10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: DISCOVERY LAND, INC. CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 40000079 Consultant: KESHIA HAYWARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/3/2025 Number Present: 23 Completed Date: 6/3/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 130 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 11:00 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor your facility for compliance with applicable child care requirements during a routine unannounced visit. Angela Head, the administrator, assisted with the visit. Twenty-three (23) children were observed in care today ranging from zero to five years old. Children were engaged in outdoor play with developmentally age-appropriate equipment and toys, completing toileting and hand washing routines, and interacting with the caregivers. Currently this program operates with a three-star license earning four points in staff education, two points program standards, and one quality point for the administrator competing a 30-hour business training. The sanitation inspection was completed on February 25, 2025, earning a superior classification. The last fire inspection was completed on November 18, 2024, and the center was approved for daytime care. The last annual compliance visit was completed on October 15, 2024. The following violations were documented today. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The fire inspection report dated November 18, 2024, was submitted on January 9, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The black border enclosing the surface on playground was cracked exposing sharp points. The cement footing holding the basketball on the preschool playground was exposed above ground. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) The violations documented must be corrected immediately. Please send a compliance verification letter to me describing how the violations were corrected. You can submit the compliance verification letter by postal mail to Keshia Hayward, PO Box 1504 Greenville NC 27834, or email keshia.hayward@dhhs.nc.gov. The compliance verification letter must be received on or before June 17, 2025. The two-week time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance verification letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during the visit is legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined the information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility's Star Rated License, could be issued COMPLIANCE HISTORY: The program's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 99% percent as of June 2, 2025. CORPORATION STATUS: Discovery Land, Inc. is listed as the current owner of this center. According to information verified on the North Carolina Secretary of State’s website, Discovery Land, Inc. remains current and active. Prior to making any changes in the ownership status contact me to discuss the change of ownership procedures. Failure to comply could impact the program license status STAFF/CHILD INTERACTIONS: During my observation, all children were observed engaged outdoor play and interacting with caregivers in a safe and nurturing environment. Preschool children played basketball together with the instruction of the caregiver while others rode the see-saw nearby. Infants/toddlers were assisted on the small child-sized merry-go-ground with peers, pulled in the wagons and played tag. Staff were attentive and engaged with children throughout these activities. SAFE OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT: During the visit, it was observed that the cement footing at the bottom of the basketball goal was exposed above the ground. We discussed covering the cement footing or having it reinserted back into the ground. Three areas on the black border enclosing the surfacing on the preschool play were cracked exposing sharp edges. We talked about covering the cracked areas with black duct tape to temporarily remove the hazard. You stated you would have the areas covered with puddy later. I talked to you about maintenance of the mulch surfacing on the playground. It was recommended you till the mulch surface and evenly distribute it across the play area and around the equipment. I explained that ensuring the playground surfacing meets the required depth helps reduce the risk of injury in the event a child falls from the equipment. Maintaining proper depth of surfacing is a critical component in providing a safe outdoor play environment. You were reminded that you are responsible for maintaining a safe environment for children during outdoor play. FIRE INSPECTION REPORTS: I reminded you fire inspection reports must be sent to me five days from the date the inspection was completed. You shared you thought the fire inspector sent the inspection report to consultants. I explained submitting fire inspection report is the responsibility of the operator. I advised you to document the dates on a calendar as a reminder to send in within a time ly manner. ABCMS PORTAL: You provided a certificate to verify the ABCMS training has been taken. You stated staff have already been linked themselves to the program’s portal yet; however, they will complete the process soon. SLEEPING MATS: I recommended placing a barrier between the sleeping mats to ensure they do not touch each other. You shared the environmental health specialist approved the mats to be stored in that manner because the inside areas where children sleep do not touch. I explained the best practice would be to create a barrier to ensure covers do not touch at any time. NEW ECE APPRENTICESHIP PATHWAYS OPPORTUNITIES! The North Carolina Business Committee for Education (NCBCE) continues its work with early childhood education apprenticeship programs through its Building Bright Futures (BBF) and North Carolina Career Launch (NCCL) initiatives. In partnership with BBF and Apprenticeship NC, Early Years was honored to register the first statewide Early Childhood Educator (ECE) Apprenticeship Programs in North Carolina on October 31, 2024. Registered apprenticeship programs include paid on-the-job training under the guidance of a mentor, related supplemental instruction, and the opportunity to earn industry-recognized credentials. In addition, the components of TEACH Early Childhood® scholarships for associate and bachelor’s degrees have always mirrored the elements of an apprenticeship program, creating the foundation for this well-rounded and supportive program. NCBCE’s newest initiative, North Carolina Career Launch (NCCL), focuses on supporting the high school Pre apprenticeship to apprenticeship pathway. High school students can take the Introduction to Early Childhood Education class and complete work-based learning hours with an employer, while receiving guidance, support, and financial incentives from NCCL. These pre-apprenticeships can lead to apprenticeship opportunities for post-secondary education and employment. For more information, contact Morgan Ford at