10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALEXANDER COUNTY HEAD START - WITTENBURG ELEM. SCH Facility ID: 02000108 Consultant: MERIA WILDER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/5/2026 Number Present: 41 Completed Date: 1/5/2026 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 284 Time In: 11:06 AM Time Out: 03:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance w/Rated License visit. You, Erica Childers, Site Manager, and Michelle Fox, Site Manager, assisted me with today’s visit. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on January 28, 2025. Prior to today’s visit your compliance history score was 88%. I reviewed with you today the facility information found in our system. You stated there have been no changes to your phone number, email address, mailing address, or corporate contact for the facility. I reviewed the facility’s permit with you today. Required postings were posted as required at the entrance to each classroom. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued on July 22, 2021, earning seven (7) points in staff education, six (6) points in program standards and one (1) quality point for having a staff benefits package and an infrastructure of parent involvement. Your facility operates with the following permit restrictions: daytime care only, meets enhanced ratios and meets enhanced space. Your most recent fire inspection was completed on September 22, 2025. Your most recent sanitation inspection was completed on December 11, 2025, with a superior classification. Your most recent fire drill was conducted on December 16, 2025, and your most recent shelter-in-place emergency drill was conducted on December 17, 2025, and has been completed quarterly. Your written operational, administrative, personnel policies and your parent participation plan for the 2025 – 2026 school year were sent to me by email to review. You stated that your policies were last updated in 2025 and there had been no changes to your written policies and procedures. A walkthrough of your indoor and outdoor spaces was conducted, and students were participating in teacher-directed whole group activities, free choice play, outdoor play, transitions, toileting/handwashing routines, eating lunch, and rest time. Staff/child interactions with children were positive and nurturing. Developmentally appropriate materials were provided that were of sufficient quantities and in good repair and there were no potentially hazardous items accessible to the children. Daily sign in/out sheets and attendance was current/accurate. Incident reports were logged and stored in the child’s file. The 2025 – 2026 Wittenburg Elementary School – School Risk Management (SRM) plan was current, printed and reviewed with staff annually. A current menu was posted, documented appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Space capacity, adequate/approved space, supervision, staff/child ratios, group size, and appropriate discipline were observed today. There were five (5) medications, five (5) medication permission to administer forms and five (5) Medical Action Plans to monitor. A portion of four (4) children’s files and five (5) staff record files were monitored. Your facility does provide transportation and screen time. Screen time was logged onto the weekly lesson plan. The “Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers” was completed during today’s visit. Health and safety requirements were monitored. The following violation were observed and cited during this visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In classroom 107, one (1) electrical outlet was not covered. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One (1) staff member with a hire date of 8/17/2023, did not have documentation of completing all of the required health and safety trainings within one (1) year of being hired. .1102(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: Child care programs are required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (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 against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. • In classroom 107, one (1) electrical outlet was not covered. As discussed, all electrical outlets must always be covered when not in use. I suggest completing a walkthrough of each classroom space daily prior to the arrival of children to ensure that no hazards are accessible to children. This violation was corrected during the visit by the teacher covering the outlet with an outlet cover. • One (1) staff member with a hire date of 8/17/2023, did not have documentation of completing all of the required health and safety trainings within one (1) year of being hired. As discussed, health and safety trainings must be completed within one year of being hired and must be kept current every five (5) years prior to the expiration of the previous health and safety training dates. I suggest that staff files be monitored to ensure that staff files including all trainings are current and all training certificates/documentation is printed and on file. CONSULTATION: • QRIS Information: Prior to today’s visit I met with you, Cathy Knepp, Administrator, Michelle Fox, Site Manager, and Karen Rodriguez, Site Manager on October 22, 2025, to discuss the pathway that is intended for this facility. At that time, it was decided by your management team that this facility will choose Pathway 3 (Accreditation) due to the facility meets the Head Start Accreditation requirements. You plan for this facility to begin the rated license process at this time. I will review the documents that were sent to me on November 5, 2025, and submit to my supervisor for review. During today’s visit, we discussed the three QRIS Pathways to the Stars effective July 1, 2025. We covered 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. 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: Next Steps by Pathway 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. • Access resources, training, and outreach via ncrlap.org. • 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. • DCDEE 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 • Child Care facility’s must enroll in the lead in water testing, lead based paint testing and Asbestos testing through Clean Water for US Kids. The following link will take you to the website to enroll https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. o Please be reminded that this facility is due for the Clean Water for US Kids lead/water testing per the three (3) year requirement in child care rule. • Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings including, but not limited to Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training. • Fire inspections are to be sent to the consultant within 7 business days of the inspection being completed. If the fire inspection report is not sent to the consultant within 7 business days a violation will be cited at the next monitoring visit. • When reviewing Staff Files, Children’s Files, and Program Records, utilize the Staff Files Checklist, Children’s File Checklist, Volunteer Files Checklist and the Program Records File Checklist to ensure that you are maintaining