10A NCAC 09 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: Way Makers Preschool Facility ID: 97000321 Consultant: KAREN YOUNG Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/29/2025 Number Present: 30 Completed Date: 1/29/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced An unannounced annual compliance visit was conducted at this childcare center to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. This visit was conducted by Karen Young, Childcare Consultant with Linda Brown, Director. Your program currently operates with a FOUR (4) Star license effective 8/10/24. Restrictions include daytime care only and meet enhanced ratios and enhanced space. The facility is licensed to provide care for children ages zero to twelve-years-old on first shift, with a capacity of 98 and is approved to operate six classrooms. The license was observed, and the restrictions were found in compliance. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 1/28/25 and Way Makers Preschool, Inc. was listed as current and active. The program’s compliance history was 89% prior to today’s visit. All programs are required to maintain at least 75% compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. Indoor and outdoor areas were observed. Staff/child ratio and space capacity were monitored as indicated on the attached worksheet. Supervision was adequate during the visit. I observed staff/child interactions today. I observed children having free choice center play, outdoor play , and eating lunch. I observed materials and activities that were available to the children in the classrooms. Your 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. Your facility uses Creative Curriculum with Foundation embedded in lesson plans. A new Temporary License was issued 2/9/24 by Tammy Childress, lead consultant. The last temporary time period visit was on 7/19/24 and the last visit was an Administrative Action Follow-up on 9/4/24. A sanitation inspection was completed 12/19/24 with a Superior classification and fifteen (15) demerits. The last fire inspection was conducted 3/27/24. Program records and required postings were monitored. A fire drill was conducted on 12/18/24 at 9:30 am with one (1) minute, fifty (50) seconds to evacuate thirty-six (36) children and nine (9) adults by A. Brown. A lockdown emergency drill was documented on 12/20/24 at 10:06 am with one (1) minute one (1) second to lockdown by A. Brown. An outdoor inspection was documented on 1/7/25 at 12:30 pm by A. Brown. Five (5) staff files including three (3) new staff and four (4) children’s records were monitored per DCDEE procedures. Nutrition requirements were monitored per DCDEE procedures. Storage of hazardous items was monitored today. Hazardous items were stored in locked cabinets or locked closets. No medications were observed nor reported. The program does not provide transportation. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 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. I observed two (2) new staff today who did not have a medical statement prior to the first day of employment. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 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. I observed three (3) new staff today that have not received the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within ninety(90) days of hire. .1102(g) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. You must correct the violations cited during today's visit immediately and send me documentation verifying compliance on or before Wednesday, February 12, 2025. The following information must be included in your signed and dated compliance letter: • the name of your center • facility ID number • date • title of the person who signs the letter • each violation number(s) • describes accurately and in detail how and when you corrected each violation You may email the letter to karen.young@dhhs.nc.gov or mail two copies of the letter to: Karen Young P.O. Box 1012 Lewisville, NC 27023 If you state in your letter that corrections or changes have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information and could lead to administrative action being taken by the DCDEE. Repeated violations, continued non-compliance, or failure to submit the compliance letter prior to the date given in this visit summary can also lead to administrative action being taken by the DCDEE. Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical assistance discussed during today’s visit related to violations: • Two new staff members did not have a medical statement on file prior to employment. See Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a). • Three (3) new staff members did not have Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment with ninety (90) days of employment. See Child Care Rule 10 A NCAC 09 .1102 (g) Additional Information/Consultation: • You must notify your consultant 30 days prior to changing the ownership status of your facility. • You must give your consultant a thirty (30) day notice for any change in location, address, or ownership status. • The cohorts are no more. Visit NCRLAP website and read the information on Connecting with the Three’s! ECERS-3 and ITERS 3 will be used beginning 2/1/25. • The QRIS is being implemented. I will share more information as I learn more to share. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS 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. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. • Public schools and licensed child care facilities in North Carolina are eligible to participate in the funding mechanisms to cover the costs of testing for lead in water and inspecting for asbestos and lead-based paint hazards beyond the May 1, 2024 deadline listed in 10A NCAC 41C .1002(a). Due to the recent impacts of Hurricane Helene and other natural disasters, this deadline has been revised statewide, and facilities that have not yet enrolled should complete the online process by May 31, 2025. The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids Program is providing free facility-wide testing and inspections without any out-of-pocket costs. Due to the volume of testing and inspections, completion of the online enrollment process in the program is considered temporary compliance with the testing and inspection requirement and will allow facilities to participate in the funding mechanisms. Required water testing for child care centers under rule 15A NCAC 18A .2816 is not affected by the new May 31, 2025 deadline. Enroll today at https://www.cleanwaterforcarolinakids.org/enroll. If you have enrolled for only one or two of the program sections, log back in to complete surveys for the remaining section(s) to comply with the rule requirements. Thank you for your participation in ensuring healthy learning environments for children across North Carolina. Please contact me at ed.norman@dhhs.nc.gov or 919-218-6511 if you have questions regarding this guidance. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed with and provided to you. Thank you for your time and assistance during the visit. If you have any questions about the visit, please contact me or my supervisor using the information below. Karen Young, Child Care Consultant (336) 207-2152 karen.young@dhhs.nc.gov Pamela Hauser, Supervisor pamela.hauser@dhhs.nc.gov For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.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.