morgan.ford@nc.gov. The information above was retrieved from the Raise NC Newsletter. At the conclusion of today’s visit, the visit summary report was completed, reviewed, and left with you. DCDEE RESOURCES: I recommended you periodically visit the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ under the "What's New" tab to stay abreast of updated information provided. Be reminded you are responsible for maintaining compliance with all applicable child care requirements whether they have been discussed or reviewed with you in the past. CONTACT INFORMATION: If you have questions regarding today’s visit, my contact information is listed above. You may also contact Licensing Supervisor, Susan Fuller at 252-373-9809 or email susan.fuller@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: DISCOVERY LAND, INC. CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 40000079 Consultant: KESHIA HAYWARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/3/2025 Number Present: 23 Completed Date: 6/3/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 130 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 11:00 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor your facility for compliance with applicable child care requirements during a routine unannounced visit. Angela Head, the administrator, assisted with the visit. Twenty-three (23) children were observed in care today ranging from zero to five years old. Children were engaged in outdoor play with developmentally age-appropriate equipment and toys, completing toileting and hand washing routines, and interacting with the caregivers. Currently this program operates with a three-star license earning four points in staff education, two points program standards, and one quality point for the administrator competing a 30-hour business training. The sanitation inspection was completed on February 25, 2025, earning a superior classification. The last fire inspection was completed on November 18, 2024, and the center was approved for daytime care. The last annual compliance visit was completed on October 15, 2024. The following violations were documented today. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The fire inspection report dated November 18, 2024, was submitted on January 9, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The black border enclosing the surface on playground was cracked exposing sharp points. The cement footing holding the basketball on the preschool playground was exposed above ground. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) The violations documented must be corrected immediately. Please send a compliance verification letter to me describing how the violations were corrected. You can submit the compliance verification letter by postal mail to Keshia Hayward, PO Box 1504 Greenville NC 27834, or email keshia.hayward@dhhs.nc.gov. The compliance verification letter must be received on or before June 17, 2025. The two-week time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance verification letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during the visit is legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined the information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility's Star Rated License, could be issued COMPLIANCE HISTORY: The program's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 99% percent as of June 2, 2025. CORPORATION STATUS: Discovery Land, Inc. is listed as the current owner of this center. According to information verified on the North Carolina Secretary of State’s website, Discovery Land, Inc. remains current and active. Prior to making any changes in the ownership status contact me to discuss the change of ownership procedures. Failure to comply could impact the program license status STAFF/CHILD INTERACTIONS: During my observation, all children were observed engaged outdoor play and interacting with caregivers in a safe and nurturing environment. Preschool children played basketball together with the instruction of the caregiver while others rode the see-saw nearby. Infants/toddlers were assisted on the small child-sized merry-go-ground with peers, pulled in the wagons and played tag. Staff were attentive and engaged with children throughout these activities. SAFE OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT: During the visit, it was observed that the cement footing at the bottom of the basketball goal was exposed above the ground. We discussed covering the cement footing or having it reinserted back into the ground. Three areas on the black border enclosing the surfacing on the preschool play were cracked exposing sharp edges. We talked about covering the cracked areas with black duct tape to temporarily remove the hazard. You stated you would have the areas covered with puddy later. I talked to you about maintenance of the mulch surfacing on the playground. It was recommended you till the mulch surface and evenly distribute it across the play area and around the equipment. I explained that ensuring the playground surfacing meets the required depth helps reduce the risk of injury in the event a child falls from the equipment. Maintaining proper depth of surfacing is a critical component in providing a safe outdoor play environment. You were reminded that you are responsible for maintaining a safe environment for children during outdoor play. FIRE INSPECTION REPORTS: I reminded you fire inspection reports must be sent to me five days from the date the inspection was completed. You shared you thought the fire inspector sent the inspection report to consultants. I explained submitting fire inspection report is the responsibility of the operator. I advised you to document the dates on a calendar as a reminder to send in within a time ly manner. ABCMS PORTAL: You provided a certificate to verify the ABCMS training has been taken. You stated staff have already been linked themselves to the program’s portal yet; however, they will complete the process soon. SLEEPING MATS: I recommended placing a barrier between the sleeping mats to ensure they do not touch each other. You shared the environmental health specialist approved the mats to be stored in that manner because the inside areas where children sleep do not touch. I explained the best practice would be to create a barrier to ensure covers do not touch at any time. NEW ECE APPRENTICESHIP PATHWAYS OPPORTUNITIES! The North Carolina Business Committee for Education (NCBCE) continues its work with early childhood education apprenticeship programs through its Building Bright Futures (BBF) and North Carolina Career Launch (NCCL) initiatives. In partnership with BBF and Apprenticeship NC, Early Years was honored to register the first statewide Early Childhood Educator (ECE) Apprenticeship Programs in North Carolina on October 31, 2024. Registered apprenticeship programs include paid on-the-job training under the guidance of a mentor, related supplemental instruction, and the opportunity to earn industry-recognized credentials. In addition, the