10A NCAC 09 .2703 · Violation

Name of Operation: SOUTHEASTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHILD DEV. CENTER Facility ID: 24000012 Consultant: NATALIE M. POND Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1225-084L Visit Date: 12/15/2025 Number Present: 39 Completed Date: 12/15/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegation is follows: there are concerns that NC Pre-K requirements are not being met. This facility currently operates with a Five Star Center License issued July 31, 2024. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of fifty-eight (58) children ages 0 to12, a second shift capacity of fifty-eight (58) children ages 0 to 12, meets enhanced ratios, and meets enhanced space. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of ninety-four percent (94%). Limited monitoring occurred during today’s visit. In addition to the allegations, supervision, staff /child ratios, adequate/approved space, and permit restrictions were monitored There were forty-four (44) children enrolled and thirty-nine (39) children present ages 1 to 5. You, M. Benton, administrator, was present and available for consultation today. Observations were conducted of all approved indoor and outdoor spaces. In spaces 1a, 1b, and 2 the children were engaged in free play throughout the classrooms. Observed activities included puzzles, play-doh, magnet tiles, individual art with scissors and glue, and train play. In space 3, the children were participating in music and movement activities as a group. Lunch was then served, consisting of ground beef, beans, corn, mixed fruit, and milk. One new staff has been hired since the last visit. The file for new staff was reviewed and contained all required information. In a review of staff files, it was determined that two staff members have expired qualification letters. Investigation: The allegation was reviewed with the administrator and two staff, who were given the opportunity to state their perceptions of the allegation. Allegation - There are concerns that children enrolled in NC Pre-K are being cared for in a classroom that does not meet NC Pre-K standards. Findings: Space 3 serves as the designated classroom for the NC Pre-K program. You, M. Benton, stated that five (5) of the ten (10) children enrolled in NC Pre-K have been cared for in space 2 on a daily basis, rather than in the designated NC Pre-K classroom, due to parent requests for group placement. Two staff members interviewed stated that the 5 (five) children have been cared for in space 2 since the start of the school year in August. Children in both spaces attend from 8am to 3pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. Both classrooms use Creative Curriculum/Lillio, A&S Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for ongoing assessments, for all enrolled children. NC Pre-K staff information was verified in the NC Pre-K Plan for lead teacher K.B. in space three 3. Lead teacher K.G. in space 2 was not verified in the NC Pre-K Plan. Attendance records, children’s files, and lesson plans were reviewed. A Site Monitoring visit has been conducted by Columbus County Schools, the contracting agency, on October 30, 2025. It was noted that the monitoring tool was reviewed and requirements were in compliance. However, although both spaces appear to be meeting program requirements, the teacher in space 2 was not verified to be meeting education requirements. Based on the information provided by staff, the reporters’ information, and my investigation/observations, this allegation is confirmed. The following violation(s) were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One teacher had a qualification letter that expired on October 7, 2025 and one teacher had a qualification letter that expired on December 8, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. Two staff members did not have a valid qualification letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1780 The NC Pre-K teacher does not meet the education requirements as specified for NC Pre-K programs. Five of ten children enrolled in NC Pre-K are being cared for on a daily basis in a classroom with a lead teacher that does not meet education requirements. .3012 (a)(1-7) 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 (18)-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five (75) percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before December 29, 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. Please note, if the compliance letter is not received by the agreed-upon date, a follow-up visit may be made to verify compliance. Mail or email the information to: Natalie Pond, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 4 Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 Natalie.m.pond@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE. Your letter should either be typed within the body of the email so your facility email address is visible when your letter is printed (this serves as your signature), or your letter with signature may be scanned and attached to the email. The following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance: Child care programs serving NC Pre-K children are required to meet a set of standards as outlined in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules. You stated you have been in touch with Teri Ard, your plan administrator through Columbus County Schools, for assistance in meeting those standards. Continue to use her as a resource. Today we discussed balancing family requests with meeting licensing rules, and strategies for working with families. Qualifying Letter – Two violations were documented related to criminal background checks which are violation of the child care law, North Carolina General Statute 110-90.2(b) and Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e). Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years from the date of issuance). Staff members K.Baker has a qualification letter that expired October 7, 2025 and K.Gore has a qualification letter that expired on December 8, 2025. Information for requalification was not submitted prior to the expiration dates. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by December 30, 2025, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, the employee cannot be at the facility any longer until they receive their qualification letter. You stated that you understand the requirement for the date the qualification letter is due. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me with questions or concerns at 910-364-4898 or Natalie.m.pond@dhhs.nc.gov If you need further assistance, please contact my supervisor at 910-824-0470 or kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SOUTHEASTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHILD DEV. CENTER Facility ID: 24000012 Consultant: NATALIE M. POND Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1225-084L Visit Date: 12/15/2025 Number Present: 39 Completed Date: 12/15/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegation is follows: there are concerns that NC Pre-K requirements are not being met. This facility currently operates with a Five Star Center License issued July 31, 2024. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of fifty-eight (58) children ages 0 to12, a second shift capacity of fifty-eight (58) children ages 0 to 12, meets enhanced ratios, and meets enhanced space. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of ninety-four percent (94%). Limited monitoring occurred during today’s visit. In addition to the allegations, supervision, staff /child ratios, adequate/approved space, and permit restrictions were monitored There were forty-four (44) children enrolled and thirty-nine (39) children present ages 1 to 5. You, M. Benton, administrator, was present and available for consultation today. Observations were conducted of all approved indoor and outdoor spaces. In spaces 1a, 1b, and 2 the children were engaged in free play throughout the classrooms. Observed activities included puzzles, play-doh, magnet tiles, individual art with scissors and glue, and train play. In space 3, the children were participating in music and movement activities as a group. Lunch was then served, consisting of ground beef, beans, corn, mixed fruit, and milk. One new staff has been hired since the last visit. The file for new staff was reviewed and contained all required information. In a review of staff files, it was determined that two staff members have expired qualification letters. Investigation: The allegation was reviewed with the administrator and two staff, who were given the opportunity to state their perceptions of the allegation. Allegation - There are concerns that children enrolled in NC Pre-K are being cared for in a classroom that does not meet NC Pre-K standards. Findings: Space 3 serves as the designated classroom for the NC Pre-K program. You, M. Benton, stated that five (5) of the ten (10) children enrolled in NC Pre-K have been cared for in space 2 on a daily basis, rather than in the designated NC Pre-K classroom, due to parent requests for group placement. Two staff members interviewed stated that the 5 (five) children have been cared for in space 2 since the start of the school year in August. Children in both spaces attend from 8am to 3pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. Both classrooms use Creative Curriculum/Lillio, A&S Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for ongoing assessments, for all enrolled children. NC Pre-K staff information was verified in the NC Pre-K Plan for lead teacher K.B. in space three 3. Lead teacher K.G. in space 2 was not verified in the NC Pre-K Plan. Attendance records, children’s files, and lesson plans were reviewed. A Site Monitoring visit has been conducted by Columbus County Schools, the contracting agency, on October 30, 2025. It was noted that the monitoring tool was reviewed and requirements were in compliance. However, although both spaces appear to be meeting program requirements, the teacher in space 2 was not verified to be meeting education requirements. Based on the information provided by staff, the reporters’ information, and my investigation/observations, this allegation is confirmed. The following violation(s) were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One teacher had a qualification letter that expired on October 7, 2025 and one teacher had a qualification letter that expired on December 8, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. Two staff members did not have a valid qualification letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1780 The NC Pre-K teacher does not meet the education requirements as specified for NC Pre-K programs. Five of ten children enrolled in NC Pre-K are being cared for on a daily basis in a classroom with a lead teacher that does not meet education requirements. .3012 (a)(1-7) 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 (18)-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five (75) percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before December 29, 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. Please note, if the compliance letter is not received by the agreed-upon date, a follow-up visit may be made to verify compliance. Mail or email the information to: Natalie Pond, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 4 Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 Natalie.m.pond@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE. Your letter should either be typed within the body of the email so your facility email address is visible when your letter is printed (this serves as your signature), or your letter with signature may be scanned and attached to the email. The following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance: Child care programs serving NC Pre-K children are required to meet a set of standards as outlined in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules. You stated you have been in touch with Teri Ard, your plan administrator through Columbus County Schools, for assistance in meeting those standards. Continue to use her as a resource. Today we discussed balancing family requests with meeting licensing rules, and strategies for working with families. Qualifying Letter – Two violations were documented related to criminal background checks which are violation of the child care law, North Carolina General Statute 110-90.2(b) and Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e). Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years from the date of issuance). Staff members K.Baker has a qualification letter that expired October 7, 2025 and K.Gore has a qualification letter that expired on December 8, 2025. Information for requalification was not submitted prior to the expiration dates. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by December 30, 2025, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, the employee cannot be at the facility any longer until they receive their qualification letter. You stated that you understand the requirement for the date the qualification letter is due. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me with questions or concerns at 910-364-4898 or Natalie.m.pond@dhhs.nc.gov If you need further assistance, please contact my supervisor at 910-824-0470 or kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SOUTHEASTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHILD DEV. CENTER Facility ID: 24000012 Consultant: NATALIE M. POND Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1225-084L Visit Date: 12/15/2025 Number Present: 39 Completed Date: 12/15/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegation is follows: there are concerns that NC Pre-K requirements are not being met. This facility currently operates with a Five Star Center License issued July 31, 2024. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of fifty-eight (58) children ages 0 to12, a second shift capacity of fifty-eight (58) children ages 0 to 12, meets enhanced ratios, and meets enhanced space. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of ninety-four percent (94%). Limited monitoring occurred during today’s visit. In addition to the allegations, supervision, staff /child ratios, adequate/approved space, and permit restrictions were monitored There were forty-four (44) children enrolled and thirty-nine (39) children present ages 1 to 5. You, M. Benton, administrator, was present and available for consultation today. Observations were conducted of all approved indoor and outdoor spaces. In spaces 1a, 1b, and 2 the children were engaged in free play throughout the classrooms. Observed activities included puzzles, play-doh, magnet tiles, individual art with scissors and glue, and train play. In space 3, the children were participating in music and movement activities as a group. Lunch was then served, consisting of ground beef, beans, corn, mixed fruit, and milk. One new staff has been hired since the last visit. The file for new staff was reviewed and contained all required information. In a review of staff files, it was determined that two staff members have expired qualification letters. Investigation: The allegation was reviewed with the administrator and two staff, who were given the opportunity to state their perceptions of the allegation. Allegation - There are concerns that children enrolled in NC Pre-K are being cared for in a classroom that does not meet NC Pre-K standards. Findings: Space 3 serves as the designated classroom for the NC Pre-K program. You, M. Benton, stated that five (5) of the ten (10) children enrolled in NC Pre-K have been cared for in space 2 on a daily basis, rather than in the designated NC Pre-K classroom, due to parent requests for group placement. Two staff members interviewed stated that the 5 (five) children have been cared for in space 2 since the start of the school year in August. Children in both spaces attend from 8am to 3pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. Both classrooms use Creative Curriculum/Lillio, A&S Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for ongoing assessments, for all enrolled children. NC Pre-K staff information was verified in the NC Pre-K Plan for lead teacher K.B. in space three 3. Lead teacher K.G. in space 2 was not verified in the NC Pre-K Plan. Attendance records, children’s files, and lesson plans were reviewed. A Site Monitoring visit has been conducted by Columbus County Schools, the contracting agency, on October 30, 2025. It was noted that the monitoring tool was reviewed and requirements were in compliance. However, although both spaces appear to be meeting program requirements, the teacher in space 2 was not verified to be meeting education requirements. Based on the information provided by staff, the reporters’ information, and my investigation/observations, this allegation is confirmed. The following violation(s) were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One teacher had a qualification letter that expired on October 7, 2025 and one teacher had a qualification letter that expired on December 8, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. Two staff members did not have a valid qualification letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1780 The NC Pre-K teacher does not meet the education requirements as specified for NC Pre-K programs. Five of ten children enrolled in NC Pre-K are being cared for on a daily basis in a classroom with a lead teacher that does not meet education requirements. .3012 (a)(1-7) 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 (18)-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five (75) percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before December 29, 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. Please note, if the compliance letter is not received by the agreed-upon date, a follow-up visit may be made to verify compliance. Mail or email the information to: Natalie Pond, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 4 Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 Natalie.m.pond@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE. Your letter should either be typed within the body of the email so your facility email address is visible when your letter is printed (this serves as your signature), or your letter with signature may be scanned and attached to the email. The following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance: Child care programs serving NC Pre-K children are required to meet a set of standards as outlined in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules. You stated you have been in touch with Teri Ard, your plan administrator through Columbus County Schools, for assistance in meeting those standards. Continue to use her as a resource. Today we discussed balancing family requests with meeting licensing rules, and strategies for working with families. Qualifying Letter – Two violations were documented related to criminal background checks which are violation of the child care law, North Carolina General Statute 110-90.2(b) and Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e). Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years from the date of issuance). Staff members K.Baker has a qualification letter that expired October 7, 2025 and K.Gore has a qualification letter that expired on December 8, 2025. Information for requalification was not submitted prior to the expiration dates. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by December 30, 2025, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, the employee cannot be at the facility any longer until they receive their qualification letter. You stated that you understand the requirement for the date the qualification letter is due. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me with questions or concerns at 910-364-4898 or Natalie.m.pond@dhhs.nc.gov If you need further assistance, please contact my supervisor at 910-824-0470 or kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: SOUTHEASTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHILD DEV. CENTER Facility ID: 24000012 Consultant: KIM SHERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/26/2025 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 3/26/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 10:25 AM Time Out: 12:10 PM Time In: 01:00 PM Time Out: 03:05 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements during this annual compliance visit. This program currently operates with a Five Star License issued August 15, 2019, earning 6 points in Program Standards, 7 points in Education and a Quality point. Restrictions on the permit include a first and second shift capacity of 58 children 0-12 years of age, and meets enhanced space and ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. The program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled; this program uses The Creative Curriculum, Fourth Edition. The last annual compliance visit was conducted April 9, 2024. A Superior sanitation rating was earned July 3, 2024, and a satisfactory fire inspection was conducted July 16, 2024; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to today’s visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 90%. This program is owned and operated by Southeastern Community College. You Morgan Benton, administrator, was present and available for consultation during the visit. Three indoor spaces and two outdoor spaces were approved for child care use. Today, a walk through and observations were conducted. The facility was organized and child friendly, as children’s seasonal artwork was displayed throughout the facility and in the classrooms. In the classroom for NC Pre-K, there were thirteen children present ranging in age from 4- to 5-year-olds. Children were engaged in free play activities such as coloring and drawing with coloring pencils, building with blocks, connecting Legos, looking at books, and many other activities. Children appeared familiar with daily routine as they were engaged in activities. In the classroom for 3- to 4-year-olds, they were sitting in a circle as the teacher used a counting activity to transition children to center free play. The last classroom observed was the group of 1- to 2-year-olds. The majority of the children were sitting at the child size tables coloring the a large white paper with magic markers, another child was pushing a big truck around the classroom, and two other children were sitting in the cozy area. Children were putting magic markers in their mouth, writing on their face and arms, or putting marker tops in their mouth. You went into the classroom to assist the staff and transition the group to outdoor free play. Outdoors, there are a variety of activities and materials accessible to children. It was verified today that you have registered for the required testing for lead in water, lead in paint and asbestos at your facility. You are contacting them today to determine when the visit is scheduled. There have not been any new staff hired since the last visit. All staff have completed the Health and Safety training, applicable training, and other requirements information. One space serves as the classroom for NC Pre-K program. This is a one classroom dual use facility. NC Pre-K operates during the day and school-age before and after school. Children in this program attend from 8am to 3pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, A&S Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2024-2025 was submitted to Terri Ard on December 11, 2024. The programs develops newsletters to share with parents, provides Monthly Family Engagement activities and encourages parent volunteers. The program offers holiday parties campus activities for family activities. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In classroom space #1, the group of 1 to 2 year olds, children were putting magic markers and the tops in their mouths. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) A violation was documented and corrected today. No action is needed. Continue to ensure your facility meets all applicable child care requirements at all times. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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. Technical Assistance for Violation: A violation related to safety was documented in the child care rule .0601. Magic marker tops are unsafe and a choking hazard to the younger age group. If children use magic markers, the tops should be removed and made inaccessible to this group, as they are considered choking hazards for children under age three. This should also include broken crayons. The markers and tops were removed and put away. Children transitioned outdoors to play. Technical Assistance- When asked about the caregivers for this classroom, you explained there are two staff members that rotate days to serve the assistant role, as a full time staff member has not been hired. Today, I had concerns regarding classroom management which could be the result of changes with staff. Continuity of care for one-year-olds is crucial for fostering secure attachments, promoting smoother development, and building trust, leading to better social-emotional and cognitive outcomes. When toddlers have consistent caregivers for an extended period (often the first three years), they are more likely to form strong, secure attachments. This is because they learn to trust and rely on those caregivers to meet their needs. Continuity of care allows children to develop at a steady pace, with fewer developmental or behavioral regressions, as they don't have to constantly adjust to new environments and caregivers. In addition, caregivers area able to develop deeper knowledge of individual children's needs, strengths, and interests, leading to more personalized and effective care. You explained the facility does not transport children at this time. Action Item: ABCMS- You stated you have completed the training. Verify by April 4, 2025 that you input all staff in the Provider Portal for ABCMS (the criminal records check database). General Statue 110-90.2 and child care rule .2703(r), child care is captured in ABCMS. 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. 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 on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. Should you need assistance with the portal or the training, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401and someone will assist you. The DCDEE has a new initiative – Natural Outdoor Learning Initiative. Through this initiative, we hope to increase knowledge and confidence for everyone in developing and implementing best practices to support the creation, programming, and safe use of naturalized outdoor spaces in child care facilities. You can learn more by visiting the NLI website, where you will also find many resources, including an updated Toolkit designed to help you enhance your outdoor learning environment. The downloadable NLI Toolkit is available at: https://naturalearning.org/preschool-outdoor-toolkit. The visit summary was provided to the provider, and a signed copy was returned. If you need further assistance, you may contact me at (910)824-0470 or email me at Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: ratio. Open / not marked corrected.

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SOUTHEASTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHILD DEV. CENTER Facility ID: 24000012 Consultant: KIM SHERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/26/2025 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 3/26/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 10:25 AM Time Out: 12:10 PM Time In: 01:00 PM Time Out: 03:05 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements during this annual compliance visit. This program currently operates with a Five Star License issued August 15, 2019, earning 6 points in Program Standards, 7 points in Education and a Quality point. Restrictions on the permit include a first and second shift capacity of 58 children 0-12 years of age, and meets enhanced space and ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. The program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled; this program uses The Creative Curriculum, Fourth Edition. The last annual compliance visit was conducted April 9, 2024. A Superior sanitation rating was earned July 3, 2024, and a satisfactory fire inspection was conducted July 16, 2024; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to today’s visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 90%. This program is owned and operated by Southeastern Community College. You Morgan Benton, administrator, was present and available for consultation during the visit. Three indoor spaces and two outdoor spaces were approved for child care use. Today, a walk through and observations were conducted. The facility was organized and child friendly, as children’s seasonal artwork was displayed throughout the facility and in the classrooms. In the classroom for NC Pre-K, there were thirteen children present ranging in age from 4- to 5-year-olds. Children were engaged in free play activities such as coloring and drawing with coloring pencils, building with blocks, connecting Legos, looking at books, and many other activities. Children appeared familiar with daily routine as they were engaged in activities. In the classroom for 3- to 4-year-olds, they were sitting in a circle as the teacher used a counting activity to transition children to center free play. The last classroom observed was the group of 1- to 2-year-olds. The majority of the children were sitting at the child size tables coloring the a large white paper with magic markers, another child was pushing a big truck around the classroom, and two other children were sitting in the cozy area. Children were putting magic markers in their mouth, writing on their face and arms, or putting marker tops in their mouth. You went into the classroom to assist the staff and transition the group to outdoor free play. Outdoors, there are a variety of activities and materials accessible to children. It was verified today that you have registered for the required testing for lead in water, lead in paint and asbestos at your facility. You are contacting them today to determine when the visit is scheduled. There have not been any new staff hired since the last visit. All staff have completed the Health and Safety training, applicable training, and other requirements information. One space serves as the classroom for NC Pre-K program. This is a one classroom dual use facility. NC Pre-K operates during the day and school-age before and after school. Children in this program attend from 8am to 3pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, A&S Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2024-2025 was submitted to Terri Ard on December 11, 2024. The programs develops newsletters to share with parents, provides Monthly Family Engagement activities and encourages parent volunteers. The program offers holiday parties campus activities for family activities. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In classroom space #1, the group of 1 to 2 year olds, children were putting magic markers and the tops in their mouths. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) A violation was documented and corrected today. No action is needed. Continue to ensure your facility meets all applicable child care requirements at all times. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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. Technical Assistance for Violation: A violation related to safety was documented in the child care rule .0601. Magic marker tops are unsafe and a choking hazard to the younger age group. If children use magic markers, the tops should be removed and made inaccessible to this group, as they are considered choking hazards for children under age three. This should also include broken crayons. The markers and tops were removed and put away. Children transitioned outdoors to play. Technical Assistance- When asked about the caregivers for this classroom, you explained there are two staff members that rotate days to serve the assistant role, as a full time staff member has not been hired. Today, I had concerns regarding classroom management which could be the result of changes with staff. Continuity of care for one-year-olds is crucial for fostering secure attachments, promoting smoother development, and building trust, leading to better social-emotional and cognitive outcomes. When toddlers have consistent caregivers for an extended period (often the first three years), they are more likely to form strong, secure attachments. This is because they learn to trust and rely on those caregivers to meet their needs. Continuity of care allows children to develop at a steady pace, with fewer developmental or behavioral regressions, as they don't have to constantly adjust to new environments and caregivers. In addition, caregivers area able to develop deeper knowledge of individual children's needs, strengths, and interests, leading to more personalized and effective care. You explained the facility does not transport children at this time. Action Item: ABCMS- You stated you have completed the training. Verify by April 4, 2025 that you input all staff in the Provider Portal for ABCMS (the criminal records check database). General Statue 110-90.2 and child care rule .2703(r), child care is captured in ABCMS. 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. 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 on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. Should you need assistance with the portal or the training, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401and someone will assist you. The DCDEE has a new initiative – Natural Outdoor Learning Initiative. Through this initiative, we hope to increase knowledge and confidence for everyone in developing and implementing best practices to support the creation, programming, and safe use of naturalized outdoor spaces in child care facilities. You can learn more by visiting the NLI website, where you will also find many resources, including an updated Toolkit designed to help you enhance your outdoor learning environment. The downloadable NLI Toolkit is available at: https://naturalearning.org/preschool-outdoor-toolkit. The visit summary was provided to the provider, and a signed copy was returned. If you need further assistance, you may contact me at (910)824-0470 or email me at Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: SOUTHEASTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHILD DEV. CENTER Facility ID: 24000012 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/31/2024 Number Present: 33 Completed Date: 7/31/2024 Age: From 2 To 12 Total Minutes: 140 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 11:35 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This program currently operates with a Five Star License issued August 15, 2019, earning 6 points in Program Standards, 7 points in Education and a Quality point. Restrictions on the permit include a first and second shift capacity of 58 children 2-12 years of age, and meets enhanced space and ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. The program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled; this program uses The Creative Curriculum, Fourth Edition. The last annual compliance visit was conducted April 9, 2024. A Superior sanitation rating was earned July 3, 2024, and a satisfactory fire inspection was conducted July 16, 2024; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to today’s visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 94%. Administrator, M. Benton, and Assistant Director, C. Hamilton, were present and available for consultation during the visit. Three indoor spaces and one outdoor space are approved for child care use; Space #1 has been divided into two separate and distinct spaces using furniture. Today, children two and three years of age enrolled in Space #1b were observed outside on the fenced in playground engaged in water play activities including running in sprinklers and sliding down a “slip and slide” mat. After outdoor play, staff members assisted children in changing into dry clothes, and helped them transition to free choice activities including coloring, building with blocks and making sticker collages. Ms. Benton stated children are not currently enrolled in Space #1a as they prepare to accept children one year of age in this space. Preschool children in Space #2 were observed in individual toileting routines as well as free choice activities including working with manipulatives, playing with sensory tubes and building with blocks. When children from Space #1b came inside, this group of children went outside to engage in the same water play activities. In Space #3, school age children were engaged in a journaling activity during which they wrote about things they did this summer and their favorite things to do. This group also got to participate in water play activities on the playground after the preschool children had come inside. Lunch served consisted of chicken fingers, peas, applesauce, whole grain rolls and milk. On July 9, 2024, Ms. Benton requested a change to the facility’s age range as she hoped to enroll children birth to one year of age in Space #1a. A sink was installed per request of Environmental Health Services, and Ms. Benton submitted a new sanitation inspection completed after all requested changes had been made. In addition, an approved fire inspection was submitted July 16, 2024; no issues with the separation Space #1 were noted and a new evacuation plan was approved. Ms. Benton also stated she spoke with Columbus County building inspector Darin Jackson, and he approved the new classroom setup for the ages she planned to serve via telephone. Based on my observations today and documentation submitted by Ms. Benton, the change in age range to birth through twelve years of age is approved. Today it was also observed that a portion of the fenced in playground has been further sectioned off by additional fencing to create a separate outdoor space for children birth through one year of age. Stationary equipment was not observed in this space. The new space (Outdoor Space #2) was measured and a capacity of six children at 100 square feet per child (enhanced space) was determined today. As discussed, this changes the capacity of the playground used by children two through twelve years of age (Outdoor Space #1) to 56 children at any one time. The new playground space was approved. New staff members have not been hired since the Annual Compliance visit. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and corrected during the visit: 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. A tube of ointment with an authorization which expired July 1, 2024 was observed in Space #2. .0803(12) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. A cracked plastic tub and tricycle with a cracked seat were observed in Outdoor Space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) A compliance letter is not due at this time as both violations cited were corrected during the visit. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604 states that once a day, prior to initial use, the indoor and outdoor premises shall be checked for debris, vandalism, and broken equipment. Debris shall be removed and disposed of. Today you removed the two pieces of broken equipment from the playground as required. As discussed, before children enter the outdoor area each day, you must take time to observe and ensure there are no safety hazards or broken equipment in the area. I suggested you assign this task to an opening teacher or floater who may conduct a “safety sweep” before children go outside each day. Technical assistance regarding medication was also provided today. As discussed, when no longer needed by the child, or when authorization expires, all medications should be returned to the child’s parent/guardian or disposed of after an attempt to reach parent/guardian within 72 hours of completion of treatment or expiration. Today you discarded the ointment observed in Space #2. I suggested you post of list of medications with expiration dates in each class so staff may easily see approaching expiration dates and remind parents to update permission forms or just take medications home. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was also provided today regarding gross motor materials on the new playground. As discussed, portable materials such as age appropriate push and riding toys may be a good addition to this space, however you should ensure multiple materials are present to prevent competition over a “favorite” item. A variety of gross motor equipment stimulating different skills should be offered in each outdoor space. Today we also discussed transportation and off-premise activity requirements. I advised you to update your routine transportation permission forms in August so they will be valid for the entire school year rather than waiting to update them in January, when you may not remember. I also reminded you that activities on campus but away from the licensed space are considered off-premise activities and require separate permission. A blanket permission form valid for one year may be used as long as a schedule of regular activities is posted ahead of time for parents. Rated License Information Today I shared with you that the “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) standards are put in place. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment this year as previously discussed. Since you already had a “planning year” Environment Rating Scales (ERS) conducted, I strongly urge you to use the reports to train staff on areas with lower scores and recognize where additional support and resources, such as the Health Social Behaviors Project, may be needed. When more information becomes available about the new QRIS standards, I may assist you in determining which pathway is best for your program, however if you think you may still be interested in the ERS, I urge you to purchase and review the third editions of the infant/toddler scale and the early childhood scale as they will be used after February 2025. I will be in touch regarding timelines for reassessment in the future. Regarding Education standards, we reviewed information from DCDEE WORKS evaluations and I shared with you that C. Hales and M. Ward still have incomplete evaluations. As discussed, you must ensure all key staff have complete WORKS evaluations so appropriate Education points may be awarded during the rated license reassessment process. Please let me know if you need assistance with the WORKS portal. Reminders You may not accept children under two years of age until your license has been updated and received. As discussed, I will try to expedite the process so you may begin enrolling new children by August 19, 2024 as you have planned. It’s time to enroll your facility in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Please see steps below: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess for lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-lead-based-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, printed and reviewed with you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: ratio. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: SOUTHEASTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHILD DEV. CENTER Facility ID: 24000012 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/31/2024 Number Present: 33 Completed Date: 7/31/2024 Age: From 2 To 12 Total Minutes: 140 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 11:35 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This program currently operates with a Five Star License issued August 15, 2019, earning 6 points in Program Standards, 7 points in Education and a Quality point. Restrictions on the permit include a first and second shift capacity of 58 children 2-12 years of age, and meets enhanced space and ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. The program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled; this program uses The Creative Curriculum, Fourth Edition. The last annual compliance visit was conducted April 9, 2024. A Superior sanitation rating was earned July 3, 2024, and a satisfactory fire inspection was conducted July 16, 2024; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to today’s visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 94%. Administrator, M. Benton, and Assistant Director, C. Hamilton, were present and available for consultation during the visit. Three indoor spaces and one outdoor space are approved for child care use; Space #1 has been divided into two separate and distinct spaces using furniture. Today, children two and three years of age enrolled in Space #1b were observed outside on the fenced in playground engaged in water play activities including running in sprinklers and sliding down a “slip and slide” mat. After outdoor play, staff members assisted children in changing into dry clothes, and helped them transition to free choice activities including coloring, building with blocks and making sticker collages. Ms. Benton stated children are not currently enrolled in Space #1a as they prepare to accept children one year of age in this space. Preschool children in Space #2 were observed in individual toileting routines as well as free choice activities including working with manipulatives, playing with sensory tubes and building with blocks. When children from Space #1b came inside, this group of children went outside to engage in the same water play activities. In Space #3, school age children were engaged in a journaling activity during which they wrote about things they did this summer and their favorite things to do. This group also got to participate in water play activities on the playground after the preschool children had come inside. Lunch served consisted of chicken fingers, peas, applesauce, whole grain rolls and milk. On July 9, 2024, Ms. Benton requested a change to the facility’s age range as she hoped to enroll children birth to one year of age in Space #1a. A sink was installed per request of Environmental Health Services, and Ms. Benton submitted a new sanitation inspection completed after all requested changes had been made. In addition, an approved fire inspection was submitted July 16, 2024; no issues with the separation Space #1 were noted and a new evacuation plan was approved. Ms. Benton also stated she spoke with Columbus County building inspector Darin Jackson, and he approved the new classroom setup for the ages she planned to serve via telephone. Based on my observations today and documentation submitted by Ms. Benton, the change in age range to birth through twelve years of age is approved. Today it was also observed that a portion of the fenced in playground has been further sectioned off by additional fencing to create a separate outdoor space for children birth through one year of age. Stationary equipment was not observed in this space. The new space (Outdoor Space #2) was measured and a capacity of six children at 100 square feet per child (enhanced space) was determined today. As discussed, this changes the capacity of the playground used by children two through twelve years of age (Outdoor Space #1) to 56 children at any one time. The new playground space was approved. New staff members have not been hired since the Annual Compliance visit. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and corrected during the visit: 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. A tube of ointment with an authorization which expired July 1, 2024 was observed in Space #2. .0803(12) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. A cracked plastic tub and tricycle with a cracked seat were observed in Outdoor Space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) A compliance letter is not due at this time as both violations cited were corrected during the visit. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604 states that once a day, prior to initial use, the indoor and outdoor premises shall be checked for debris, vandalism, and broken equipment. Debris shall be removed and disposed of. Today you removed the two pieces of broken equipment from the playground as required. As discussed, before children enter the outdoor area each day, you must take time to observe and ensure there are no safety hazards or broken equipment in the area. I suggested you assign this task to an opening teacher or floater who may conduct a “safety sweep” before children go outside each day. Technical assistance regarding medication was also provided today. As discussed, when no longer needed by the child, or when authorization expires, all medications should be returned to the child’s parent/guardian or disposed of after an attempt to reach parent/guardian within 72 hours of completion of treatment or expiration. Today you discarded the ointment observed in Space #2. I suggested you post of list of medications with expiration dates in each class so staff may easily see approaching expiration dates and remind parents to update permission forms or just take medications home. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was also provided today regarding gross motor materials on the new playground. As discussed, portable materials such as age appropriate push and riding toys may be a good addition to this space, however you should ensure multiple materials are present to prevent competition over a “favorite” item. A variety of gross motor equipment stimulating different skills should be offered in each outdoor space. Today we also discussed transportation and off-premise activity requirements. I advised you to update your routine transportation permission forms in August so they will be valid for the entire school year rather than waiting to update them in January, when you may not remember. I also reminded you that activities on campus but away from the licensed space are considered off-premise activities and require separate permission. A blanket permission form valid for one year may be used as long as a schedule of regular activities is posted ahead of time for parents. Rated License Information Today I shared with you that the “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) standards are put in place. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment this year as previously discussed. Since you already had a “planning year” Environment Rating Scales (ERS) conducted, I strongly urge you to use the reports to train staff on areas with lower scores and recognize where additional support and resources, such as the Health Social Behaviors Project, may be needed. When more information becomes available about the new QRIS standards, I may assist you in determining which pathway is best for your program, however if you think you may still be interested in the ERS, I urge you to purchase and review the third editions of the infant/toddler scale and the early childhood scale as they will be used after February 2025. I will be in touch regarding timelines for reassessment in the future. Regarding Education standards, we reviewed information from DCDEE WORKS evaluations and I shared with you that C. Hales and M. Ward still have incomplete evaluations. As discussed, you must ensure all key staff have complete WORKS evaluations so appropriate Education points may be awarded during the rated license reassessment process. Please let me know if you need assistance with the WORKS portal. Reminders You may not accept children under two years of age until your license has been updated and received. As discussed, I will try to expedite the process so you may begin enrolling new children by August 19, 2024 as you have planned. It’s time to enroll your facility in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Please see steps below: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess for lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-lead-based-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, printed and reviewed with you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SOUTHEASTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHILD DEV. CENTER Facility ID: 24000012 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/31/2024 Number Present: 33 Completed Date: 7/31/2024 Age: From 2 To 12 Total Minutes: 140 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 11:35 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This program currently operates with a Five Star License issued August 15, 2019, earning 6 points in Program Standards, 7 points in Education and a Quality point. Restrictions on the permit include a first and second shift capacity of 58 children 2-12 years of age, and meets enhanced space and ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. The program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled; this program uses The Creative Curriculum, Fourth Edition. The last annual compliance visit was conducted April 9, 2024. A Superior sanitation rating was earned July 3, 2024, and a satisfactory fire inspection was conducted July 16, 2024; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to today’s visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 94%. Administrator, M. Benton, and Assistant Director, C. Hamilton, were present and available for consultation during the visit. Three indoor spaces and one outdoor space are approved for child care use; Space #1 has been divided into two separate and distinct spaces using furniture. Today, children two and three years of age enrolled in Space #1b were observed outside on the fenced in playground engaged in water play activities including running in sprinklers and sliding down a “slip and slide” mat. After outdoor play, staff members assisted children in changing into dry clothes, and helped them transition to free choice activities including coloring, building with blocks and making sticker collages. Ms. Benton stated children are not currently enrolled in Space #1a as they prepare to accept children one year of age in this space. Preschool children in Space #2 were observed in individual toileting routines as well as free choice activities including working with manipulatives, playing with sensory tubes and building with blocks. When children from Space #1b came inside, this group of children went outside to engage in the same water play activities. In Space #3, school age children were engaged in a journaling activity during which they wrote about things they did this summer and their favorite things to do. This group also got to participate in water play activities on the playground after the preschool children had come inside. Lunch served consisted of chicken fingers, peas, applesauce, whole grain rolls and milk. On July 9, 2024, Ms. Benton requested a change to the facility’s age range as she hoped to enroll children birth to one year of age in Space #1a. A sink was installed per request of Environmental Health Services, and Ms. Benton submitted a new sanitation inspection completed after all requested changes had been made. In addition, an approved fire inspection was submitted July 16, 2024; no issues with the separation Space #1 were noted and a new evacuation plan was approved. Ms. Benton also stated she spoke with Columbus County building inspector Darin Jackson, and he approved the new classroom setup for the ages she planned to serve via telephone. Based on my observations today and documentation submitted by Ms. Benton, the change in age range to birth through twelve years of age is approved. Today it was also observed that a portion of the fenced in playground has been further sectioned off by additional fencing to create a separate outdoor space for children birth through one year of age. Stationary equipment was not observed in this space. The new space (Outdoor Space #2) was measured and a capacity of six children at 100 square feet per child (enhanced space) was determined today. As discussed, this changes the capacity of the playground used by children two through twelve years of age (Outdoor Space #1) to 56 children at any one time. The new playground space was approved. New staff members have not been hired since the Annual Compliance visit. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and corrected during the visit: 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. A tube of ointment with an authorization which expired July 1, 2024 was observed in Space #2. .0803(12) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. A cracked plastic tub and tricycle with a cracked seat were observed in Outdoor Space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) A compliance letter is not due at this time as both violations cited were corrected during the visit. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604 states that once a day, prior to initial use, the indoor and outdoor premises shall be checked for debris, vandalism, and broken equipment. Debris shall be removed and disposed of. Today you removed the two pieces of broken equipment from the playground as required. As discussed, before children enter the outdoor area each day, you must take time to observe and ensure there are no safety hazards or broken equipment in the area. I suggested you assign this task to an opening teacher or floater who may conduct a “safety sweep” before children go outside each day. Technical assistance regarding medication was also provided today. As discussed, when no longer needed by the child, or when authorization expires, all medications should be returned to the child’s parent/guardian or disposed of after an attempt to reach parent/guardian within 72 hours of completion of treatment or expiration. Today you discarded the ointment observed in Space #2. I suggested you post of list of medications with expiration dates in each class so staff may easily see approaching expiration dates and remind parents to update permission forms or just take medications home. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was also provided today regarding gross motor materials on the new playground. As discussed, portable materials such as age appropriate push and riding toys may be a good addition to this space, however you should ensure multiple materials are present to prevent competition over a “favorite” item. A variety of gross motor equipment stimulating different skills should be offered in each outdoor space. Today we also discussed transportation and off-premise activity requirements. I advised you to update your routine transportation permission forms in August so they will be valid for the entire school year rather than waiting to update them in January, when you may not remember. I also reminded you that activities on campus but away from the licensed space are considered off-premise activities and require separate permission. A blanket permission form valid for one year may be used as long as a schedule of regular activities is posted ahead of time for parents. Rated License Information Today I shared with you that the “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) standards are put in place. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment this year as previously discussed. Since you already had a “planning year” Environment Rating Scales (ERS) conducted, I strongly urge you to use the reports to train staff on areas with lower scores and recognize where additional support and resources, such as the Health Social Behaviors Project, may be needed. When more information becomes available about the new QRIS standards, I may assist you in determining which pathway is best for your program, however if you think you may still be interested in the ERS, I urge you to purchase and review the third editions of the infant/toddler scale and the early childhood scale as they will be used after February 2025. I will be in touch regarding timelines for reassessment in the future. Regarding Education standards, we reviewed information from DCDEE WORKS evaluations and I shared with you that C. Hales and M. Ward still have incomplete evaluations. As discussed, you must ensure all key staff have complete WORKS evaluations so appropriate Education points may be awarded during the rated license reassessment process. Please let me know if you need assistance with the WORKS portal. Reminders You may not accept children under two years of age until your license has been updated and received. As discussed, I will try to expedite the process so you may begin enrolling new children by August 19, 2024 as you have planned. It’s time to enroll your facility in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Please see steps below: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess for lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-lead-based-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, printed and reviewed with you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: SOUTHEASTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHILD DEV. CENTER Facility ID: 24000012 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/9/2024 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 4/9/2024 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 01:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This program currently operates with a Five Star License issued August 15, 2019, earning 6 points in Program Standards, 7 points in Education and a Quality point. Restrictions on the permit include a first and second shift capacity of 58 children 2-12 years of age, and meets enhanced space and ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. The program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled; this program uses The Creative Curriculum, Fourth Edition. The last annual compliance visit was conducted April 12, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was earned June 14, 2023, and a satisfactory fire inspection was conducted November 1, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to today’s visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 96%. Administrator, M. Benton, and Assistant Director, C. Hamilton, were present and available for consultation during the visit. Child Care Consultant April Bosse was also present and assisted with the visit today. Due to the proximity of a facility needing an afternoon visit, this visit began after 9:00 A.M. Three indoor spaces and one outdoor space are approved for child care use. It was observed today that Space #1 has been divided into two separate and distinct spaces using furniture. Capacities of each space were determined using a Space Calculation Worksheet, and it was determined that each space (#1a and #1b) has a capacity of 10 children using the enhanced space requirement of 30 square feet per child. The floor plan was updated to reflect this change as well. Today, children two and three years of age enrolled in Spaces #1a and 1b were observed outside in the play area engaged in the sandbox, swinging on swings, climbing on the structure, and riding bikes. After outdoor play, children were engaged in activity areas inside with playdoh, puzzles, and drawing. Preschool children in Space #2 were at the library on campus; off premise activity permission forms were on file as required. After walking back with books they checked out from the library, children engaged in the outdoor area on the swings and pretending to sell hula hoops. In Space #3, preschool children were engaged in activity areas painting flowerpots, molding kinetic sand in the sensory center, pretending to sell flowers in the dramatic play center, and building with interlocking blocks. Lunch served consisted of turkey, cheese, crackers, pickles, pineapples, and milk. Staff members sat with the children as they ate and helped when needed. After lunch, children transitioned to rest time routines. They rested on appropriately spaced cots with individual linens. The lights were dimmed, and soft music played. The Ford E350 13-passenger van used to transport children to the program from local schools was monitored today, and all transportation requirements were found to be in compliance. Health and Safety training requirements as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were also monitored today. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Space #3 is operated as an NC Pre-K classroom. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8am to 2:30pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, Brigance Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. Developmental screenings and health assessments including vision, hearing, and dental screenings were on file for all NC Pre-K children’s files reviewed. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed on Teaching Strategies Gold profile reports. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2023-2024 was signed by Terri Ard, representative of contracting agency Columbus County Schools, during a virtual visit December 4, 2023. It was noted that all requirements were in compliance. NC Pre-K staff information for the lead teacher and administrator was verified in the NC Pre-K Plan. A new assistant teacher was hired in November 2023 and the plan has not yet been updated to include her information. Based on a review of her qualifications, she appears to meet education requirements, however it was discussed that Ms. Ard must be notified and approve the staffing change. The Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale-Revised (ECERS-R) score received on October 19, 2018 was 6.56. Ms. Benton stated she understood the NC Pre-K classroom must earn a score of at least 5.0 on the ECERS-R when the next rated license reassessment is conducted. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. A broken wagon was observed on the playground. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Two staff members' medical reports were older than 12 months at the time of hire, and two staff members did not have medical reports until after the date of hire. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. One staff member's TB test was older than 12 months at the time of hire, and two staff members did not have TB test results until after the date of hire. .0701(a) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. In several places under and around the stationary equipment, less than one inch of rubber mulch was observed on top of the landscaping fabric instead of the five inches required by the ASTM certification. .0605(k)(1-4) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. Three staff members did not sign the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy until after they began caring for children. .0608(d)(1-4) 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. Three staff members did not complete this training within the first 90 days of employment. .1102(g) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. A staff member who began employment May 2, 2022 has not yet completed health and safety training. .1102(a) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by April 23, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited Technical assistance was provided regarding staff recordkeeping requirements during the October 12, 2023 visit, however you, Ms. Benton, became the administrator shortly after that visit. Today I reviewed requirements with you including items which must be completed prior to the first day of employment and medical items which may not be more than 12 months old at the time of hire. I suggested you continue using the Staff and Training Worksheet and the staff file checklist on the DCDEE website to track when items are due or make sure you are posting deadlines for items on your calendar to alert you of compliance. Providing resilient surfacing underneath and around stationary equipment is the best way to reduce the potential and severity of injuries if children fall from a height The required depth for your rubber mulch to provide sufficient resiliency is 5 inches as stated on the ASTM paperwork that was reviewed upon initial licensing approval. Today the mulch at the end of the slide, and around the play structure was not at the required 5 inches of depth. The landscape fabric under the mulch was showing in these areas and mulch on top was less than one inch in depth. You stated today that you have scheduled maintenance of the mulch for this week. You will need to send pictures of the mulch once the depth has been corrected. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604 states that once a day, prior to initial use, the indoor and outdoor premises shall be checked for debris, vandalism, and broken equipment. Debris shall be removed and disposed of. Before children enter the outdoor area each day, staff must take time to observe the outdoor area and ensure there are no safety hazards, broken equipment or debris in the area. You removed the broken wagon during the visit, and I suggested you remind staff that they remove broken items when they see them as well. Technical Assistance As your facility is preparing for the Environment Rating Scales, the following technical assistance was provided today: Blocks: Block areas should consist of blocks and accessories only. No interlocking blocks should be stored or used in the block area. The only accessories that should be used/stored in the block area are vehicles, people, animals, and street signs. Doll houses and barns should be used/stored in dramatic play. Unit block sets include the traditional wooden sets of different, specific sizes. Other comparably sized and/or shaped blocks made from various materials are also considered here. At least 80 are needed for one structure. For sets of blocks that are larger than unit blocks, at least 40 are required. This can include any type of larger block sets, made of various materials. Promoting acceptance of diversity: Inclusion of diversity should be part of daily routines and play activities. Activities included should promote an understanding and acceptance of diversity. Some props representing cultures should be included for use in dramatic play. For example: dolls of different races, ethnic clothing, cooking, and eating utensils from various cultural groups. Art display: The majority of display should be individualized children’s artwork. Project artwork should be kept to a minimum and if completed, children should be able to choose the medium and materials used to create project art. Ditto sheets should not be used. Free art Rated License Reassessment Information Your facility is in the “planning year” for your rated license reassessment until June 30, 2024, and you requested the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) on January 8, 2024. An assessment window has been scheduled for April 8 through May 3, 2024. We discussed that once the results are sent to me, you will have the option of using them towards your rated license reassessment, or trying again between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025, the year during which your reassessment is required. I will contact you as soon as I receive the results and we can discuss your decision. Regarding Education standards, we reviewed the Staff and Training Worksheet and draft Education worksheets to assist you in determining which staff members need DCDEE WORKS evaluations and how many points you may be eligible for in this component. As discussed, you must ensure all key staff including you have complete WORKS evaluations so appropriate Education points may be awarded during the rated license reassessment process. Please let me know if you need assistance with the WORKS portal. Reminders Proof of additional on-going training hours earned by April 12, 2024 is required as follows: H. Hammond- 5.5 hours K. Gore- 2.5 hours You must schedule and obtain an approved sanitation inspection by June 14, 2024. Child Care Rules were revised January 1, 2024, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Training modules on the new rules are now available in Moodle under the Child Care Rule Rollout section. For more information regarding the “cohort model” of resuming rated license reassessments, and opportunities for training and technical assistance as you prepare for a reassessment, you may visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. It’s time to enroll your facility in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Please see steps below: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess for lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-lead-based-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, printed and reviewed with you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: ratio. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: SOUTHEASTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHILD DEV. CENTER Facility ID: 24000012 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/9/2024 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 4/9/2024 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 01:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This program currently operates with a Five Star License issued August 15, 2019, earning 6 points in Program Standards, 7 points in Education and a Quality point. Restrictions on the permit include a first and second shift capacity of 58 children 2-12 years of age, and meets enhanced space and ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. The program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled; this program uses The Creative Curriculum, Fourth Edition. The last annual compliance visit was conducted April 12, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was earned June 14, 2023, and a satisfactory fire inspection was conducted November 1, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to today’s visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 96%. Administrator, M. Benton, and Assistant Director, C. Hamilton, were present and available for consultation during the visit. Child Care Consultant April Bosse was also present and assisted with the visit today. Due to the proximity of a facility needing an afternoon visit, this visit began after 9:00 A.M. Three indoor spaces and one outdoor space are approved for child care use. It was observed today that Space #1 has been divided into two separate and distinct spaces using furniture. Capacities of each space were determined using a Space Calculation Worksheet, and it was determined that each space (#1a and #1b) has a capacity of 10 children using the enhanced space requirement of 30 square feet per child. The floor plan was updated to reflect this change as well. Today, children two and three years of age enrolled in Spaces #1a and 1b were observed outside in the play area engaged in the sandbox, swinging on swings, climbing on the structure, and riding bikes. After outdoor play, children were engaged in activity areas inside with playdoh, puzzles, and drawing. Preschool children in Space #2 were at the library on campus; off premise activity permission forms were on file as required. After walking back with books they checked out from the library, children engaged in the outdoor area on the swings and pretending to sell hula hoops. In Space #3, preschool children were engaged in activity areas painting flowerpots, molding kinetic sand in the sensory center, pretending to sell flowers in the dramatic play center, and building with interlocking blocks. Lunch served consisted of turkey, cheese, crackers, pickles, pineapples, and milk. Staff members sat with the children as they ate and helped when needed. After lunch, children transitioned to rest time routines. They rested on appropriately spaced cots with individual linens. The lights were dimmed, and soft music played. The Ford E350 13-passenger van used to transport children to the program from local schools was monitored today, and all transportation requirements were found to be in compliance. Health and Safety training requirements as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were also monitored today. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Space #3 is operated as an NC Pre-K classroom. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8am to 2:30pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, Brigance Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. Developmental screenings and health assessments including vision, hearing, and dental screenings were on file for all NC Pre-K children’s files reviewed. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed on Teaching Strategies Gold profile reports. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2023-2024 was signed by Terri Ard, representative of contracting agency Columbus County Schools, during a virtual visit December 4, 2023. It was noted that all requirements were in compliance. NC Pre-K staff information for the lead teacher and administrator was verified in the NC Pre-K Plan. A new assistant teacher was hired in November 2023 and the plan has not yet been updated to include her information. Based on a review of her qualifications, she appears to meet education requirements, however it was discussed that Ms. Ard must be notified and approve the staffing change. The Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale-Revised (ECERS-R) score received on October 19, 2018 was 6.56. Ms. Benton stated she understood the NC Pre-K classroom must earn a score of at least 5.0 on the ECERS-R when the next rated license reassessment is conducted. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. A broken wagon was observed on the playground. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Two staff members' medical reports were older than 12 months at the time of hire, and two staff members did not have medical reports until after the date of hire. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. One staff member's TB test was older than 12 months at the time of hire, and two staff members did not have TB test results until after the date of hire. .0701(a) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. In several places under and around the stationary equipment, less than one inch of rubber mulch was observed on top of the landscaping fabric instead of the five inches required by the ASTM certification. .0605(k)(1-4) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. Three staff members did not sign the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy until after they began caring for children. .0608(d)(1-4) 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. Three staff members did not complete this training within the first 90 days of employment. .1102(g) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. A staff member who began employment May 2, 2022 has not yet completed health and safety training. .1102(a) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by April 23, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited Technical assistance was provided regarding staff recordkeeping requirements during the October 12, 2023 visit, however you, Ms. Benton, became the administrator shortly after that visit. Today I reviewed requirements with you including items which must be completed prior to the first day of employment and medical items which may not be more than 12 months old at the time of hire. I suggested you continue using the Staff and Training Worksheet and the staff file checklist on the DCDEE website to track when items are due or make sure you are posting deadlines for items on your calendar to alert you of compliance. Providing resilient surfacing underneath and around stationary equipment is the best way to reduce the potential and severity of injuries if children fall from a height The required depth for your rubber mulch to provide sufficient resiliency is 5 inches as stated on the ASTM paperwork that was reviewed upon initial licensing approval. Today the mulch at the end of the slide, and around the play structure was not at the required 5 inches of depth. The landscape fabric under the mulch was showing in these areas and mulch on top was less than one inch in depth. You stated today that you have scheduled maintenance of the mulch for this week. You will need to send pictures of the mulch once the depth has been corrected. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604 states that once a day, prior to initial use, the indoor and outdoor premises shall be checked for debris, vandalism, and broken equipment. Debris shall be removed and disposed of. Before children enter the outdoor area each day, staff must take time to observe the outdoor area and ensure there are no safety hazards, broken equipment or debris in the area. You removed the broken wagon during the visit, and I suggested you remind staff that they remove broken items when they see them as well. Technical Assistance As your facility is preparing for the Environment Rating Scales, the following technical assistance was provided today: Blocks: Block areas should consist of blocks and accessories only. No interlocking blocks should be stored or used in the block area. The only accessories that should be used/stored in the block area are vehicles, people, animals, and street signs. Doll houses and barns should be used/stored in dramatic play. Unit block sets include the traditional wooden sets of different, specific sizes. Other comparably sized and/or shaped blocks made from various materials are also considered here. At least 80 are needed for one structure. For sets of blocks that are larger than unit blocks, at least 40 are required. This can include any type of larger block sets, made of various materials. Promoting acceptance of diversity: Inclusion of diversity should be part of daily routines and play activities. Activities included should promote an understanding and acceptance of diversity. Some props representing cultures should be included for use in dramatic play. For example: dolls of different races, ethnic clothing, cooking, and eating utensils from various cultural groups. Art display: The majority of display should be individualized children’s artwork. Project artwork should be kept to a minimum and if completed, children should be able to choose the medium and materials used to create project art. Ditto sheets should not be used. Free art Rated License Reassessment Information Your facility is in the “planning year” for your rated license reassessment until June 30, 2024, and you requested the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) on January 8, 2024. An assessment window has been scheduled for April 8 through May 3, 2024. We discussed that once the results are sent to me, you will have the option of using them towards your rated license reassessment, or trying again between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025, the year during which your reassessment is required. I will contact you as soon as I receive the results and we can discuss your decision. Regarding Education standards, we reviewed the Staff and Training Worksheet and draft Education worksheets to assist you in determining which staff members need DCDEE WORKS evaluations and how many points you may be eligible for in this component. As discussed, you must ensure all key staff including you have complete WORKS evaluations so appropriate Education points may be awarded during the rated license reassessment process. Please let me know if you need assistance with the WORKS portal. Reminders Proof of additional on-going training hours earned by April 12, 2024 is required as follows: H. Hammond- 5.5 hours K. Gore- 2.5 hours You must schedule and obtain an approved sanitation inspection by June 14, 2024. Child Care Rules were revised January 1, 2024, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Training modules on the new rules are now available in Moodle under the Child Care Rule Rollout section. For more information regarding the “cohort model” of resuming rated license reassessments, and opportunities for training and technical assistance as you prepare for a reassessment, you may visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. It’s time to enroll your facility in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Please see steps below: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess for lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-lead-based-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, printed and reviewed with you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: SOUTHEASTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHILD DEV. CENTER Facility ID: 24000012 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/9/2024 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 4/9/2024 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 01:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This program currently operates with a Five Star License issued August 15, 2019, earning 6 points in Program Standards, 7 points in Education and a Quality point. Restrictions on the permit include a first and second shift capacity of 58 children 2-12 years of age, and meets enhanced space and ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. The program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled; this program uses The Creative Curriculum, Fourth Edition. The last annual compliance visit was conducted April 12, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was earned June 14, 2023, and a satisfactory fire inspection was conducted November 1, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to today’s visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 96%. Administrator, M. Benton, and Assistant Director, C. Hamilton, were present and available for consultation during the visit. Child Care Consultant April Bosse was also present and assisted with the visit today. Due to the proximity of a facility needing an afternoon visit, this visit began after 9:00 A.M. Three indoor spaces and one outdoor space are approved for child care use. It was observed today that Space #1 has been divided into two separate and distinct spaces using furniture. Capacities of each space were determined using a Space Calculation Worksheet, and it was determined that each space (#1a and #1b) has a capacity of 10 children using the enhanced space requirement of 30 square feet per child. The floor plan was updated to reflect this change as well. Today, children two and three years of age enrolled in Spaces #1a and 1b were observed outside in the play area engaged in the sandbox, swinging on swings, climbing on the structure, and riding bikes. After outdoor play, children were engaged in activity areas inside with playdoh, puzzles, and drawing. Preschool children in Space #2 were at the library on campus; off premise activity permission forms were on file as required. After walking back with books they checked out from the library, children engaged in the outdoor area on the swings and pretending to sell hula hoops. In Space #3, preschool children were engaged in activity areas painting flowerpots, molding kinetic sand in the sensory center, pretending to sell flowers in the dramatic play center, and building with interlocking blocks. Lunch served consisted of turkey, cheese, crackers, pickles, pineapples, and milk. Staff members sat with the children as they ate and helped when needed. After lunch, children transitioned to rest time routines. They rested on appropriately spaced cots with individual linens. The lights were dimmed, and soft music played. The Ford E350 13-passenger van used to transport children to the program from local schools was monitored today, and all transportation requirements were found to be in compliance. Health and Safety training requirements as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were also monitored today. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Space #3 is operated as an NC Pre-K classroom. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8am to 2:30pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, Brigance Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. Developmental screenings and health assessments including vision, hearing, and dental screenings were on file for all NC Pre-K children’s files reviewed. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed on Teaching Strategies Gold profile reports. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2023-2024 was signed by Terri Ard, representative of contracting agency Columbus County Schools, during a virtual visit December 4, 2023. It was noted that all requirements were in compliance. NC Pre-K staff information for the lead teacher and administrator was verified in the NC Pre-K Plan. A new assistant teacher was hired in November 2023 and the plan has not yet been updated to include her information. Based on a review of her qualifications, she appears to meet education requirements, however it was discussed that Ms. Ard must be notified and approve the staffing change. The Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale-Revised (ECERS-R) score received on October 19, 2018 was 6.56. Ms. Benton stated she understood the NC Pre-K classroom must earn a score of at least 5.0 on the ECERS-R when the next rated license reassessment is conducted. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. A broken wagon was observed on the playground. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Two staff members' medical reports were older than 12 months at the time of hire, and two staff members did not have medical reports until after the date of hire. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. One staff member's TB test was older than 12 months at the time of hire, and two staff members did not have TB test results until after the date of hire. .0701(a) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. In several places under and around the stationary equipment, less than one inch of rubber mulch was observed on top of the landscaping fabric instead of the five inches required by the ASTM certification. .0605(k)(1-4) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. Three staff members did not sign the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy until after they began caring for children. .0608(d)(1-4) 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. Three staff members did not complete this training within the first 90 days of employment. .1102(g) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. A staff member who began employment May 2, 2022 has not yet completed health and safety training. .1102(a) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by April 23, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited Technical assistance was provided regarding staff recordkeeping requirements during the October 12, 2023 visit, however you, Ms. Benton, became the administrator shortly after that visit. Today I reviewed requirements with you including items which must be completed prior to the first day of employment and medical items which may not be more than 12 months old at the time of hire. I suggested you continue using the Staff and Training Worksheet and the staff file checklist on the DCDEE website to track when items are due or make sure you are posting deadlines for items on your calendar to alert you of compliance. Providing resilient surfacing underneath and around stationary equipment is the best way to reduce the potential and severity of injuries if children fall from a height The required depth for your rubber mulch to provide sufficient resiliency is 5 inches as stated on the ASTM paperwork that was reviewed upon initial licensing approval. Today the mulch at the end of the slide, and around the play structure was not at the required 5 inches of depth. The landscape fabric under the mulch was showing in these areas and mulch on top was less than one inch in depth. You stated today that you have scheduled maintenance of the mulch for this week. You will need to send pictures of the mulch once the depth has been corrected. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604 states that once a day, prior to initial use, the indoor and outdoor premises shall be checked for debris, vandalism, and broken equipment. Debris shall be removed and disposed of. Before children enter the outdoor area each day, staff must take time to observe the outdoor area and ensure there are no safety hazards, broken equipment or debris in the area. You removed the broken wagon during the visit, and I suggested you remind staff that they remove broken items when they see them as well. Technical Assistance As your facility is preparing for the Environment Rating Scales, the following technical assistance was provided today: Blocks: Block areas should consist of blocks and accessories only. No interlocking blocks should be stored or used in the block area. The only accessories that should be used/stored in the block area are vehicles, people, animals, and street signs. Doll houses and barns should be used/stored in dramatic play. Unit block sets include the traditional wooden sets of different, specific sizes. Other comparably sized and/or shaped blocks made from various materials are also considered here. At least 80 are needed for one structure. For sets of blocks that are larger than unit blocks, at least 40 are required. This can include any type of larger block sets, made of various materials. Promoting acceptance of diversity: Inclusion of diversity should be part of daily routines and play activities. Activities included should promote an understanding and acceptance of diversity. Some props representing cultures should be included for use in dramatic play. For example: dolls of different races, ethnic clothing, cooking, and eating utensils from various cultural groups. Art display: The majority of display should be individualized children’s artwork. Project artwork should be kept to a minimum and if completed, children should be able to choose the medium and materials used to create project art. Ditto sheets should not be used. Free art Rated License Reassessment Information Your facility is in the “planning year” for your rated license reassessment until June 30, 2024, and you requested the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) on January 8, 2024. An assessment window has been scheduled for April 8 through May 3, 2024. We discussed that once the results are sent to me, you will have the option of using them towards your rated license reassessment, or trying again between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025, the year during which your reassessment is required. I will contact you as soon as I receive the results and we can discuss your decision. Regarding Education standards, we reviewed the Staff and Training Worksheet and draft Education worksheets to assist you in determining which staff members need DCDEE WORKS evaluations and how many points you may be eligible for in this component. As discussed, you must ensure all key staff including you have complete WORKS evaluations so appropriate Education points may be awarded during the rated license reassessment process. Please let me know if you need assistance with the WORKS portal. Reminders Proof of additional on-going training hours earned by April 12, 2024 is required as follows: H. Hammond- 5.5 hours K. Gore- 2.5 hours You must schedule and obtain an approved sanitation inspection by June 14, 2024. Child Care Rules were revised January 1, 2024, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Training modules on the new rules are now available in Moodle under the Child Care Rule Rollout section. For more information regarding the “cohort model” of resuming rated license reassessments, and opportunities for training and technical assistance as you prepare for a reassessment, you may visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. It’s time to enroll your facility in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Please see steps below: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess for lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-lead-based-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, printed and reviewed with you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: SOUTHEASTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHILD DEV. CENTER Facility ID: 24000012 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/9/2024 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 4/9/2024 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 01:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This program currently operates with a Five Star License issued August 15, 2019, earning 6 points in Program Standards, 7 points in Education and a Quality point. Restrictions on the permit include a first and second shift capacity of 58 children 2-12 years of age, and meets enhanced space and ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. The program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled; this program uses The Creative Curriculum, Fourth Edition. The last annual compliance visit was conducted April 12, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was earned June 14, 2023, and a satisfactory fire inspection was conducted November 1, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to today’s visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 96%. Administrator, M. Benton, and Assistant Director, C. Hamilton, were present and available for consultation during the visit. Child Care Consultant April Bosse was also present and assisted with the visit today. Due to the proximity of a facility needing an afternoon visit, this visit began after 9:00 A.M. Three indoor spaces and one outdoor space are approved for child care use. It was observed today that Space #1 has been divided into two separate and distinct spaces using furniture. Capacities of each space were determined using a Space Calculation Worksheet, and it was determined that each space (#1a and #1b) has a capacity of 10 children using the enhanced space requirement of 30 square feet per child. The floor plan was updated to reflect this change as well. Today, children two and three years of age enrolled in Spaces #1a and 1b were observed outside in the play area engaged in the sandbox, swinging on swings, climbing on the structure, and riding bikes. After outdoor play, children were engaged in activity areas inside with playdoh, puzzles, and drawing. Preschool children in Space #2 were at the library on campus; off premise activity permission forms were on file as required. After walking back with books they checked out from the library, children engaged in the outdoor area on the swings and pretending to sell hula hoops. In Space #3, preschool children were engaged in activity areas painting flowerpots, molding kinetic sand in the sensory center, pretending to sell flowers in the dramatic play center, and building with interlocking blocks. Lunch served consisted of turkey, cheese, crackers, pickles, pineapples, and milk. Staff members sat with the children as they ate and helped when needed. After lunch, children transitioned to rest time routines. They rested on appropriately spaced cots with individual linens. The lights were dimmed, and soft music played. The Ford E350 13-passenger van used to transport children to the program from local schools was monitored today, and all transportation requirements were found to be in compliance. Health and Safety training requirements as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were also monitored today. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Space #3 is operated as an NC Pre-K classroom. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8am to 2:30pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, Brigance Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. Developmental screenings and health assessments including vision, hearing, and dental screenings were on file for all NC Pre-K children’s files reviewed. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed on Teaching Strategies Gold profile reports. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2023-2024 was signed by Terri Ard, representative of contracting agency Columbus County Schools, during a virtual visit December 4, 2023. It was noted that all requirements were in compliance. NC Pre-K staff information for the lead teacher and administrator was verified in the NC Pre-K Plan. A new assistant teacher was hired in November 2023 and the plan has not yet been updated to include her information. Based on a review of her qualifications, she appears to meet education requirements, however it was discussed that Ms. Ard must be notified and approve the staffing change. The Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale-Revised (ECERS-R) score received on October 19, 2018 was 6.56. Ms. Benton stated she understood the NC Pre-K classroom must earn a score of at least 5.0 on the ECERS-R when the next rated license reassessment is conducted. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. A broken wagon was observed on the playground. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Two staff members' medical reports were older than 12 months at the time of hire, and two staff members did not have medical reports until after the date of hire. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. One staff member's TB test was older than 12 months at the time of hire, and two staff members did not have TB test results until after the date of hire. .0701(a) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. In several places under and around the stationary equipment, less than one inch of rubber mulch was observed on top of the landscaping fabric instead of the five inches required by the ASTM certification. .0605(k)(1-4) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. Three staff members did not sign the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy until after they began caring for children. .0608(d)(1-4) 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. Three staff members did not complete this training within the first 90 days of employment. .1102(g) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. A staff member who began employment May 2, 2022 has not yet completed health and safety training. .1102(a) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by April 23, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited Technical assistance was provided regarding staff recordkeeping requirements during the October 12, 2023 visit, however you, Ms. Benton, became the administrator shortly after that visit. Today I reviewed requirements with you including items which must be completed prior to the first day of employment and medical items which may not be more than 12 months old at the time of hire. I suggested you continue using the Staff and Training Worksheet and the staff file checklist on the DCDEE website to track when items are due or make sure you are posting deadlines for items on your calendar to alert you of compliance. Providing resilient surfacing underneath and around stationary equipment is the best way to reduce the potential and severity of injuries if children fall from a height The required depth for your rubber mulch to provide sufficient resiliency is 5 inches as stated on the ASTM paperwork that was reviewed upon initial licensing approval. Today the mulch at the end of the slide, and around the play structure was not at the required 5 inches of depth. The landscape fabric under the mulch was showing in these areas and mulch on top was less than one inch in depth. You stated today that you have scheduled maintenance of the mulch for this week. You will need to send pictures of the mulch once the depth has been corrected. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604 states that once a day, prior to initial use, the indoor and outdoor premises shall be checked for debris, vandalism, and broken equipment. Debris shall be removed and disposed of. Before children enter the outdoor area each day, staff must take time to observe the outdoor area and ensure there are no safety hazards, broken equipment or debris in the area. You removed the broken wagon during the visit, and I suggested you remind staff that they remove broken items when they see them as well. Technical Assistance As your facility is preparing for the Environment Rating Scales, the following technical assistance was provided today: Blocks: Block areas should consist of blocks and accessories only. No interlocking blocks should be stored or used in the block area. The only accessories that should be used/stored in the block area are vehicles, people, animals, and street signs. Doll houses and barns should be used/stored in dramatic play. Unit block sets include the traditional wooden sets of different, specific sizes. Other comparably sized and/or shaped blocks made from various materials are also considered here. At least 80 are needed for one structure. For sets of blocks that are larger than unit blocks, at least 40 are required. This can include any type of larger block sets, made of various materials. Promoting acceptance of diversity: Inclusion of diversity should be part of daily routines and play activities. Activities included should promote an understanding and acceptance of diversity. Some props representing cultures should be included for use in dramatic play. For example: dolls of different races, ethnic clothing, cooking, and eating utensils from various cultural groups. Art display: The majority of display should be individualized children’s artwork. Project artwork should be kept to a minimum and if completed, children should be able to choose the medium and materials used to create project art. Ditto sheets should not be used. Free art Rated License Reassessment Information Your facility is in the “planning year” for your rated license reassessment until June 30, 2024, and you requested the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) on January 8, 2024. An assessment window has been scheduled for April 8 through May 3, 2024. We discussed that once the results are sent to me, you will have the option of using them towards your rated license reassessment, or trying again between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025, the year during which your reassessment is required. I will contact you as soon as I receive the results and we can discuss your decision. Regarding Education standards, we reviewed the Staff and Training Worksheet and draft Education worksheets to assist you in determining which staff members need DCDEE WORKS evaluations and how many points you may be eligible for in this component. As discussed, you must ensure all key staff including you have complete WORKS evaluations so appropriate Education points may be awarded during the rated license reassessment process. Please let me know if you need assistance with the WORKS portal. Reminders Proof of additional on-going training hours earned by April 12, 2024 is required as follows: H. Hammond- 5.5 hours K. Gore- 2.5 hours You must schedule and obtain an approved sanitation inspection by June 14, 2024. Child Care Rules were revised January 1, 2024, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Training modules on the new rules are now available in Moodle under the Child Care Rule Rollout section. For more information regarding the “cohort model” of resuming rated license reassessments, and opportunities for training and technical assistance as you prepare for a reassessment, you may visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. It’s time to enroll your facility in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Please see steps below: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess for lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-lead-based-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, printed and reviewed with you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .3009 · Violation

Name of Operation: SOUTHEASTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHILD DEV. CENTER Facility ID: 24000012 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/9/2024 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 4/9/2024 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 01:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This program currently operates with a Five Star License issued August 15, 2019, earning 6 points in Program Standards, 7 points in Education and a Quality point. Restrictions on the permit include a first and second shift capacity of 58 children 2-12 years of age, and meets enhanced space and ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. The program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled; this program uses The Creative Curriculum, Fourth Edition. The last annual compliance visit was conducted April 12, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was earned June 14, 2023, and a satisfactory fire inspection was conducted November 1, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to today’s visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 96%. Administrator, M. Benton, and Assistant Director, C. Hamilton, were present and available for consultation during the visit. Child Care Consultant April Bosse was also present and assisted with the visit today. Due to the proximity of a facility needing an afternoon visit, this visit began after 9:00 A.M. Three indoor spaces and one outdoor space are approved for child care use. It was observed today that Space #1 has been divided into two separate and distinct spaces using furniture. Capacities of each space were determined using a Space Calculation Worksheet, and it was determined that each space (#1a and #1b) has a capacity of 10 children using the enhanced space requirement of 30 square feet per child. The floor plan was updated to reflect this change as well. Today, children two and three years of age enrolled in Spaces #1a and 1b were observed outside in the play area engaged in the sandbox, swinging on swings, climbing on the structure, and riding bikes. After outdoor play, children were engaged in activity areas inside with playdoh, puzzles, and drawing. Preschool children in Space #2 were at the library on campus; off premise activity permission forms were on file as required. After walking back with books they checked out from the library, children engaged in the outdoor area on the swings and pretending to sell hula hoops. In Space #3, preschool children were engaged in activity areas painting flowerpots, molding kinetic sand in the sensory center, pretending to sell flowers in the dramatic play center, and building with interlocking blocks. Lunch served consisted of turkey, cheese, crackers, pickles, pineapples, and milk. Staff members sat with the children as they ate and helped when needed. After lunch, children transitioned to rest time routines. They rested on appropriately spaced cots with individual linens. The lights were dimmed, and soft music played. The Ford E350 13-passenger van used to transport children to the program from local schools was monitored today, and all transportation requirements were found to be in compliance. Health and Safety training requirements as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were also monitored today. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Space #3 is operated as an NC Pre-K classroom. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8am to 2:30pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, Brigance Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. Developmental screenings and health assessments including vision, hearing, and dental screenings were on file for all NC Pre-K children’s files reviewed. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed on Teaching Strategies Gold profile reports. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2023-2024 was signed by Terri Ard, representative of contracting agency Columbus County Schools, during a virtual visit December 4, 2023. It was noted that all requirements were in compliance. NC Pre-K staff information for the lead teacher and administrator was verified in the NC Pre-K Plan. A new assistant teacher was hired in November 2023 and the plan has not yet been updated to include her information. Based on a review of her qualifications, she appears to meet education requirements, however it was discussed that Ms. Ard must be notified and approve the staffing change. The Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale-Revised (ECERS-R) score received on October 19, 2018 was 6.56. Ms. Benton stated she understood the NC Pre-K classroom must earn a score of at least 5.0 on the ECERS-R when the next rated license reassessment is conducted. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. A broken wagon was observed on the playground. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Two staff members' medical reports were older than 12 months at the time of hire, and two staff members did not have medical reports until after the date of hire. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. One staff member's TB test was older than 12 months at the time of hire, and two staff members did not have TB test results until after the date of hire. .0701(a) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. In several places under and around the stationary equipment, less than one inch of rubber mulch was observed on top of the landscaping fabric instead of the five inches required by the ASTM certification. .0605(k)(1-4) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. Three staff members did not sign the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy until after they began caring for children. .0608(d)(1-4) 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. Three staff members did not complete this training within the first 90 days of employment. .1102(g) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. A staff member who began employment May 2, 2022 has not yet completed health and safety training. .1102(a) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by April 23, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited Technical assistance was provided regarding staff recordkeeping requirements during the October 12, 2023 visit, however you, Ms. Benton, became the administrator shortly after that visit. Today I reviewed requirements with you including items which must be completed prior to the first day of employment and medical items which may not be more than 12 months old at the time of hire. I suggested you continue using the Staff and Training Worksheet and the staff file checklist on the DCDEE website to track when items are due or make sure you are posting deadlines for items on your calendar to alert you of compliance. Providing resilient surfacing underneath and around stationary equipment is the best way to reduce the potential and severity of injuries if children fall from a height The required depth for your rubber mulch to provide sufficient resiliency is 5 inches as stated on the ASTM paperwork that was reviewed upon initial licensing approval. Today the mulch at the end of the slide, and around the play structure was not at the required 5 inches of depth. The landscape fabric under the mulch was showing in these areas and mulch on top was less than one inch in depth. You stated today that you have scheduled maintenance of the mulch for this week. You will need to send pictures of the mulch once the depth has been corrected. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604 states that once a day, prior to initial use, the indoor and outdoor premises shall be checked for debris, vandalism, and broken equipment. Debris shall be removed and disposed of. Before children enter the outdoor area each day, staff must take time to observe the outdoor area and ensure there are no safety hazards, broken equipment or debris in the area. You removed the broken wagon during the visit, and I suggested you remind staff that they remove broken items when they see them as well. Technical Assistance As your facility is preparing for the Environment Rating Scales, the following technical assistance was provided today: Blocks: Block areas should consist of blocks and accessories only. No interlocking blocks should be stored or used in the block area. The only accessories that should be used/stored in the block area are vehicles, people, animals, and street signs. Doll houses and barns should be used/stored in dramatic play. Unit block sets include the traditional wooden sets of different, specific sizes. Other comparably sized and/or shaped blocks made from various materials are also considered here. At least 80 are needed for one structure. For sets of blocks that are larger than unit blocks, at least 40 are required. This can include any type of larger block sets, made of various materials. Promoting acceptance of diversity: Inclusion of diversity should be part of daily routines and play activities. Activities included should promote an understanding and acceptance of diversity. Some props representing cultures should be included for use in dramatic play. For example: dolls of different races, ethnic clothing, cooking, and eating utensils from various cultural groups. Art display: The majority of display should be individualized children’s artwork. Project artwork should be kept to a minimum and if completed, children should be able to choose the medium and materials used to create project art. Ditto sheets should not be used. Free art Rated License Reassessment Information Your facility is in the “planning year” for your rated license reassessment until June 30, 2024, and you requested the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) on January 8, 2024. An assessment window has been scheduled for April 8 through May 3, 2024. We discussed that once the results are sent to me, you will have the option of using them towards your rated license reassessment, or trying again between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025, the year during which your reassessment is required. I will contact you as soon as I receive the results and we can discuss your decision. Regarding Education standards, we reviewed the Staff and Training Worksheet and draft Education worksheets to assist you in determining which staff members need DCDEE WORKS evaluations and how many points you may be eligible for in this component. As discussed, you must ensure all key staff including you have complete WORKS evaluations so appropriate Education points may be awarded during the rated license reassessment process. Please let me know if you need assistance with the WORKS portal. Reminders Proof of additional on-going training hours earned by April 12, 2024 is required as follows: H. Hammond- 5.5 hours K. Gore- 2.5 hours You must schedule and obtain an approved sanitation inspection by June 14, 2024. Child Care Rules were revised January 1, 2024, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Training modules on the new rules are now available in Moodle under the Child Care Rule Rollout section. For more information regarding the “cohort model” of resuming rated license reassessments, and opportunities for training and technical assistance as you prepare for a reassessment, you may visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. It’s time to enroll your facility in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Please see steps below: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess for lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-lead-based-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, printed and reviewed with you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SOUTHEASTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHILD DEV. CENTER Facility ID: 24000012 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/9/2024 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 4/9/2024 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 01:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This program currently operates with a Five Star License issued August 15, 2019, earning 6 points in Program Standards, 7 points in Education and a Quality point. Restrictions on the permit include a first and second shift capacity of 58 children 2-12 years of age, and meets enhanced space and ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. The program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled; this program uses The Creative Curriculum, Fourth Edition. The last annual compliance visit was conducted April 12, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was earned June 14, 2023, and a satisfactory fire inspection was conducted November 1, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to today’s visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 96%. Administrator, M. Benton, and Assistant Director, C. Hamilton, were present and available for consultation during the visit. Child Care Consultant April Bosse was also present and assisted with the visit today. Due to the proximity of a facility needing an afternoon visit, this visit began after 9:00 A.M. Three indoor spaces and one outdoor space are approved for child care use. It was observed today that Space #1 has been divided into two separate and distinct spaces using furniture. Capacities of each space were determined using a Space Calculation Worksheet, and it was determined that each space (#1a and #1b) has a capacity of 10 children using the enhanced space requirement of 30 square feet per child. The floor plan was updated to reflect this change as well. Today, children two and three years of age enrolled in Spaces #1a and 1b were observed outside in the play area engaged in the sandbox, swinging on swings, climbing on the structure, and riding bikes. After outdoor play, children were engaged in activity areas inside with playdoh, puzzles, and drawing. Preschool children in Space #2 were at the library on campus; off premise activity permission forms were on file as required. After walking back with books they checked out from the library, children engaged in the outdoor area on the swings and pretending to sell hula hoops. In Space #3, preschool children were engaged in activity areas painting flowerpots, molding kinetic sand in the sensory center, pretending to sell flowers in the dramatic play center, and building with interlocking blocks. Lunch served consisted of turkey, cheese, crackers, pickles, pineapples, and milk. Staff members sat with the children as they ate and helped when needed. After lunch, children transitioned to rest time routines. They rested on appropriately spaced cots with individual linens. The lights were dimmed, and soft music played. The Ford E350 13-passenger van used to transport children to the program from local schools was monitored today, and all transportation requirements were found to be in compliance. Health and Safety training requirements as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were also monitored today. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Space #3 is operated as an NC Pre-K classroom. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8am to 2:30pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, Brigance Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. Developmental screenings and health assessments including vision, hearing, and dental screenings were on file for all NC Pre-K children’s files reviewed. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed on Teaching Strategies Gold profile reports. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2023-2024 was signed by Terri Ard, representative of contracting agency Columbus County Schools, during a virtual visit December 4, 2023. It was noted that all requirements were in compliance. NC Pre-K staff information for the lead teacher and administrator was verified in the NC Pre-K Plan. A new assistant teacher was hired in November 2023 and the plan has not yet been updated to include her information. Based on a review of her qualifications, she appears to meet education requirements, however it was discussed that Ms. Ard must be notified and approve the staffing change. The Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale-Revised (ECERS-R) score received on October 19, 2018 was 6.56. Ms. Benton stated she understood the NC Pre-K classroom must earn a score of at least 5.0 on the ECERS-R when the next rated license reassessment is conducted. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. A broken wagon was observed on the playground. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Two staff members' medical reports were older than 12 months at the time of hire, and two staff members did not have medical reports until after the date of hire. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. One staff member's TB test was older than 12 months at the time of hire, and two staff members did not have TB test results until after the date of hire. .0701(a) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. In several places under and around the stationary equipment, less than one inch of rubber mulch was observed on top of the landscaping fabric instead of the five inches required by the ASTM certification. .0605(k)(1-4) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. Three staff members did not sign the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy until after they began caring for children. .0608(d)(1-4) 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. Three staff members did not complete this training within the first 90 days of employment. .1102(g) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. A staff member who began employment May 2, 2022 has not yet completed health and safety training. .1102(a) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by April 23, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited Technical assistance was provided regarding staff recordkeeping requirements during the October 12, 2023 visit, however you, Ms. Benton, became the administrator shortly after that visit. Today I reviewed requirements with you including items which must be completed prior to the first day of employment and medical items which may not be more than 12 months old at the time of hire. I suggested you continue using the Staff and Training Worksheet and the staff file checklist on the DCDEE website to track when items are due or make sure you are posting deadlines for items on your calendar to alert you of compliance. Providing resilient surfacing underneath and around stationary equipment is the best way to reduce the potential and severity of injuries if children fall from a height The required depth for your rubber mulch to provide sufficient resiliency is 5 inches as stated on the ASTM paperwork that was reviewed upon initial licensing approval. Today the mulch at the end of the slide, and around the play structure was not at the required 5 inches of depth. The landscape fabric under the mulch was showing in these areas and mulch on top was less than one inch in depth. You stated today that you have scheduled maintenance of the mulch for this week. You will need to send pictures of the mulch once the depth has been corrected. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604 states that once a day, prior to initial use, the indoor and outdoor premises shall be checked for debris, vandalism, and broken equipment. Debris shall be removed and disposed of. Before children enter the outdoor area each day, staff must take time to observe the outdoor area and ensure there are no safety hazards, broken equipment or debris in the area. You removed the broken wagon during the visit, and I suggested you remind staff that they remove broken items when they see them as well. Technical Assistance As your facility is preparing for the Environment Rating Scales, the following technical assistance was provided today: Blocks: Block areas should consist of blocks and accessories only. No interlocking blocks should be stored or used in the block area. The only accessories that should be used/stored in the block area are vehicles, people, animals, and street signs. Doll houses and barns should be used/stored in dramatic play. Unit block sets include the traditional wooden sets of different, specific sizes. Other comparably sized and/or shaped blocks made from various materials are also considered here. At least 80 are needed for one structure. For sets of blocks that are larger than unit blocks, at least 40 are required. This can include any type of larger block sets, made of various materials. Promoting acceptance of diversity: Inclusion of diversity should be part of daily routines and play activities. Activities included should promote an understanding and acceptance of diversity. Some props representing cultures should be included for use in dramatic play. For example: dolls of different races, ethnic clothing, cooking, and eating utensils from various cultural groups. Art display: The majority of display should be individualized children’s artwork. Project artwork should be kept to a minimum and if completed, children should be able to choose the medium and materials used to create project art. Ditto sheets should not be used. Free art Rated License Reassessment Information Your facility is in the “planning year” for your rated license reassessment until June 30, 2024, and you requested the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) on January 8, 2024. An assessment window has been scheduled for April 8 through May 3, 2024. We discussed that once the results are sent to me, you will have the option of using them towards your rated license reassessment, or trying again between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025, the year during which your reassessment is required. I will contact you as soon as I receive the results and we can discuss your decision. Regarding Education standards, we reviewed the Staff and Training Worksheet and draft Education worksheets to assist you in determining which staff members need DCDEE WORKS evaluations and how many points you may be eligible for in this component. As discussed, you must ensure all key staff including you have complete WORKS evaluations so appropriate Education points may be awarded during the rated license reassessment process. Please let me know if you need assistance with the WORKS portal. Reminders Proof of additional on-going training hours earned by April 12, 2024 is required as follows: H. Hammond- 5.5 hours K. Gore- 2.5 hours You must schedule and obtain an approved sanitation inspection by June 14, 2024. Child Care Rules were revised January 1, 2024, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Training modules on the new rules are now available in Moodle under the Child Care Rule Rollout section. For more information regarding the “cohort model” of resuming rated license reassessments, and opportunities for training and technical assistance as you prepare for a reassessment, you may visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. It’s time to enroll your facility in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Please see steps below: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess for lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-lead-based-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, printed and reviewed with you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0510 · Violation

