Stepping Stones Child Development Center - Davie

10A NCAC 09 .0514 · Violation

Name of Operation: STEPPING STONES CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER - DAVIE Facility ID: 49000517 Consultant: REBBECCA HAYES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/7/2025 Number Present: 28 Completed Date: 11/7/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 190 Time In: 09:50 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during an Annual Compliance Visit. You, Jeannie Toliver, Owner/Director, assisted me with today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on December 11, 2024. The program’s compliance history was ninety- five percent prior to today’s visit. The last sanitation inspection was completed on July 31, 2025, with a superior classification. The last fire inspection was completed on November 25, 2024. The center's three-star rated license, NC Child Care law summary, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency phone numbers, tobacco restriction, menu, and Emergency Medical Care Plan were prominently posted. The following was monitored during today’s visit: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, group size, capacity, adequate and approved space, and hazardous product storage. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was completed. Children were observed engaging in teacher directed activities, outdoor gross motor, free choice activities, toileting and handwashing routines, and lunch. The Emergency Drill Log was monitored for completed fire, lock down, and shelter-in-place drills. The last fire drill was completed on October 31, 2025. The last lockdown drill was completed on August 27, 2025. Your outdoor play area meets child care safety standards. The last documented outdoor inspection was completed on October 2, 2025. No concerns were observed. Materials, toys, and equipment throughout the facility were of sufficient quantity, developmentally appropriate, and in good repair. All medications and their permission to administer forms were monitored during today’s visit. A selection of staff and children’s files were monitored during today’s visit. The facility does not provide transportation. The facility has completed lead water testing. Lead paint and asbestos testing is under survey review with Clean Water for Carolina Kids. The facility has completed the provider portal roster within the ABCMS system. The following violations were documented today: Violation Number Comment Rule 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space 4/5, a nasal spray expired 9/2025 and a sunscreen expired 10/2025. .0803(12) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. The EMC plan was not reviewed with staff annually. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Staff hired on 9/12/24 and 8/19/24 did not update the health questionnaire form annually. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Staff hired on 8/19/24 and 9/12/24 did not update the emergency information form annually. .0701(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Staff hire on 8/19/24 and 9/12/24 did not have an annual staff evaluation on file for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR plan was not reviewed with staff annually. .0607(e) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Staff hired on 12/2/24 did not complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. The training was completed on 3/10/25. .1102(g) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Staff hired on 8/19/24 and 9/12/24 did not complete health and safety trainings within one year of employment. .1102(a) 1902 The professional development plan was not reviewed annually. Staff hired on 8/19/24, 12/2/24, and 9/12/24 did not review the professional development plan annually. .1104 Technical Assistance was provided on the following: 1. We discussed putting staff on the same cycle to complete annual staff evaluations, professional development plans, health questionnaires, emergency information forms, review of the EPR plan, and review of the EMC plan. This will ensure that all staff members have these items completed annually. 2. We discussed creating a timeline for staff that is a quick reference for when staff need to have required trainings completed. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment and First Aid/CPR training should be completed within 90 days of hire. First Aid/CPR training should be renewed every two years prior to the expiration date. Criminal Background Checks should be renewed every five years prior to the expiration date. It is recommended that staff inquire about training opportunities in advance from approved agencies. 3. We discussed staff checking in with administrative staff quarterly to give updates on their progress towards completing their health and safety training. Health and safety training is required to be completed within one year of hire and every five years thereafter. Training certificates should be printed out and maintained in each staff member’s file along with completing the health and safety training log. 4. We discussed creating a document that has children’s medication expiration dates and permission to administer expiration dates. This could serve as a quick reference for staff to identify when items will soon be expiring. Medications and topical ointments should be returned to the parent within 72 hours or discarded. Staff could also monitor medications at the end of each month. Consultation was provided on the following: DCDEE WEBSITE RESOURCES: -QRIS Modernization: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization -Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. -Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Getting-a-License -Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development -Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-ProfessionalDevelopment/Health-and-Safety-Trainings -Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-ChildCare/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy -DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New • QRIS Information: During today’s visit, we discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. Staff education (including ensuring all staff have WORKS accounts, understanding the 50% requirement for lead teachers and for other educators, and how work experience may count), enhanced ratios and space expectations, the Family and Community Engagement Foundational Practices, and Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plans was reviewed. Please visit the following link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/StarRated-License/QRIS-Modernization . You will find more information and details about the three different pathways so that your program can begin working towards the star rated license. The following steps are how you can begin preparing for the Rated License process: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care consultant. • Confirm all staff have active WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Begin planning for your three-month self-study using the applicable ITERS-3, ECERS-3, SACERS-U, OR FCCERS-3 books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. o Access resources, trainings, and outreach via ncrlap.org. o Work with CCR&R or Smart Start for support in preparation. • Identify CQI goals and begin planning for implementation. • Develop strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • If four-year-olds are enrolled, select and implement an approved curriculum. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant. • Confirm all staff have active WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify CQI goals and begin planning for implementation. • Develop strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum and formative assessment tool for all ages.) • Arranging coaching or training options for administrators and lead teachers. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant. • Ensure all staff have active WORKS accounts. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. 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 November 21, 2025, 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 may be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Rebbecca Hayes, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 954 Taylorsville, NC 28681 Email: rebbecca.hayes@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. You may contact me by phone at (828) 405-8111 or by email at rebbecca.hayes@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. Thank you for your time today. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0802 · Violation

Name of Operation: STEPPING STONES CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER - DAVIE Facility ID: 49000517 Consultant: REBBECCA HAYES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/7/2025 Number Present: 28 Completed Date: 11/7/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 190 Time In: 09:50 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during an Annual Compliance Visit. You, Jeannie Toliver, Owner/Director, assisted me with today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on December 11, 2024. The program’s compliance history was ninety- five percent prior to today’s visit. The last sanitation inspection was completed on July 31, 2025, with a superior classification. The last fire inspection was completed on November 25, 2024. The center's three-star rated license, NC Child Care law summary, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency phone numbers, tobacco restriction, menu, and Emergency Medical Care Plan were prominently posted. The following was monitored during today’s visit: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, group size, capacity, adequate and approved space, and hazardous product storage. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was completed. Children were observed engaging in teacher directed activities, outdoor gross motor, free choice activities, toileting and handwashing routines, and lunch. The Emergency Drill Log was monitored for completed fire, lock down, and shelter-in-place drills. The last fire drill was completed on October 31, 2025. The last lockdown drill was completed on August 27, 2025. Your outdoor play area meets child care safety standards. The last documented outdoor inspection was completed on October 2, 2025. No concerns were observed. Materials, toys, and equipment throughout the facility were of sufficient quantity, developmentally appropriate, and in good repair. All medications and their permission to administer forms were monitored during today’s visit. A selection of staff and children’s files were monitored during today’s visit. The facility does not provide transportation. The facility has completed lead water testing. Lead paint and asbestos testing is under survey review with Clean Water for Carolina Kids. The facility has completed the provider portal roster within the ABCMS system. The following violations were documented today: Violation Number Comment Rule 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space 4/5, a nasal spray expired 9/2025 and a sunscreen expired 10/2025. .0803(12) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. The EMC plan was not reviewed with staff annually. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Staff hired on 9/12/24 and 8/19/24 did not update the health questionnaire form annually. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Staff hired on 8/19/24 and 9/12/24 did not update the emergency information form annually. .0701(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Staff hire on 8/19/24 and 9/12/24 did not have an annual staff evaluation on file for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR plan was not reviewed with staff annually. .0607(e) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Staff hired on 12/2/24 did not complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. The training was completed on 3/10/25. .1102(g) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Staff hired on 8/19/24 and 9/12/24 did not complete health and safety trainings within one year of employment. .1102(a) 1902 The professional development plan was not reviewed annually. Staff hired on 8/19/24, 12/2/24, and 9/12/24 did not review the professional development plan annually. .1104 Technical Assistance was provided on the following: 1. We discussed putting staff on the same cycle to complete annual staff evaluations, professional development plans, health questionnaires, emergency information forms, review of the EPR plan, and review of the EMC plan. This will ensure that all staff members have these items completed annually. 2. We discussed creating a timeline for staff that is a quick reference for when staff need to have required trainings completed. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment and First Aid/CPR training should be completed within 90 days of hire. First Aid/CPR training should be renewed every two years prior to the expiration date. Criminal Background Checks should be renewed every five years prior to the expiration date. It is recommended that staff inquire about training opportunities in advance from approved agencies. 