Excel Learning Centers #3

10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #3 Facility ID: 65001041 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/8/2026 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 6/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 280 Time In: 08:20 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit and to monitor the facility under their current administrative action. Head Start is out for the summer and Early Head Start was not present due to teacher workday. K. Seaman, Director (of another EXCEL), B. Spivey, Head Start Lead Teacher, assisted with the visit. The program operates with a 5-star license issued February 20, 2022, earning 6 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced space; and meets enhanced ratios. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 92%. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ELA KIDSNET HOLDINGS, LLC was listed as current- active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on June 24, 2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on March 2, 2026, and the program received a supervisor classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on August 14, 2025, and the program was approved for day time care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-two (92) percent as of June 7, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ETOILE LEARNING DEVELOPMENT LLC, was listed as current- active. C. Castrovinci, Education Specialist, visited each licensed space with me. Infants present in spaces 1 and 2 had routine care needs met such as rest time/feedings or participated in free play. Toddler aged children in spaces 5 and 7 participated finished eating breakfast that consisted of whole wheat cereal, mandarin oranges, and milk. Preschool aged children in spaces 3, 4, 6, 9, 11 and 12 participated in free play either indoors or outdoors. School aged children in space 8 engaged in free play as well. Age-appropriate materials and activities were observed for all age groups. Routine toileting and handwashing procedures were monitored, and requirements were met. Staff/child ratios were in compliance in all classrooms. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers and children interacted with children. Lunch for today consisted of chicken parmesan, whole wheat pasta, green beans, peaches, and milk. Staff and Training Worksheets- There were twenty-eight staff members employed at this facility. There were two new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. Veteran staff were on the old staff and training worksheet and new staff were on the new version. 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 Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on April 3, 2026. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding supervision. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes six (6) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 (compliance with 10A NCAC 09 .1801 - supervision) was monitored and found in compliance. Stipulation #2 – Ms. Runkal contacted Jennifer Garner, Lead Child Care Consultant on April 15, 2026 to schedule a complete rules review. The rules review was completed on May 12, 2026. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #3 – Ms. Runkal submitted an updated written supervision policy on May 18, 2026 and the policy is under review. Revisions were required and are pending a second review. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #4 – By April 28, 2026, Ms. Runkal must contact Mindy Davis, Early Care & Education Director at New Hanover County Smart Start to arrange for technical assistance to develop a written plan for routine observations and evaluations of each staff member. Ms. Runkal was out of the office for training and staff conference so this stipulation was delayed. Ms. Runkal emailed Ms. Davis on May 13, 2026. Ms. Runkal met with Ms. Davis on June 3, 2026 to begin working on their written plan. This written plan must be submitted to me for review. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #5 – When stipulation #4 is completed, Ms. Runkal must create a facility’s written plan for providing oversight of the administrator of the facility to ensure the administrator is fulfilling administrative duties and ensuring compliance. This is due two (2) weeks after the completion of Stipulation #4. This plan must be submitted to me for review. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #6 – Within one (1) week of completing all stipulations (1-5) you must conduct an all staff meeting to review the new policies and procedures. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster, signatures of all staff in attendance, date, time and length of the meeting. All documents must be kept of file for review. All stipulations will be monitored routinely until the facility demonstrates the implementations are working effectively. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). A staff members' qualification letter expired May 27, 2026, and she did not complete and submit the required forms to complete a criminal background check prior to the expiration date. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A staff members' qualification letter expired May 27, 2026. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. A staff member hired July 29, 2025, did not review the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy until May 22, 2026. .0608(d)(1-4) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. A staff member hired May 19, 2026, did not have a medical report on file. .0701(d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. A staff member hired September 2025 did not complete the required training until May 21, 2026. .1102(g) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 22, 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 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: The Staff and Training Worksheet is an administrative tool designed to track and maintain accurate records for all personnel. Utilizing this worksheet as an active, working document is essential for ensuring compliance, timely record submission, and up-to-date documentation. Rachel Yanez-Zambrano has a qualification letter that expired on May 27, 2026, and information for requalification was not submitted prior to the expiration. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by June 23, 2026, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, the employee cannot be at the facility any longer until they receive their qualification letter. Reminders: Grass patches are starting to pop up near the monkey bars on the older preschool/school age playground. As the temperatures are warmer and grass is growing, be mindful and persistent on ensuring grass/weeds are not growing in the fall zones as it diminishes the integrity of the mulch surfacing. 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 .1801 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #3 Facility ID: 65001041 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/8/2026 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 6/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 280 Time In: 08:20 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit and to monitor the facility under their current administrative action. Head Start is out for the summer and Early Head Start was not present due to teacher workday. K. Seaman, Director (of another EXCEL), B. Spivey, Head Start Lead Teacher, assisted with the visit. The program operates with a 5-star license issued February 20, 2022, earning 6 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced space; and meets enhanced ratios. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 92%. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ELA KIDSNET HOLDINGS, LLC was listed as current- active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on June 24, 2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on March 2, 2026, and the program received a supervisor classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on August 14, 2025, and the program was approved for day time care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-two (92) percent as of June 7, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ETOILE LEARNING DEVELOPMENT LLC, was listed as current- active. C. Castrovinci, Education Specialist, visited each licensed space with me. Infants present in spaces 1 and 2 had routine care needs met such as rest time/feedings or participated in free play. Toddler aged children in spaces 5 and 7 participated finished eating breakfast that consisted of whole wheat cereal, mandarin oranges, and milk. Preschool aged children in spaces 3, 4, 6, 9, 11 and 12 participated in free play either indoors or outdoors. School aged children in space 8 engaged in free play as well. Age-appropriate materials and activities were observed for all age groups. Routine toileting and handwashing procedures were monitored, and requirements were met. Staff/child ratios were in compliance in all classrooms. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers and children interacted with children. Lunch for today consisted of chicken parmesan, whole wheat pasta, green beans, peaches, and milk. Staff and Training Worksheets- There were twenty-eight staff members employed at this facility. There were two new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. Veteran staff were on the old staff and training worksheet and new staff were on the new version. 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 Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on April 3, 2026. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding supervision. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes six (6) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 (compliance with 10A NCAC 09 .1801 - supervision) was monitored and found in compliance. Stipulation #2 – Ms. Runkal contacted Jennifer Garner, Lead Child Care Consultant on April 15, 2026 to schedule a complete rules review. The rules review was completed on May 12, 2026. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #3 – Ms. Runkal submitted an updated written supervision policy on May 18, 2026 and the policy is under review. Revisions were required and are pending a second review. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #4 – By April 28, 2026, Ms. Runkal must contact Mindy Davis, Early Care & Education Director at New Hanover County Smart Start to arrange for technical assistance to develop a written plan for routine observations and evaluations of each staff member. Ms. Runkal was out of the office for training and staff conference so this stipulation was delayed. Ms. Runkal emailed Ms. Davis on May 13, 2026. Ms. Runkal met with Ms. Davis on June 3, 2026 to begin working on their written plan. This written plan must be submitted to me for review. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #5 – When stipulation #4 is completed, Ms. Runkal must create a facility’s written plan for providing oversight of the administrator of the facility to ensure the administrator is fulfilling administrative duties and ensuring compliance. This is due two (2) weeks after the completion of Stipulation #4. This plan must be submitted to me for review. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #6 – Within one (1) week of completing all stipulations (1-5) you must conduct an all staff meeting to review the new policies and procedures. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster, signatures of all staff in attendance, date, time and length of the meeting. All documents must be kept of file for review. All stipulations will be monitored routinely until the facility demonstrates the implementations are working effectively. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). A staff members' qualification letter expired May 27, 2026, and she did not complete and submit the required forms to complete a criminal background check prior to the expiration date. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A staff members' qualification letter expired May 27, 2026. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. A staff member hired July 29, 2025, did not review the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy until May 22, 2026. .0608(d)(1-4) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. A staff member hired May 19, 2026, did not have a medical report on file. .0701(d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. A staff member hired September 2025 did not complete the required training until May 21, 2026. .1102(g) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 22, 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 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: The Staff and Training Worksheet is an administrative tool designed to track and maintain accurate records for all personnel. Utilizing this worksheet as an active, working document is essential for ensuring compliance, timely record submission, and up-to-date documentation. Rachel Yanez-Zambrano has a qualification letter that expired on May 27, 2026, and information for requalification was not submitted prior to the expiration. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by June 23, 2026, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, the employee cannot be at the facility any longer until they receive their qualification letter. Reminders: Grass patches are starting to pop up near the monkey bars on the older preschool/school age playground. As the temperatures are warmer and grass is growing, be mindful and persistent on ensuring grass/weeds are not growing in the fall zones as it diminishes the integrity of the mulch surfacing. 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

