Childcare Network #158

10A NCAC 09 .2818 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #158 Facility ID: 65001094 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0526-131L Visit Date: 5/13/2026 Number Present: 69 Completed Date: 5/13/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 02:15 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 follow up on information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: There are concerns regarding staff/child ratios. There are concerns that children are not be adequately supervised. There are concerns that children are being inappropriately disciplined. You, Stephanie Bartlett, Director, assisted with the visit. The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued September 2, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced ratios and enhanced space, and 1 quality point. The program was 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. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 91%. In addition to the allegation, supervision, staff/child ratios, adequate/approved space, and permit restrictions were monitored. There have been two new staff hired since the last monitoring visit. There were one hundred nine (109) children enrolled and sixty nine (69) were present today ranging from 0 through 5 years of age. I observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. I observed the teachers caring for children in a nurturing and caring manner. Children were observed participating in free play indoors and outdoors with age appropriate materials and activities. The allegations were reviewed with administration, and various staff members. Everyone was given the opportunity to state their perceptions of the allegation. The facility does have video surveillance; however, the administration present does not have access to share the footage with me. Allegation #1: There are concerns regarding staff/child ratios. *** Staff/child ratios were monitored today and all classrooms were in ratio. Administration stated there have been reports of staff being out of ratio in the early mornings. Three (3) staff from the administration team and six (6) other staff members were interviewed. Opening staff reported that an administrator who opens is routinely out of ratio in the early morning between 6:30 – 7:30 am. Two (2) staff members stated they have witnessed a staff member with 16-20 children as young as 2 years of age. An NC Pre K staff member stated she was out of ratio on April 27, 2026, early in the morning. She stated she had 16 children ages 4-5 by herself. The Teachers – Over Ratio Policy was reviewed and is currently not being followed. Based on my investigation, observations, and staff report, this allegation is confirmed. Allegation #2: There are concerns that children are not being adequately supervised. ***Supervision was monitored today and found to be in compliance. Administration stated they did not have any concerns with supervision. A total of nine (9) staff members were interviewed today, and none reported any concerns with supervision. Staff were observed adequately supervising the children during my observations. The facilities supervision policy was reviewed today and found to be in compliance. Based on my investigation, observations, and staff report, this allegation is not confirmed. Allegation #3: There are concerns that children are being inappropriately disciplined. ***During the walkthrough, there were no concerns noted on discipline. Administration stated a staff member has been yelling at children 4-5 years of age and they are working on applying for services through the Healthy Social Behavior Team at Smart Start. Nine (9) staff members were interviewed and stated six (6) staff member stated they have observed her yelling directives aggressively at children such as “sit down,” “get over here” and “what are you doing”. The positive guidance policy states that staff must use positive reinforcement, use clear communication, use a proactive approach, and model appropriate social behaviors. Based on my investigation, observations, and staff report, this allegation is confirmed. The program is currently working through an administrative action – written warning for discipline. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Staff have routinely been out of ratio in the morning between 6:30 - 7:30 am. A staff member had 16-20 children (youngest 2 years of age) last week. A NC Pre K classroom was out of ratio on April 27, 2026. She was had 16 children, 4-5 years of age. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A staff member has been observed yelling aggressively at children (“sit down,” “get over here” and “what are you doing”). .1803(a)(9) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 27, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. An administrative action may be issued based on a confirmed allegation and a return visit will be made to verify correction of the violation. Technical Assistance: Maintaining staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes is also essential to the health and safety of children. If children are combined with similar age groups, such as in the early morning or later evening hours, the staff/child ratio and maximum group size for the youngest child in the group must be maintained. Staff must be aware of children’s ages and how many children are in each group at all times. Today I suggested that staff keep a running list of children and their ages during transition times to ensure they are maintaining ratios and can ask for assistance if needed. As children are transitioning between indoor spaces in the mornings, staff must regularly count children (name to face recognition) at every transition, and whenever leaving one area and arriving at another. Guidance is about building an encouraging setting for every person in the group. It means helping young children understand they can learn from their mistakes, and it starts with showing them how. To give this help successfully, we need to build relationships with every child—especially with the children we find difficult to connect with and understand. We build these relationships from day one, outside of conflict situations. It is only when children know and trust us in day-to-day interactions that they will listen to us when conflicts happen (after we have helped everyone calm down). At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Licensing Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov or Kim Sherry, Licensing Supervisor, 910-824-0470, kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #158 Facility ID: 65001094 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0526-131L Visit Date: 5/13/2026 Number Present: 69 Completed Date: 5/13/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 02:15 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 follow up on information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: There are concerns regarding staff/child ratios. There are concerns that children are not be adequately supervised. There are concerns that children are being inappropriately disciplined. You, Stephanie Bartlett, Director, assisted with the visit. The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued September 2, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced ratios and enhanced space, and 1 quality point. The program was 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. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 91%. In addition to the allegation, supervision, staff/child ratios, adequate/approved space, and permit restrictions were monitored. There have been two new staff hired since the last monitoring visit. There were one hundred nine (109) children enrolled and sixty nine (69) were present today ranging from 0 through 5 years of age. I observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. I observed the teachers caring for children in a nurturing and caring manner. Children were observed participating in free play indoors and outdoors with age appropriate materials and activities. The allegations were reviewed with administration, and various staff members. Everyone was given the opportunity to state their perceptions of the allegation. The facility does have video surveillance; however, the administration present does not have access to share the footage with me. Allegation #1: There are concerns regarding staff/child ratios. *** Staff/child ratios were monitored today and all classrooms were in ratio. Administration stated there have been reports of staff being out of ratio in the early mornings. Three (3) staff from the administration team and six (6) other staff members were interviewed. Opening staff reported that an administrator who opens is routinely out of ratio in the early morning between 6:30 – 7:30 am. Two (2) staff members stated they have witnessed a staff member with 16-20 children as young as 2 years of age. An NC Pre K staff member stated she was out of ratio on April 27, 2026, early in the morning. She stated she had 16 children ages 4-5 by herself. The Teachers – Over Ratio Policy was reviewed and is currently not being followed. Based on my investigation, observations, and staff report, this allegation is confirmed. Allegation #2: There are concerns that children are not being adequately supervised. ***Supervision was monitored today and found to be in compliance. Administration stated they did not have any concerns with supervision. A total of nine (9) staff members were interviewed today, and none reported any concerns with supervision. Staff were observed adequately supervising the children during my observations. The facilities supervision policy was reviewed today and found to be in compliance. Based on my investigation, observations, and staff report, this allegation is not confirmed. Allegation #3: There are concerns that children are being inappropriately disciplined. ***During the walkthrough, there were no concerns noted on discipline. Administration stated a staff member has been yelling at children 4-5 years of age and they are working on applying for services through the Healthy Social Behavior Team at Smart Start. Nine (9) staff members were interviewed and stated six (6) staff member stated they have observed her yelling directives aggressively at children such as “sit down,” “get over here” and “what are you doing”. The positive guidance policy states that staff must use positive reinforcement, use clear communication, use a proactive approach, and model appropriate social behaviors. Based on my investigation, observations, and staff report, this allegation is confirmed. The program is currently working through an administrative action – written warning for discipline. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Staff have routinely been out of ratio in the morning between 6:30 - 7:30 am. A staff member had 16-20 children (youngest 2 years of age) last week. A NC Pre K classroom was out of ratio on April 27, 2026. She was had 16 children, 4-5 years of age. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A staff member has been observed yelling aggressively at children (“sit down,” “get over here” and “what are you doing”). .1803(a)(9) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 27, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. An administrative action may be issued based on a confirmed allegation and a return visit will be made to verify correction of the violation. Technical Assistance: Maintaining staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes is also essential to the health and safety of children. If children are combined with similar age groups, such as in the early morning or later evening hours, the staff/child ratio and maximum group size for the youngest child in the group must be maintained. Staff must be aware of children’s ages and how many children are in each group at all times. Today I suggested that staff keep a running list of children and their ages during transition times to ensure they are maintaining ratios and can ask for assistance if needed. As children are transitioning between indoor spaces in the mornings, staff must regularly count children (name to face recognition) at every transition, and whenever leaving one area and arriving at another. Guidance is about building an encouraging setting for every person in the group. It means helping young children understand they can learn from their mistakes, and it starts with showing them how. To give this help successfully, we need to build relationships with every child—especially with the children we find difficult to connect with and understand. We build these relationships from day one, outside of conflict situations. It is only when children know and trust us in day-to-day interactions that they will listen to us when conflicts happen (after we have helped everyone calm down). At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Licensing Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov or Kim Sherry, Licensing Supervisor, 910-824-0470, kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #158 Facility ID: 65001094 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/10/2026 Number Present: 55 Completed Date: 2/10/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. You, Stephanie Bartlett, Director, assisted with the visit. The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued September 2, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced ratios and enhanced space, and 1 quality point. The program was 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. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on February 24, 2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on December 3, 2025, and the program received a supervisor classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on May 13, 2025, and the program was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-two (92) percent as of February 9, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and Child Development Schools of North Carolina, LLC was listed as current- active. Makaya Shadle, Education Coordinator, visited each licensed space with me. Infants in space 1b ate breakfast that consisted of waffles, fruit, and milk or had bottles fed to them. Infant feeding schedules were observed, and safe sleep charts were being maintained. Toddlers in space 3 participated in free play with musical instruments and props. Preschoolers in space 2 participated in free play with fine motor, math, and music materials. Preschool children in space 5 sat at the tables with table toys as the teacher completed diapering routines. Older preschoolers in space 5 were dismissed from group circle to time assigned centers. NC Pre-Kindergarten children in spaces 7 and 10 finished up group circle time. Routine toileting and handwashing procedures were monitored, and requirements were met. Staff/child ratios were in compliance. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers and children interacted with children. Lunch for today consisted of ravioli, corn muffins, peas, applesauce and milk. Staff and Training Worksheets- The staff and training worksheets were requested on December 15, 2025. Upon arrival it was discovered that the program had not updated their staff and training worksheet since the last annual compliance visit on February 24, 2025. There are eighteen staff members employed at this facility. There are three new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. You must complete your staff and training worksheet and email it to me no later than Friday, February 13, 2026. Be sure all documents are signed by you stating that all information is true and accurate. Health & Safety Training – All staff members who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. New staff are in the process of completing these training courses. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Remember, the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training must be taken at www.preventchildabusenc.org, within the first 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. The NC Pre-Kindergarten Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. The tool has been completed by the contract administrator. The program follows the New Hanover County school calendar, the length of the day meets requirements, and all staff meet education requirements. The Creative Curriculum for Preschool, 6th Edition, has been implemented and the assessment tool, GOLD, and Teaching Strategies are all in place. Three formal assessments with parent conferences are scheduled through the school year. Portfolios are maintained on Teacher Strategies, GOLD by taking pictures of the children’s work and uploading them to the program. The facility uses the developmental screening tool, Brigance Early Childhood Screen III (3-5 Years). NC Pre-K requirements were met today. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 803 There were no clean clothes available for the children to wear when children's clothes became wet or soiled. A child, 3 years of age, had a toileting accident during the visit and a change of clothes were not available to him. 10A NCAC 09 .0806(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the playground used by the older preschool and school age classrooms there is a piece of rebar sticking out of the ground near the road. Exposed nails are on the containment boarder outside of space 9 and 10. On the playground with the swing sets there are exposed nails on the privacy fence and the privacy fence is loose and leaning. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members first aid certification has expired. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members CPR certification has expired. .1102(d) 1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. Registration has expired for the yellow bus and the green bus. .1002(b) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. Red bull was observed in space 1b and a Chick-Fil-A cup was observed in space 10. .0901(i) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 24, 2026, 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 considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance: Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901(j) GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS states that staff shall role model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming only food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in this Rule in the presence of children in care. Fast Food or coffee drinks that staff might consume do not follow these requirements and should not be consumed in the classroom or in the presence of children. As protruding rebar, and nails were observed on the playgrounds, I suggest that you check them on a regular basis to determine if they need to be pushed back down in the ground and/or fence. Protrusions are considered safety hazards as children may trip over them or fall on them. In North Carolina, vehicle registration is a foundational legal requirement that ensures every vehicle used to transport children in child care is legitimately recognized by the state and meets essential safety and liability standards. Today I suggested putting reminders on your outlook calendar and smart phones to ensure vehicle registration is completed annually. CPR and First Aid training for child care must be taught in-person by an approved training organization, and only certain courses meet requirements. For a list of approved organizations and courses, visit the website below: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training Other Information: Today we discussed the requirements for lead teachers. 10A NCAC 09 .0710 PRESERVICE REQUIREMENTS FOR LEAD TEACHERS AND TEACHERS (a) If an individual already has a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential or its equivalent, none of the requirements of this Rule shall apply. If an individual does not have a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential or its equivalent, the requirements of this Rule shall be met. (b) A lead teacher or a teacher shall be 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or its equivalent, and have one of the following: (1) One year of child care experience working in a child care center or two years of verifiable experience as a licensed family child care home operator; or (2) Completion of a two year high school program of Early Childhood Education in Family and Consumer Sciences Education; or (3) Twenty hours of training in child development, which shall include the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential coursework, within the first six months of employment in addition to the number of on-going training hours required in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. The facility has completed the training and has entered staff. 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. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on October 17, 2023. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint- no hazards identified • Asbestos- no hazards identified Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, as it may be requested to verify compliance. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/faq/ for further guidance and ensure all steps have been completed. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ July 2025 Rule Changes: Summary, Training Available The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is excited to share information about the July 2025 child care rule changes. The Child Care Commission adopted rules to support QRIS modernization. The new section, .3200, provides the standards for earning a two-though five-star-rated license. There are three pathways: program assessment, classroom and instructional quality, and accreditation and head start. To support the QRIS changes, additional rules were amended within the following sections: definitions, developmental day services, and NC Pre-Kindergarten services. Consultants will assist as you begin to review the changes, but please note some of the rule changes may not impact your facility. DCDEE has provided a summary of the changes, but for specific details regarding these changes, please ensure you are using the updated July 1, 2025 rule book, and view information in the DCDEE Moodle(Enroll if you haven’t yet).You will need to have an NCID - the same NCID that you use for the health & safety training, WORKS login, and/or the CBC Portal - to participate in Moodle training. If you do not have an NCID, use this link to get one: https://ncid.nc.gov/ncidsspr/. Rule training modules can be found in the same course as the previous Child Care Rule Rollout. If you are unfamiliar with the Child Care Rule Rollout within Moodle and how to navigate, please visit: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Learning-Resources/How-to-Navigate-Moodle. For assistance with Moodle, contact DCDEE_MOODLE_SUPPORT@dhhs.nc.gov. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are be posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility has decided to choose Pathway 1 – Program Assessment Pathway. The program stated they plan to apply for rated license by September 2026. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. Reminder You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). 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. 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/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns or Licensing Supervisor, Kim Sherry 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 .0806 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #158 Facility ID: 65001094 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/10/2026 Number Present: 55 Completed Date: 2/10/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. You, Stephanie Bartlett, Director, assisted with the visit. The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued September 2, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced ratios and enhanced space, and 1 quality point. The program was 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. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on February 24, 2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on December 3, 2025, and the program received a supervisor classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on May 13, 2025, and the program was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-two (92) percent as of February 9, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and Child Development Schools of North Carolina, LLC was listed as current- active. Makaya Shadle, Education Coordinator, visited each licensed space with me. Infants in space 1b ate breakfast that consisted of waffles, fruit, and milk or had bottles fed to them. Infant feeding schedules were observed, and safe sleep charts were being maintained. Toddlers in space 3 participated in free play with musical instruments and props. Preschoolers in space 2 participated in free play with fine motor, math, and music materials. Preschool children in space 5 sat at the tables with table toys as the teacher completed diapering routines. Older preschoolers in space 5 were dismissed from group circle to time assigned centers. NC Pre-Kindergarten children in spaces 7 and 10 finished up group circle time. Routine toileting and handwashing procedures were monitored, and requirements were met. Staff/child ratios were in compliance. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers and children interacted with children. Lunch for today consisted of ravioli, corn muffins, peas, applesauce and milk. Staff and Training Worksheets- The staff and training worksheets were requested on December 15, 2025. Upon arrival it was discovered that the program had not updated their staff and training worksheet since the last annual compliance visit on February 24, 2025. There are eighteen staff members employed at this facility. There are three new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. You must complete your staff and training worksheet and email it to me no later than Friday, February 13, 2026. Be sure all documents are signed by you stating that all information is true and accurate. Health & Safety Training – All staff members who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. New staff are in the process of completing these training courses. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Remember, the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training must be taken at www.preventchildabusenc.org, within the first 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. The NC Pre-Kindergarten Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. The tool has been completed by the contract administrator. The program follows the New Hanover County school calendar, the length of the day meets requirements, and all staff meet education requirements. The Creative Curriculum for Preschool, 6th Edition, has been implemented and the assessment tool, GOLD, and Teaching Strategies are all in place. Three formal assessments with parent conferences are scheduled through the school year. Portfolios are maintained on Teacher Strategies, GOLD by taking pictures of the children’s work and uploading them to the program. The facility uses the developmental screening tool, Brigance Early Childhood Screen III (3-5 Years). NC Pre-K requirements were met today. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 803 There were no clean clothes available for the children to wear when children's clothes became wet or soiled. A child, 3 years of age, had a toileting accident during the visit and a change of clothes were not available to him. 10A NCAC 09 .0806(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the playground used by the older preschool and school age classrooms there is a piece of rebar sticking out of the ground near the road. Exposed nails are on the containment boarder outside of space 9 and 10. On the playground with the swing sets there are exposed nails on the privacy fence and the privacy fence is loose and leaning. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members first aid certification has expired. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members CPR certification has expired. .1102(d) 1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. Registration has expired for the yellow bus and the green bus. .1002(b) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. Red bull was observed in space 1b and a Chick-Fil-A cup was observed in space 10. .0901(i) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 24, 2026, 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 considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance: Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901(j) GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS states that staff shall role model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming only food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in this Rule in the presence of children in care. Fast Food or coffee drinks that staff might consume do not follow these requirements and should not be consumed in the classroom or in the presence of children. As protruding rebar, and nails were observed on the playgrounds, I suggest that you check them on a regular basis to determine if they need to be pushed back down in the ground and/or fence. Protrusions are considered safety hazards as children may trip over them or fall on them. In North Carolina, vehicle registration is a foundational legal requirement that ensures every vehicle used to transport children in child care is legitimately recognized by the state and meets essential safety and liability standards. Today I suggested putting reminders on your outlook calendar and smart phones to ensure vehicle registration is completed annually. CPR and First Aid training for child care must be taught in-person by an approved training organization, and only certain courses meet requirements. For a list of approved organizations and courses, visit the website below: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training Other Information: Today we discussed the requirements for lead teachers. 