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Way Makers Preschool Facility ID: 97000321 Consultant: KAREN YOUNG Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/29/2025 Number Present: 30 Completed Date: 1/29/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced An unannounced annual compliance visit was conducted at this childcare center to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. This visit was conducted by Karen Young, Childcare Consultant with Linda Brown, Director. Your program currently operates with a FOUR (4) Star license effective 8/10/24. Restrictions include daytime care only and meet enhanced ratios and enhanced space. The facility is licensed to provide care for children ages zero to twelve-years-old on first shift, with a capacity of 98 and is approved to operate six classrooms. The license was observed, and the restrictions were found in compliance. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 1/28/25 and Way Makers Preschool, Inc. was listed as current and active. The program’s compliance history was 89% prior to today’s visit. All programs are required to maintain at least 75% compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. Indoor and outdoor areas were observed. Staff/child ratio and space capacity were monitored as indicated on the attached worksheet. Supervision was adequate during the visit. I observed staff/child interactions today. I observed children having free choice center play, outdoor play , and eating lunch. I observed materials and activities that were available to the children in the classrooms. Your 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. Your facility uses Creative Curriculum with Foundation embedded in lesson plans. A new Temporary License was issued 2/9/24 by Tammy Childress, lead consultant. The last temporary time period visit was on 7/19/24 and the last visit was an Administrative Action Follow-up on 9/4/24. A sanitation inspection was completed 12/19/24 with a Superior classification and fifteen (15) demerits. The last fire inspection was conducted 3/27/24. Program records and required postings were monitored. A fire drill was conducted on 12/18/24 at 9:30 am with one (1) minute, fifty (50) seconds to evacuate thirty-six (36) children and nine (9) adults by A. Brown. A lockdown emergency drill was documented on 12/20/24 at 10:06 am with one (1) minute one (1) second to lockdown by A. Brown. An outdoor inspection was documented on 1/7/25 at 12:30 pm by A. Brown. Five (5) staff files including three (3) new staff and four (4) children’s records were monitored per DCDEE procedures. Nutrition requirements were monitored per DCDEE procedures. Storage of hazardous items was monitored today. Hazardous items were stored in locked cabinets or locked closets. No medications were observed nor reported. The program does not provide transportation. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 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. I observed two (2) new staff today who did not have a medical statement prior to the first day of employment. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 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. I observed three (3) new staff today that have not received the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within ninety(90) days of hire. .1102(g) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. You must correct the violations cited during today's visit immediately and send me documentation verifying compliance on or before Wednesday, February 12, 2025. The following information must be included in your signed and dated compliance letter: • the name of your center • facility ID number • date • title of the person who signs the letter • each violation number(s) • describes accurately and in detail how and when you corrected each violation You may email the letter to karen.young@dhhs.nc.gov or mail two copies of the letter to: Karen Young P.O. Box 1012 Lewisville, NC 27023 If you state in your letter that corrections or changes have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information and could lead to administrative action being taken by the DCDEE. Repeated violations, continued non-compliance, or failure to submit the compliance letter prior to the date given in this visit summary can also lead to administrative action being taken by the DCDEE. Additional monitoring visits may be conducted during the year to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Technical assistance discussed during today’s visit related to violations: • Two new staff members did not have a medical statement on file prior to employment. See Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a). • Three (3) new staff members did not have Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment with ninety (90) days of employment. See Child Care Rule 10 A NCAC 09 .1102 (g) Additional Information/Consultation: • You must notify your consultant 30 days prior to changing the ownership status of your facility. • You must give your consultant a thirty (30) day notice for any change in location, address, or ownership status. • The cohorts are no more. Visit NCRLAP website and read the information on Connecting with the Three’s! ECERS-3 and ITERS 3 will be used beginning 2/1/25. • The QRIS is being implemented. I will share more information as I learn more to share. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS 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. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. • Public schools and licensed child care facilities in North Carolina are eligible to participate in the funding mechanisms to cover the costs of testing for lead in water and inspecting for asbestos and lead-based paint hazards beyond the May 1, 2024 deadline listed in 10A NCAC 41C .1002(a). Due to the recent impacts of Hurricane Helene and other natural disasters, this deadline has been revised statewide, and facilities that have not yet enrolled should complete the online process by May 31, 2025. The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids Program is providing free facility-wide testing and inspections without any out-of-pocket costs. Due to the volume of testing and inspections, completion of the online enrollment process in the program is considered temporary compliance with the testing and inspection requirement and will allow facilities to participate in the funding mechanisms. Required water testing for child care centers under rule 15A NCAC 18A .2816 is not affected by the new May 31, 2025 deadline. Enroll today at https://www.cleanwaterforcarolinakids.org/enroll. If you have enrolled for only one or two of the program sections, log back in to complete surveys for the remaining section(s) to comply with the rule requirements. Thank you for your participation in ensuring healthy learning environments for children across North Carolina. Please contact me at ed.norman@dhhs.nc.gov or 919-218-6511 if you have questions regarding this guidance. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed with and provided to you. Thank you for your time and assistance during the visit. If you have any questions about the visit, please contact me or my supervisor using the information below. Karen Young, Child Care Consultant (336) 207-2152 karen.young@dhhs.nc.gov Pamela Hauser, Supervisor pamela.hauser@dhhs.nc.gov For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.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 .0713 · Violation

