can visit the DCDEE website at www.ncchildcare.nc.gov for updated information, resources, and provider forms. You should look for the Raise NC Newsletter that is emailed each Friday. If you are not receiving it check your spam mail or contact me. Please contact me at 919-819-9348 or, email leisa.benson@dhhs.nc.gov if you have any questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times