10A NCAC 09 .0710 PRESERVICE REQUIREMENTS FOR LEAD TEACHERS AND TEACHERS (a) If an individual already has a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential or its equivalent, none of the requirements of this Rule shall apply. If an individual does not have a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential or its equivalent, the requirements of this Rule shall be met. (b) A lead teacher or a teacher shall be 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or its equivalent, and have one of the following: (1) One year of child care experience working in a child care center or two years of verifiable experience as a licensed family child care home operator; or (2) Completion of a two year high school program of Early Childhood Education in Family and Consumer Sciences Education; or (3) Twenty hours of training in child development, which shall include the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential coursework, within the first six months of employment in addition to the number of on-going training hours required in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. The facility has completed the training and has entered staff. 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. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on October 17, 2023. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint- no hazards identified • Asbestos- no hazards identified Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, as it may be requested to verify compliance. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/faq/ for further guidance and ensure all steps have been completed. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ July 2025 Rule Changes: Summary, Training Available The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is excited to share information about the July 2025 child care rule changes. The Child Care Commission adopted rules to support QRIS modernization. The new section, .3200, provides the standards for earning a two-though five-star-rated license. There are three pathways: program assessment, classroom and instructional quality, and accreditation and head start. To support the QRIS changes, additional rules were amended within the following sections: definitions, developmental day services, and NC Pre-Kindergarten services. Consultants will assist as you begin to review the changes, but please note some of the rule changes may not impact your facility. DCDEE has provided a summary of the changes, but for specific details regarding these changes, please ensure you are using the updated July 1, 2025 rule book, and view information in the DCDEE Moodle(Enroll if you haven’t yet).You will need to have an NCID - the same NCID that you use for the health & safety training, WORKS login, and/or the CBC Portal - to participate in Moodle training. If you do not have an NCID, use this link to get one: https://ncid.nc.gov/ncidsspr/. Rule training modules can be found in the same course as the previous Child Care Rule Rollout. If you are unfamiliar with the Child Care Rule Rollout within Moodle and how to navigate, please visit: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Learning-Resources/How-to-Navigate-Moodle. For assistance with Moodle, contact DCDEE_MOODLE_SUPPORT@dhhs.nc.gov. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are be posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility has decided to choose Pathway 1 – Program Assessment Pathway. The program stated they plan to apply for rated license by September 2026. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. Reminder You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). 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. 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/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns or Licensing Supervisor, Kim Sherry 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 .0710 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #158 Facility ID: 65001094 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/10/2026 Number Present: 55 Completed Date: 2/10/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. You, Stephanie Bartlett, Director, assisted with the visit. The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued September 2, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced ratios and enhanced space, and 1 quality point. The program was 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. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on February 24, 2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on December 3, 2025, and the program received a supervisor classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on May 13, 2025, and the program was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-two (92) percent as of February 9, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and Child Development Schools of North Carolina, LLC was listed as current- active. Makaya Shadle, Education Coordinator, visited each licensed space with me. Infants in space 1b ate breakfast that consisted of waffles, fruit, and milk or had bottles fed to them. Infant feeding schedules were observed, and safe sleep charts were being maintained. Toddlers in space 3 participated in free play with musical instruments and props. Preschoolers in space 2 participated in free play with fine motor, math, and music materials. Preschool children in space 5 sat at the tables with table toys as the teacher completed diapering routines. Older preschoolers in space 5 were dismissed from group circle to time assigned centers. NC Pre-Kindergarten children in spaces 7 and 10 finished up group circle time. Routine toileting and handwashing procedures were monitored, and requirements were met. Staff/child ratios were in compliance. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers and children interacted with children. Lunch for today consisted of ravioli, corn muffins, peas, applesauce and milk. Staff and Training Worksheets- The staff and training worksheets were requested on December 15, 2025. Upon arrival it was discovered that the program had not updated their staff and training worksheet since the last annual compliance visit on February 24, 2025. There are eighteen staff members employed at this facility. There are three new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. You must complete your staff and training worksheet and email it to me no later than Friday, February 13, 2026. Be sure all documents are signed by you stating that all information is true and accurate. Health & Safety Training – All staff members who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. New staff are in the process of completing these training courses. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Remember, the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training must be taken at www.preventchildabusenc.org, within the first 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. The NC Pre-Kindergarten Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. The tool has been completed by the contract administrator. The program follows the New Hanover County school calendar, the length of the day meets requirements, and all staff meet education requirements. The Creative Curriculum for Preschool, 6th Edition, has been implemented and the assessment tool, GOLD, and Teaching Strategies are all in place. Three formal assessments with parent conferences are scheduled through the school year. Portfolios are maintained on Teacher Strategies, GOLD by taking pictures of the children’s work and uploading them to the program. The facility uses the developmental screening tool, Brigance Early Childhood Screen III (3-5 Years). NC Pre-K requirements were met today. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 803 There were no clean clothes available for the children to wear when children's clothes became wet or soiled. A child, 3 years of age, had a toileting accident during the visit and a change of clothes were not available to him. 10A NCAC 09 .0806(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the playground used by the older preschool and school age classrooms there is a piece of rebar sticking out of the ground near the road. Exposed nails are on the containment boarder outside of space 9 and 10. On the playground with the swing sets there are exposed nails on the privacy fence and the privacy fence is loose and leaning. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members first aid certification has expired. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members CPR certification has expired. .1102(d) 1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. Registration has expired for the yellow bus and the green bus. .1002(b) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. Red bull was observed in space 1b and a Chick-Fil-A cup was observed in space 10. .0901(i) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 24, 2026, 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 considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance: Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901(j) GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS states that staff shall role model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming only food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in this Rule in the presence of children in care. Fast Food or coffee drinks that staff might consume do not follow these requirements and should not be consumed in the classroom or in the presence of children. As protruding rebar, and nails were observed on the playgrounds, I suggest that you check them on a regular basis to determine if they need to be pushed back down in the ground and/or fence. Protrusions are considered safety hazards as children may trip over them or fall on them. In North Carolina, vehicle registration is a foundational legal requirement that ensures every vehicle used to transport children in child care is legitimately recognized by the state and meets essential safety and liability standards. Today I suggested putting reminders on your outlook calendar and smart phones to ensure vehicle registration is completed annually. CPR and First Aid training for child care must be taught in-person by an approved training organization, and only certain courses meet requirements. For a list of approved organizations and courses, visit the website below: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training Other Information: Today we discussed the requirements for lead teachers. 10A NCAC 09 .0710 PRESERVICE REQUIREMENTS FOR LEAD TEACHERS AND TEACHERS (a) If an individual already has a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential or its equivalent, none of the requirements of this Rule shall apply. If an individual does not have a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential or its equivalent, the requirements of this Rule shall be met. (b) A lead teacher or a teacher shall be 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or its equivalent, and have one of the following: (1) One year of child care experience working in a child care center or two years of verifiable experience as a licensed family child care home operator; or (2) Completion of a two year high school program of Early Childhood Education in Family and Consumer Sciences Education; or (3) Twenty hours of training in child development, which shall include the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential coursework, within the first six months of employment in addition to the number of on-going training hours required in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. The facility has completed the training and has entered staff. 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. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on October 17, 2023. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint- no hazards identified • Asbestos- no hazards identified Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, as it may be requested to verify compliance. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/faq/ for further guidance and ensure all steps have been completed. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ July 2025 Rule Changes: Summary, Training Available The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is excited to share information about the July 2025 child care rule changes. The Child Care Commission adopted rules to support QRIS modernization. The new section, .3200, provides the standards for earning a two-though five-star-rated license. There are three pathways: program assessment, classroom and instructional quality, and accreditation and head start. To support the QRIS changes, additional rules were amended within the following sections: definitions, developmental day services, and NC Pre-Kindergarten services. Consultants will assist as you begin to review the changes, but please note some of the rule changes may not impact your facility. DCDEE has provided a summary of the changes, but for specific details regarding these changes, please ensure you are using the updated July 1, 2025 rule book, and view information in the DCDEE Moodle(Enroll if you haven’t yet).You will need to have an NCID - the same NCID that you use for the health & safety training, WORKS login, and/or the CBC Portal - to participate in Moodle training. If you do not have an NCID, use this link to get one: https://ncid.nc.gov/ncidsspr/. Rule training modules can be found in the same course as the previous Child Care Rule Rollout. If you are unfamiliar with the Child Care Rule Rollout within Moodle and how to navigate, please visit: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Learning-Resources/How-to-Navigate-Moodle. For assistance with Moodle, contact DCDEE_MOODLE_SUPPORT@dhhs.nc.gov. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are be posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility has decided to choose Pathway 1 – Program Assessment Pathway. The program stated they plan to apply for rated license by September 2026. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. Reminder You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). 