3. We discussed staff checking in with administrative staff quarterly to give updates on their progress towards completing their health and safety training. Health and safety training is required to be completed within one year of hire and every five years thereafter. Training certificates should be printed out and maintained in each staff member’s file along with completing the health and safety training log. 4. We discussed creating a document that has children’s medication expiration dates and permission to administer expiration dates. This could serve as a quick reference for staff to identify when items will soon be expiring. Medications and topical ointments should be returned to the parent within 72 hours or discarded. Staff could also monitor medications at the end of each month. Consultation was provided on the following: DCDEE WEBSITE RESOURCES: -QRIS Modernization: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization -Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. -Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Getting-a-License -Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development -Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-ProfessionalDevelopment/Health-and-Safety-Trainings -Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-ChildCare/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy -DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New • QRIS Information: During today’s visit, we discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. Staff education (including ensuring all staff have WORKS accounts, understanding the 50% requirement for lead teachers and for other educators, and how work experience may count), enhanced ratios and space expectations, the Family and Community Engagement Foundational Practices, and Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plans was reviewed. Please visit the following link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/StarRated-License/QRIS-Modernization . You will find more information and details about the three different pathways so that your program can begin working towards the star rated license. The following steps are how you can begin preparing for the Rated License process: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care consultant. • Confirm all staff have active WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Begin planning for your three-month self-study using the applicable ITERS-3, ECERS-3, SACERS-U, OR FCCERS-3 books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. o Access resources, trainings, and outreach via ncrlap.org. o Work with CCR&R or Smart Start for support in preparation. • Identify CQI goals and begin planning for implementation. • Develop strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • If four-year-olds are enrolled, select and implement an approved curriculum. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant. • Confirm all staff have active WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify CQI goals and begin planning for implementation. • Develop strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum and formative assessment tool for all ages.) • Arranging coaching or training options for administrators and lead teachers. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant. • Ensure all staff have active WORKS accounts. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. 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 November 21, 2025, 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 may be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Rebbecca Hayes, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 954 Taylorsville, NC 28681 Email: rebbecca.hayes@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. You may contact me by phone at (828) 405-8111 or by email at rebbecca.hayes@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. Thank you for your time today. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: STEPPING STONES CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER - DAVIE Facility ID: 49000517 Consultant: REBBECCA HAYES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/7/2025 Number Present: 28 Completed Date: 11/7/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 190 Time In: 09:50 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during an Annual Compliance Visit. You, Jeannie Toliver, Owner/Director, assisted me with today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on December 11, 2024. The program’s compliance history was ninety- five percent prior to today’s visit. The last sanitation inspection was completed on July 31, 2025, with a superior classification. The last fire inspection was completed on November 25, 2024. The center's three-star rated license, NC Child Care law summary, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency phone numbers, tobacco restriction, menu, and Emergency Medical Care Plan were prominently posted. The following was monitored during today’s visit: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, group size, capacity, adequate and approved space, and hazardous product storage. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was completed. Children were observed engaging in teacher directed activities, outdoor gross motor, free choice activities, toileting and handwashing routines, and lunch. The Emergency Drill Log was monitored for completed fire, lock down, and shelter-in-place drills. The last fire drill was completed on October 31, 2025. The last lockdown drill was completed on August 27, 2025. Your outdoor play area meets child care safety standards. The last documented outdoor inspection was completed on October 2, 2025. No concerns were observed. Materials, toys, and equipment throughout the facility were of sufficient quantity, developmentally appropriate, and in good repair. All medications and their permission to administer forms were monitored during today’s visit. A selection of staff and children’s files were monitored during today’s visit. The facility does not provide transportation. The facility has completed lead water testing. Lead paint and asbestos testing is under survey review with Clean Water for Carolina Kids. The facility has completed the provider portal roster within the ABCMS system. The following violations were documented today: Violation Number Comment Rule 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space 4/5, a nasal spray expired 9/2025 and a sunscreen expired 10/2025. .0803(12) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. The EMC plan was not reviewed with staff annually. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Staff hired on 9/12/24 and 8/19/24 did not update the health questionnaire form annually. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Staff hired on 8/19/24 and 9/12/24 did not update the emergency information form annually. .0701(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Staff hire on 8/19/24 and 9/12/24 did not have an annual staff evaluation on file for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR plan was not reviewed with staff annually. .0607(e) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Staff hired on 12/2/24 did not complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. The training was completed on 3/10/25. .1102(g) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Staff hired on 8/19/24 and 9/12/24 did not complete health and safety trainings within one year of employment. .1102(a) 1902 The professional development plan was not reviewed annually. Staff hired on 8/19/24, 12/2/24, and 9/12/24 did not review the professional development plan annually. .1104 Technical Assistance was provided on the following: 1. We discussed putting staff on the same cycle to complete annual staff evaluations, professional development plans, health questionnaires, emergency information forms, review of the EPR plan, and review of the EMC plan. This will ensure that all staff members have these items completed annually. 