components of TEACH Early Childhood® scholarships for associate and bachelor’s degrees have always mirrored the elements of an apprenticeship program, creating the foundation for this well-rounded and supportive program. NCBCE’s newest initiative, North Carolina Career Launch (NCCL), focuses on supporting the high school Pre apprenticeship to apprenticeship pathway. High school students can take the Introduction to Early Childhood Education class and complete work-based learning hours with an employer, while receiving guidance, support, and financial incentives from NCCL. These pre-apprenticeships can lead to apprenticeship opportunities for post-secondary education and employment. For more information, contact Morgan Ford at morgan.ford@nc.gov. The information above was retrieved from the Raise NC Newsletter. At the conclusion of today’s visit, the visit summary report was completed, reviewed, and left with you. DCDEE RESOURCES: I recommended you periodically visit the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ under the "What's New" tab to stay abreast of updated information provided. Be reminded you are responsible for maintaining compliance with all applicable child care requirements whether they have been discussed or reviewed with you in the past. CONTACT INFORMATION: If you have questions regarding today’s visit, my contact information is listed above. You may also contact Licensing Supervisor, Susan Fuller at 252-373-9809 or email susan.fuller@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: DISCOVERY LAND, INC. CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 40000079 Consultant: KESHIA HAYWARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/15/2024 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 10/15/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 175 Time In: 08:20 AM Time Out: 11:15 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor your facility for compliance with applicable child care requirements during a routine unannounced visit. A. Head, Administrator assisted with the visit. Nineteen (19) children were observed in care today ranging from zero to five years old. Children were observed participating in morning activities, free choice play with developmentally age-appropriate materials, interacting with the caregivers, and outdoor play. Currently this program operates with a three-star. The last sanitation inspection was completed on October 7, 2024, earning a superior classification. The last fire inspection was completed on November 28, 2023, and the center was approved for daytime care. The last annual compliance visit was completed on November 6, 2023. The following violation was documented today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. The TB screening on file was not completed by a health care professional for two employees hired January 8, 2024. .0701(a) The violation documented was corrected during the visit. The screenings on file were taken to the health care providers and completed. The screenings were verified prior to placing in staff files. We discussed ensuring new staff have screenings or TB skin tests completed by a health care professional. Because the violation was corrected and verified, a compliance letter is not required. I recommended reviewing all information on forms and expectation for completion with staff prior to utilizing. It was further suggested reviewing to ensure required information and signatures are included prior to filing away. You stated you understand TB screenings or test must be completed a medical health care professions and will ensure this is done moving forward. CORPORATION STATUS: Discovery Land, Inc. is listed as the current owner of this center. According to information verified on the North Carolina Secretary of State’s website, Discovery Land, Inc. remains current and active. I reminded you the corporation status for your program must always remain Current and Active. Failure to comply may affect your child care license. COMPLIANCE HISTORY: The program's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 100% percent as of October 14, 2024. LOCKED DOORP POLICY: You stated the entrance doors are kept locked for safety. You added your program does not have a locked door policy. We discussed the requirements of a locked door policy. Based on my observation, you meet the requirements to have a locked door policy in place. I asked that you submit me the request for the locked door policy a nd include how the requirements will be met. Once the locked door policy is received approval will be given in writing.. CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK REQUIREMENTS: As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. QRIS MODERNIZATION: PATHWAYS to the STARS North Carolina led the nation in 1999 when it launched its Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS), a star rating system for early childhood education facilities. QRIS is a systemic approach to assess, improve, and communicate the level of quality. It encourages early care and learning programs to engage in continuous quality improvement, and families may use the star rating to make informed decisions when choosing a child care facility. Listening to and communicating with early childhood professionals, families, communities and businesses is a critical component to ensure a successful QRIS modernization. The Commission began the modernization process by seeking public comment, and the Commission invites and welcomes public comment as we move towards finalizing rules. Some QRIS Modernization changes are still in draft form. To learn more about the Commission’s QRIS work, please note these upcoming opportunities for participation: •December 9, 2024 – Quarterly Commission meeting, with a public comment period for any topic. The Commission may decide to publish proposed QRIS rules, with publication occurring in January 2025. •Public Comment Period for QRIS Rules – After publication in the new year, DCDEE will announce a 60-day public comment period regarding QRIS Modernization, including a public hearing and the opportunity to submit written comments. •Email your feedback to DCDEE_QRIS@dhhs.nc.gov at any time. SANITATION INSPECTION REPORT: You gave me a copy of the sanitation inspection report dated October 7, 2024, during today’s visit. At the conclusion of today’s visit, the visit summary report was completed, reviewed, and left with you. DCDEE RESOURCES: I recommended you periodically visit the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ under the "What's New" tab to stay abreast of updated information provided. Be reminded you are responsible for maintaining compliance with all applicable child care requirements whether they have been discussed or reviewed with you in the past. CONTACT INFORMATION: If you have questions regarding today’s visit, my contact information is listed above. You may also contact Licensing Supervisor, Susan Fuller at 252-373-9809 or email susan.fuller@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.