compliance with all of the files that are monitored by DCDEE and that all of the documents within those files are current, accurate and relevant. These forms should be updated annually with staff files, children’s records and program record documents to ensure that all information stored in your facilities files are current and accurate prior to DCDEE monitoring visits. These file checklists can be found on the DCDEE website under provider documents. • Located on the DCDEE website there is an editable form of the staff and training worksheet that you may utilize when completing the staff and training worksheet to assist you with being prepared for your upcoming monitoring visits. This document can be downloaded to your computer and completed electronically. COMPLIANCE PLAN: In the visit summary, I documented the corrective actions taken today to correct those violations. All violations cited and not corrected today must be corrected immediately. Please submit a written, signed, and dated statement to me at the email/address below detailing the steps taken to correct each violation. • Your compliance letter must include the following: 1. The name of your center 2. The center’s ID number 3. The date you write the letter 4. Address each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. 5. Your signature • Supporting documentation including the following: Please send supporting documentation such as training certificates, CBC letters and acknowledgement statements. Please DO NOT send staff or child medical documents or documentation for verification as this is a violation of HIPPA protocol. If needed I will verify these documents at the next monitoring visit. I must receive your compliance letter no later than January 19, 2026. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. For your convenience, your compliance letter may be sent by email to: meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov When emailing 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: An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (980) 434-3877 or by email at meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time and assistance 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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALEXANDER COUNTY HEAD START - WITTENBURG ELEM. SCH Facility ID: 02000108 Consultant: MERIA WILDER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/20/2025 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 5/20/2025 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 245 Time In: 10:55 AM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable Child Care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Erica Childers, Site Manager, assisted me with today’s visit. I observed all of the required posted in the hallway including the following: five-star rated license, NC Summary of Child Care Law dated February 2025, sanitation placard, Emergency Medical Care Plan, Emergency Phone Numbers, First Aid poster, tobacco free signage, daily schedule, current activity plan, and safe arrival and departure procedures. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued on July 22, 2021, earning seven (7) points in staff education, six (6) points in program standards and one (1) quality point for having an infrastructure of parent involvement and a staff benefits package, for a total of 14 points earned. Your facility operates with the following permit restrictions: daytime care only, meets enhanced space, and meets enhanced ratios. Your center's compliance history score prior to today’s visit was 93% and was reviewed with you today. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on January 28, 2025. I monitored all the indoor and outdoor areas. I observed children to be participating in outdoors play, transitions, lunch, rest time and personal care routines. I monitored for general safety, storage of hazardous products, appropriate discipline, storage of medication and medication administration. Program records including emergency medical care plan, safe arrival and departure procedures, incident log, outdoor safety inspections, fire drills, emergency drills, and your Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) Plan were monitored. Today, staff record files for fourteen (14) returning staff members were monitored to verify current and valid Criminal Background Check qualification letters, valid CPR and First Aid training, valid BSAC training, special trainings and completion of the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training. There was one (1) new staff member who was monitored during today’s. Your program Administrator sent me your current handbook by email and it included: written operational, administrative, and personnel policies and your parent participation plan. You stated your written policies and procedures had not changed. Children were adequately supervised, minimum staff-child ratios were maintained, adequate approved space was used, enhanced space capacities were maintained, and permit restrictions including daytime care only, meets enhanced space and meets enhanced ratios were maintained during today’s visit. Today’s lunch consisted of turkey tacos, baked strawberries, cajun beans, salsa and 1% unflavored white milk as listed on the menu. I monitored three (3) medications, three (3) medication permission to administer forms and three (3) Medical Action Plans during today’s visit. I monitored screen time logs, incident report logs and the 2024-2025 Wittenburg Elementary School - School Risk Management plan. Your program does provide transportation. Your most recent fire drill was conducted on April 28, 2025, and has been completed monthly for the past twelve (12) months and your most recent shelter in place emergency drill was conducted on March 5, 2025, and has been completed quarterly. Your most recent fire inspection was completed on March 25, 2025. Your most recent sanitation inspection was completed on May 7, 2025, with a superior classification. During today’s visit I monitored for all health and safety requirements. The following violation was cited during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In classroom space #101 the activity plan that was posted was not current and was dated May 12-16, 2025. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) CONSULTATION: • One (1) staff member with a hire date of 8/17/2025, has First Aid and CPR training certifications that will expire on 6/2/2025. Be sure to complete this required training course prior to the expiration date to ensure that you remain in compliance with child care rules regarding First Aid and CPR. • One (1) staff member with a hire date of 10/2/2023 has a criminal background qualification letter that will expire on 9/16/2025 and one (1) staff member with a hire date of 7/1/22, has a criminal background qualification letter that will expire on 9/14/2025. Be sure to complete the criminal background check process prior to the expiration date to ensure that you remain in compliance with child care rules regarding criminal background checks. • DCDEE 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 • Child Care facility’s now have until May 31, 2025, to enroll in the lead in water testing, lead based paint testing and Asbestos testing through Clean Water for US Kids. The following link will take you to the website to enroll https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. • 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. • Fire inspections are to be sent to the consultant within 7 business days of the inspection being completed. If the fire inspection report is not sent to the consultant within 7 business days a violation will be cited at the next monitoring visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you or the school principal forward the email containing the fire inspection report to me when you receive it from the fire inspector. • When reviewing Staff Files, Children’s Files, and Program Records, utilize the Staff Files Checklist, Children’s File Checklist, Volunteer Files Checklist and the Program Records File Checklist to ensure that you are maintaining compliance with all of the files that are monitored by DCDEE and that all of the documents within those files are current, accurate and relevant. These forms should be updated annually with staff files, children’s records and program record documents to ensure that all information stored in your facilities files are current and accurate prior to DCDEE monitoring visits. These file checklists can be found on the DCDEE website under provider documents. • Located on the DCDEE website there is an editable form of the staff and training worksheet that you may utilize when completing the staff and training worksheet to assist you with being prepared for your upcoming monitoring visits. This document can be downloaded to your computer and completed electronically. • Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. • Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings including, but not limited to, ITS-SIDS training and Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training. COMPLIANCE PLAN: • No compliance documentation is needed. All violations that were cited during today’s visit were corrected during the visit. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (980)434-3877 or by email at meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALEXANDER COUNTY HEAD START - WITTENBURG ELEM. SCH Facility ID: 02000108 Consultant: MERIA WILDER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/20/2025 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 5/20/2025 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 245 Time In: 10:55 AM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable Child Care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Erica Childers, Site Manager, assisted me with today’s visit. I observed all of the required posted in the hallway including the following: five-star rated license, NC Summary of Child Care Law dated February 2025, sanitation placard, Emergency Medical Care Plan, Emergency Phone Numbers, First Aid poster, tobacco free signage, daily schedule, current activity plan, and safe arrival and departure procedures. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued on July 22, 2021, earning seven (7) points in staff education, six (6) points in program standards and one (1) quality point for having an infrastructure of parent involvement and a staff benefits package, for a total of 14 points earned. Your facility operates with the following permit restrictions: daytime care only, meets enhanced space, and meets enhanced ratios. Your center's compliance history score prior to today’s visit was 93% and was reviewed with you today. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on January 28, 2025. I monitored all the indoor and outdoor areas. I observed children to be participating in outdoors play, transitions, lunch, rest time and personal care routines. I monitored for general safety, storage of hazardous products, appropriate discipline, storage of medication and medication administration. Program records including emergency medical care plan, safe arrival and departure procedures, incident log, outdoor safety inspections, fire drills, emergency drills, and your Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) Plan were monitored. Today, staff record files for fourteen (14) returning staff members were monitored to verify current and valid Criminal Background Check qualification letters, valid CPR and First Aid training, valid BSAC training, special trainings and completion of the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training. There was one (1) new staff member who was monitored during today’s. Your program Administrator sent me your current handbook by email and it included: written operational, administrative, and personnel policies and your parent participation plan. You stated your written policies and procedures had not changed. Children were adequately supervised, minimum staff-child ratios were maintained, adequate approved space was used, enhanced space capacities were maintained, and permit restrictions including daytime care only, meets enhanced space and meets enhanced ratios were maintained during today’s visit. Today’s lunch consisted of turkey tacos, baked strawberries, cajun beans, salsa and 1% unflavored white milk as listed on the menu. I monitored three (3) medications, three (3) medication permission to administer forms and three (3) Medical Action Plans during today’s visit. I monitored screen time logs, incident report logs and the 2024-2025 Wittenburg Elementary School - School Risk Management plan. Your program does provide transportation. Your most recent fire drill was conducted on April 28, 2025, and has been completed monthly for the past twelve (12) months and your most recent shelter in place emergency drill was conducted on March 5, 2025, and has been completed quarterly. Your most recent fire inspection was completed on March 25, 2025. Your most recent sanitation inspection was completed on May 7, 2025, with a superior classification. During today’s visit I monitored for all health and safety requirements. The following violation was cited during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In classroom space #101 the activity plan that was posted was not current and was dated May 12-16, 2025. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) CONSULTATION: • One (1) staff member with a hire date of 8/17/2025, has First Aid and CPR training certifications that will expire on 6/2/2025. Be sure to complete this required training course prior to the expiration date to ensure that you remain in compliance with child care rules regarding First Aid and CPR. • One (1) staff member with a hire date of 10/2/2023 has a criminal background qualification letter that will expire on 9/16/2025 and one (1) staff member with a hire date of 7/1/22, has a criminal background qualification letter that will expire on 9/14/2025. Be sure to complete the criminal background check process prior to the expiration date to ensure that you remain in compliance with child care rules regarding criminal background checks. • DCDEE 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 • Child Care facility’s now have until May 31, 2025, to enroll in the lead in water testing, lead based paint testing and Asbestos testing through Clean Water for US Kids. The following link will take you to the website to enroll https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. • 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. • Fire inspections are to be sent to the consultant within 7 business days of the inspection being completed. If the fire inspection report is not sent to the consultant within 7 business days a violation will be cited at the next monitoring visit. To maintain compliance with this child care requirement, I suggest you or the school principal forward the email containing the fire inspection report to me when you receive it from the fire inspector. • When reviewing Staff Files, Children’s Files, and Program Records, utilize the Staff Files Checklist, Children’s File Checklist, Volunteer Files Checklist and the Program Records File Checklist to ensure that you are maintaining compliance with all of the files that are monitored by DCDEE and that all of the documents within those files are current, accurate and relevant. These forms should be updated annually with staff files, children’s records and program record documents to ensure that all information stored in your facilities files are current and accurate prior to DCDEE monitoring visits. These file checklists can be found on the DCDEE website under provider documents. • Located on the DCDEE website there is an editable form of the staff and training worksheet that you may utilize when completing the staff and training worksheet to assist you with being prepared for your upcoming monitoring visits. This document can be downloaded to your computer and completed electronically. • Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates including the most up to date documents and forms. • Visit NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at http://healthychildcare.unc.edu to find the following resources: technical assistance, coaching support, resources, handwashing and diapering posters, monthly newsletters, and a list of approved in-service trainings including, but not limited to, ITS-SIDS training and Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training. COMPLIANCE PLAN: • No compliance documentation is needed. All violations that were cited during today’s visit were corrected during the visit. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you today. We appreciate all you and your staff do to serve the children and families in your community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (980)434-3877 or by email at meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALEXANDER COUNTY HEAD START - WITTENBURG ELEM. SCH Facility ID: 02000108 Consultant: MERIA WILDER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/5/2024 Number Present: 46 Completed Date: 2/5/2024 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 01:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor your program for compliance with all applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. You, Erica Childers, Site Manager, assisted me, Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant, with today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on March 16, 2023. Your compliance history score was 88% prior to today’s visit. Your facility operates with a Five-Star license that was issued on July 22, 2021. Your program earned 6 points in program standards, 7 points in staff education and 1 quality point for a total of 14 points earned. Your program operates with the following restrictions: 1st shift (daytime care), meets enhanced space and meets enhanced ratios. The following required postings was posted in outside of the classroom: Five-Star License, NC Summary of Child Care Law, Sanitation placard, Emergency Medical Care Plan, Emergency Phone Numbers, safe arrival and departure procedures, First Aid poster, menu, daily schedule, and activity plan. I observed the following inspections, sanitation inspection conducted on 11/1/23, fire inspection conducted on 10/2/23, playground inspection conducted on 1/29/24, and the last quarterly lockdown emergency drill conducted on 1/31/24. I observed the menu to be current and crispy chicken sandwich, frosty peach fruit cup, baked beans and 1% unflavored white milk was listed and served for lunch. I monitored your incident log and found incident reports to be logged with the child’s file. I monitored your screentime log. I monitored your daily sign in/out records and daily attendance. Activity plans were posted, current and linked to NC FELD. I monitored your indoor and outdoor environment for safety hazards. I have monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored 2 emergency medications, permissions to administer and Medical Action Plans in space 2, and 2 emergency medications, permissions to administer and Medical Action Plans in space 2 for a total of 4 medications monitored during today’s visit. I observed approved space, adequate supervision, group size and staff child ratios in all 3 classrooms. I observed children being adequately supervised and cared for in a nurturing way in all 3 classrooms. I observed children working independently during free choice play time with teachers supervising and assisting children with teacher directed activities in all 3 classrooms. I observed all toys and materials to be child size and developmentally appropriate. I observed furnishings to be clean and in good repair. I monitored 2 existing staff files and there were no new staff files to monitor. I monitored a random sampling of 5 children’s records. The following violations were cited during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. The window in classroom space 107 was not kept free of dust and dirt. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 811 Potentially hazardous items including but not limited to power tools, nails, chemicals, propane stoves, lawn mowers, gasoline, or kerosene were not stored in locked areas, removed from the premises, or made inaccessible to children. In classroom space 107 there was 1 bulk soap with a “keep out of reach of children” warning and additional warnings that was stored below 5 ft. and was accessible to children. .0604(a) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. One child with a birth date of 4/14/20 had an application for enrollment that did not identify the child’s fears, healthcare concerns, unique behaviors, allergies and symptoms. .0801(a)(1-7) 1879 Prescribed medicines, that are pharmaceutical samples, was not stored in the manufacturers original packaging, was not labeled with the child's name, and/or written instructions did not include the required information. In classroom space 107, there were 2 emergency medications that were not labeled with the child’s name. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(2)(b)(i-v) Technical Assistance: • In classroom space 107, there were 2 emergency medications that were not labeled with the child’s name. As discussed, I recommend writing the child’s name on each medication received up accepting the medication from the parent. • In classroom space 107 there was 1 bulk soap with a “keep out of reach of children” warning and additional warnings that was stored below 5 ft. and was accessible to children. As discussed, anything with a warning label of “keep out of reach of children” warning and additional warnings must be made inaccessible to children and in locked storage. Remind teachers to inspect their classrooms daily to ensure all hazards are not accessible to children. • One child with a birth date of 4/14/20 had an application for enrollment that did not identify the child’s fears, healthcare concerns, unique behaviors, allergies and symptoms. As discussed, prior to filing paperwork into children’s records be sure all items listed are addressed, if an item does not apply mark NA in that space. • The window seal in classroom space 107 was not kept free of dust and dirt. As discussed, you may utilize a cleaning schedule to ensure the classroom is free of dust, dirt and debris. All violations that were cited must be corrected immediately and a compliance letter for violations cited during today’s visit must be sent to me by February 20, 2024. Child care facilities must comply with all state laws, federal laws and local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare of children (GS110-91 – Mandatory standards for a license). Failure to comply may lead to an administrative action (General statue 110-102-2- Administrative penalties). You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by GS110-90(4)(c). Prior to today’s visit, your program maintained a compliance history of 97%. Please note any violations cited during future visits may negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to administrative action. Also, please remember in order to maintain an enhanced rated license your compliance history must remain above 75% at all times. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting DCDEE new website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/general/home.asp. Email information to: Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 6591 Statesville, NC 28677 Email: meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov The following information must be included in your compliance letter: Providers Name, Position, Facility name, Facility ID number Violation Item number Date of violation correction How the violation was corrected How the violation will be prevented in the future Consultation: • As of September 2023, the Summary of NC Child Care Law was updated and available on the DCDEE website. Please print this form to post in your foyer with your required postings and give the updated information to parents and have them sign and date that they have received the updated document and place each signed acknowledgement in each child’s file. • Your program is in cohort 3 for the rated license reassessment. Your program’s planning year will be from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. Your program’s reassessment year will be 2026 to 2027. As you plan for the reassessment of the rated license, please be sure that all staff has their most recent education updated and verified in WORKS and that you are in touch with your local Partnership and Resource and Referral agencies to provide technical assistance and help you prepare for reassessment. • Although not an issue today, 2 emergency medication permission to administer forms in classroom space 107 have expiration dates of 2/29/24 and 3/8/24 please be sure to update these forms prior to their expiration date. • When reviewing staff files, you may utilize the schools Off Site Verification Forms which identifies information that is stored off site. The bulleted items identified on the form is not required to be maintained in the file of that staff member as long as that staff members name and date of employment is listed on the employee roster that should be attached to the form. The information that is stored “off-site” should be available upon the consultant’s request in the event that the consultant would need to verify that information. That Off Site Verification Form should be updated annually and/or as staff members are hired. • Fire inspection reports are required to be sent to the consultant within 7 business days of the inspection being completed. If an inspection has not been sent to me within 7 days of the inspection a violation will be cited at the next monitoring visit. You may contact me by phone at (980) 434-3877 or by email at meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov or Erin Pickard by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. Thank you for your time and assistance 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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

GS110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALEXANDER COUNTY HEAD START - WITTENBURG ELEM. SCH Facility ID: 02000108 Consultant: MERIA WILDER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/5/2024 Number Present: 46 Completed Date: 2/5/2024 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 01:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor your program for compliance with all applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. You, Erica Childers, Site Manager, assisted me, Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant, with today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on March 16, 2023. Your compliance history score was 88% prior to today’s visit. Your facility operates with a Five-Star license that was issued on July 22, 2021. Your program earned 6 points in program standards, 7 points in staff education and 1 quality point for a total of 14 points earned. Your program operates with the following restrictions: 1st shift (daytime care), meets enhanced space and meets enhanced ratios. The following required postings was posted in outside of the classroom: Five-Star License, NC Summary of Child Care Law, Sanitation placard, Emergency Medical Care Plan, Emergency Phone Numbers, safe arrival and departure procedures, First Aid poster, menu, daily schedule, and activity plan. I observed the following inspections, sanitation inspection conducted on 11/1/23, fire inspection conducted on 10/2/23, playground inspection conducted on 1/29/24, and the last quarterly lockdown emergency drill conducted on 1/31/24. I observed the menu to be current and crispy chicken sandwich, frosty peach fruit cup, baked beans and 1% unflavored white milk was listed and served for lunch. I monitored your incident log and found incident reports to be logged with the child’s file. I monitored your screentime log. I monitored your daily sign in/out records and daily attendance. Activity plans were posted, current and linked to NC FELD. I monitored your indoor and outdoor environment for safety hazards. I have monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored 2 emergency medications, permissions to administer and Medical Action Plans in space 2, and 2 emergency medications, permissions to administer and Medical Action Plans in space 2 for a total of 4 medications monitored during today’s visit. I observed approved space, adequate supervision, group size and staff child ratios in all 3 classrooms. I observed children being adequately supervised and cared for in a nurturing way in all 3 classrooms. I observed children working independently during free choice play time with teachers supervising and assisting children with teacher directed activities in all 3 classrooms. I observed all toys and materials to be child size and developmentally appropriate. I observed furnishings to be clean and in good repair. I monitored 2 existing staff files and there were no new staff files to monitor. I monitored a random sampling of 5 children’s records. The following violations were cited during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. The window in classroom space 107 was not kept free of dust and dirt. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 811 Potentially hazardous items including but not limited to power tools, nails, chemicals, propane stoves, lawn mowers, gasoline, or kerosene were not stored in locked areas, removed from the premises, or made inaccessible to children. In classroom space 107 there was 1 bulk soap with a “keep out of reach of children” warning and additional warnings that was stored below 5 ft. and was accessible to children. .0604(a) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. One child with a birth date of 4/14/20 had an application for enrollment that did not identify the child’s fears, healthcare concerns, unique behaviors, allergies and symptoms. .0801(a)(1-7) 1879 Prescribed medicines, that are pharmaceutical samples, was not stored in the manufacturers original packaging, was not labeled with the child's name, and/or written instructions did not include the required information. In classroom space 107, there were 2 emergency medications that were not labeled with the child’s name. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(2)(b)(i-v) Technical Assistance: • In classroom space 107, there were 2 emergency medications that were not labeled with the child’s name. As discussed, I recommend writing the child’s name on each medication received up accepting the medication from the parent. • In classroom space 107 there was 1 bulk soap with a “keep out of reach of children” warning and additional warnings that was stored below 5 ft. and was accessible to children. As discussed, anything with a warning label of “keep out of reach of children” warning and additional warnings must be made inaccessible to children and in locked storage. Remind teachers to inspect their classrooms daily to ensure all hazards are not accessible to children. • One child with a birth date of 4/14/20 had an application for enrollment that did not identify the child’s fears, healthcare concerns, unique behaviors, allergies and symptoms. As discussed, prior to filing paperwork into children’s records be sure all items listed are addressed, if an item does not apply mark NA in that space. • The window seal in classroom space 107 was not kept free of dust and dirt. As discussed, you may utilize a cleaning schedule to ensure the classroom is free of dust, dirt and debris. All violations that were cited must be corrected immediately and a compliance letter for violations cited during today’s visit must be sent to me by February 20, 2024. Child care facilities must comply with all state laws, federal laws and local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare of children (GS110-91 – Mandatory standards for a license). Failure to comply may lead to an administrative action (General statue 110-102-2- Administrative penalties). You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by GS110-90(4)(c). Prior to today’s visit, your program maintained a compliance history of 97%. Please note any violations cited during future visits may negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to administrative action. Also, please remember in order to maintain an enhanced rated license your compliance history must remain above 75% at all times. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting DCDEE new website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/general/home.asp. Email information to: Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 6591 Statesville, NC 28677 Email: meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov The following information must be included in your compliance letter: Providers Name, Position, Facility name, Facility ID number Violation Item number Date of violation correction How the violation was corrected How the violation will be prevented in the future Consultation: • As of September 2023, the Summary of NC Child Care Law was updated and available on the DCDEE website. Please print this form to post in your foyer with your required postings and give the updated information to parents and have them sign and date that they have received the updated document and place each signed acknowledgement in each child’s file. • Your program is in cohort 3 for the rated license reassessment. Your program’s planning year will be from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. Your program’s reassessment year will be 2026 to 2027. As you plan for the reassessment of the rated license, please be sure that all staff has their most recent education updated and verified in WORKS and that you are in touch with your local Partnership and Resource and Referral agencies to provide technical assistance and help you prepare for reassessment. • Although not an issue today, 2 emergency medication permission to administer forms in classroom space 107 have expiration dates of 2/29/24 and 3/8/24 please be sure to update these forms prior to their expiration date. • When reviewing staff files, you may utilize the schools Off Site Verification Forms which identifies information that is stored off site. The bulleted items identified on the form is not required to be maintained in the file of that staff member as long as that staff members name and date of employment is listed on the employee roster that should be attached to the form. The information that is stored “off-site” should be available upon the consultant’s request in the event that the consultant would need to verify that information. That Off Site Verification Form should be updated annually and/or as staff members are hired. • Fire inspection reports are required to be sent to the consultant within 7 business days of the inspection being completed. If an inspection has not been sent to me within 7 days of the inspection a violation will be cited at the next monitoring visit. You may contact me by phone at (980) 434-3877 or by email at meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov or Erin Pickard by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. Thank you for your time and assistance 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