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #3 Facility ID: 65001041 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/8/2026 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 6/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 280 Time In: 08:20 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit and to monitor the facility under their current administrative action. Head Start is out for the summer and Early Head Start was not present due to teacher workday. K. Seaman, Director (of another EXCEL), B. Spivey, Head Start Lead Teacher, assisted with the visit. The program operates with a 5-star license issued February 20, 2022, earning 6 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced space; and meets enhanced ratios. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 92%. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ELA KIDSNET HOLDINGS, LLC was listed as current- active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on June 24, 2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on March 2, 2026, and the program received a supervisor classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on August 14, 2025, and the program was approved for day time care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-two (92) percent as of June 7, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ETOILE LEARNING DEVELOPMENT LLC, was listed as current- active. C. Castrovinci, Education Specialist, visited each licensed space with me. Infants present in spaces 1 and 2 had routine care needs met such as rest time/feedings or participated in free play. Toddler aged children in spaces 5 and 7 participated finished eating breakfast that consisted of whole wheat cereal, mandarin oranges, and milk. Preschool aged children in spaces 3, 4, 6, 9, 11 and 12 participated in free play either indoors or outdoors. School aged children in space 8 engaged in free play as well. Age-appropriate materials and activities were observed for all age groups. Routine toileting and handwashing procedures were monitored, and requirements were met. Staff/child ratios were in compliance in all classrooms. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers and children interacted with children. Lunch for today consisted of chicken parmesan, whole wheat pasta, green beans, peaches, and milk. Staff and Training Worksheets- There were twenty-eight staff members employed at this facility. There were two new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. Veteran staff were on the old staff and training worksheet and new staff were on the new version. 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 Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on April 3, 2026. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding supervision. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes six (6) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 (compliance with 10A NCAC 09 .1801 - supervision) was monitored and found in compliance. Stipulation #2 – Ms. Runkal contacted Jennifer Garner, Lead Child Care Consultant on April 15, 2026 to schedule a complete rules review. The rules review was completed on May 12, 2026. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #3 – Ms. Runkal submitted an updated written supervision policy on May 18, 2026 and the policy is under review. Revisions were required and are pending a second review. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #4 – By April 28, 2026, Ms. Runkal must contact Mindy Davis, Early Care & Education Director at New Hanover County Smart Start to arrange for technical assistance to develop a written plan for routine observations and evaluations of each staff member. Ms. Runkal was out of the office for training and staff conference so this stipulation was delayed. Ms. Runkal emailed Ms. Davis on May 13, 2026. Ms. Runkal met with Ms. Davis on June 3, 2026 to begin working on their written plan. This written plan must be submitted to me for review. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #5 – When stipulation #4 is completed, Ms. Runkal must create a facility’s written plan for providing oversight of the administrator of the facility to ensure the administrator is fulfilling administrative duties and ensuring compliance. This is due two (2) weeks after the completion of Stipulation #4. This plan must be submitted to me for review. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #6 – Within one (1) week of completing all stipulations (1-5) you must conduct an all staff meeting to review the new policies and procedures. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster, signatures of all staff in attendance, date, time and length of the meeting. All documents must be kept of file for review. All stipulations will be monitored routinely until the facility demonstrates the implementations are working effectively. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). A staff members' qualification letter expired May 27, 2026, and she did not complete and submit the required forms to complete a criminal background check prior to the expiration date. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A staff members' qualification letter expired May 27, 2026. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. A staff member hired July 29, 2025, did not review the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy until May 22, 2026. .0608(d)(1-4) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. A staff member hired May 19, 2026, did not have a medical report on file. .0701(d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. A staff member hired September 2025 did not complete the required training until May 21, 2026. .1102(g) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 22, 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 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: The Staff and Training Worksheet is an administrative tool designed to track and maintain accurate records for all personnel. Utilizing this worksheet as an active, working document is essential for ensuring compliance, timely record submission, and up-to-date documentation. Rachel Yanez-Zambrano has a qualification letter that expired on May 27, 2026, and information for requalification was not submitted prior to the expiration. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by June 23, 2026, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, the employee cannot be at the facility any longer until they receive their qualification letter. Reminders: Grass patches are starting to pop up near the monkey bars on the older preschool/school age playground. As the temperatures are warmer and grass is growing, be mindful and persistent on ensuring grass/weeds are not growing in the fall zones as it diminishes the integrity of the mulch surfacing. 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #3 Facility ID: 65001041 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/8/2026 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 6/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 280 Time In: 08:20 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit and to monitor the facility under their current administrative action. Head Start is out for the summer and Early Head Start was not present due to teacher workday. K. Seaman, Director (of another EXCEL), B. Spivey, Head Start Lead Teacher, assisted with the visit. The program operates with a 5-star license issued February 20, 2022, earning 6 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced space; and meets enhanced ratios. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 92%. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ELA KIDSNET HOLDINGS, LLC was listed as current- active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on June 24, 2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on March 2, 2026, and the program received a supervisor classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on August 14, 2025, and the program was approved for day time care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-two (92) percent as of June 7, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ETOILE LEARNING DEVELOPMENT LLC, was listed as current- active. C. Castrovinci, Education Specialist, visited each licensed space with me. Infants present in spaces 1 and 2 had routine care needs met such as rest time/feedings or participated in free play. Toddler aged children in spaces 5 and 7 participated finished eating breakfast that consisted of whole wheat cereal, mandarin oranges, and milk. Preschool aged children in spaces 3, 4, 6, 9, 11 and 12 participated in free play either indoors or outdoors. School aged children in space 8 engaged in free play as well. Age-appropriate materials and activities were observed for all age groups. Routine toileting and handwashing procedures were monitored, and requirements were met. Staff/child ratios were in compliance in all classrooms. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers and children interacted with children. Lunch for today consisted of chicken parmesan, whole wheat pasta, green beans, peaches, and milk. Staff and Training Worksheets- There were twenty-eight staff members employed at this facility. There were two new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. Veteran staff were on the old staff and training worksheet and new staff were on the new version. 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 Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on April 3, 2026. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding supervision. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes six (6) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 (compliance with 10A NCAC 09 .1801 - supervision) was monitored and found in compliance. Stipulation #2 – Ms. Runkal contacted Jennifer Garner, Lead Child Care Consultant on April 15, 2026 to schedule a complete rules review. The rules review was completed on May 12, 2026. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #3 – Ms. Runkal submitted an updated written supervision policy on May 18, 2026 and the policy is under review. Revisions were required and are pending a second review. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #4 – By April 28, 2026, Ms. Runkal must contact Mindy Davis, Early Care & Education Director at New Hanover County Smart Start to arrange for technical assistance to develop a written plan for routine observations and evaluations of each staff member. Ms. Runkal was out of the office for training and staff conference so this stipulation was delayed. Ms. Runkal emailed Ms. Davis on May 13, 2026. Ms. Runkal met with Ms. Davis on June 3, 2026 to begin working on their written plan. This written plan must be submitted to me for review. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #5 – When stipulation #4 is completed, Ms. Runkal must create a facility’s written plan for providing oversight of the administrator of the facility to ensure the administrator is fulfilling administrative duties and ensuring compliance. This is due two (2) weeks after the completion of Stipulation #4. This plan must be submitted to me for review. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #6 – Within one (1) week of completing all stipulations (1-5) you must conduct an all staff meeting to review the new policies and procedures. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster, signatures of all staff in attendance, date, time and length of the meeting. All documents must be kept of file for review. All stipulations will be monitored routinely until the facility demonstrates the implementations are working effectively. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). A staff members' qualification letter expired May 27, 2026, and she did not complete and submit the required forms to complete a criminal background check prior to the expiration date. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A staff members' qualification letter expired May 27, 2026. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. A staff member hired July 29, 2025, did not review the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy until May 22, 2026. .0608(d)(1-4) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. A staff member hired May 19, 2026, did not have a medical report on file. .0701(d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. A staff member hired September 2025 did not complete the required training until May 21, 2026. .1102(g) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 22, 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 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: The Staff and Training Worksheet is an administrative tool designed to track and maintain accurate records for all personnel. Utilizing this worksheet as an active, working document is essential for ensuring compliance, timely record submission, and up-to-date documentation. Rachel Yanez-Zambrano has a qualification letter that expired on May 27, 2026, and information for requalification was not submitted prior to the expiration. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by June 23, 2026, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, the employee cannot be at the facility any longer until they receive their qualification letter. Reminders: Grass patches are starting to pop up near the monkey bars on the older preschool/school age playground. As the temperatures are warmer and grass is growing, be mindful and persistent on ensuring grass/weeds are not growing in the fall zones as it diminishes the integrity of the mulch surfacing. 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 .1801 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #3 Facility ID: 65001041 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0226-292L Visit Date: 4/14/2026 Number Present: 115 Completed Date: 4/14/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 115 Time In: 11:05 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an administrative action follow-up visit, including the Corrective Action Plan included in the Written Warning issued by the DCDEE to this facility on April 3, 2026. The program operates with a 5-star license issued February 20, 2022, earning 6 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced space; and meets enhanced ratios. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 92%. Director, Wendy Runkal, assisted me with the visit today. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ELA KIDSNET HOLDINGS, LLC was listed as current- active. One hundred thirty-four (134) are enrolled and one hundred fifteen (115) children were observed in spaces 1-12. Children participated in free play indoors, lunch that consisted of macaroni and cheese, pears, peas, and milk, or rested on individual cots for nap time. Adequate handwashing was observed. Adequate supervision and staff/child ratios were monitored and found in compliance. The Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on April 3, 2026. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding supervision. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes six (6) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 (compliance with 10A NCAC 09 .1801 - supervision) was monitored and found in compliance. Stipulation #2 – Ms. Runkal must contact Lead Child Care Consultant, Jennifer Garner, for a complete rule review by April 21, 2026. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #3 – Within one (1) week after the rules review, Ms. Runkal must submit update the facility’s written supervision policy and procedure and submit them to me for review. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #4 – By April 28, 2026, Ms. Runkal must contact Mindy Davis, Early Care & Education Director at New Hanover County Smart Start to arrange for technical assistance to develop a written plan for routine observations and evaluations of each staff member. This written plan must be submitted to me for review. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #5 – When stipulation #4 is completed, Ms. Runkal must create a facility’s written plan for providing oversight of the administrator of the facility to ensure the administrator is fulfilling administrative duties and ensuring compliance. This is due two (2) weeks after the completion of Stipulation #4. This plan must be submitted to me for review. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #6 – Within one (1) week of completing all stipulations (1-5) you must conduct an all staff meeting to review the new policies and procedures. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster, signatures of all staff in attendance, date, time and length of the meeting. All documents must be kept of file for review. All stipulations will be monitored routinely until the facility demonstrates the implementations are working effectively. The following violations were observed and corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. Bottles in space 2 (guppies) were not labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 617 All openings to the outer air were not protected against the entrance of flying pest. The door in space 2 (guppies) was propped open. 15A NCAC 18A .2831(c) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Multiple plastic bags were observed accessible to children one year of age in space 7 (starfish). .0604(q) 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. Routine unannounced visits will continue to occur until the Corrective Action Plan is completed. Technical Assistance: For the safety of the children, ensure any plastic bags used for storage are kept inaccessible to children under the age of three years old by keeping them at a minimum height of five feet off the floor. Each infant shall be served only formula, breast milk, and bottles labeled with their individual name and the date. Before feeding a bottle to an infant, use name to face recognition to ensure you are giving the correct bottle to the correct child. Doors may not be propped open unless they are covered by a screen. Propping doors open allows insects and vermin to come into the building. If you have questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact me at 910-824-0954, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov or Kim Sherry, Licensing Supervisor, 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #3 Facility ID: 65001041 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0226-292L Visit Date: 4/14/2026 Number Present: 115 Completed Date: 4/14/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 115 Time In: 11:05 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an administrative action follow-up visit, including the Corrective Action Plan included in the Written Warning issued by the DCDEE to this facility on April 3, 2026. The program operates with a 5-star license issued February 20, 2022, earning 6 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced space; and meets enhanced ratios. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 92%. Director, Wendy Runkal, assisted me with the visit today. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ELA KIDSNET HOLDINGS, LLC was listed as current- active. One hundred thirty-four (134) are enrolled and one hundred fifteen (115) children were observed in spaces 1-12. Children participated in free play indoors, lunch that consisted of macaroni and cheese, pears, peas, and milk, or rested on individual cots for nap time. Adequate handwashing was observed. Adequate supervision and staff/child ratios were monitored and found in compliance. The Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on April 3, 2026. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding supervision. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes six (6) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 (compliance with 10A NCAC 09 .1801 - supervision) was monitored and found in compliance. Stipulation #2 – Ms. Runkal must contact Lead Child Care Consultant, Jennifer Garner, for a complete rule review by April 21, 2026. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #3 – Within one (1) week after the rules review, Ms. Runkal must submit update the facility’s written supervision policy and procedure and submit them to me for review. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #4 – By April 28, 2026, Ms. Runkal must contact Mindy Davis, Early Care & Education Director at New Hanover County Smart Start to arrange for technical assistance to develop a written plan for routine observations and evaluations of each staff member. This written plan must be submitted to me for review. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #5 – When stipulation #4 is completed, Ms. Runkal must create a facility’s written plan for providing oversight of the administrator of the facility to ensure the administrator is fulfilling administrative duties and ensuring compliance. This is due two (2) weeks after the completion of Stipulation #4. This plan must be submitted to me for review. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #6 – Within one (1) week of completing all stipulations (1-5) you must conduct an all staff meeting to review the new policies and procedures. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster, signatures of all staff in attendance, date, time and length of the meeting. All documents must be kept of file for review. All stipulations will be monitored routinely until the facility demonstrates the implementations are working effectively. The following violations were observed and corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. Bottles in space 2 (guppies) were not labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 617 All openings to the outer air were not protected against the entrance of flying pest. The door in space 2 (guppies) was propped open. 15A NCAC 18A .2831(c) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Multiple plastic bags were observed accessible to children one year of age in space 7 (starfish). .0604(q) 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. Routine unannounced visits will continue to occur until the Corrective Action Plan is completed. Technical Assistance: For the safety of the children, ensure any plastic bags used for storage are kept inaccessible to children under the age of three years old by keeping them at a minimum height of five feet off the floor. Each infant shall be served only formula, breast milk, and bottles labeled with their individual name and the date. Before feeding a bottle to an infant, use name to face recognition to ensure you are giving the correct bottle to the correct child. Doors may not be propped open unless they are covered by a screen. Propping doors open allows insects and vermin to come into the building. If you have questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact me at 910-824-0954, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov or Kim Sherry, Licensing Supervisor, 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