Name of Operation: Way Makers Preschool Facility ID: 97000321 Consultant: TAMMY CHILDRESS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0824-078L Visit Date: 8/20/2024 Number Present: 40 Completed Date: 8/20/2024 Age: From 0 To 7 Total Minutes: 205 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 02:10 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. There is a concern about posted staff/child ratios not being followed, proper diaper changing procedures not being followed, and concerns related to staff qualifications and training. The visit was conducted with Linda Brown, Owner Representative/Director, by Tammy Childress, Lead Child Care Consultant. The current compliance history for the facility prior to today’s visit is 88% for the last eighteen months and the NC Secretary of State website shows the owner, Way Makers Preschool, Inc., as current on all required documents and active on the NC Business Registry. Ms. Childress conducted a walkthrough of the facility and the following items were monitored and found to be in compliance today: •Staff/Child Ratio-Meets Enhanced Staff/Child Ratios •Supervision •Adequate/Approved Space- Meets Enhanced Space •License Posted and Restrictions- Four Star License Issued August 10, 2024; 1st Shift; Meets Enhanced Ratios; Meets Enhanced Space The facility is approved to operate 6 classrooms, one of the classrooms is not in use. During today’s visit, five classrooms were monitored, and staff/child ratio forms applicable to the age of children in care were posted in four of the classrooms. One classroom had the staff/child ratios posted outside the classroom door and one classroom did not have a staff/child ratio sheet. Eight staff members were interviewed regarding the age of the children in their care and questioned as to whether they ever provided care to children younger than their posted applicable staff/child ratio sheet allowed, or if children were ever combined with their group that were older or younger. All staff stated children were never combined with their assigned age group that were not within the age of children that could be grouped together. The age and number of children present, the capacity of the classroom, and the number of caregivers present was documented on the Center Space, Capacity, Staff/Child Ratio Worksheet. In addition, sign-in and sign-out sheets were monitored in each classroom. Staff schedules and enrollment was reviewed. There are currently 54 children enrolled, seven staff members, and two administrators. Three staff members start work at 6:30a.m. when the facility opens and are in the classrooms for children ages 0-1, 2-3, and 3-5 years old. Four additional staff arrive at 8:00a.m. Linda Brown arrives between 7:30a.m. and 8:00a.m. and Amanda Brown arrives at 8:30a.m. Seven staff members, including Ms. Brown are on site until 5:30 p.m. Ms. Brown stated that they have not combined children for the first and last operating hours of the day for years, but if classroom attendance numbers are low they may combine 2-3 year old children and 3-5 year children. Staff interviewed shared this same information and Ms. Childress has observed this to occur during previous visits. During today's visit, four children who were two-years-old were combined in a classroom with children ages two and three-years-old while their assigned caregiver assisted in preparing and serving lunch for the center. Staff/child ratios and group sizes were maintained. Based upon observations, review of facility documents, and information received during interviews from staff this allegation is unsubstantiated. Diaper changing occurs in two classrooms. Diaper changing and handwashing posters, as required, are posted in both classrooms. Diaper changing was not observed during today’s visit. However, all staff who change diapers were interviewed regarding diapering procedures and asked if they were ever told that they did not have to clean or sanitize diapering surfaces after each diaper change. Staff correctly verbalized the diapering procedures, including spraying disinfectant and allowing it to dry to Ms. Childress. Ms. Childress has also observed correct diaper changing during previous visits. Staff denied being told that they did not have to clean the changing tables with soapy water or disinfectant unless someone with the state was there. Soapy water, disinfectant and sanitizing spray bottles were located at the changing tables. Based upon information received during interviews from staff this allegation is unsubstantiated. This facility completed a Change of Ownership and was on a Temporary License from February 9, 2024, through August 9, 2024. In accordance with Senate Bill 425, the facility is not required to undergo a QRIS reassessment and may be reissued the star rated license of the previous owner. This means that the points in education for staff , point in program standards and the quality point options are based upon the previous rated license assessment. Staff files for all staff regarding required training and orientation were reviewed during the temporary time period. In addition, Ms. Childress reviewed one new staff file on July 19, 2024, and another DCDEE representative reviewed required CPR/FA, ITS/SIDS and CBC qualification letters on file for all staff on July 23, 2024. During today’s visit, Linda Brown stated that there were two new staff hires (CO & MH) since my last visit. These files were reviewed during today’s visit. One staff member hired 8/2/2024 has completed the required orientation within the first two weeks, the second staff member has early childhood education and experience in working in childcare. Based upon file observations and facility history, the allegation is unsubstantiated. During the walkthrough of the facility, Ms. Childress noted that the each classroom window faces the playgrounds which are below a large embankment that comes down from the roadway entering the facility. Staff would have a minimal view of the roadway to see who was coming down the driveway to the facility. Each staff member during interviews denied that they were on "window watch" and were to inform administration if they saw state representatives arrive. Staff also stated that it would be impossible for them to provide care to children and try to constantly watch the windows in their classrooms. In the director's office there are monitors which show the classrooms as well as the parking lot, but there is no view of the roadway coming into the facility parking lot. Based upon the layout of the classroom windows, there is no evidence to support this allegation and it is therefore unsubstantiated. In addition all staff denied during interviewed that they were ever yelled or cursed at by administration. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. Staff/child ratios applicable to the classroom were not posted in Room # 148. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. Complete file records/documents for two new staff were not available for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) All violations must be corrected immediately. Submit documentation to Ms. Childress by September 3, 2024, stating the Item# of the violation, the date it was corrected, how it was corrected/how it will be prevented from reoccurring in the future, and sign and date the documentation. Email the documentation to Ms. Childress at tammy.childress@dhhs.nc.gov. Stating in documentation that a violation has been corrected when it has not, is falsification and can result in the revocation of your license. Failure to submit the documentation within the required timeframe will result in another visit and possibly citing of a repeated violation. Technical Assistance provided during today’s visit: A violation was documented regarding the posting of applicable staff/child ratios in each classroom. I observed the form posted in the classroom during previous visits and the staff member felt as though children or previous staff members may have torn the form down. The posting of this form is required by Child Care 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(10). Staff might consider scanning the classroom each week to ensure the required posted documents remain posted. A violation was documented regarding new staff files not contained al the required documents. A staff person stated that the forms were completed were not yet placed in the files. During today's visit, Ms. Brown was working in the infant classroom and was unable to assist with the file review. North Carolina General Statute 110-91(9) requires that all staff records must be available for review. It is recommended that you organize new and existing staff files using the staff file checklist and ensure that all documents are placed in the file as they are received. Consultation: A child's medication permission was observed to be stapled on a bulletin board in a classroom. The child is three-years-old and is no longer enrolled at the facility. The permission slip also stated Iredell Statesville Schools. Ms. Brown stated that when the child was in attendance the child was not on medication. Medication permissions for children should never be stapled on a bulletin board and should only be on DCDEE permission forms found on the DCDEE website under Provider Documents and Forms. The infant classroom Disinfectant bottle was not full enough for the entire day and there were no available staff to make more. When this was brought to Ms. Brown's attention, a staff member combined the children in her classroom with another classroom and prepared disinfectant. You must ensure that Disinfectant, Sanitizer and Soapy Water must be prepared and in sufficient quantity daily. While typing the Visit Summary in the Regulatory System the table/system froze. Ms. Childress reviewed the violations and the findings of the complaint. Ms. Childress explained that the Visit Summary would be completed, reviewed by telephone and emailed to her. If you have questions or need assistance, you may contact Ms. Childress at tammy.childress@dhhs.nc.gov, or by telephone at (336)317-6436. If you have concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact the licensing supervisor, Pamela Hauser, by email at pamela.hauser@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. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: Way Makers Preschool Facility ID: 97000321 Consultant: TAMMY CHILDRESS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0824-078L Visit Date: 8/20/2024 Number Present: 40 Completed Date: 8/20/2024 Age: From 0 To 7 Total Minutes: 205 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 02:10 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. There is a concern about posted staff/child ratios not being followed, proper diaper changing procedures not being followed, and concerns related to staff qualifications and training. The visit was conducted with Linda Brown, Owner Representative/Director, by Tammy Childress, Lead Child Care Consultant. The current compliance history for the facility prior to today’s visit is 88% for the last eighteen months and the NC Secretary of State website shows the owner, Way Makers Preschool, Inc., as current on all required documents and active on the NC Business Registry. Ms. Childress conducted a walkthrough of the facility and the following items were monitored and found to be in compliance today: •Staff/Child Ratio-Meets Enhanced Staff/Child Ratios •Supervision •Adequate/Approved Space- Meets Enhanced Space •License Posted and Restrictions- Four Star License Issued August 10, 2024; 1st Shift; Meets Enhanced Ratios; Meets Enhanced Space The facility is approved to operate 6 classrooms, one of the classrooms is not in use. During today’s visit, five classrooms were monitored, and staff/child ratio forms applicable to the age of children in care were posted in four of the classrooms. One classroom had the staff/child ratios posted outside the classroom door and one classroom did not have a staff/child ratio sheet. Eight staff members were interviewed regarding the age of the children in their care and questioned as to whether they ever provided care to children younger than their posted applicable staff/child ratio sheet allowed, or if children were ever combined with their group that were older or younger. All staff stated children were never combined with their assigned age group that were not within the age of children that could be grouped together. The age and number of children present, the capacity of the classroom, and the number of caregivers present was documented on the Center Space, Capacity, Staff/Child Ratio Worksheet. In addition, sign-in and sign-out sheets were monitored in each classroom. Staff schedules and enrollment was reviewed. There are currently 54 children enrolled, seven staff members, and two administrators. Three staff members start work at 6:30a.m. when the facility opens and are in the classrooms for children ages 0-1, 2-3, and 3-5 years old. Four additional staff arrive at 8:00a.m. Linda Brown arrives between 7:30a.m. and 8:00a.m. and Amanda Brown arrives at 8:30a.m. Seven staff members, including Ms. Brown are on site until 5:30 p.m. Ms. Brown stated that they have not combined children for the first and last operating hours of the day for years, but if classroom attendance numbers are low they may combine 2-3 year old children and 3-5 year children. Staff interviewed shared this same information and Ms. Childress has observed this to occur during previous visits. During today's visit, four children who were two-years-old were combined in a classroom with children ages two and three-years-old while their assigned caregiver assisted in preparing and serving lunch for the center. Staff/child ratios and group sizes were maintained. Based upon observations, review of facility documents, and information received during interviews from staff this allegation is unsubstantiated. Diaper changing occurs in two classrooms. Diaper changing and handwashing posters, as required, are posted in both classrooms. Diaper changing was not observed during today’s visit. However, all staff who change diapers were interviewed regarding diapering procedures and asked if they were ever told that they did not have to clean or sanitize diapering surfaces after each diaper change. Staff correctly verbalized the diapering procedures, including spraying disinfectant and allowing it to dry to Ms. Childress. Ms. Childress has also observed correct diaper changing during previous visits. Staff denied being told that they did not have to clean the changing tables with soapy water or disinfectant unless someone with the state was there. Soapy water, disinfectant and sanitizing spray bottles were located at the changing tables. Based upon information received during interviews from staff this allegation is unsubstantiated. This facility completed a Change of Ownership and was on a Temporary License from February 9, 