GS110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALEXANDER COUNTY HEAD START - WITTENBURG ELEM. SCH Facility ID: 02000108 Consultant: MERIA WILDER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/5/2024 Number Present: 46 Completed Date: 2/5/2024 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 01:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor your program for compliance with all applicable child care requirements during an annual compliance visit. You, Erica Childers, Site Manager, assisted me, Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant, with today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on March 16, 2023. Your compliance history score was 88% prior to today’s visit. Your facility operates with a Five-Star license that was issued on July 22, 2021. Your program earned 6 points in program standards, 7 points in staff education and 1 quality point for a total of 14 points earned. Your program operates with the following restrictions: 1st shift (daytime care), meets enhanced space and meets enhanced ratios. The following required postings was posted in outside of the classroom: Five-Star License, NC Summary of Child Care Law, Sanitation placard, Emergency Medical Care Plan, Emergency Phone Numbers, safe arrival and departure procedures, First Aid poster, menu, daily schedule, and activity plan. I observed the following inspections, sanitation inspection conducted on 11/1/23, fire inspection conducted on 10/2/23, playground inspection conducted on 1/29/24, and the last quarterly lockdown emergency drill conducted on 1/31/24. I observed the menu to be current and crispy chicken sandwich, frosty peach fruit cup, baked beans and 1% unflavored white milk was listed and served for lunch. I monitored your incident log and found incident reports to be logged with the child’s file. I monitored your screentime log. I monitored your daily sign in/out records and daily attendance. Activity plans were posted, current and linked to NC FELD. I monitored your indoor and outdoor environment for safety hazards. I have monitored health and safety requirements. I monitored 2 emergency medications, permissions to administer and Medical Action Plans in space 2, and 2 emergency medications, permissions to administer and Medical Action Plans in space 2 for a total of 4 medications monitored during today’s visit. I observed approved space, adequate supervision, group size and staff child ratios in all 3 classrooms. I observed children being adequately supervised and cared for in a nurturing way in all 3 classrooms. I observed children working independently during free choice play time with teachers supervising and assisting children with teacher directed activities in all 3 classrooms. I observed all toys and materials to be child size and developmentally appropriate. I observed furnishings to be clean and in good repair. I monitored 2 existing staff files and there were no new staff files to monitor. I monitored a random sampling of 5 children’s records. The following violations were cited during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. The window in classroom space 107 was not kept free of dust and dirt. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 811 Potentially hazardous items including but not limited to power tools, nails, chemicals, propane stoves, lawn mowers, gasoline, or kerosene were not stored in locked areas, removed from the premises, or made inaccessible to children. In classroom space 107 there was 1 bulk soap with a “keep out of reach of children” warning and additional warnings that was stored below 5 ft. and was accessible to children. .0604(a) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. One child with a birth date of 4/14/20 had an application for enrollment that did not identify the child’s fears, healthcare concerns, unique behaviors, allergies and symptoms. .0801(a)(1-7) 1879 Prescribed medicines, that are pharmaceutical samples, was not stored in the manufacturers original packaging, was not labeled with the child's name, and/or written instructions did not include the required information. In classroom space 107, there were 2 emergency medications that were not labeled with the child’s name. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(2)(b)(i-v) Technical Assistance: • In classroom space 107, there were 2 emergency medications that were not labeled with the child’s name. As discussed, I recommend writing the child’s name on each medication received up accepting the medication from the parent. • In classroom space 107 there was 1 bulk soap with a “keep out of reach of children” warning and additional warnings that was stored below 5 ft. and was accessible to children. As discussed, anything with a warning label of “keep out of reach of children” warning and additional warnings must be made inaccessible to children and in locked storage. Remind teachers to inspect their classrooms daily to ensure all hazards are not accessible to children. • One child with a birth date of 4/14/20 had an application for enrollment that did not identify the child’s fears, healthcare concerns, unique behaviors, allergies and symptoms. As discussed, prior to filing paperwork into children’s records be sure all items listed are addressed, if an item does not apply mark NA in that space. • The window seal in classroom space 107 was not kept free of dust and dirt. As discussed, you may utilize a cleaning schedule to ensure the classroom is free of dust, dirt and debris. All violations that were cited must be corrected immediately and a compliance letter for violations cited during today’s visit must be sent to me by February 20, 2024. Child care facilities must comply with all state laws, federal laws and local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare of children (GS110-91 – Mandatory standards for a license). Failure to comply may lead to an administrative action (General statue 110-102-2- Administrative penalties). You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by GS110-90(4)(c). Prior to today’s visit, your program maintained a compliance history of 97%. Please note any violations cited during future visits may negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to administrative action. Also, please remember in order to maintain an enhanced rated license your compliance history must remain above 75% at all times. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting DCDEE new website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/general/home.asp. Email information to: Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 6591 Statesville, NC 28677 Email: meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov The following information must be included in your compliance letter: Providers Name, Position, Facility name, Facility ID number Violation Item number Date of violation correction How the violation was corrected How the violation will be prevented in the future Consultation: • As of September 2023, the Summary of NC Child Care Law was updated and available on the DCDEE website. Please print this form to post in your foyer with your required postings and give the updated information to parents and have them sign and date that they have received the updated document and place each signed acknowledgement in each child’s file. • Your program is in cohort 3 for the rated license reassessment. Your program’s planning year will be from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. Your program’s reassessment year will be 2026 to 2027. As you plan for the reassessment of the rated license, please be sure that all staff has their most recent education updated and verified