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #3 Facility ID: 65001041 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0226-292L Visit Date: 3/9/2026 Number Present: 99 Completed Date: 3/9/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 160 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 11:40 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Unannounced Visit Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with North Carolina Child Care requirements and verify correction of a supervision violation cited during a self-report visit conducted on March 4, 2026. Your letter of compliance has not been received; as agreed, it must be received by before March 18, 2026, or a follow-up visit will be conducted. Limited monitoring of childcare requirements occurred today. This program currently operates with a 5-star license issued February 20, 2022, earning 6 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point in the programmatic option. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted June 24, 2025. As of March 8, 2026, your facility has an 18-month compliance history of 92%. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance 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 center is owned by ELA KIDSNET HOLDINGS, LLC. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Fire Inspection – 08/14/2025 – Approved for day time care only Sanitation – 03/02/2026 – 15 Demerits – Superior Administrator, Crystal Saulter, and Assistant Director, Sheryl Tippett, were present and assisted me with the visit today. Today, there were twelve (12) classrooms operating, ninety-nine children were present, ranging in age from infants to 5 years old. Infants received care based on their individual needs. Infants were observed on the floor exploring their environment safely in spaces 1 and 2. Safe sleep checks and feeding schedules were also monitored and found in compliance. All preschool children in spaces 3-12 were observed playing indoors and outdoors in their designated areas. Staff actively moved around the spaces adequately supervising children. Child Supervision Records (CSR) were monitored today, and three (3) classrooms still are not completing the facility required 30-minute checks in a timely manner. Lunch scheduled for today consisted of diced carrots, tropical fruit, whole grain-breaded chicken nuggets, and milk. During today’s visit, all children were adequately supervised, and staff/child ratios were in compliance. All staff members interacted with children in a nurturing and caring manner with the children in their care. Administrative staff should be constantly in and out of the classrooms throughout the day to assist/support caregivers and ensure all children are always being adequately supervised. Today, District Manager, Aubrie McPhaul, arrived after I completed the walkthrough. She provided me with documentation packets for each staff member that were reviewed in small groups or individually on February 26 and 27, 2026. The packets included: Child Supervision Record (CSR) training Best Practice Supervision handout Policy: Playground Supervision Best Practice Playground Supervision handout Best Practice Transitions – Different Environments handout Best Practices Transitions – Top 10 Transitioning Outside the Classroom Office Communication / Walkie Talkie Procedure All packets were signed by staff. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. A staff member who began work on March 9, 2026, did not have an application for employment on file. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A staff member who began work on March 9, 2026, did not have a criminal record qualification letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. A staff member who began work on March 9, 2026, did not have a staff health assessment/medical report and proof of tuberculosis test/screening on file. .0701(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 23, 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 - Active supervision requires focused attention and intentional observation of children at all times. Teachers should position themselves so that they can observe all of the children: watching, counting, and listening at all times. Transitions are times when heightened observations need to take place as we have received many reports lately of children being left in a classroom or in the outdoor play space. Teachers should account for all children with name-to-face recognition by visually identifying each child. They should also use their knowledge of each child’s development and abilities to anticipate what they will do, then get involved and redirect them when necessary. This constant vigilance helps children learn safely. Good supervision practice and routines should be discussed during your Orientation process. Please ensure staff files are organized according to the file checklist found on the DCDEE website. This updated checklist reflects revised child care rules and lists deadlines for completion of certain documents. I suggest you use this checklist to review the file for all new staff members. You may wish to delegate some recordkeeping responsibilities to another staff member who has good organizational skills and is able to assist. This will allow you to trust that accurate records are being kept while you focus on other aspects of managing your facility. Based on the confirmed allegation of children not being adequately supervised an administrative action may be recommended. Violations of this nature directly impact the safety of the children while in your care. 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 program. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed, printed, and signed by Ms. Saulter. 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #3 Facility ID: 65001041 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0226-292L Visit Date: 3/9/2026 Number Present: 99 Completed Date: 3/9/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 160 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 11:40 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Unannounced Visit Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with North Carolina Child Care requirements and verify correction of a supervision violation cited during a self-report visit conducted on March 4, 2026. Your letter of compliance has not been received; as agreed, it must be received by before March 18, 2026, or a follow-up visit will be conducted. Limited monitoring of childcare requirements occurred today. This program currently operates with a 5-star license issued February 20, 2022, earning 6 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point in the programmatic option. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted June 24, 2025. As of March 8, 2026, your facility has an 18-month compliance history of 92%. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance 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 center is owned by ELA KIDSNET HOLDINGS, LLC. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Fire Inspection – 08/14/2025 – Approved for day time care only Sanitation – 03/02/2026 – 15 Demerits – Superior Administrator, Crystal Saulter, and Assistant Director, Sheryl Tippett, were present and assisted me with the visit today. Today, there were twelve (12) classrooms operating, ninety-nine children were present, ranging in age from infants to 5 years old. Infants received care based on their individual needs. Infants were observed on the floor exploring their environment safely in spaces 1 and 2. Safe sleep checks and feeding schedules were also monitored and found in compliance. All preschool children in spaces 3-12 were observed playing indoors and outdoors in their designated areas. Staff actively moved around the spaces adequately supervising children. Child Supervision Records (CSR) were monitored today, and three (3) classrooms still are not completing the facility required 30-minute checks in a timely manner. Lunch scheduled for today consisted of diced carrots, tropical fruit, whole grain-breaded chicken nuggets, and milk. During today’s visit, all children were adequately supervised, and staff/child ratios were in compliance. All staff members interacted with children in a nurturing and caring manner with the children in their care. Administrative staff should be constantly in and out of the classrooms throughout the day to assist/support caregivers and ensure all children are always being adequately supervised. Today, District Manager, Aubrie McPhaul, arrived after I completed the walkthrough. She provided me with documentation packets for each staff member that were reviewed in small groups or individually on February 26 and 27, 2026. The packets included: Child Supervision Record (CSR) training Best Practice Supervision handout Policy: Playground Supervision Best Practice Playground Supervision handout Best Practice Transitions – Different Environments handout Best Practices Transitions – Top 10 Transitioning Outside the Classroom Office Communication / Walkie Talkie Procedure All packets were signed by staff. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. A staff member who began work on March 9, 2026, did not have an application for employment on file. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A staff member who began work on March 9, 2026, did not have a criminal record qualification letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. A staff member who began work on March 9, 2026, did not have a staff health assessment/medical report and proof of tuberculosis test/screening on file. .0701(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 23, 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 - Active supervision requires focused attention and intentional observation of children at all times. Teachers should position themselves so that they can observe all of the children: watching, counting, and listening at all times. Transitions are times when heightened observations need to take place as we have received many reports lately of children being left in a classroom or in the outdoor play space. Teachers should account for all children with name-to-face recognition by visually identifying each child. They should also use their knowledge of each child’s development and abilities to anticipate what they will do, then get involved and redirect them when necessary. This constant vigilance helps children learn safely. Good supervision practice and routines should be discussed during your Orientation process. Please ensure staff files are organized according to the file checklist found on the DCDEE website. This updated checklist reflects revised child care rules and lists deadlines for completion of certain documents. I suggest you use this checklist to review the file for all new staff members. You may wish to delegate some recordkeeping responsibilities to another staff member who has good organizational skills and is able to assist. This will allow you to trust that accurate records are being kept while you focus on other aspects of managing your facility. Based on the confirmed allegation of children not being adequately supervised an administrative action may be recommended. Violations of this nature directly impact the safety of the children while in your care. 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 program. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed, printed, and signed by Ms. Saulter. 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #3 Facility ID: 65001041 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0226-292L Visit Date: 3/4/2026 Number Present: 114 Completed Date: 3/4/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 180 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Self Report 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 that children are not being adequately supervised. This program currently operates with a 5-star license issued February 20, 2022, earning 6 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point in the programmatic option. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 93%. In addition to the allegation, supervision, staff/child ratios, adequate/approved space, and permit restrictions were monitored. There have been 5 new staff hired since the last monitoring visit and their files were monitored today. Crystal Saulter, Director, was present and available for consultation. There were one hundred fifty-two (152) children enrolled and one hundred fourteen (114) 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 not have video surveillance. Allegation: There are concerns that children are not being adequately supervised. ***On February 23, 2026, a parent reported to administration via telephone that when her adult daughter arrived after 5:00 p.m. to collect her siblings, she found her 2-year-old brother left unsupervised in a classroom. Administration stated the staff member in charge of this child could not recall if the child was in her care or not. Today we reviewed the facilities classroom ratio sheet (CRS) and Line Leader application for February 23, 2026, and discovered the child was transitioned into her care outdoors on playground #2 at 4:37 pm . At approximately 5:00 pm the group transitioned back indoors through space 3 (Otters), down the hallway, pass the lobby and entered space 12 (dolphins). According to the CRS worksheet, the child was not recorded in the transition into space 12 nor was he marked for departure. According to the Line Leader Application, the child was checked out at 5:07 pm. Therefore, the child was unsupervised for approximately 7 minutes in space 3 (Otters). The employment of the staff member in charge of this child was terminated. Based on my investigation, observations, and staff report, this allegation is confirmed. The following violation was documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. On February 23, 2026, a child 2 years of age, was left unsupervised in space 3 for approximately 7 minutes. .1801(a)(1-5) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. A new staff member hired December 12, 2025, has not received all 16 hours of orientation. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. A new employee hired February 11, 2026, has not completed six clock hours of training in the required topic areas. .1101(a)(b) 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 18, 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: A violation was documented related to supervision was documented. Violations of this nature directly impact the safety of the children while in your care. In addition, these types of violations have the greatest negative impact on your compliance history. As discussed, supervision is paramount to quality child care as it is basic to the safety of children and the prevention of injury while maintaining quality child care. Parents have a contract with the facility and its staff to supervise their children. The importance of supervision is not only to protect children from physical injury, but from harm that can occur from teasing/bullying/inappropriate topics discussed, or inappropriate behavior. Today we discussed the importance of children never being left unsupervised. Today we discussed the fact that the CRS worksheet do not seem to be recorded in live time. During the walkthrough, it was observed several CRS worksheets had not been recorded. Today we discussed retraining all staff on how to use/record this worksheet. We also discussed better tracking strategies for transition children. 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #3 Facility ID: 65001041 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/3/2025 Number Present: 108 Completed Date: 12/3/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 11:30 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements. Limited child care requirements pertinent to this visit type were monitored. This program currently operates with a 5 star license issued February 20, 2022 earning 6 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point in the programmatic option. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. As of 12/02/2025, this facility has an 18-month compliance history of 93%. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance 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 NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ELA Kidsnet Holdings, LLC was listed as current-active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 07/08/25. Five (5) new staff have been hired since the last monitoring visit and their files were monitored today. Sanitation Inspection – 08/14/25 – 13 Demerits – Superior Classification Fire Inspection – 12/31/24 – Approved for day time care only There are twelve (12) indoor spaces, and five (5) outdoor space approved for use. There are one hundred eighty-five children enrolled and one hundred twenty-four children, ages 0-5, were present today. Accurate attendance sheets were observed in each classroom. Infants present in spaces 1 and 2 participated in free play or had routine care needs completed such as nap time. Toddlers in spaces 3, 5, and 7 participated in rest time with quiet music playing and the lights off. Preschool aged children in spaces 4, 6, and 8-12 were observed transitioning to rest time after lunch. Adequate handwashing and table sanitation was observed. Today’s lunch consisted of whole grain bread, turkey, cheese, carrots, honey dew melon, and milk. Each classroom had spaces arranged into activity areas that include art, blocks, science, library, dramatic play, manipulative, music, and writing. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible and observed in each classroom. Activity plans and daily schedules were available for each group of children and observed posted in each classroom. During today's visit child care requirements monitored for compliance included supervision, staff/child ratio, CPR and First Aid, Criminal Record Checks, storage of hazardous substances and medications, approved space, posting of the license, and other applicable requirements. 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. NC Pre-K requirements were met today. The following violations were observed. Violations must be corrected immediately. Violation Number Comment Rule 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. A monthly playground inspection was not observed for the month of November. .0605(q) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. A new staff member has not completed at least 16 hours of orientation with the first 6 weeks of employment. .1101(a) 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 12/17/2025, 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 that 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. Email the information to April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov When 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. Technical Assistance: A monthly playground inspection shall be conducted by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. A trained administrator or staff person shall make a record of each inspection using a playground inspection checklist provided by the Division. The checklist shall be signed by the person who conducts the inspection and shall be maintained for 12 months in the center's files for review by a representative of the Division. The playground inspection checklist may be found online at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/providers/credent.asp. The playground inspection includes a checklist of items related to safety, surfacing, and equipment quality. New employee orientation is the process of helping new hires get familiar with the organization, its culture, their colleagues, and their role. At its core, orientation serves three main purposes: to welcome, inform, and engage employees as they begin their journey with the company. Today we discussed the importance of orientation being site specific and personal. Other Information: Criminal Background Check Information – the required ABCMS training and is currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information at facilities by verifying the roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. 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 12/19/23. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint-Exempt N/A • Asbestos-Exempt N/A Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, and it may be requested to verify compliance. Use this link to view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ 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 has begun and the following informational opportunities are available to you: •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 will be posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •In September, child care consultants hosted in-person facility operator/administrator meetings within the counties they serve to provide additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. If you were unable to attend, reach out to me so we can review the information. •Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. 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. We look forward to seeing you at these upcoming informational settings and working with you on your pathway to the stars! Today Ms. Tippett and I had a conversation on the facility’s plan on moving forward with their 2-5 Star Rated License. That document is attached to this visit summary. Remember! 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). Reminders - 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/ Documentation was completed electronically on site, signed, and left with you today. Please remember it is your responsibility to always comply with all child care rules and requirements. Contact me at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0606 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #3 Facility ID: 65001041 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1125-206L Visit Date: 11/24/2025 Number Present: 92 Completed Date: 11/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 75 Time In: 12:15 PM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: There are safety concerns regarding the outdoor learning environment. The program currently operates with a 5-star license issued February 20, 2022. Restrictions on the permit include a capacity of 199 permitted for daytime care only with an approved age range of 0-12 years olds, as well as meeting enhanced ratios and space. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 93%. Childcare Consultant, Heather Elliott, assisted with the visit today. In addition to the allegations group size, use of licensed space, space capacity, and license restrictions 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 required information. Wendy Runkal, Director, was present and was available for consultation during the visit. Ms. Runkal accompanied us on the walkthrough and observations. There were one hundred forty (140) children enrolled and ninety-two (92) were present today, ranging in age from infants through 5 years. We observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. We observed the teachers caring for children in a nurturing and caring manner. Children were observed in free play or having routine care needs met such as toileting/diapering, meals, and nap routines. Today’s menu consisted of turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, green beans, macaroni and cheese, stuffing, and milk. Adequate handwashing and table sanitation were observed before and after eating. The allegations were reviewed with Ms. Runkal and various staff members. Everyone was given the opportunity to state their perceptions of the allegations. The facility does not have video surveillance. Allegation #1: There are safety concerns regarding the outdoor learning environment. ***Ms. Runkal reported on November 13, 2025, a child 2 years of age, had a braid pulled out of her scalp when going down the slide. The staff member responsible for this child stated the child lay flat to go down the slide and her bead got stuck in the gap between platform and the slide which caused the braid to get pulled out. We monitored the play structure and found that it was installed correctly and there were no concerns regarding the structure itself. An incident report was generated and available for our review today. Based on my investigation, staff report, and observations, this allegation is not confirmed. The following violation was observed during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. A 9 month old infant was sleeping with a blanket in his crib and another infant 4 months of age was asleep in a bouncy seat in space 1 (jellyfish). 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 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 December 8, 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 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. Technical Assistance: North Carolina's safe sleep policy, which is required for licensed childcare providers, mandates that all infants 12 months or younger be placed on their backs to sleep on a firm, flat surface without loose bedding or toys. Key elements include providers having a written safe sleep policy shared with parents, completing mandatory training, performing regular visual checks of sleeping infants, and ensuring no items are placed over the infant's head or face. Both infant staff members in space 1 (jellyfish) have current ITS/SIDS certifications; however, as we discussed today, I suggest they both retake ITS/SIDS to refresh their memories on the requirements. Today we discussed children wearing bonnets when they have braids, beads, barrettes, etc. to help prevent their hair getting stuck in equipment while playing. 