Name of Operation: SOUTHEASTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHILD DEV. CENTER Facility ID: 24000012 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/12/2023 Number Present: 46 Completed Date: 10/12/2023 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 145 Time In: 01:35 PM Time Out: 04:00 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 all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This program currently operates with a Five Star License issued August 15, 2019, earning 6 points in Program Standards, 7 points in Education and a Quality point. Restrictions on the permit include a first and second shift capacity of 58 children 2-12 years of age, and meets enhanced space and ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. The program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled; this program uses The Creative Curriculum, Guided Edition. The last annual compliance visit was conducted April 12, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was obtained June 14, 2023, and a satisfactory fire inspection was conducted November 1, 2022; the facility was approved for daytime care only. Prior to today’s visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 99%. Administrator, N. Hinson, was present and available for consultation today. Upon arrival, children in all three approved indoor spaces were observed in rest time routines. They rested on cots which were appropriately spaced or separated by dividers. Individual linens were provided, lights were dimmed and soft music played. Next, children were served a snack of pretzels and 100% apple juice. After snack, children were observed singing songs, listening to teachers read books and playing with Legos. A fire drill was also conducted during the visit and requirements were in compliance. Two new staff members have been hired since the Annual Compliance visit. Files were monitored today. Transportation requirements were also monitored today. The following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: 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. Two topical ointments were observed in Space #1 with expired permission forms. .0803(12) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. A staff member who began employment April 19, 2023 was not qualified by the Criminal Background Check unit until April 28, 2023. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. A school age child was transported from elementary school to the facility for four days in September 2023. The permission for routine transportation on file expired August 29, 2023. .1003(i)(j) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A valid qualification letter was not on file for a staff member who began employment April 19, 2023. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by October 26, 2023. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited A valid criminal records check qualification letter was not on file for new staff member Sheila Miller. It was verified in the criminal records portal that Ms. Miller was qualified April 28, 2023, however her start date at the facility was April 19, 2023. As discussed, hiring someone to work in the facility without a criminal background check potentially puts children’s safety at risk. Today you were able to print and file Ms. Miller’s qualification letter, correcting the violation. Moving forward, I strongly urge you to ensure you do not allow anyone else to start work without a letter, and you use the Staff File Checklist to ensure all documents are on file within required timeframes. Regarding transportation requirements, you must ensure each child has a valid permission form prior to being transported. As a reminder, permission for routine transport is only valid for twelve months at a time. Today I urged you to go through your transportation binder and note dates of expiration for all permission forms so you can ensure new ones are completed in time. You must ensure you get valid transportation permission for N. Rafael prior to transporting him again, and send a copy of his updated permission form to verify compliance. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was also provided today regarding group size. As discussed, maximum group size is determined by the age of the youngest child in the group. If the maximum group size is less than the physical space capacity of the room, the smaller number must be used. Today we discussed that there can never be more than eighteen children in Space #1 if the youngest child is two years of age, regardless of the number of staff members present. You stated that one child enrolled in this space will be transitioned to the next age group next week, which would change the enrollment number in Space #1 to match the maximum group size for that age group. Today I suggested that you review Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0510 regarding screen time. If you choose to provide screen time at your facility, you must ensure that it is used to meet a developmental goal, that it is limited to 30 minutes per day and that the time is documented, and that free choice activities are offered for children not participating. I shared with you that screen time is also prohibited for children under three years of age, therefore it should not be used in Space #1. Rated License Information Your facility’s rated license reassessment was due in 2022 but not completed due to reassessments being voluntary at the time. Today we discussed that your facility was assigned to Cohort 1 in the “Cohort Model” of resuming rated license reassessments, meaning that you are currently in your “planning/preparation year” until June 30, 2024. We discussed that you have the option to request the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) during this year, and you can use the results simply as a learning experience OR towards your rated license reassessment in the next year if you wish. If you do not request an ERS assessment during your planning year, or you have one but do not wish to use your scores towards your reassessment, your complete reassessment with ERS and evaluation of Education points will be required during the July 1, 2024-June 30, 2025 year. Today we also discussed using resources available such as the NCRLAP website, Columbus County Partnership for Children and Region 4 CCR&R to assist with preparation for the ERS. You stated you had requested an outreach assessment and expected that to be conducted in November. Please notify me by March 1, 2024 if you wish to request an ERS this year so we can secure an assessment window which works for your facility. Regarding Education standards, it was shared with you today that new staff member R. Rhodes must register for an account, apply for an assistant teacher position, and submit official transcripts for evaluation. As also stated in an email to you October 10, 2023, you must ensure Ms. Rhodes is approved as an NC Pre-K Teacher by the contracting agency, Columbus County Schools. A review of documentation today appeared to show that she meets qualifications, however you must ensure her WORKS evaluation is complete so appropriate Education points may be awarded during the rated license reassessment process. I also shared with you that C. Hamilton must submit an official transcript showing her degree to update her evaluation in WORKS. Please let me know if you need assistance with the WORKS portal. Reminders You must schedule and obtain an approved fire inspection by November 1, 2023. Remember to send a copy within one week as required. Child Care Rules were revised July 1, 2023, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Sanitation rules were also readopted July 1, 2023. I strongly urge you to review the training information at https://ehs.dph.ncdhhs.gov/hhccehb/cehu/ccs/op-training.htm, and contact Children’s Environmental Health Services with any questions. For more information regarding the “cohort model” of resuming rated license reassessments, and opportunities for training and technical assistance as you prepare for a reassessment, you may visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, printed, and reviewed with you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: ratio. Open / not marked corrected.

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SOUTHEASTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHILD DEV. CENTER Facility ID: 24000012 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/12/2023 Number Present: 46 Completed Date: 10/12/2023 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 145 Time In: 01:35 PM Time Out: 04:00 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 all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This program currently operates with a Five Star License issued August 15, 2019, earning 6 points in Program Standards, 7 points in Education and a Quality point. Restrictions on the permit include a first and second shift capacity of 58 children 2-12 years of age, and meets enhanced space and ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. The program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled; this program uses The Creative Curriculum, Guided Edition. The last annual compliance visit was conducted April 12, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was obtained June 14, 2023, and a satisfactory fire inspection was conducted November 1, 2022; the facility was approved for daytime care only. Prior to today’s visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 99%. Administrator, N. Hinson, was present and available for consultation today. Upon arrival, children in all three approved indoor spaces were observed in rest time routines. They rested on cots which were appropriately spaced or separated by dividers. Individual linens were provided, lights were dimmed and soft music played. Next, children were served a snack of pretzels and 100% apple juice. After snack, children were observed singing songs, listening to teachers read books and playing with Legos. A fire drill was also conducted during the visit and requirements were in compliance. Two new staff members have been hired since the Annual Compliance visit. Files were monitored today. Transportation requirements were also monitored today. The following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: 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. Two topical ointments were observed in Space #1 with expired permission forms. .0803(12) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. A staff member who began employment April 19, 2023 was not qualified by the Criminal Background Check unit until April 28, 2023. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. A school age child was transported from elementary school to the facility for four days in September 2023. The permission for routine transportation on file expired August 29, 2023. .1003(i)(j) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A valid qualification letter was not on file for a staff member who began employment April 19, 2023. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by October 26, 2023. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited A valid criminal records check qualification letter was not on file for new staff member Sheila Miller. It was verified in the criminal records portal that Ms. Miller was qualified April 28, 2023, however her start date at the facility was April 19, 2023. As discussed, hiring someone to work in the facility without a criminal background check potentially puts children’s safety at risk. Today you were able to print and file Ms. Miller’s qualification letter, correcting the violation. Moving forward, I strongly urge you to ensure you do not allow anyone else to start work without a letter, and you use the Staff File Checklist to ensure all documents are on file within required timeframes. Regarding transportation requirements, you must ensure each child has a valid permission form prior to being transported. As a reminder, permission for routine transport is only valid for twelve months at a time. Today I urged you to go through your transportation binder and note dates of expiration for all permission forms so you can ensure new ones are completed in time. You must ensure you get valid transportation permission for N. Rafael prior to transporting him again, and send a copy of his updated permission form to verify compliance. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was also provided today regarding group size. As discussed, maximum group size is determined by the age of the youngest child in the group. If the maximum group size is less than the physical space capacity of the room, the smaller number must be used. Today we discussed that there can never be more than eighteen children in Space #1 if the youngest child is two years of age, regardless of the number of staff members present. You stated that one child enrolled in this space will be transitioned to the next age group next week, which would change the enrollment number in Space #1 to match the maximum group size for that age group. Today I suggested that you review Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0510 regarding screen time. If you choose to provide screen time at your facility, you must ensure that it is used to meet a developmental goal, that it is limited to 30 minutes per day and that the time is documented, and that free choice activities are offered for children not participating. I shared with you that screen time is also prohibited for children under three years of age, therefore it should not be used in Space #1. Rated License Information Your facility’s rated license reassessment was due in 2022 but not completed due to reassessments being voluntary at the time. Today we discussed that your facility was assigned to Cohort 1 in the “Cohort Model” of resuming rated license reassessments, meaning that you are currently in your “planning/preparation year” until June 30, 2024. We discussed that you have the option to request the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) during this year, and you can use the results simply as a learning experience OR towards your rated license reassessment in the next year if you wish. If you do not request an ERS assessment during your planning year, or you have one but do not wish to use your scores towards your reassessment, your complete reassessment with ERS and evaluation of Education points will be required during the July 1, 2024-June 30, 2025 year. Today we also discussed using resources available such as the NCRLAP website, Columbus County Partnership for Children and Region 4 CCR&R to assist with preparation for the ERS. You stated you had requested an outreach assessment and expected that to be conducted in November. Please notify me by March 1, 2024 if you wish to request an ERS this year so we can secure an assessment window which works for your facility. Regarding Education standards, it was shared with you today that new staff member R. Rhodes must register for an account, apply for an assistant teacher position, and submit official transcripts for evaluation. As also stated in an email to you October 10, 2023, you must ensure Ms. Rhodes is approved as an NC Pre-K Teacher by the contracting agency, Columbus County Schools. A review of documentation today appeared to show that she meets qualifications, however you must ensure her WORKS evaluation is complete so appropriate Education points may be awarded during the rated license reassessment process. I also shared with you that C. Hamilton must submit an official transcript showing her degree to update her evaluation in WORKS. Please let me know if you need assistance with the WORKS portal. Reminders You must schedule and obtain an approved fire inspection by November 1, 2023. Remember to send a copy within one week as required. Child Care Rules were revised July 1, 2023, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Sanitation rules were also readopted July 1, 2023. I strongly urge you to review the training information at https://ehs.dph.ncdhhs.gov/hhccehb/cehu/ccs/op-training.htm, and contact Children’s Environmental Health Services with any questions. For more information regarding the “cohort model” of resuming rated license reassessments, and opportunities for training and technical assistance as you prepare for a reassessment, you may visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, printed, and reviewed with you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times