2024, through August 9, 2024. In accordance with Senate Bill 425, the facility is not required to undergo a QRIS reassessment and may be reissued the star rated license of the previous owner. This means that the points in education for staff , point in program standards and the quality point options are based upon the previous rated license assessment. Staff files for all staff regarding required training and orientation were reviewed during the temporary time period. In addition, Ms. Childress reviewed one new staff file on July 19, 2024, and another DCDEE representative reviewed required CPR/FA, ITS/SIDS and CBC qualification letters on file for all staff on July 23, 2024. During today’s visit, Linda Brown stated that there were two new staff hires (CO & MH) since my last visit. These files were reviewed during today’s visit. One staff member hired 8/2/2024 has completed the required orientation within the first two weeks, the second staff member has early childhood education and experience in working in childcare. Based upon file observations and facility history, the allegation is unsubstantiated. During the walkthrough of the facility, Ms. Childress noted that the each classroom window faces the playgrounds which are below a large embankment that comes down from the roadway entering the facility. Staff would have a minimal view of the roadway to see who was coming down the driveway to the facility. Each staff member during interviews denied that they were on "window watch" and were to inform administration if they saw state representatives arrive. Staff also stated that it would be impossible for them to provide care to children and try to constantly watch the windows in their classrooms. In the director's office there are monitors which show the classrooms as well as the parking lot, but there is no view of the roadway coming into the facility parking lot. Based upon the layout of the classroom windows, there is no evidence to support this allegation and it is therefore unsubstantiated. In addition all staff denied during interviewed that they were ever yelled or cursed at by administration. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. Staff/child ratios applicable to the classroom were not posted in Room # 148. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. Complete file records/documents for two new staff were not available for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) All violations must be corrected immediately. Submit documentation to Ms. Childress by September 3, 2024, stating the Item# of the violation, the date it was corrected, how it was corrected/how it will be prevented from reoccurring in the future, and sign and date the documentation. Email the documentation to Ms. Childress at tammy.childress@dhhs.nc.gov. Stating in documentation that a violation has been corrected when it has not, is falsification and can result in the revocation of your license. Failure to submit the documentation within the required timeframe will result in another visit and possibly citing of a repeated violation. Technical Assistance provided during today’s visit: A violation was documented regarding the posting of applicable staff/child ratios in each classroom. I observed the form posted in the classroom during previous visits and the staff member felt as though children or previous staff members may have torn the form down. The posting of this form is required by Child Care 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(10). Staff might consider scanning the classroom each week to ensure the required posted documents remain posted. A violation was documented regarding new staff files not contained al the required documents. A staff person stated that the forms were completed were not yet placed in the files. During today's visit, Ms. Brown was working in the infant classroom and was unable to assist with the file review. North Carolina General Statute 110-91(9) requires that all staff records must be available for review. It is recommended that you organize new and existing staff files using the staff file checklist and ensure that all documents are placed in the file as they are received. Consultation: A child's medication permission was observed to be stapled on a bulletin board in a classroom. The child is three-years-old and is no longer enrolled at the facility. The permission slip also stated Iredell Statesville Schools. Ms. Brown stated that when the child was in attendance the child was not on medication. Medication permissions for children should never be stapled on a bulletin board and should only be on DCDEE permission forms found on the DCDEE website under Provider Documents and Forms. The infant classroom Disinfectant bottle was not full enough for the entire day and there were no available staff to make more. When this was brought to Ms. Brown's attention, a staff member combined the children in her classroom with another classroom and prepared disinfectant. You must ensure that Disinfectant, Sanitizer and Soapy Water must be prepared and in sufficient quantity daily. While typing the Visit Summary in the Regulatory System the table/system froze. Ms. Childress reviewed the violations and the findings of the complaint. Ms. Childress explained that the Visit Summary would be completed, reviewed by telephone and emailed to her. If you have questions or need assistance, you may contact Ms. Childress at tammy.childress@dhhs.nc.gov, or by telephone at (336)317-6436. If you have concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact the licensing supervisor, Pamela Hauser, by email at pamela.hauser@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: Way Makers Preschool Facility ID: 97000321 Consultant: TAMMY CHILDRESS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/20/2024 Number Present: 40 Completed Date: 6/20/2024 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 02:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the second temporary time period visit. The visit was conducted with Amanda Brown, Staff Member, who was providing center coverage in the absence of Linda Brown, Director/Owner Representative, by Tammy Childress, Lead Child Care Consultant. Currently this facility operates with a Temporary License, issued on March 25, 2024, and was effective on February 9, 2024, following a change of ownership. The facility is licensed to operate first shift with a capacity of 98, and to provide care for children ages zero to twelve years old. Restrictions are daytime care only and meets enhanced ratios and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and the owner, Way Makers Preschool, Inc., remains current on all required documents and active on the NC Business Registry. If any changes to the business type need to be made or you decide to sale your business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location or inherited. All designated indoor and outdoor spaces for child care, program files, items to be posted, all staff files not monitored during the last visit, and a percentage of children’s files were monitored during today’s visit. The facility does not provide transportation. A large playground separated into three designated areas for infants, toddlers, and preschool and school age children is located at the back of the facility. The play areas are surfaced by grass, dirt and mulch and there are no stationary pieces of play equipment creating fall zone areas. Meals are prepared at the facility and children eat all meals in their classrooms. During today’s visit children present were observed to be engaged in group and free choice activities, personal care routines, lunch, and nap. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plan posted for the one-year-old children in Room #144 was dated for May 2024. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Two electrical outlets not in use in the space used by one-year-old children were not covered. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. A container of Aquaphor Healing Ointment was located on the changing table and the product label stated "keep out of reach of children and if swallowed get medical help or contact a poison control center right away." The container lid had the name of the center that previously operated at the location written on it, but no child's name. In addition, a door to a storage room in the classroom had a locked door handle but the door was open. Cleaning supplies including those in aerosol containers were in the room. .2820(b) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. A playground inspection for the month of May 2024 was not documented and on file for review. .0605(q) All violations were corrected immediately during today’s visit with the exception of the playground inspection for the month of May 2024. However, it is important that you review the violations, and applicable child care rules with your staff to ensure that there is compliance going forward. Please send documentation as to how you will ensure that playground inspections are completed, documented and placed on file for review each month to Ms. Childress no later than July 5, 2024, by email at tammy.childress@dhhs.nc.gov. All violations (except the playground inspection) occurred in a classroom that has been closed for a long period of time and Ms. Brown stated that she did not go through the room carefully enough to notice the items documented today. Technical Assistance and/or Consultation Provided During Today’s Visit: Rated License Assessment Process You will remain in Cohort 1, with the preparation year ending June 30, 2024, and the rated license assessment and Environment Rating Scale Assessment will be completed during the timeframe beginning July 1, 2024, and ending June 30, 2025 . During the last visit Ms. Brown had stated that she would like to proceed with completing the Environment Rating Scales while on the Temporary License, but has since stated that she will stay in her assigned timeframe for Cohort 1, with a reassessment to occur between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025. The Temporary License will expire on August 9, 2024, and Ms. Brown will discuss the ERS assessment with her assigned Child Care Consultant, Karen Young. She will begin preparing for the assessment by working with her local partnership and it is recommended that she also visit the North Carolina Rated License Assessment website for resources at https://www.ncrlap.org/ . Change of Ownership Requirements All required inspections (Building, Fire and Sanitation) have been received and lead water, lead-based paint and asbestos testing and/or enrollment have been completed within the required time frames. Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan Ms. Brown had previously completed the Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training and has updated an EPR Plan for this facility with this license number. A summary of today’s visit was reviewed with and provided to Ms. Amanda Brown. If you have any further questions about today’s visit, please contact Ms. Childress at tammy.childress@dhhs.nc.gov or by telephone at (336)317-6436. You may also contact the Licensing Supervisor, Pamela Hauser, at pamela.hauser@dhhs.nc.gov if you have concerns regarding today’s visit or any violations documented. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: Way Makers Preschool Facility ID: 97000321 Consultant: TAMMY CHILDRESS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/20/2024 Number Present: 40 Completed Date: 6/20/2024 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 02:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the second temporary time period visit. The visit was conducted with Amanda Brown, Staff Member, who was providing center coverage in the absence of Linda Brown, Director/Owner Representative, by Tammy Childress, Lead Child Care Consultant. Currently this facility operates with a Temporary License, issued on March 25, 2024, and was effective on February 9, 2024, following a change of ownership. The facility is licensed to operate first shift with a capacity of 98, and to provide care for children ages zero to twelve years old. Restrictions are daytime care only and meets enhanced ratios and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and the owner, Way Makers Preschool, Inc., remains current on all required documents and active on the NC Business Registry. If any changes to the business type need to be made or you decide to sale your business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location or inherited. All designated indoor and outdoor spaces for child care, program files, items to be posted, all staff files not monitored during the last visit, and a percentage of children’s files were monitored during today’s visit. The facility does not provide transportation. A large playground separated into three designated areas for infants, toddlers, and preschool and school age children is located at the back of the facility. The play areas are surfaced by grass, dirt and mulch and there are no stationary pieces of play equipment creating fall zone areas. Meals are prepared at the facility and children eat all meals in their classrooms. During today’s visit children present were observed to be engaged in group and free choice activities, personal care routines, lunch, and nap. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plan posted for the one-year-old children in Room #144 was dated for May 2024. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Two electrical outlets not in use in the space used by one-year-old children were not covered. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. A container of Aquaphor Healing Ointment was located on the changing table and the product label stated "keep out of reach of children and if swallowed get medical help or contact a poison control center right away." The container lid had the name of the center that previously operated at the location written on it, but no child's name. In addition, a door to a storage room in the classroom had a locked door handle but the door was open. Cleaning supplies including those in aerosol containers were in the room. .2820(b) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. A playground inspection for the month of May 2024 was not documented and on file for review. .0605(q) All violations were corrected immediately during today’s visit with the exception of the playground inspection for the month of May 2024. However, it is important that you review the violations, and applicable child care rules with your staff to ensure that there is compliance going forward. Please send documentation as to how you will ensure that playground inspections are completed, documented and placed on file for review each month to Ms. Childress no later than July 5, 2024, by email at tammy.childress@dhhs.nc.gov. All violations (except the playground inspection) occurred in a classroom that has been