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 or 910-824-0954 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #3 Facility ID: 65001041 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1125-206L Visit Date: 11/24/2025 Number Present: 92 Completed Date: 11/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 75 Time In: 12:15 PM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: There are safety concerns regarding the outdoor learning environment. The program currently operates with a 5-star license issued February 20, 2022. Restrictions on the permit include a capacity of 199 permitted for daytime care only with an approved age range of 0-12 years olds, as well as meeting enhanced ratios and space. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 93%. Childcare Consultant, Heather Elliott, assisted with the visit today. In addition to the allegations group size, use of licensed space, space capacity, and license restrictions 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 required information. Wendy Runkal, Director, was present and was available for consultation during the visit. Ms. Runkal accompanied us on the walkthrough and observations. There were one hundred forty (140) children enrolled and ninety-two (92) were present today, ranging in age from infants through 5 years. We observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. We observed the teachers caring for children in a nurturing and caring manner. Children were observed in free play or having routine care needs met such as toileting/diapering, meals, and nap routines. Today’s menu consisted of turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, green beans, macaroni and cheese, stuffing, and milk. Adequate handwashing and table sanitation were observed before and after eating. The allegations were reviewed with Ms. Runkal and various staff members. Everyone was given the opportunity to state their perceptions of the allegations. The facility does not have video surveillance. Allegation #1: There are safety concerns regarding the outdoor learning environment. ***Ms. Runkal reported on November 13, 2025, a child 2 years of age, had a braid pulled out of her scalp when going down the slide. The staff member responsible for this child stated the child lay flat to go down the slide and her bead got stuck in the gap between platform and the slide which caused the braid to get pulled out. We monitored the play structure and found that it was installed correctly and there were no concerns regarding the structure itself. An incident report was generated and available for our review today. Based on my investigation, staff report, and observations, this allegation is not confirmed. The following violation was observed during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. A 9 month old infant was sleeping with a blanket in his crib and another infant 4 months of age was asleep in a bouncy seat in space 1 (jellyfish). 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 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 December 8, 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 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. Technical Assistance: North Carolina's safe sleep policy, which is required for licensed childcare providers, mandates that all infants 12 months or younger be placed on their backs to sleep on a firm, flat surface without loose bedding or toys. Key elements include providers having a written safe sleep policy shared with parents, completing mandatory training, performing regular visual checks of sleeping infants, and ensuring no items are placed over the infant's head or face. Both infant staff members in space 1 (jellyfish) have current ITS/SIDS certifications; however, as we discussed today, I suggest they both retake ITS/SIDS to refresh their memories on the requirements. Today we discussed children wearing bonnets when they have braids, beads, barrettes, etc. to help prevent their hair getting stuck in equipment while playing. 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 or 910-824-0954 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #3 Facility ID: 65001041 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0225-318L Visit Date: 7/29/2025 Number Present: 90 Completed Date: 7/29/2025 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 185 Time In: 10:25 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an administrative action follow-up visit, including the Corrective Action Plan included in the Written Warning issued by the DCDEE to this facility on April 22, 2025. Child Care Consultant, Natalie Pond, accompanied me on the visit. The program operates with a 5-star license issued February 20, 2022, earning 6 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced space; and meets enhanced ratios. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 94%. District Manager, Jennifer DeJoseph, assisted me with the visit today. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ELA KIDSNET HOLDINGS, LLC was listed as current- active. Ninety (90) children ages birth through ten (10) were observed in spaces 1-7 and 9-12. Children participated in free play indoors engaged in personal care routines such as toileting and meals. Adequate handwashing was observed. Lunch for today was diced chicken with gravy, brown rice, cranberry sauce, green beans, and milk. Adequate supervision and staff/child ratios were monitored and found in compliance. The Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on April 22, 2025. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding supervision and transportation. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes five (5) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 was monitored and found in compliance. Stipulation #2 – The program began this stipulation on May 1, 2025 by contacting Matthew Schaeffer, Child Care Resource & Referral to schedule a staff training on supervision. On May 5, 2025, I received an email that Mr. Schaeffer has resigned from his position at CCR&R effective May 9, 2025. I emailed upper management for approval for how to proceed. Upper management approved for me to conduct the training. the training was completed on July 2, 2025. Documentation of the training was received on July 2, 2025 after the completion of the training. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #3 – This stipulation was due by July 16, 2025. Supervision policy and procedures were received and approved on July 11, 2025. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #4 – This stipulation was due May 12, 2025. A first draft was received on May 12, 2025. The final policy was received on May 20, 2025. Today I reviewed the transportation procedures emailed to me in conjunction with the policy already being used. The program plans to add the transportation procedures to the existing transportation orientation for staff policy. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #5 – This stipulation was due July 18, 2025. The program held an all staff meeting on July 17, 2025 to review the new policies and procedures. Documentation of the meeting was received July 18, 2025. This stipulation is complete. All stipulations will be monitored routinely until the facility demonstrates the implementations are working effectively. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. A monthly playground inspection was not completed for June 2025. .0605(q) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. A staff member hired June 16, 2025 has not received at least 16 hours or orientation. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Four (4) new staff members did not receive six clock hours of training in the required topic areas within the first two (2) weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) 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 August 12, 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: Please ensure staff files are organized according to the file checklist found on the DCDEE website. This updated checklist reflects revised child care rules and lists deadlines for completion of certain documents. Please also update your Staff and Training Worksheet based on revisions made today and ensure you keep it updated as needed. This document should serve as a tracking tool for required paperwork and deadlines. You may wish to delegate some recordkeeping responsibilities to another staff member who has good organizational skills and is able to assist. This will allow you to trust that accurate records are being kept while you focus on other aspects of managing your facility. 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 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #3 Facility ID: 65001041 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/24/2025 Number Present: 78 Completed Date: 6/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 08:25 AM Time Out: 12:15 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 and for an administrative action follow-up. Jennifer DeJoseph, District Manager, assisted me with the visit. The program currently operates with a 5-star license issued February 20, 2022, earning 6 points in program standards, 6 points in staff education, and 1 quality point in the programmatic option. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted July 9, 2024. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 94%. Head Start, Early Head Start, and NC Pre K are out for summer break. Children were observed in free play in licensed spaces. All activity plans were current and aligned with NC Early Childhood Foundations. Staff had informal conversations with children and engaged in play as well. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored as well as transportation vehicles. Adequate materials and activities were observed for each space. Children did not participate in outdoor play today due to the weather advisory. Lunch for today consisted of macaroni and cheese, green peas, diced pears, and milk. The last sanitation inspection was completed on April 2, 2025, with a superior rating. The last fire inspection was completed on December 31, 2024, and the facility was approved for daytime care only. The following violation was observed and corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. Two (2) bottles in space 2 (guppies) were not dated with today's date. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(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. Technical Assistance: Infant bottles must be labeled with the child's name and date. This helps staff ensure they are feeding appropriate bottles to children. Today we discussed administration checking refrigerators to ensure all bottles are labeled correctly around mid morning. Reminder: The vans need to vacuumed and cleaned out before their next use. Written Warning: The Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on April 22, 2025. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding supervision and transportation. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes five (5) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 was monitored and found in compliance. Stipulation #2 – The program began this stipulation on May 1, 2025 by contacting Matthew Schaeffer, Child Care Resource & Referral to schedule a staff training on supervision. On May 5, 2025, I received an email that Mr. Schaeffer has resigned from his position at CCR&R effective May 9, 2025. I will be conducting the training on June 25, 2025. Stipulation #3 – This stipulation is pending and will be due two (2) weeks after the training required in Stipulation #2 is completed. Stipulation #4 – This stipulation was due May 12, 2025. A first draft was received on May 12, 2025. The final policy was received on May 20, 2025. Today I reviewed the transportation procedures emailed to me in conjunction with the policy already being used. The program plans to add the transportation procedures to the existing transportation orientation for staff policy. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #5 – This stipulation is pending and will be due one (1) week after the written policies and procedures related to supervision and transportation have been met. All stipulations will be monitored routinely until the facility demonstrates the implementations are working effectively. 