2. We discussed creating a timeline for staff that is a quick reference for when staff need to have required trainings completed. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment and First Aid/CPR training should be completed within 90 days of hire. First Aid/CPR training should be renewed every two years prior to the expiration date. Criminal Background Checks should be renewed every five years prior to the expiration date. It is recommended that staff inquire about training opportunities in advance from approved agencies. 3. We discussed staff checking in with administrative staff quarterly to give updates on their progress towards completing their health and safety training. Health and safety training is required to be completed within one year of hire and every five years thereafter. Training certificates should be printed out and maintained in each staff member’s file along with completing the health and safety training log. 4. We discussed creating a document that has children’s medication expiration dates and permission to administer expiration dates. This could serve as a quick reference for staff to identify when items will soon be expiring. Medications and topical ointments should be returned to the parent within 72 hours or discarded. Staff could also monitor medications at the end of each month. Consultation was provided on the following: DCDEE WEBSITE RESOURCES: -QRIS Modernization: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization -Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. -Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Getting-a-License -Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development -Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-ProfessionalDevelopment/Health-and-Safety-Trainings -Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-ChildCare/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy -DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New • QRIS Information: During today’s visit, we discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. Staff education (including ensuring all staff have WORKS accounts, understanding the 50% requirement for lead teachers and for other educators, and how work experience may count), enhanced ratios and space expectations, the Family and Community Engagement Foundational Practices, and Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plans was reviewed. Please visit the following link: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/StarRated-License/QRIS-Modernization . You will find more information and details about the three different pathways so that your program can begin working towards the star rated license. The following steps are how you can begin preparing for the Rated License process: If you choose Pathway 1: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant. • Complete the “Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessment Request” form electronically and submit to your child care consultant. • Confirm all staff have active WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Begin planning for your three-month self-study using the applicable ITERS-3, ECERS-3, SACERS-U, OR FCCERS-3 books. • Prepare for Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) assessments. o Access resources, trainings, and outreach via ncrlap.org. o Work with CCR&R or Smart Start for support in preparation. • Identify CQI goals and begin planning for implementation. • Develop strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • If four-year-olds are enrolled, select and implement an approved curriculum. If you choose Pathway 2: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant. • Confirm all staff have active WORKS accounts. • Complete the QRIS Staff Information and Education Worksheet electronically. • Identify CQI goals and begin planning for implementation. • Develop strategies for Family and Community Engagement. • Select and implement a curriculum. (4- and 5-star centers must use an approved curriculum and formative assessment tool for all ages.) • Arranging coaching or training options for administrators and lead teachers. If you choose Pathway 3: • Complete the “Application For Assessment for a Rated License for Centers” electronically and submit to your child care consultant. • Ensure all staff have active WORKS accounts. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC, you may earn a three star rated license with NO Education standards evaluation. • If you are accredited through NAFCC, NECPA, AMS, or IMC and would like to earn a four or five star rated license, the Education standard evaluation will determine the star rating earned. • If you are accredited through NAEYC, NAC, COGNIA, or your facility is Head Start and/or Early Head Start Education, NO Education standards evaluation is needed. • Documentation of accreditation status and Head Start designation must be submitted to process your star rated license. 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 November 21, 2025, 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 may be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Rebbecca Hayes, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 954 Taylorsville, NC 28681 Email: rebbecca.hayes@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. You may contact me by phone at (828) 405-8111 or by email at rebbecca.hayes@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. Thank you for your time today. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: STEPPING STONES CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER - DAVIE Facility ID: 49000517 Consultant: REBBECCA HAYES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/3/2025 Number Present: 24 Completed Date: 6/3/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 155 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during a Routine Unannounced Visit. You, Jeannie Toliver, Owner/Director, assisted me with today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on December 11, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was completed on July 23, 2024, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted November 25, 2024, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-seven percent prior to today’s visit. The center's three-star rated license, NC Child Care law summary, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency phone numbers, tobacco restriction, monthly menu, and Emergency Medical Care Plan were prominently posted. The following was monitored during today’s visit: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, group size, capacity, adequate and approved space, and hazardous product storage. Children were observed engaging in free choice activities, outdoor play, toileting and handwashing routines. Infants were observed receiving care according to their individual needs. Fire drills were completed monthly as required. The last fire drill was completed on May 29, 2025. Emergency drills are being completed every three months as required. The last emergency drill was completed on March 31, 2025. Your