closed for a long period of time and Ms. Brown stated that she did not go through the room carefully enough to notice the items documented today. Technical Assistance and/or Consultation Provided During Today’s Visit: Rated License Assessment Process You will remain in Cohort 1, with the preparation year ending June 30, 2024, and the rated license assessment and Environment Rating Scale Assessment will be completed during the timeframe beginning July 1, 2024, and ending June 30, 2025 . During the last visit Ms. Brown had stated that she would like to proceed with completing the Environment Rating Scales while on the Temporary License, but has since stated that she will stay in her assigned timeframe for Cohort 1, with a reassessment to occur between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025. The Temporary License will expire on August 9, 2024, and Ms. Brown will discuss the ERS assessment with her assigned Child Care Consultant, Karen Young. She will begin preparing for the assessment by working with her local partnership and it is recommended that she also visit the North Carolina Rated License Assessment website for resources at https://www.ncrlap.org/ . Change of Ownership Requirements All required inspections (Building, Fire and Sanitation) have been received and lead water, lead-based paint and asbestos testing and/or enrollment have been completed within the required time frames. Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan Ms. Brown had previously completed the Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training and has updated an EPR Plan for this facility with this license number. A summary of today’s visit was reviewed with and provided to Ms. Amanda Brown. If you have any further questions about today’s visit, please contact Ms. Childress at tammy.childress@dhhs.nc.gov or by telephone at (336)317-6436. You may also contact the Licensing Supervisor, Pamela Hauser, at pamela.hauser@dhhs.nc.gov if you have concerns regarding today’s visit or any violations documented. 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 .0302 · Violation

Name of Operation: Way Makers Preschool Facility ID: 97000321 Consultant: JENNIFER HILL Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0524-184A Visit Date: 6/19/2024 Number Present: 45 Completed Date: 6/19/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 95 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 12:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to follow-up regarding allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. I conducted a walk-through of the facility unaccompanied. During the visit, I spoke with Amanda Brown, assistant/teacher for 4-year-old children. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children enrolled at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. Staff failed to ensure arrival and departure records were completed on April 15, 2024, April 24, 2024, April 29, 2024, April 30, 2024, and May 1, 2024, May 2, 2024, May 15, 2024, May 16, 2024, May 17, 2024, May 21, 2024, May 22, 2024, May 23, 2024, and May 29, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. Attendance records were not accurate for April 17, 2024, April 22, 2024, May 2, 2024, May 3, 2024, May 6, 2024, May 10, 2024, May 13, 2024, May 14, 2024, May 30, 2024, and May 31, 2024. GS 110-91(9) You may contact me at Jennifer Hill, Investigations Consultant, 828-358-5387, Jennifer.Hill@dhhs.nc.gov or Natosha Lambeth, Western Investigations Team Supervisor, Natosha.Lambeth@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: Way Makers Preschool Facility ID: 97000321 Consultant: JENNIFER HILL Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0524-184A Visit Date: 6/19/2024 Number Present: 45 Completed Date: 6/19/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 95 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 12:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to follow-up regarding allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. I conducted a walk-through of the facility unaccompanied. During the visit, I spoke with Amanda Brown, assistant/teacher for 4-year-old children. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children enrolled at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. Staff failed to ensure arrival and departure records were completed on April 15, 2024, April 24, 2024, April 29, 2024, April 30, 2024, and May 1, 2024, May 2, 2024, May 15, 2024, May 16, 2024, May 17, 2024, May 21, 2024, May 22, 2024, May 23, 2024, and May 29, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. Attendance records were not accurate for April 17, 2024, April 22, 2024, May 2, 2024, May 3, 2024, May 6, 2024, May 10, 2024, May 13, 2024, May 14, 2024, May 30, 2024, and May 31, 2024. GS 110-91(9) You may contact me at Jennifer Hill, Investigations Consultant, 828-358-5387, Jennifer.Hill@dhhs.nc.gov or Natosha Lambeth, Western Investigations Team Supervisor, Natosha.Lambeth@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: Way Makers Preschool Facility ID: 97000321 Consultant: JENNIFER HILL Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0524-184A Visit Date: 5/16/2024 Number Present: 39 Completed Date: 5/16/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 180 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. I conducted a walk-through of the facility unaccompanied. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Linda Brown, owner/administrator, and additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On May 14, 2024, two staff members got into a verbal altercation which included the use of profanity in the presence of three-year-old children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. On May 14, 2024, a staff member moved a one-year-old child with their foot. On other occasions the staff member told infant children to shut up and placed an infant into a highchair in an inappropriate manner. G.S. 110-91(10) Violations must be corrected immediately. Within one week (May 23, 2024), you must submit documentation of the corrections you made and your plan to maintain compliance with the identified child care requirements to me at Jennifer Hill, Investigations Consultant, 828-358-5387, Jennifer.Hill@dhhs.nc.gov, or faxed to 919-715-1013. You may contact me at Jennifer Hill, Investigations Consultant, 828-358-5387, Jennifer.Hill@dhhs.nc.gov or Natosha Lambeth, Western Investigations Team Supervisor, Natosha.Lambeth@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. 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. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: Way Makers Preschool Facility ID: 97000321 Consultant: JENNIFER HILL Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0524-184A Visit Date: 5/16/2024 Number Present: 39 Completed Date: 5/16/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 180 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. I conducted a walk-through of the facility unaccompanied. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Linda Brown, owner/administrator, and additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On May 14, 2024, two staff members got into a verbal altercation which included the use of profanity in the presence of three-year-old children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. On May 14, 2024, a staff member moved a one-year-old child with their foot. On other occasions the staff member told infant children to shut up and placed an infant into a highchair in an inappropriate manner. G.S. 110-91(10) Violations must be corrected immediately. Within one week (May 23, 2024), you must submit documentation of the corrections you made and your plan to maintain compliance with the identified child care requirements to me at Jennifer Hill, Investigations Consultant, 828-358-5387, Jennifer.Hill@dhhs.nc.gov, or faxed to 919-715-1013. You may contact me at Jennifer Hill, Investigations Consultant, 828-358-5387, Jennifer.Hill@dhhs.nc.gov or Natosha Lambeth, Western Investigations Team Supervisor, Natosha.Lambeth@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: Way Makers Preschool Facility ID: 97000321 Consultant: TAMMY CHILDRESS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/24/2024 Number Present: 40 Completed Date: 4/24/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the first temporary time visit. The visit was conducted with Linda Brown, Director/Registered Agent for the Corporation, by Tammy Childress, Lead Child Care Consultant. Currently this center operates with a Temporary License, issued on March 25, 2024, and due to a Change of Ownership is effective beginning February 29, 2024, to operate first shift with a capacity of (98)ninety-eight. The facility is licensed to provide care to children ages zero to twelve-years-old and is approved to operate six classrooms. Restrictions are daytime care only, meets enhanced ratios, and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and the owner, Way Makers Preschool, Inc., is current on all required documents and active on the NC Business Registry. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sale your business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Three classrooms with children ages infant to five years old were monitored during the visit. All program records, documents required to be posted, and a sampling of staff and children’s files were monitored. The outdoor learning environment was monitored today. The facility does not provide transportation and is not approved for transportation. Meals are prepared at the facility and children eat all meals and snacks in the classrooms. During today’s visit children present were observed to be engaged in free choice activities, outdoor play, large group activities, handwashing/restroom, lunch, and nap. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Wooden steps going up an embankment were not level, paint was chipping on the windows on the building exposed on the playground, and a plastic storage bin lid was cracked on the playground. .0601(c) 1840 A license was bought, sold, or transferred by one person or entity to another. A change of ownership occurred August 16, 2023, and the Division was not notified as required thirty days prior to the ownership change. .0204(a) Consultation and Technical Assistance provided during today’s visit: All violations must be corrected immediately. You must submit documentation on how each violation was corrected to Ms. Childress by May 8, 2024. The documentation should be submitted by email to Ms. Childress at tammy.childress@dhhs.nc.gov. Include in the documentation the following: 1.Name of your facility and ID# 2.Date of the Visit 3.Date of the Documentation you are submitting 4.Each Item Number of the Violations Cited 5.Date of when each item number was corrected 6.How the item was corrected and how you will prevent the violation from reoccurring 7.Signature of the person submitting the documentation Your compliance history affects the star rating. It is imperative that staff maintain compliance with child care rules and requirements at all times. Violations of child care requirements affect the facility’s compliance history. You must maintain a minimum compliance history of seventy-five (75) percent. 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT (c) Equipment and furnishings shall be sturdy, stable, and free of hazards that may injure children including sharp edges, lead based or peeling paint, rust, loose nails, splinters, protrusions (excluding nuts and bolts on sides of fences), and pinch and crush points. We discussed that wooden steps on the playground that go up an embankment were not level and were a tripping hazard and that it would be safer to remove the steps entirely, if Ms. Brown did not wish to repair the steps. In addition, chipping paint was observed on the windows that line the building inside the playground and a storage bin lid was cracked. Ms. Brown has provided a current sanitation and fire inspection as part of the ownership change. A building inspection was also provided on March 28, 2024, but the inspector noted that a reinspection would be completed within 30 days due to the following issues: •Emergency Door in Room 147 is sticking •Mount Fire Extinguisher in Kitchen •Remove slide lock at rear exit door in Room 144 During today’s visit Ms. Brown stated that a re-inspection had not been completed. During the pre-licensing visit on March 25, 2024, Ms. Childress noted the following items in the visit summary which needed correction. All items were in compliance, except leveling the steps on the playground embankment. Rated License Assessment and Environment Rating Scale Assessment Your previously assigned Child Care Consultant, Karen Young, shared information with you regarding the facility being assigned to Cohort 1 for licensure reassessment. You will remain in Cohort 1, which means the preparatory time frame for your reassessment is July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024, and your reassessment will occur during the timeframe of July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025. Ms. Brown asked today if she could proceed now with the environment rating scale assessment, and I will discuss this with the licensing supervisor and let her know. The Temporary License effective dates are February 9, 2024, through August 9, 2024. You should immediately contact the Wilkes County Department of Social Services in order to enroll in and participate in the North Carolina Subsidized Child Care Assistance program under the new owner and facility name in order to prevent interruption in services or payment through the process. You can also obtain information about NC FAST and Child Care Subsidy on the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov under the “Provider” tab on the home screen. Proposed Administrative Action Because a Change of Ownership occurred prior to your notification and Submission of required documents to the Division of Child Development and Early Education, an administrative action will be proposed. You will be notified in writing of any action issued by the Division. If any further changes are to occur regarding ownership of the business, you must notify Ms. Childress 30 days prior to the changes occurring. Notification is considered the submission of required documents. Lead Water, Lead-Based Paint, Asbestos Testing According to Clean Water for Us Kids website you have completed all steps for enrollment and testing for Lead Water, Lead-Based Paint, and Asbestos Testing. The Visit Summary of today’s visit was reviewed with and provided to Ms. Brown. If you have any further questions about today’s visit, please contact Ms. Childress at tammy.childress@dhhs.nc.gov or by telephone at (336)317-6436. You may also contact the Licensing Supervisor, Pamela Hauser, at pamela.hauser@dhhs.nc.gov if you have concerns. 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.