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 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #3 Facility ID: 65001041 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0525-320L Visit Date: 6/2/2025 Number Present: 119 Completed Date: 6/2/2025 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 11:45 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 alleged violations of childcare requirements. The program operates with a 5-star license issued February 20, 2022, earning 6 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced space; and meets enhanced ratios. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 93%. Wendy Runkal, Director, Megan Bauer, Assistant Director, assisted me with the visit today. 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 required information. Additionally, I observed the indoor and outdoor spaces used by the children. Children were observed in spaces 1-12. Adequate handwashing and sanitation practices were observed. Staff/child ratios were as follows: Space 1 - jellyfish - 2:6 (infants) Space 2 – guppies – 1:4 (infants) Space 3 –otters – 2:6 (two / three year olds) Space 4 - narwhals - 2:12 (three year olds) Space 5 –barnacles – 2:9 (ones/two year olds) Space 6 – turtles – 2:7 (one/two year olds) Space 7 - starfish - 2:6 (one year olds) Space 8 - stingrays - 2:13 (three/four/five year olds) Space 9 –pelicans – 2:16 (four/five year olds) Space 10 –sharks – 2:17 (four/five year olds) Space 11 –seahorses – 1:10 (three/four year olds/school age) Space 12 - dolphins - 2:13 (two/three year olds) Allegation 1: There is a concern that staff/child ratio is not being maintained. *Two (2) staff members reported on May 23, 2025, a teacher was left with fifteen (15) children, 4-5 years of age, in space 9 (pelicans) while a second staff member took a child outside to retrieve her glasses. Space 9 (pelicans) cares for children funded by NC PreK; therefore, the staff/child ratios is 1:9. Based on the observation, investigation, and staff report, the allegation was confirmed. The following violation was observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 1775 NC Pre-K program staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. On May 23, 2025, a staff member was left alone with fifteen children, 4-5 years of age, in space 9 (pelicans) while a second staff member took a child out to the playground to get her glasses. .3009 Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 16, 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: Maintaining staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes is essential to the health and safety of children. Staff must be aware of children’s ages and how many children are always in each group. Staff cannot leave classrooms out of ratio for any amount of time. Today we discussed having a conversation with staff on slowing down and thinking next steps out before acting. On May 23rd, staff should have waited until another staff member was available or she should have taken an appropriate amount of children outside with her to retrieve the glasses. Additional concerns: Today multiple staff members stated they do not feel supported by administrative staff when they need to use the restroom or when they need assistance in their classrooms. Today we discussed scheduling morning and afternoon breaks in addition to using the walkie-talkies for bathroom breaks. We also discussed better communication when administration cannot quickly get to requests. We all know how busy child care can be; however, administration should be supportive and available to assist in a timely manner. 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 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #3 Facility ID: 65001041 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0225-318L Visit Date: 5/5/2025 Number Present: 120 Completed Date: 5/5/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 12:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an administrative action follow-up visit, including the Corrective Action Plan included in the Written Warning issued by the DCDEE to this facility on April 22, 2025. The program operates with a 5-star license issued February 20, 2022, earning 6 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced space; and meets enhanced ratios. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 94%. Assistant Director, Megan Bauer, and District Managers, Jennifer DeJoseph and Aubrie McPhaul assisted me with the visit today. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and ELA KIDSNET HOLDINGS, LLC was listed as current- active. One hundred twenty (120) children were observed in spaces 1-12. Children participated in free play indoors and outdoors or engaged in personal care routines. Adequate handwashing was observed. Lunch for today was cheeseburgers, whole wheat buns, tater tots, applesauce, and milk. Adequate supervision and staff/child ratios were monitored and found in compliance. The Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on April 22, 2025. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding supervision and transportation. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes five (5) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 was monitored and found in compliance. Stipulation #2 – The program began this stipulation on May 1, 2025 by contacting Matthew Schaeffer, Child Care Resource & Referral to schedule a staff training on supervision. On May 5, 2025, I received an email that Mr. Schaeffer has resigned from his position at CCR&R effective May 9, 2025. I will contact you as soon as I have a replacement trainee. Stipulation #3 – This stipulation is pending and will be due two (2) weeks after the training required in Stipulation #2 is completed. Stipulation #4 – This stipulation is pending and due by May 12, 2025. Stipulation #5 – This stipulation is pending and will be due one (1) week after the written policy and procedures in Stipulation #4 are met. All stipulations will be monitored routinely until the facility demonstrates the implementations are working effectively. Violations were not observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not successfully complete 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. Two (2) staff members did not successfully complete 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 May 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 that 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: 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 Routine unannounced visits will continue to occur until the Corrective Action Plan is completed. Reminders: A director’s meeting will be hosted by Child Care Consultants April Lester and Shereen Pickett in collaboration with the Assessors from North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project You will be introduced to the ITERS-3 and ECERS-3. The information presented will include basic terms and definitions as well as details about specific items and indicators. Examples of different ways programs can earn credit for various indicators will be shared. The audience will have an opportunity to ask questions. The meetings will be held in-person at CFCC North Campus on May 22, 2025. You are encouraged to attend this meeting. You will receive on-going training hours if you attend. If you have questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact me at 910-824-0954, april.lester@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 .1002 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #3 Facility ID: 65001041 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-416L Visit Date: 3/27/2025 Number Present: 91 Completed Date: 3/27/2025 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 03:30 PM Time Out: 05:15 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 obtain information regarding alleged violations of childcare requirements. The program operates with a 5-star license issued February 20, 2022, earning 6 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced space; and meets enhanced ratios. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 95%. District Manager, Jennifer DeJoseph, and Megan Bauer, Assistant Director, assisted me with the visit today. 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 required information. Additionally, I observed the indoor and outdoor spaces used by the children. Children were observed in free play indoors and outdoors. Positive and appropriate staff/child interactions were observed as well as active supervision in all spaces. Adequate handwashing and sanitation practices were observed. Staff/child ratios were as follows: Space 2 – guppies – 1:4 (infants) Space 4 –narwhals – 2:8 (three/four year olds) Space 5 –barnacles – 2:10 (ones/two year olds) Space 6 – turtles – 1:4 (one/two year olds) Space 8 – stingrays – 2:17 (school age) Space 9 –pelicans – 1:10 (four/five year olds) Space 10 –sharks – 1:15 (four/five year olds) Space 11 –seahorses – 2:9 (four/five year olds) Space 12 – dolphins – 2:14 (two/three year olds) Allegation 1: There is a concern that children are not being safely transported. ** While traveling south on Highway 17 towards Wilmington, I saw an EXCEL van (801) ahead of me. Children were observed moving around inside of the van, hanging over the back of a seat, and a child was observed holding a booster seat over their head. I followed the van to the child care facility. Upon arrival, I immediately approached the van. There were eight (8) children on the van ranging from 5-9 years of age with one staff member and none of the children were in their seat belts. The bus driver, T. Bullard, stated that she allows them to unbuckle once they get into the parking lot. Since children were observed not properly restrained while the van was in motion, this allegation was substantiated. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 1106 Each adult and child was not restrained by appropriate individual belt/device. On March 27, 2024, eight (8) children were observed not properly restrained by an appropriate individual belt/device while being transported from school to the child care facility. GS 110-91(13) 1123 All vehicles used to transport children were not free of hazards. In bus #801, the felt on the ceiling if falling down and torn. 10A NCAC 09 .1002(a) 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 April 10, 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 that 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: G.S. 20-137.1(a1) reads as: "(a1) A child less than eight years of age and less than 80 pounds in weight shall be properly secured in a weight-appropriate child passenger restraint system. All children must be buckled when the vehicle is moving. Today we discussed the importance of staff physically checking children to ensure they are properly restrained. Due the nature/severity of the violations, 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 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