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. 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/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns or Licensing Supervisor, Kim Sherry 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 .0901 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #158 Facility ID: 65001094 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/10/2026 Number Present: 55 Completed Date: 2/10/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. You, Stephanie Bartlett, Director, assisted with the visit. The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued September 2, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced ratios and enhanced space, and 1 quality point. The program was 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. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on February 24, 2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on December 3, 2025, and the program received a supervisor classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on May 13, 2025, and the program was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-two (92) percent as of February 9, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and Child Development Schools of North Carolina, LLC was listed as current- active. Makaya Shadle, Education Coordinator, visited each licensed space with me. Infants in space 1b ate breakfast that consisted of waffles, fruit, and milk or had bottles fed to them. Infant feeding schedules were observed, and safe sleep charts were being maintained. Toddlers in space 3 participated in free play with musical instruments and props. Preschoolers in space 2 participated in free play with fine motor, math, and music materials. Preschool children in space 5 sat at the tables with table toys as the teacher completed diapering routines. Older preschoolers in space 5 were dismissed from group circle to time assigned centers. NC Pre-Kindergarten children in spaces 7 and 10 finished up group circle time. Routine toileting and handwashing procedures were monitored, and requirements were met. Staff/child ratios were in compliance. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers and children interacted with children. Lunch for today consisted of ravioli, corn muffins, peas, applesauce and milk. Staff and Training Worksheets- The staff and training worksheets were requested on December 15, 2025. Upon arrival it was discovered that the program had not updated their staff and training worksheet since the last annual compliance visit on February 24, 2025. There are eighteen staff members employed at this facility. There are three new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. You must complete your staff and training worksheet and email it to me no later than Friday, February 13, 2026. Be sure all documents are signed by you stating that all information is true and accurate. Health & Safety Training – All staff members who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. New staff are in the process of completing these training courses. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Remember, the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training must be taken at www.preventchildabusenc.org, within the first 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. The NC Pre-Kindergarten Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. The tool has been completed by the contract administrator. The program follows the New Hanover County school calendar, the length of the day meets requirements, and all staff meet education requirements. The Creative Curriculum for Preschool, 6th Edition, has been implemented and the assessment tool, GOLD, and Teaching Strategies are all in place. Three formal assessments with parent conferences are scheduled through the school year. Portfolios are maintained on Teacher Strategies, GOLD by taking pictures of the children’s work and uploading them to the program. The facility uses the developmental screening tool, Brigance Early Childhood Screen III (3-5 Years). NC Pre-K requirements were met today. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 803 There were no clean clothes available for the children to wear when children's clothes became wet or soiled. A child, 3 years of age, had a toileting accident during the visit and a change of clothes were not available to him. 10A NCAC 09 .0806(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the playground used by the older preschool and school age classrooms there is a piece of rebar sticking out of the ground near the road. Exposed nails are on the containment boarder outside of space 9 and 10. On the playground with the swing sets there are exposed nails on the privacy fence and the privacy fence is loose and leaning. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members first aid certification has expired. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members CPR certification has expired. .1102(d) 1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. Registration has expired for the yellow bus and the green bus. .1002(b) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. Red bull was observed in space 1b and a Chick-Fil-A cup was observed in space 10. .0901(i) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 24, 2026, 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 considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance: Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901(j) GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS states that staff shall role model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming only food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in this Rule in the presence of children in care. Fast Food or coffee drinks that staff might consume do not follow these requirements and should not be consumed in the classroom or in the presence of children. As protruding rebar, and nails were observed on the playgrounds, I suggest that you check them on a regular basis to determine if they need to be pushed back down in the ground and/or fence. Protrusions are considered safety hazards as children may trip over them or fall on them. In North Carolina, vehicle registration is a foundational legal requirement that ensures every vehicle used to transport children in child care is legitimately recognized by the state and meets essential safety and liability standards. Today I suggested putting reminders on your outlook calendar and smart phones to ensure vehicle registration is completed annually. CPR and First Aid training for child care must be taught in-person by an approved training organization, and only certain courses meet requirements. For a list of approved organizations and courses, visit the website below: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training Other Information: Today we discussed the requirements for lead teachers. 10A NCAC 09 .0710 PRESERVICE REQUIREMENTS FOR LEAD TEACHERS AND TEACHERS (a) If an individual already has a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential or its equivalent, none of the requirements of this Rule shall apply. If an individual does not have a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential or its equivalent, the requirements of this Rule shall be met. (b) A lead teacher or a teacher shall be 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or its equivalent, and have one of the following: (1) One year of child care experience working in a child care center or two years of verifiable experience as a licensed family child care home operator; or (2) Completion of a two year high school program of Early Childhood Education in Family and Consumer Sciences Education; or (3) Twenty hours of training in child development, which shall include the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential coursework, within the first six months of employment in addition to the number of on-going training hours required in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. The facility has completed the training and has entered staff. 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. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on October 17, 2023. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint- no hazards identified • Asbestos- no hazards identified Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, as it may be requested to verify compliance. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/faq/ for further guidance and ensure all steps have been completed. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ July 2025 Rule Changes: Summary, Training Available The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is excited to share information about the July 2025 child care rule changes. The Child Care Commission adopted rules to support QRIS modernization. The new section, .3200, provides the standards for earning a two-though five-star-rated license. There are three pathways: program assessment, classroom and instructional quality, and accreditation and head start. To support the QRIS changes, additional rules were amended within the following sections: definitions, developmental day services, and NC Pre-Kindergarten services. Consultants will assist as you begin to review the changes, but please note some of the rule changes may not impact your facility. DCDEE has provided a summary of the changes, but for specific details regarding these changes, please ensure you are using the updated July 1, 2025 rule book, and view information in the DCDEE Moodle(Enroll if you haven’t yet).You will need to have an NCID - the same NCID that you use for the health & safety training, WORKS login, and/or the CBC Portal - to participate in Moodle training. If you do not have an NCID, use this link to get one: https://ncid.nc.gov/ncidsspr/. Rule training modules can be found in the same course as the previous Child Care Rule Rollout. If you are unfamiliar with the Child Care Rule Rollout within Moodle and how to navigate, please visit: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Learning-Resources/How-to-Navigate-Moodle. For assistance with Moodle, contact DCDEE_MOODLE_SUPPORT@dhhs.nc.gov. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are be posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility has decided to choose Pathway 1 – Program Assessment Pathway. The program stated they plan to apply for rated license by September 2026. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. Reminder You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). 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. 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/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns or Licensing Supervisor, Kim Sherry 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 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #158 Facility ID: 65001094 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/10/2026 Number Present: 55 Completed Date: 2/10/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. You, Stephanie Bartlett, Director, assisted with the visit. The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued September 2, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced ratios and enhanced space, and 1 quality point. The program was 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. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on February 24, 2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on December 3, 2025, and the program received a supervisor classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on May 13, 2025, and the program was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-two (92) percent as of February 9, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and Child Development Schools of North Carolina, LLC was listed as current- active. Makaya Shadle, Education Coordinator, visited each licensed space with me. Infants in space 1b ate breakfast that consisted of waffles, fruit, and milk or had bottles fed to them. Infant feeding schedules were observed, and safe sleep charts were being maintained. Toddlers in space 3 participated in free play with musical instruments and props. Preschoolers in space 2 participated in free play with fine motor, math, and music materials. Preschool children in space 5 sat at the tables with table toys as the teacher completed diapering routines. Older preschoolers in space 5 were dismissed from group circle to time assigned centers. NC Pre-Kindergarten children in spaces 7 and 10 finished up group circle time. Routine toileting and handwashing procedures were monitored, and requirements were met. Staff/child ratios were in compliance. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers and children interacted with children. Lunch for today consisted of ravioli, corn muffins, peas, applesauce and milk. Staff and Training Worksheets- The staff and training worksheets were requested on December 15, 2025. Upon arrival it was discovered that the program had not updated their staff and training worksheet since the last annual compliance visit on February 24, 2025. There are eighteen staff members employed at this facility. There are three new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. You must complete your staff and training worksheet and email it to me no later than Friday, February 13, 2026. Be sure all documents are signed by you stating that all information is true and accurate. Health & Safety Training – All staff members who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. New staff are in the process of completing these training courses. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Remember, the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training must be taken at www.preventchildabusenc.org, within the first 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. The NC Pre-Kindergarten Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. The tool has been completed by the contract administrator. The program follows the New Hanover County school calendar, the length of the day meets requirements, and all staff meet education requirements. The Creative Curriculum for Preschool, 6th Edition, has been implemented and the assessment tool, GOLD, and Teaching Strategies are all in place. Three formal assessments with parent conferences are scheduled through the school year. Portfolios are maintained on Teacher Strategies, GOLD by taking pictures of the children’s work and uploading them to the program. The facility uses the developmental screening tool, Brigance Early Childhood Screen III (3-5 Years). NC Pre-K requirements were met today. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 803 There were no clean clothes available for the children to wear when children's clothes became wet or soiled. A child, 3 years of age, had a toileting accident during the visit and a change of clothes were not available to him. 10A NCAC 09 .0806(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the playground used by the older preschool and school age classrooms there is a piece of rebar sticking out of the ground near the road. Exposed nails are on the containment boarder outside of space 9 and 10. On the playground with the swing sets there are exposed nails on the privacy fence and the privacy fence is loose and leaning. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members first aid certification has expired. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members CPR certification has expired. .1102(d) 1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. Registration has expired for the yellow bus and the green bus. .1002(b) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. Red bull was observed in space 1b and a Chick-Fil-A cup was observed in space 10. .0901(i) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 24, 2026, 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 considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance: Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901(j) GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS states that staff shall role model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming only food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in this Rule in the presence of children in care. Fast Food or coffee drinks that staff might consume do not follow these requirements and should not be consumed in the classroom or in the presence of children. As protruding rebar, and nails were observed on the playgrounds, I suggest that you check them on a regular basis to determine if they need to be pushed back down in the ground and/or fence. Protrusions are considered safety hazards as children may trip over them or fall on them. In North Carolina, vehicle registration is a foundational legal requirement that ensures every vehicle used to transport children in child care is legitimately recognized by the state and meets essential safety and liability standards. Today I suggested putting reminders on your outlook calendar and smart phones to ensure vehicle registration is completed annually. CPR and First Aid training for child care must be taught in-person by an approved training organization, and only certain courses meet requirements. For a list of approved organizations and courses, visit the website below: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training Other Information: Today we discussed the requirements for lead teachers. 10A NCAC 09 .0710 PRESERVICE REQUIREMENTS FOR LEAD TEACHERS AND TEACHERS (a) If an individual already has a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential or its equivalent, none of the requirements of this Rule shall apply. If an individual does not have a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential or its equivalent, the requirements of this Rule shall be met. (b) A lead teacher or a teacher shall be 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or its equivalent, and have one of the following: (1) One year of child care experience working in a child care center or two years of verifiable experience as a licensed family child care home operator; or (2) Completion of a two year high school program of Early Childhood Education in Family and Consumer Sciences Education; or (3) Twenty hours of training in child development, which shall include the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential coursework, within the first six months of employment in addition to the number of on-going training hours required in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. The facility has completed the training and has entered staff. 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. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on October 17, 2023. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint- no hazards identified • Asbestos- no hazards identified Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, as it may be requested to verify compliance. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/faq/ for further guidance and ensure all steps have been completed. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ July 2025 Rule Changes: Summary, Training Available The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is excited to share information about the July 2025 child care rule changes. The Child Care Commission adopted rules to support QRIS modernization. The new section, .3200, provides the standards for earning a two-though five-star-rated license. There are three pathways: program assessment, classroom and instructional quality, and accreditation and head start. To support the QRIS changes, additional rules were amended within the following sections: definitions, developmental day services, and NC Pre-Kindergarten services. Consultants will assist as you begin to review the changes, but please note some of the rule changes may not impact your facility. DCDEE has provided a summary of the changes, but for specific details regarding these changes, please ensure you are using the updated July 1, 2025 rule book, and view information in the DCDEE Moodle(Enroll if you haven’t yet).You will need to have an NCID - the same NCID that you use for the health & safety training, WORKS login, and/or the CBC Portal - to participate in Moodle training. If you do not have an NCID, use this link to get one: https://ncid.nc.gov/ncidsspr/. Rule training modules can be found in the same course as the previous Child Care Rule Rollout. If you are unfamiliar with the Child Care Rule Rollout within Moodle and how to navigate, please visit: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Learning-Resources/How-to-Navigate-Moodle. For assistance with Moodle, contact DCDEE_MOODLE_SUPPORT@dhhs.nc.gov. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are be posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility has decided to choose Pathway 1 – Program Assessment Pathway. The program stated they plan to apply for rated license by September 2026. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. Reminder You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). 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. 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/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns or Licensing Supervisor, Kim Sherry 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: Childcare Network #158 Facility ID: 65001094 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/10/2026 Number Present: 55 Completed Date: 2/10/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. You, Stephanie Bartlett, Director, assisted with the visit. The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued September 2, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced ratios and enhanced space, and 1 quality point. The program was 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. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on February 24, 2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on December 3, 2025, and the program received a supervisor classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on May 13, 2025, and the program was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-two (92) percent as of February 9, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and Child Development Schools of North Carolina, LLC was listed as current- active. Makaya Shadle, Education Coordinator, visited each licensed space with me. Infants in space 1b ate breakfast that consisted of waffles, fruit, and milk or had bottles fed to them. Infant feeding schedules were observed, and safe sleep charts were being maintained. Toddlers in space 3 participated in free play with musical instruments and props. Preschoolers in space 2 participated in free play with fine motor, math, and music materials. Preschool children in space 5 sat at the tables with table toys as the teacher completed diapering routines. Older preschoolers in space 5 were dismissed from group circle to time assigned centers. NC Pre-Kindergarten children in spaces 7 and 10 finished up group circle time. Routine toileting and handwashing procedures were monitored, and requirements were met. Staff/child ratios were in compliance. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers and children interacted with children. Lunch for today consisted of ravioli, corn muffins, peas, applesauce and milk. Staff and Training Worksheets- The staff and training worksheets were requested on December 15, 2025. Upon arrival it was discovered that the program had not updated their staff and training worksheet since the last annual compliance visit on February 24, 2025. There are eighteen staff members employed at this facility. There are three new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. You must complete your staff and training worksheet and email it to me no later than Friday, February 13, 2026. Be sure all documents are signed by you stating that all information is true and accurate. Health & Safety Training – All staff members who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. New staff are in the process of completing these training courses. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Remember, the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training must be taken at www.preventchildabusenc.org, within the first 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. The NC Pre-Kindergarten Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. The tool has been completed by the contract administrator. The program follows the New Hanover County school calendar, the length of the day meets requirements, and all staff meet education requirements. The Creative Curriculum for Preschool, 6th Edition, has been implemented and the assessment tool, GOLD, and Teaching Strategies are all in place. Three formal assessments with parent conferences are scheduled through the school year. Portfolios are maintained on Teacher Strategies, GOLD by taking pictures of the children’s work and uploading them to the program. The facility uses the developmental screening tool, Brigance Early Childhood Screen III (3-5 Years). NC Pre-K requirements were met today. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 803 There were no clean clothes available for the children to wear when children's clothes became wet or soiled. A child, 3 years of age, had a toileting accident during the visit and a change of clothes were not available to him. 10A NCAC 09 .0806(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the playground used by the older preschool and school age classrooms there is a piece of rebar sticking out of the ground near the road. Exposed nails are on the containment boarder outside of space 9 and 10. On the playground with the swing sets there are exposed nails on the privacy fence and the privacy fence is loose and leaning. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members first aid certification has expired. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members CPR certification has expired. .1102(d) 1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. Registration has expired for the yellow bus and the green bus. .1002(b) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. Red bull was observed in space 1b and a Chick-Fil-A cup was observed in space 10. .0901(i) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 24, 2026, 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 considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance: Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901(j) GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS states that staff shall role model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming only food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in this Rule in the presence of children in care. Fast Food or coffee drinks that staff might consume do not follow these requirements and should not be consumed in the classroom or in the presence of children. As protruding rebar, and nails were observed on the playgrounds, I suggest that you check them on a regular basis to determine if they need to be pushed back down in the ground and/or fence. Protrusions are considered safety hazards as children may trip over them or fall on them. In North Carolina, vehicle registration is a foundational legal requirement that ensures every vehicle used to transport children in child care is legitimately recognized by the state and meets essential safety and liability standards. Today I suggested putting reminders on your outlook calendar and smart phones to ensure vehicle registration is completed annually. CPR and First Aid training for child care must be taught in-person by an approved training organization, and only certain courses meet requirements. For a list of approved organizations and courses, visit the website below: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training Other Information: Today we discussed the requirements for lead teachers. 10A NCAC 09 .0710 PRESERVICE REQUIREMENTS FOR LEAD TEACHERS AND TEACHERS (a) If an individual already has a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential or its equivalent, none of the requirements of this Rule shall apply. If an individual does not have a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential or its equivalent, the requirements of this Rule shall be met. (b) A lead teacher or a teacher shall be 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or its equivalent, and have one of the following: (1) One year of child care experience working in a child care center or two years of verifiable experience as a licensed family child care home operator; or (2) Completion of a two year high school program of Early Childhood Education in Family and Consumer Sciences Education; or (3) Twenty hours of training in child development, which shall include the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential coursework, within the first six months of employment in addition to the number of on-going training hours required in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. The facility has completed the training and has entered staff. 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. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on October 17, 2023. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint- no hazards identified • Asbestos- no hazards identified Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, as it may be requested to verify compliance. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/faq/ for further guidance and ensure all steps have been completed. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ July 2025 Rule Changes: Summary, Training Available The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is excited to share information about the July 2025 child care rule changes. The Child Care Commission adopted rules to support QRIS modernization. The new section, .3200, provides the standards for earning a two-though five-star-rated license. There are three pathways: program assessment, classroom and instructional quality, and accreditation and head start. To support the QRIS changes, additional rules were amended within the following sections: definitions, developmental day services, and NC Pre-Kindergarten services. Consultants will assist as you begin to review the changes, but please note some of the rule changes may not impact your facility. DCDEE has provided a summary of the changes, but for specific details regarding these changes, please ensure you are using the updated July 1, 2025 rule book, and view information in the DCDEE Moodle(Enroll if you haven’t yet).You will need to have an NCID - the same NCID that you use for the health & safety training, WORKS login, and/or the CBC Portal - to participate in Moodle training. If you do not have an NCID, use this link to get one: https://ncid.nc.gov/ncidsspr/. Rule training modules can be found in the same course as the previous Child Care Rule Rollout. If you are unfamiliar with the Child Care Rule Rollout within Moodle and how to navigate, please visit: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Learning-Resources/How-to-Navigate-Moodle. For assistance with Moodle, contact DCDEE_MOODLE_SUPPORT@dhhs.nc.gov. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are be posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility has decided to choose Pathway 1 – Program Assessment Pathway. The program stated they plan to apply for rated license by September 2026. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. Reminder You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). 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. 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/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns or Licensing Supervisor, Kim Sherry 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: Childcare Network #158 Facility ID: 65001094 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-040L Visit Date: 3/5/2025 Number Present: 47 Completed Date: 3/5/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 185 Time In: 08:20 AM Time Out: 11:25 AM 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 an alleged violation of child care requirements. The allegation is as follows: There is a concern that a child received a minor injury while in care. There is a concern that an incident report was not prepared as required. There is a concern that children are not adequately supervised. Sandra Reynolds, Director, assisted me with the visit. The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued September 2, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced ratios and enhanced space, and 1 quality point. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 94%. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. Fire drills, medication administration, and storage of hazardous products were also monitored. Files for new staff were reviewed and contained all the required information. Additionally, I observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. Children were observed arriving at the program, participating in free play with age-appropriate materials and activities indoors, or eating breakfast that consisted of cheese eggs, mandarin oranges, and milk. Adequate hand washing was observed. Staff/child interactions were appropriate and nurturing. Staff child ratios were monitored and found as follows: Space 2 – infants/one year olds – 2:7 Space 3 – two & three year olds – 1:7 Space 4 –one year olds – 1:3 Space 6 – two year olds – 1:9 Space 7 – three & four year olds – 1:7 Space 8 – four & five year olds (NCPK) – 2:11 Space 11 – four & five year olds (NCPK) – 1:3 While conducting the walkthrough, I observed a child enrolled in NCPre K, space 11, going to the bathroom in the hallway, unsupervised. The lead teacher in space 11 was in the classroom supervising two other children when the child went to the bathroom located next door to the classroom. Allegation 1: There is a concern that a child received a minor injury while in care. ***Five (5) staff and one (1) administrator were interviewed today regarding a child two years of age having a swollen lip when her mother came to pick her up around 5:00 pm on Monday, March 3, 2025. The staff member that welcomed the child that morning stated the child arrived around 6:45 am and she conducted a well check on the child before the mother left. There were no visible marks or bumps on the child. The child went to her primary classroom at approximately 7:30 am. The teacher assistant stated she did not see any marks or bumps on the child at that time. The lead teacher arrived around 8:00 am. She stated she did not see any marks or bumps on the child when she arrived. These three teachers stated that the child was abnormally fussy on Monday; however, they did not see her get injured throughout the day. After nap time, around 2:30 pm, the cook noticed that the child was chewing, licking her lips and the inside of her mouth. She asked the teacher assistant what was wrong with the child’s mouth. The teacher assistant checked the child’s mouth; however, stated she did not see any visible marks or bumps. She asked the child what was wrong with her mouth and the child stated her tooth hurt. The leader teacher left the group at 3:00 pm and the teacher assistant left at 4:30. The afternoon floater stated she did not see any marks or bumps on the child while on the playground in the afternoon. She stated that the mother came to pick up the child around 5:00 pm. The parent and the child exited the classroom and then returned within a few minutes. The parent asked the floater for an incident report for her child’s swollen lip; however, the floater stated she was not aware of one or aware of the child being injured. The director stated that the parent approached her asking about an incident report and at that time she noticed the swollen lip. None of the staff interviewed knew how the child obtained a swollen lip. Based on observations, staff report, and my investigation this allegation is substantiated and a violation for supervision was documented. Allegation 2: There is a concern that an incident report was not prepared as required. ***A child, two years of age, obtained a swollen lip while in care on March 3, 2025, and an incident report was not completed. Based on information received from interviewed staff and my investigation, this allegation was substantiated. Allegation 3: There is a concern that children are not adequately supervised. ***On Monday, March 3, 2025, a child two years of age obtained a swollen lip while in care and none of the staff knew how it occurred. Based on information staff reported, observations, and my investigation this allegation was substantiated. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. On March 3, 2025, a child two years of age, obtained a swollen lip while in care. All staff who came in contact with the child on Monday, March 3rd were interviewed and no one knew how the child obtained the swollen lip. On Wednesday, March 5, 2025, a child 4 years of age was observed to the hallway bathroom unsupervised. She went to the bathroom, used the bathroom, washed her hands, and returned to her classroom without being supervised. .1801(a)(1-5) 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. A child, two years of age, obtained a swollen lip while in care and an incident report was not completed. .0802 (e) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 19, 2025 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 considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Adequate supervision requires staff members never leave children unattended, not even for a minute, unless in the case of a true emergency. Staff members must be positioned to see and hear children, provide immediate assistance and provide for their needs, especially younger children who depend solely on caregivers. While writing the incident report, keep in mind that you are telling a story. You are providing a description of the details about an event involving an injury to a child. Some situations will be simple and straightforward, others will require greater detail. An example of a relatively simple and straightforward incident report may involve a minor scratch or scrape occurring on the playground due to a fall or scraping a knee on the concrete. An example of a situation requiring more detail could be a burn, a cut requiring stitches, a snake bite, a dislocation, or a fracture. Here are a few tips to use, or things to consider when describing the incident. Attend to the child’s medical needs before attempting to write an incident report. Write the report after the incident is over and the medical needs of the child have been addressed. During the event, if needed, take notes for certain details. You may not immediately write the report if you are dealing with the incident, and you want to be able to document specific details. If you are actively attending to the child, either ask another staff member to make the notes, or make the notes when you are no longer actively attending to the child. Think of the following details: Attend to the child’s medical needs before attempting to write an incident report. Write the report after the incident is over and the medical needs of the child have been addressed. During the event, if needed, take notes for certain details. You may not immediately write the report if you are dealing with the incident and you want to be able to document specific details. If you are actively attending to the child, either ask another staff member to make the notes, or make the notes when you are no longer actively attending to the child. Think of the following details: Names of those involved (i.e. staff members, children, or others involved or witnessing) Time of events (i.e time or estimated time of the incident, times people were called or notified, etc. Other details that you believe are important in moment (descriptions of items, license plate numbers, phone numbers, etc.) After the event, take a moment to compose your thoughts. If the event was serious, such as an injury requiring EMS, etc., you may need to stop, take a breath, and think about what you intend to write before putting pen to paper. Due to the nature and severity of the violation, a follow-up visit will be conducted, and an administrative action may be warranted. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov or Lynette Robbins, Licensing Supervisor, 910-824-0235, lynette.robbins@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0509 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #158 Facility ID: 65001094 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Sandra Reynolds, Director, assisted me with the visit. The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued September 2, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced ratios and enhanced space, and 1 quality point. The program was 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 is the first annual compliance visit after the change of ownership that occurred March 1, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed June 20, 2024, with an “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted May 14, 2024, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 95% as of February 23, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and Child Development Schools North Carolina, LLC was listed as current- active. All licensed indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored for compliance. Children enrolled in spaces 1b, 2, 3, and 5-10 were observed in free play indoors and outdoors. Current activity plans were posted and aligned with NC Early Childhood Foundations. Evidence of activities listed on activity plans were observed in each space. Proper handwashing was observed upon arrival and after toileting/diapering routines. Informal conversations were observed between staff and children. NC Pre K children were not present today because staff are holding parent/teacher conferences. Lunch scheduled for today was ham, cheese, tortilla, potatoes, pineapple, and milk. The NC Pre-Kindergarten Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. The tool has been completed by the contract administrator. The program follows the New Hanover County school calendar, the length of the day meets requirements, and all staff meet education requirements. The Creative Curriculum for Preschool, 6th Edition, has been implemented and the assessment tool, GOLD, Teaching Strategies are all in place. Three formal assessments with parent conferences are scheduled through the school year. Portfolios are maintained on Teacher Strategies, GOLD by taking pictures of the children’s work and uploading them to the program. The facility uses the developmental screening tool, Brigance Early Childhood Screen III (3-5 Years). NC Pre-K requirements were met today. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 434 The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. Although there was a dome climber on the school-age/older preschool playground there were not sufficient portable materials to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development. 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired 9/10/24 has not completed certification in First Aid. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired 9/10/24 has not completed certification in CPR. .1102(d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 10, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: We discussed gross motor portable equipment for older preschoolers and school agers such as corn hole, basketball, soccer goals, ladder ball, bocce ball, or balance beams. For the health and safety of the children, all staff members are required to obtain CPR and First Aid certification and keep it current. Renewing this certification is crucial for staff to be refreshed in first aid and other lifesaving techniques as well as receive the most up to date information. I suggest you set a reminder on your calendar to keep track of expiration dates and/or seek out training from additional approved agencies when staff are not able to attend courses offered locally or at the facility. Reminders: If blankets are stored on cots, they must lay flat and not touch the cot above. When soft materials such as blankets touch other surfaces, it causes the likely hood of germs spreading. Although there was not an issue with supervision today, some staff could use a refresher on how to actively supervise children. Supervising children is a critical component of ensuring the safety and well-being of all children. Staff must be actively engaged at all times for this to occur. I encourage you to review Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1801 regarding supervision with all your staff. Active and positive supervision involves knowing each child’s abilities and developmental milestones, establishing clear and simple safety rules, being aware of potential hazards, standing in strategic positions, and scanning play areas and circulating around the space. Focus on the positive rather than the negative whenever possible as staff guide children in appropriate behavior. K. Beck needs 2 on-going training hours before March 1, 2025. Rated License: The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment according to the timelines discussed previously; however, you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your staff on the new assessment tools if you are interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. I will share more information as I am able. North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP): As of February 1, 2025, the new and improved Environment Rating Scales – Third Additions will be implemented. Today we discussed the purchase of the new tools, training opportunities, and the NCRLAP website. Please visit www.ncrlap.org for more information and start training your staff now on this new tool! Outreach assessments on the new tools are available now. The visit summary was reviewed with you, signed, and a copy left with you. If you need any assistance, please reach out to me, April Lester, Child Care Consultant, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-824-0954 or Lynette Robbins, Licensing Supervisor, lynette.robbins@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-824-0235. 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 .1801 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #158 Facility ID: 65001094 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Sandra Reynolds, Director, assisted me with the visit. The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued September 2, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced ratios and enhanced space, and 1 quality point. The program was 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 is the first annual compliance visit after the change of ownership that occurred March 1, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed June 20, 2024, with an “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted May 14, 2024, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 95% as of February 23, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and Child Development Schools North Carolina, LLC was listed as current- active. All licensed indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored for compliance. Children enrolled in spaces 1b, 2, 3, and 5-10 were observed in free play indoors and outdoors. Current activity plans were posted and aligned with NC Early Childhood Foundations. Evidence of activities listed on activity plans were observed in each space. Proper handwashing was observed upon arrival and after toileting/diapering routines. Informal conversations were observed between staff and children. NC Pre K children were not present today because staff are holding parent/teacher conferences. Lunch scheduled for today was ham, cheese, tortilla, potatoes, pineapple, and milk. The NC Pre-Kindergarten Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. The tool has been completed by the contract administrator. The program follows the New Hanover County school calendar, the length of the day meets requirements, and all staff meet education requirements. The Creative Curriculum for Preschool, 6th Edition, has been implemented and the assessment tool, GOLD, Teaching Strategies are all in place. Three formal assessments with parent conferences are scheduled through the school year. Portfolios are maintained on Teacher Strategies, GOLD by taking pictures of the children’s work and uploading them to the program. The facility uses the developmental screening tool, Brigance Early Childhood Screen III (3-5 Years). NC Pre-K requirements were met today. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 434 The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. Although there was a dome climber on the school-age/older preschool playground there were not sufficient portable materials to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development. 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired 9/10/24 has not completed certification in First Aid. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired 9/10/24 has not completed certification in CPR. .1102(d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 10, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: We discussed gross motor portable equipment for older preschoolers and school agers such as corn hole, basketball, soccer goals, ladder ball, bocce ball, or balance beams. For the health and safety of the children, all staff members are required to obtain CPR and First Aid certification and keep it current. Renewing this certification is crucial for staff to be refreshed in first aid and other lifesaving techniques as well as receive the most up to date information. I suggest you set a reminder on your calendar to keep track of expiration dates and/or seek out training from additional approved agencies when staff are not able to attend courses offered locally or at the facility. Reminders: If blankets are stored on cots, they must lay flat and not touch the cot above. When soft materials such as blankets touch other surfaces, it causes the likely hood of germs spreading. Although there was not an issue with supervision today, some staff could use a refresher on how to actively supervise children. Supervising children is a critical component of ensuring the safety and well-being of all children. Staff must be actively engaged at all times for this to occur. I encourage you to review Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1801 regarding supervision with all your staff. Active and positive supervision involves knowing each child’s abilities and developmental milestones, establishing clear and simple safety rules, being aware of potential hazards, standing in strategic positions, and scanning play areas and circulating around the space. Focus on the positive rather than the negative whenever possible as staff guide children in appropriate behavior. K. Beck needs 2 on-going training hours before March 1, 2025. Rated License: The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment according to the timelines discussed previously; however, you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your staff on the new assessment tools if you are interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. I will share more information as I am able. North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP): As of February 1, 2025, the new and improved Environment Rating Scales – Third Additions will be implemented. Today we discussed the purchase of the new tools, training opportunities, and the NCRLAP website. Please visit www.ncrlap.org for more information and start training your staff now on this new tool! Outreach assessments on the new tools are available now. The visit summary was reviewed with you, signed, and a copy left with you. If you need any assistance, please reach out to me, April Lester, Child Care Consultant, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-824-0954 or Lynette Robbins, Licensing Supervisor, lynette.robbins@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-824-0235. 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: Childcare Network #158 Facility ID: 65001094 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Sandra Reynolds, Director, assisted me with the visit. The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued September 2, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced ratios and enhanced space, and 1 quality point. The program was 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 is the first annual compliance visit after the change of ownership that occurred March 1, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed June 20, 2024, with an “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted May 14, 2024, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 95% as of February 23, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and Child Development Schools North Carolina, LLC was listed as current- active. All licensed indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored for compliance. Children enrolled in spaces 1b, 2, 3, and 5-10 were observed in free play indoors and outdoors. Current activity plans were posted and aligned with NC Early Childhood Foundations. Evidence of activities listed on activity plans were observed in each space. Proper handwashing was observed upon arrival and after toileting/diapering routines. Informal conversations were observed between staff and children. NC Pre K children were not present today because staff are holding parent/teacher conferences. Lunch scheduled for today was ham, cheese, tortilla, potatoes, pineapple, and milk. The NC Pre-Kindergarten Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. The tool has been completed by the contract administrator. The program follows the New Hanover County school calendar, the length of the day meets requirements, and all staff meet education requirements. The Creative Curriculum for Preschool, 6th Edition, has been implemented and the assessment tool, GOLD, Teaching Strategies are all in place. Three formal assessments with parent conferences are scheduled through the school year. Portfolios are maintained on Teacher Strategies, GOLD by taking pictures of the children’s work and uploading them to the program. The facility uses the developmental screening tool, Brigance Early Childhood Screen III (3-5 Years). NC Pre-K requirements were met today. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 434 The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. Although there was a dome climber on the school-age/older preschool playground there were not sufficient portable materials to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development. 10A NCAC 09 .0509(2) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired 9/10/24 has not completed certification in First Aid. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired 9/10/24 has not completed certification in CPR. .1102(d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 10, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: We discussed gross motor portable equipment for older preschoolers and school agers such as corn hole, basketball, soccer goals, ladder ball, bocce ball, or balance beams. For the health and safety of the children, all staff members are required to obtain CPR and First Aid certification and keep it current. Renewing this certification is crucial for staff to be refreshed in first aid and other lifesaving techniques as well as receive the most up to date information. I suggest you set a reminder on your calendar to keep track of expiration dates and/or seek out training from additional approved agencies when staff are not able to attend courses offered locally or at the facility. Reminders: If blankets are stored on cots, they must lay flat and not touch the cot above. When soft materials such as blankets touch other surfaces, it causes the likely hood of germs spreading. Although there was not an issue with supervision today, some staff could use a refresher on how to actively supervise children. Supervising children is a critical component of ensuring the safety and well-being of all children. Staff must be actively engaged at all times for this to occur. I encourage you to review Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1801 regarding supervision with all your staff. Active and positive supervision involves knowing each child’s abilities and developmental milestones, establishing clear and simple safety rules, being aware of potential hazards, standing in strategic positions, and scanning play areas and circulating around the space. Focus on the positive rather than the negative whenever possible as staff guide children in appropriate behavior. K. Beck needs 2 on-going training hours before March 1, 2025. Rated License: The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment according to the timelines discussed previously; however, you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your staff on the new assessment tools if you are interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. I will share more information as I am able. North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP): As of February 1, 2025, the new and improved Environment Rating Scales – Third Additions will be implemented. Today we discussed the purchase of the new tools, training opportunities, and the NCRLAP website. Please visit www.ncrlap.org for more information and start training your staff now on this new tool! Outreach assessments on the new tools are available now. The visit summary was reviewed with you, signed, and a copy left with you. If you need any assistance, please reach out to me, April Lester, Child Care Consultant, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-824-0954 or Lynette Robbins, Licensing Supervisor, lynette.robbins@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-824-0235. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #158 Facility ID: 65001094 Consultant: JENNIFER GARNER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/6/2024 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 5/6/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 114 Time In: 10:36 AM Time Out: 12:30 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 applicable child care requirements for the facility’s the first temporary time period visit. The facility’s Temporary License was issued March 1, 2024 and is valid through September 1, 2024. Restrictions on the permit include a first shift capacity of 120 children ages 0 to 12 years old in building #1; a first shift capacity of 96 children ages 3 to 12 years old in building #2; no cooking in building #2; meeting enhanced space and ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. Licensing supervisor, Lynette Robbins was present and assisted with today’s visit. As this is a change of ownership a new building, fire and inspections must be completed prior to September 1, 2024. You will need to request your building and sanitation inspection through the Coast portal. You will need to contact your fire inspector directly. Failure to obtain the required approved inspections prior to September 1, 2024 may result in administrative action against your license. Forty-two children ages 0-5 years old were present today. All approved indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Daily schedules were available for each group of children. Infants received care based on their individual needs. Infant feeding charts were current and up to date. One infant was observed napping. Other infants were on the floor exploring the space and playing with various age appropriate toys and materials. Toddlers and preschool children were observed during free play. Children were cooking in dramatic play, building in blocks, drawing in art and working on puzzles in manipulatives. Children enrolled in the NC Pre-K program were observed outside on the fenced in playground. They were running and playing chase as well as playing with age appropriate gross motor materials. Staff moved about the space interacting with children while ensuring visual supervision of all children. Lunch today consisted of beef patties with gravy, mashed potatoes, bread, pineapples, and milk. As we again discussed today, space #1b does not have a direct exit to the outside as you have erected a half wall and installed gates. Items # 34 on page 4, section B of the building inspection form address direct exits. It is very possible the building inspector will not approve this space for use by children less than 2 ½ or will required you to remove the gates. It is possible the gates will not be approved as they could impede the egress. As I was reviewing today's visit summary with administrative staff, we heard a caregiver speaking in harshly to a child. I observed the caregiver holding the child's arm and speaking harshly to him as they entered space #2. The child had left the classroom unsupervised as the door had been left open. While the caregiver was gathering the child from the hallway, the remining fourteen children in space #2 were left unsupervised. Administrative staff stated as the child had a history of attempting to leave the space unsupervised they had installed a door lever lock. The second caregiver had gone to get cot linens and had left the door open. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. One child left space #2. The caregiver left space #2 to retrieve the child, leaving the remaining fourteen children unsupervised. .1801(a)(1-5) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. The caregiver in space #2 spoke to a child in a harsh tone and manner as she gathered him for the hall and took him back to the classroom. G.S. 110-91(10) Children’s records and staff records were reviewed today. Send me your updated and completed staff and training worksheet no later than close of business on Friday May 10, 2024. Two Violations were observed today. Send me your compliance letter no later than May 17, 2024. Your compliance letter should clearly address how this violation has been corrected and your plan to ensure this and similar violations are not cited in the future. A follow-up visit will be made to ensure continued compliance. 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. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet all applicable requirements at all times. If you have any questions, please contact me at 910-824-1447 or Jennifer.j.garner@dhhs.nc.gov. Technical Assistance regarding violations cited: Supervision: Today we discussed keeping the door closed to prevent children from exiting the space unsupervised. You have already installed a door lever lock. Consider adding an alarm to alert staff when the door opens. Staff should frequently visually check the doors to ensure they are closed. Staff should ensure they shut the door when they enter or exit a space. Nurturing tone: Staff should speak to children in a nurturing and caring manner at all times. If staff are beginning to feel frustrated they should request a breather to come out of the classrooms for a minute to just take a deep breath. Staff should be able to call out to administrative staff when they are feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or need assistance. Technical Assistance: Transitions: Transitions from one activity to another should be three minutes or less from beginning to end. By planning ahead, giving clear and consistent instructions, providing a structure and routine, using visual cues and signals, and being patient and flexible, you can help your children transition smoothly from one activity to the next. Once you ask children to being lining up to go outside, go ahead and call for an administrator to walk you out per facility policy. Reducing wait time will help prevent negative behaviors. RATED LICENSE: Today we again discussed the two-component rated license process. As a change of ownership the facility has chosen to continue with the points awarded during the last rated license assessment under the previous ownership. Under the previous ownership the facility earned 1 quality point for having a staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. The facility earned six points in program for meeting minimum requirements, as well as enhanced space and ratios. The facility earned an average score of 5.13 across their three assessments. The facility earned seven points in education. The facility earned a total of 14 points which is a 5-star license. Your facility is in cohort 1. Your prep year began July 1, 2023 and continues through June 30, 2024. Your reassessment year is July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. In your planning year, you may review resources available at www.ncrlap.org and contact New Hanover County Smart Start or Region 4 CCR&R for assistance with completion of the self-study component. This is an opportunity to focus on your Star Rated License and consider strategies to help maintain or increase your star rating. Review topics related to the Environment Rating Scales or other quality initiatives. Also, be reminded that you may voluntarily request a reassessment at any time and that NCRLAP outreach assessments are still being offered if you wish to “practice.” You may also wish to contact technical assistance specialists with Smart Start of New Hanover County to help you with mock assessments. Related to education, ensure you are uploading your education. At this time the facility is not anticipating to request an assessment during their planning year. Education Standards: All staff need to ensure current education information has been submitted to WORKS and they have requested the appropriate evaluation for their position. It typically takes WORKS 4-6 weeks to complete an evaluation. 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. 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: Childcare Network #158 Facility ID: 65001094 Consultant: JENNIFER GARNER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/6/2024 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 5/6/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 114 Time In: 10:36 AM Time Out: 12:30 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 applicable child care requirements for the facility’s the first temporary time period visit. The facility’s Temporary License was issued March 1, 2024 and is valid through September 1, 2024. Restrictions on the permit include a first shift capacity of 120 children ages 0 to 12 years old in building #1; a first shift capacity of 96 children ages 3 to 12 years old in building #2; no cooking in building #2; meeting enhanced space and ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. Licensing supervisor, Lynette Robbins was present and assisted with today’s visit. As this is a change of ownership a new building, fire and inspections must be completed prior to September 1, 2024. You will need to request your building and sanitation inspection through the Coast portal. You will need to contact your fire inspector directly. Failure to obtain the required approved inspections prior to September 1, 2024 may result in administrative action against your license. Forty-two children ages 0-5 years old were present today. All approved indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Daily schedules were available for each group of children. Infants received care based on their individual needs. Infant feeding charts were current and up to date. One infant was observed napping. Other infants were on the floor exploring the space and playing with various age appropriate toys and materials. Toddlers and preschool children were observed during free play. Children were cooking in dramatic play, building in blocks, drawing in art and working on puzzles in manipulatives. Children enrolled in the NC Pre-K program were observed outside on the fenced in playground. They were running and playing chase as well as playing with age appropriate gross motor materials. Staff moved about the space interacting with children while ensuring visual supervision of all children. Lunch today consisted of beef patties with gravy, mashed potatoes, bread, pineapples, and milk. As we again discussed today, space #1b does not have a direct exit to the outside as you have erected a half wall and installed gates. Items # 34 on page 4, section B of the building inspection form address direct exits. It is very possible the building inspector will not approve this space for use by children less than 2 ½ or will required you to remove the gates. It is possible the gates will not be approved as they could impede the egress. As I was reviewing today's visit summary with administrative staff, we heard a caregiver speaking in harshly to a child. I observed the caregiver holding the child's arm and speaking harshly to him as they entered space #2. The child had left the classroom unsupervised as the door had been left open. While the caregiver was gathering the child from the hallway, the remining fourteen children in space #2 were left unsupervised. Administrative staff stated as the child had a history of attempting to leave the space unsupervised they had installed a door lever lock. The second caregiver had gone to get cot linens and had left the door open. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. One child left space #2. The caregiver left space #2 to retrieve the child, leaving the remaining fourteen children unsupervised. .1801(a)(1-5) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. The caregiver in space #2 spoke to a child in a harsh tone and manner as she gathered him for the hall and took him back to the classroom. G.S. 110-91(10) Children’s records and staff records were reviewed today. Send me your updated and completed staff and training worksheet no later than close of business on Friday May 10, 2024. Two Violations were observed today. Send me your compliance letter no later than May 17, 2024. Your compliance letter should clearly address how this violation has been corrected and your plan to ensure this and similar violations are not cited in the future. A follow-up visit will be made to ensure continued compliance. 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. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet all applicable requirements at all times. If you have any questions, please contact me at 910-824-1447 or Jennifer.j.garner@dhhs.nc.gov. Technical Assistance regarding violations cited: Supervision: Today we discussed keeping the door closed to prevent children from exiting the space unsupervised. You have already installed a door lever lock. Consider adding an alarm to alert staff when the door opens. Staff should frequently visually check the doors to ensure they are closed. Staff should ensure they shut the door when they enter or exit a space. Nurturing tone: Staff should speak to children in a nurturing and caring manner at all times. If staff are beginning to feel frustrated they should request a breather to come out of the classrooms for a minute to just take a deep breath. Staff should be able to call out to administrative staff when they are feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or need assistance. Technical Assistance: Transitions: Transitions from one activity to another should be three minutes or less from beginning to end. By planning ahead, giving clear and consistent instructions, providing a structure and routine, using visual cues and signals, and being patient and flexible, you can help your children transition smoothly from one activity to the next. Once you ask children to being lining up to go outside, go ahead and call for an administrator to walk you out per facility policy. Reducing wait time will help prevent negative behaviors. RATED LICENSE: Today we again discussed the two-component rated license process. As a change of ownership the facility has chosen to continue with the points awarded during the last rated license assessment under the previous ownership. Under the previous ownership the facility earned 1 quality point for having a staff benefits package and infrastructure for parent involvement. The facility earned six points in program for meeting minimum requirements, as well as enhanced space and ratios. The facility earned an average score of 5.13 across their three assessments. The facility earned seven points in education. The facility earned a total of 14 points which is a 5-star license. Your facility is in cohort 1. Your prep year began July 1, 2023 and continues through June 30, 2024. Your reassessment year is July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. In your planning year, you may review resources available at www.ncrlap.org and contact New Hanover County Smart Start or Region 4 CCR&R for assistance with completion of the self-study component. This is an opportunity to focus on your Star Rated License and consider strategies to help maintain or increase your star rating. Review topics related to the Environment Rating Scales or other quality initiatives. Also, be reminded that you may voluntarily request a reassessment at any time and that NCRLAP outreach assessments are still being offered if you wish to “practice.” You may also wish to contact technical assistance specialists with Smart Start of New Hanover County to help you with mock assessments. Related to education, ensure you are uploading your education. At this time the facility is not anticipating to request an assessment during their planning year. Education Standards: All staff need to ensure current education information has been submitted to WORKS and they have requested the appropriate evaluation for their position. It typically takes WORKS 4-6 weeks to complete an evaluation. 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. 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