playground meets child care safety standards. No concerns were observed. Materials, toys, and equipment throughout the facility was of sufficient quantity, developmentally appropriate, and in good repair. All staff files were monitored for a current Criminal Background Qualification letter, current First Aid/CPR training, Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training, Playground Safety training, EPR training and EPR annual review during today’s visit. The center does not provide transportation. The following violation was documented today: Violation Number Comment Rule 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. A staff member hired on 8/19/24 and 12/2/24 did not complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of hire. .1102(g) Technical Assistance was provided on the following: 1. We discussed creating a timeline to ensure that staff are completing their required trainings within the designated timeframe. First Aid/CPR, Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment should be completed within 90 days of hire. Consultation was provided on the following: NEW QRIS MODERNIZATION PLAN: The new QRIS Modernization Plan known as “Pathways to Success” is being added to law which included moving to the use of the updated Environmental Rating Scale (ERS-3 versions) for FCCERS, effective February 1, 2025. DCDEE and the NC Child Care Commission will continue the rulemaking process to add the rule language to child care requirements. This process with take several months. Hold Harmless provisions have been extended. Star rated license reassessments are postponed until the QRIS rulemaking process has been completed. Star rated license assessments are still required for new child care programs. A pathway for child care programs currently accredited through the approved accrediting bodies may now move to a 3- or 5-star license if they are not already at this star level. Providers need to submit a request to their licensing consultant and provide a copy of their accreditation award/certificate for processing: Accreditation Licensure Request Form. Please be reminded any ERS assessment completed on February 1, 2025, and after will be assessed using the ERS-3 versions. WORKS STATUS LETTER: Child Care Rule .0703(c) Within six months of an individual assuming lead teacher or child care administrator duties, each center shall maintain the following information in the individual's staff record: (2) a copy of notification from the Division that the individual meets the equivalency or that the individual does not meet the equivalency and must enroll in coursework; DCDEE WEBSITE RESOURCES: -Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. -Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Getting-a-License -Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development -Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings -Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-Child-Care/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy -DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New -Southwestern Child Development Commission Inc.: https://www.swcdcinc.org/ ABCMS SYSTEM: The process of notifying the Division of any new child care providers working who are hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.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 as stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 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. Due to the violation being corrected during today’s visit, a compliance letter is not due at this time. You may contact me by phone at (828) 405-8111 or by email at rebbecca.hayes@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. Thank you for your time today. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: STEPPING STONES CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER - DAVIE Facility ID: 49000517 Consultant: REBBECCA HAYES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/3/2025 Number Present: 24 Completed Date: 6/3/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 155 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during a Routine Unannounced Visit. You, Jeannie Toliver, Owner/Director, assisted me with today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on December 11, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was completed on July 23, 2024, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted November 25, 2024, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-seven percent prior to today’s visit. The center's three-star rated license, NC Child Care law summary, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency phone numbers, tobacco restriction, monthly menu, and Emergency Medical Care Plan were prominently posted. The following was monitored during today’s visit: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, group size, capacity, adequate and approved space, and hazardous product storage. Children were observed engaging in free choice activities, outdoor play, toileting and handwashing routines. Infants were observed receiving care according to their individual needs. Fire drills were completed monthly as required. The last fire drill was completed on May 29, 2025. Emergency drills are being completed every three months as required. The last emergency drill was completed on March 31, 2025. Your playground meets child care safety standards. No concerns were observed. Materials, toys, and equipment throughout the facility was of sufficient quantity, developmentally appropriate, and in good repair. All staff files were monitored for a current Criminal Background Qualification letter, current First Aid/CPR training, Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training, Playground Safety training, EPR training and EPR annual review during today’s visit. The center does not provide transportation. The following violation was documented today: Violation Number Comment Rule 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. A staff member hired on 8/19/24 and 12/2/24 did not complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of hire. .1102(g) Technical Assistance was provided on the following: 1. We discussed creating a timeline to ensure that staff are completing their required trainings within the designated timeframe. First Aid/CPR, Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment should be completed within 90 days of hire. Consultation was provided on the following: NEW QRIS MODERNIZATION PLAN: The new QRIS Modernization Plan known as “Pathways to Success” is being added to law which included moving to the use of the updated Environmental Rating Scale (ERS-3 versions) for FCCERS, effective February 1, 2025. DCDEE and the NC Child Care Commission will continue the rulemaking process to add the rule language to child care requirements. This process with take several months. Hold Harmless provisions have been extended. Star rated license reassessments are postponed until the QRIS rulemaking process has been completed. Star rated license assessments are still required for new child care programs. A pathway