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #3 Facility ID: 65001041 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-416L Visit Date: 3/27/2025 Number Present: 91 Completed Date: 3/27/2025 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 03:30 PM Time Out: 05:15 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 obtain information regarding alleged violations of childcare requirements. The program operates with a 5-star license issued February 20, 2022, earning 6 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced space; and meets enhanced ratios. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 95%. District Manager, Jennifer DeJoseph, and Megan Bauer, Assistant Director, assisted me with the visit today. 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 required information. Additionally, I observed the indoor and outdoor spaces used by the children. Children were observed in free play indoors and outdoors. Positive and appropriate staff/child interactions were observed as well as active supervision in all spaces. Adequate handwashing and sanitation practices were observed. Staff/child ratios were as follows: Space 2 – guppies – 1:4 (infants) Space 4 –narwhals – 2:8 (three/four year olds) Space 5 –barnacles – 2:10 (ones/two year olds) Space 6 – turtles – 1:4 (one/two year olds) Space 8 – stingrays – 2:17 (school age) Space 9 –pelicans – 1:10 (four/five year olds) Space 10 –sharks – 1:15 (four/five year olds) Space 11 –seahorses – 2:9 (four/five year olds) Space 12 – dolphins – 2:14 (two/three year olds) Allegation 1: There is a concern that children are not being safely transported. ** While traveling south on Highway 17 towards Wilmington, I saw an EXCEL van (801) ahead of me. Children were observed moving around inside of the van, hanging over the back of a seat, and a child was observed holding a booster seat over their head. I followed the van to the child care facility. Upon arrival, I immediately approached the van. There were eight (8) children on the van ranging from 5-9 years of age with one staff member and none of the children were in their seat belts. The bus driver, T. Bullard, stated that she allows them to unbuckle once they get into the parking lot. Since children were observed not properly restrained while the van was in motion, this allegation was substantiated. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 1106 Each adult and child was not restrained by appropriate individual belt/device. On March 27, 2024, eight (8) children were observed not properly restrained by an appropriate individual belt/device while being transported from school to the child care facility. GS 110-91(13) 1123 All vehicles used to transport children were not free of hazards. In bus #801, the felt on the ceiling if falling down and torn. 10A NCAC 09 .1002(a) 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 April 10, 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 that 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: G.S. 20-137.1(a1) reads as: "(a1) A child less than eight years of age and less than 80 pounds in weight shall be properly secured in a weight-appropriate child passenger restraint system. All children must be buckled when the vehicle is moving. Today we discussed the importance of staff physically checking children to ensure they are properly restrained. Due the nature/severity of the violations, 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 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #3 Facility ID: 65001041 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-416L Visit Date: 3/27/2025 Number Present: 91 Completed Date: 3/27/2025 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 03:30 PM Time Out: 05:15 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 obtain information regarding alleged violations of childcare requirements. The program operates with a 5-star license issued February 20, 2022, earning 6 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced space; and meets enhanced ratios. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 95%. District Manager, Jennifer DeJoseph, and Megan Bauer, Assistant Director, assisted me with the visit today. 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 required information. Additionally, I observed the indoor and outdoor spaces used by the children. Children were observed in free play indoors and outdoors. Positive and appropriate staff/child interactions were observed as well as active supervision in all spaces. Adequate handwashing and sanitation practices were observed. Staff/child ratios were as follows: Space 2 – guppies – 1:4 (infants) Space 4 –narwhals – 2:8 (three/four year olds) Space 5 –barnacles – 2:10 (ones/two year olds) Space 6 – turtles – 1:4 (one/two year olds) Space 8 – stingrays – 2:17 (school age) Space 9 –pelicans – 1:10 (four/five year olds) Space 10 –sharks – 1:15 (four/five year olds) Space 11 –seahorses – 2:9 (four/five year olds) Space 12 – dolphins – 2:14 (two/three year olds) Allegation 1: There is a concern that children are not being safely transported. ** While traveling south on Highway 17 towards Wilmington, I saw an EXCEL van (801) ahead of me. Children were observed moving around inside of the van, hanging over the back of a seat, and a child was observed holding a booster seat over their head. I followed the van to the child care facility. Upon arrival, I immediately approached the van. There were eight (8) children on the van ranging from 5-9 years of age with one staff member and none of the children were in their seat belts. The bus driver, T. Bullard, stated that she allows them to unbuckle once they get into the parking lot. Since children were observed not properly restrained while the van was in motion, this allegation was substantiated. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 1106 Each adult and child was not restrained by appropriate individual belt/device. On March 27, 2024, eight (8) children were observed not properly restrained by an appropriate individual belt/device while being transported from school to the child care facility. GS 110-91(13) 1123 All vehicles used to transport children were not free of hazards. In bus #801, the felt on the ceiling if falling down and torn. 10A NCAC 09 .1002(a) 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 April 10, 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 that 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: G.S. 20-137.1(a1) reads as: "(a1) A child less than eight years of age and less than 80 pounds in weight shall be properly secured in a weight-appropriate child passenger restraint system. All children must be buckled when the vehicle is moving. Today we discussed the importance of staff physically checking children to ensure they are properly restrained. Due the nature/severity of the violations, 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 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #3 Facility ID: 65001041 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-282L Visit Date: 3/25/2025 Number Present: 119 Completed Date: 3/25/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of childcare requirements. The program operates with a 5-star license issued February 20, 2022, earning 6 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced space; and meets enhanced ratios. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 97%. Wendy Runkal, Director, Megan Bauer, Assistant Director, assisted me with the visit today. 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 required information. Additionally, I observed the indoor and outdoor spaces used by the children. Children were observed in spaces 1-12. Adequate handwashing and sanitation practices were observed. Staff/child ratios were as follows: Space 1 - jellyfish - 2:8 (infants) Space 2 – guppies – 1:3 (infants) Space 3 –otters – 2:6 (two / three year olds) Space 4 - narwhals - 2:15 (three year olds) Space 5 –barnacles – 2:9 (ones/two year olds) Space 6 – turtles – 3:8 (one/two year olds) Space 7 - starfish - 2:7 (one year olds) Space 8 - stingrays - 2:11 (three/four/five year olds) Space 9 –pelicans – 2:14 (four/five year olds) Space 10 –sharks – 3:16 (four/five year olds) Space 11 –seahorses – 1:9 (three/four year olds) Space 12 - dolphins - 2:13 (two/three year olds) Allegation 1: There is a concern that children were not adequately supervised. *Two (2) staff members reported a staff member on her cell phone on March 19, 2024 while she was supposed to be supervising a group of preschool aged children while on the playground. In addition, during my observations today, a child was bitten twice on the arm in space 4 while teachers were tending to other behavioral issues. Both teachers had their backs turned towards the child who was bitten. Also, during my observations in space 4, children were actively climbing on furniture and hitting one another. These behaviors were unnoticed by staff due to their positioning (backs turned) and the fact that both were tending to the same child's needs. Based on the observation, investigation, and staff report, the allegation was substantiated. The following violation was observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. Two (2) staff members reported a staff member on her cell phone on March 19, 2024 while she was supposed to be supervising a group of preschool aged children while on the playground. In addition, during my observations today, a child was bitten twice on the arm in space 4 while teachers were tending to other behavioral issues. Both teachers had their backs turned towards the child who was bitten. Also, during my observations in space 4 children were actively climbing on furniture and hitting one another. These behaviors were unnoticed by staff due to their positioning (backs turned) and them tending to other children's needs. .1801(a)(1-5) 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 April 8, 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: 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. You need to have the ability to step in and take care of unwanted situations before they become a larger issue. Being visible and available during the day creates an atmosphere of trust in which staff know they can depend on you for support and fair decision-making. Be firm but fair, be confidential, and know that you can not befriend those that you supervise. 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 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #3 Facility ID: 65001041 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0225-318L Visit Date: 3/5/2025 Number Present: 83 Completed Date: 3/5/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 11:45 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of childcare requirements. The program operates with a 5-star license issued February 20, 2022, earning 6 points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced space; and meets enhanced ratios. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 97%. Early Learning Program Manager, Stephanie Wood and District Manager, Jennifer DeJoseph, assisted me with the visit today. 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 required information. Additionally, I observed the indoor and outdoor spaces used by the children. Children were observed in spaces 2-6, and 9-11. Positive and appropriate staff/child interactions were observed as well as active supervision in all spaces. Adequate handwashing and sanitation practices were observed. Staff/child ratios were as follows: Space 2 – guppies – 2:5 (infants/ones) Space 3 –otters – 1:15 (two year olds) early head start (nap time) Space 4 –narwhals – 1:8 (three year olds) head start Space 5 –barnacles – 2:10 (ones/two year olds) Space 6 – turtles – 1:3 (one) early head start Space 9 –pelicans – 2:14 (four/five year olds) head start & NCPK Space 10 –sharks – 1:15 (four/five year olds) head start & NCPK (nap) Space 11 –seahorses – 1:9 (four/five year olds) (nap) Allegation 1: There is a concern that children were not adequately supervised. **On February 24, 2025, while outdoors, one teacher was present with nine (9) children, two (2) to three (3) years of age. The teacher stood by the dual slides when she heard two children in a verbal altercation. She walked over to assist the children to resolve the conflict. While doing so, she heard the child, 3 years of age, scream. She looked over, saw the child upset and holding her head. One of the braids of a three year old child had been pulled out, leaving a bald spot. She approached the child, comforted the child, and asked the child what happened. The child continued to cry and hold her head. Once the child calmed down, she asked to go play with her peers. Shortly afterwards, the mother arrived to pick up the child and the staff member told the parent the child was hurt by the slide while she was tending to other children; however, she did not see what happened. That’s when the mother noticed the bald spot on her child’s head. Based on the observation, investigation, and staff report, the allegation was substantiated. An incident report was on file for the incident. Allegation 2: There is a concern that staff/child ratios are not being followed. **Staff/child ratios were monitored and found in compliance today. Constant Supervision Records (CSR) are used by the facility to track arrival/departure times for all children when transitioning to and from spaces throughout the day. These records were observed for February 24, 2025, and none of the classrooms were out of ratio. Four (4) staff members were interviewed today and none of them reported any concerns with staff/child ratios. Based on the observation, investigation, and staff report, this allegation was unsubstantiated. The following violation was observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. On February 24, 2025, a child three (3) years of age, had a braid pulled out, causing a bald spot while playing on the slide. The teacher present was tending to two (2) other children in a verbal altercation and does not know how the bald spot happened. .1801(a)(1-5) 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. Today we discussed positioning while supervising a children on your own, such as never turning your back to the group. 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