in WORKS and that you are in touch with your local Partnership and Resource and Referral agencies to provide technical assistance and help you prepare for reassessment. • Although not an issue today, 2 emergency medication permission to administer forms in classroom space 107 have expiration dates of 2/29/24 and 3/8/24 please be sure to update these forms prior to their expiration date. • When reviewing staff files, you may utilize the schools Off Site Verification Forms which identifies information that is stored off site. The bulleted items identified on the form is not required to be maintained in the file of that staff member as long as that staff members name and date of employment is listed on the employee roster that should be attached to the form. The information that is stored “off-site” should be available upon the consultant’s request in the event that the consultant would need to verify that information. That Off Site Verification Form should be updated annually and/or as staff members are hired. • Fire inspection reports are required to be sent to the consultant within 7 business days of the inspection being completed. If an inspection has not been sent to me within 7 days of the inspection a violation will be cited at the next monitoring visit. You may contact me by phone at (980) 434-3877 or by email at meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov or Erin Pickard by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. Thank you for your time and assistance 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: ALEXANDER COUNTY HEAD START - WITTENBURG ELEM. SCH Facility ID: 02000108 Consultant: MERIA WILDER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/12/2023 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 10/12/2023 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 209 Time In: 11:01 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during a routine unannounced visit. You, Erica Childers, Site Manager, Michelle Fox, Health Service Manager, assisted me Meria Wilder, Child Care Consultant, with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star rated license issued on July 22, 2021, earning 6 points in program standards, 7 points in staff education and 1 quality point. Permit restrictions are 1st shift (daytime care), meets enhanced ratios and meets enhanced space. I observed the following required postings prominently posted: five-star license, Sanitation placard, tobacco free signage, Emergency Medical Care Plan, Emergency Phone Numbers, First Aid poster, and menu. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on March 16, 2023. Your compliance history score prior to today’s visit was 99%. I observed staff child ratios, group size and supervision to be in compliance. I monitored all existing staff files for CPR. First Aid, Trainings, and criminal background checks and new staff files were monitored. I monitored (4) four medications. I observed adequate and approved space. I monitored daily sign-in sheets and attendance records and found them to be current and accurate. The most recent fire inspection was recorded as conducted on October 2, 2023, the most recent sanitation inspection was recorded as conducted on May 10, 2023, and the most recent lockdown drill was conducted on October 12, 2023. I observed playground inspections to be current and the most recent documented as being completed on September 19, 2023. I observed the incident report log with incident reports filed with children’s records. I observed teachers interacting with children in a positive and nurturing way. I observed children participating in toileting routines, handwashing, transitions, and teacher led activities. I observed a variety of toys and materials to be age-appropriate, sufficient quantity, tables and chairs to be of adequate height. The following violations were cited during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. On the playground used by preschool children there were (2) two flower pots that were broken and cracked. .0601(c) 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. One (1) staff member employed on August 1, 1997, did not have documentation of completing Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment. .1102(g) Comments: Violations must be corrected immediately. A signed letter of compliance must be received by me no later than October 26, 2023, stating how the violation was corrected, and how compliance will be maintained in the future. If you email your 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: 1. Name of your center 2. The centers ID number 3. Date of the letter 4. Date of corrections 5. Address each violation, stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. 6. Address your plan to ensure that you will not have that violation again. 7. Your signature I advise you to be prepared to provide supporting documentation in the form of photos, documents, certificates, should I request them in order to clarify or verify compliance. Please mail or email me a copy of the compliance letter to: Meria Wilder P.O. Box 6591 Statesville, NC 28677 meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov Please note: Please be aware that any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If you state in your compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Technical Assistance: 1. Your program is in Cohort 3 for reassessment for the rated license assessment. Your reassessment preparation year is 2025-2026 and your reassessment year will be 2026-2027. Your reassessment month of the expiration of your current star-rated license. As you prepared for reassessment, I encourage you to take advantage of contacting your local Partnership for assistance as well as making sure all staff’s education is current and updated/verified in WORKS. 2. Although not an issue today, be sure to send me fire inspection reports within seven days of the date of inspection. If you don’t send me a fire inspection within seven days of the date of inspection a violation will be cited at your next monitoring visit. 3. As discussed, remember to post the most current NC Child Care Summary of Law dated September 2023. 4. As discussed, be sure staff members are moving around and interacting with children while on the playground. 5. Remember to utilize the staff file checklist that is located on the DCDEE website to ensure that all staff trainings are current and up to date, including Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment. 6. Be sure all classroom and playground furnishings are in good repair. 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. If a letter is not received by the required date an unannounced follow-up visit may be conducted to confirm the violations were corrected or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A https://www.msn.com/enus/feedNCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Contact me at meria.wilder@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-434-3877 or Erin Pickard, Lead Child Care Consultant at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-594-0153 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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.