for child care programs currently accredited through the approved accrediting bodies may now move to a 3- or 5-star license if they are not already at this star level. Providers need to submit a request to their licensing consultant and provide a copy of their accreditation award/certificate for processing: Accreditation Licensure Request Form. Please be reminded any ERS assessment completed on February 1, 2025, and after will be assessed using the ERS-3 versions. WORKS STATUS LETTER: Child Care Rule .0703(c) Within six months of an individual assuming lead teacher or child care administrator duties, each center shall maintain the following information in the individual's staff record: (2) a copy of notification from the Division that the individual meets the equivalency or that the individual does not meet the equivalency and must enroll in coursework; DCDEE WEBSITE RESOURCES: -Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. -Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Getting-a-License -Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development -Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings -Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-Child-Care/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy -DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New -Southwestern Child Development Commission Inc.: https://www.swcdcinc.org/ ABCMS SYSTEM: The process of notifying the Division of any new child care providers working who are hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.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 as stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 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. Due to the violation being corrected during today’s visit, a compliance letter is not due at this time. You may contact me by phone at (828) 405-8111 or by email at rebbecca.hayes@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. Thank you for your time today. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: STEPPING STONES CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER - DAVIE Facility ID: 49000517 Consultant: REBBECCA HAYES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/12/2024 Number Present: 26 Completed Date: 6/12/2024 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 90 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during a Routine Unannounced Visit. You, Jeannie Toliver, Owner/Director, assisted me with today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on January 18, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was completed on April 25, 2024, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was completed on October 20, 2023, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 95 percent prior to today’s visit. The center's three-star rated license, NC Child Care law summary, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency phone numbers, tobacco restriction, weekly menu, and Emergency Medical Care Plan were prominently posted. The following was monitored during today’s visit: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, group size, capacity, adequate and approved space, and hazardous product storage. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was completed. Children were observed during free choice activities and outdoor play. Children under twelve months were observed receiving care according to their individual needs. Fire drills were completed monthly as required. The last fire drill was completed on May 16, 2024. Emergency drills are being conducted every three months as required. The last emergency drill in the form of a Shelter-in-Place was completed on May 16, 2024. Outdoor Playground Inspections are being completed monthly. No concerns were observed. Materials, toys, and equipment throughout the facility was of sufficient quantity, developmentally appropriate, and in good repair. All topical ointments and over the counter medications were monitored during today’s visit. Staff files were monitored for current Criminal Background Checks, current First Aid and CPR training, ITS-SIDS training, BSAC training, and Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training. The program does not provide transportation. The following violations were documented today: Violation Number Comment Rule 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired on 1/16/24 had not completed First Aid training within 90 days of hire. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired on 1/16/24 had not completed CPR training within 90 days of hire. .1102(d) Technical Assistance was provided on the following: 1. We discussed ensuring that new staff complete training in First Aid and CPR within 90 days of hire and every two years thereafter. It is recommended that new staff without First Aid and CPR immediately be registered for a course to complete the required within the required timeframe. Consultation was provided on the following: 1. Your facility is listed in cohort 2 for resuming the star rated license. July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025, will be your facility’s planning year. July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, will be your facility's reassessment year. 2. Please ensure that all staffs information is updated in their WORKS account. New staff should create a WORKS account and send in the required information. Staff’s education should be uploaded for the Workforce Unit to evaluate staff’s education. 3. You may begin working with your consultant to establish a timeline for technical assistance visits that the facility may need. 4. You may reach out to your local partners such as the Partnership for Young Children for technical assistance. The Partnership for Young Children also conducts mock assessments and will look at your facilities materials. 5. The NCRLAP website (www.ncrlap.org) is available for resources and training opportunities to prepare for the star rated license. 6. Recognizing Suspicions of Child Maltreatment should be taken within 90 days of employment. A training on Child Maltreatment should be taken every five years thereafter. You may reach out to the local Partnership for Young Children or Department of Social Services to inquire about training opportunities related to this topic. If a training cannot be found, you may retake the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training that can be located at www.preventchildabusenc.org. Please retain these certificates in your staff personnel file for review. 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 June 26, 2024, 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 may be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Rebbecca Hayes, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 954 Taylorsville, NC 28681 Email: rebbecca.hayes@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. You may contact me by phone at (828) 405-8111 or by email at rebbecca.hayes@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. Thank you for your time today. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times