Palmetto Preschool-Myrtle Grove

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Palmetto Preschool-Myrtle Grove Facility ID: 65001108 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/18/2026 Number Present: 37 Completed Date: 2/18/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 200 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 12:00 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. The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued March 4, 2025, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. As of 02/15/26, this facility has an 18-month compliance history of 96%. 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 Palmetto Preschool & Learning Center LLC was listed as current-active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 08/26/25. XX staff have not been hired since the last monitoring visit. Sanitation Inspection – 12/11/25 – 8 Demerits – Superior Classification Fire Inspection – 12/16/25 – Approved for day time care only There are nine (9) indoor spaces, and four (4) outdoor spaces approved for use. Currently five (5) indoor spaces are being used. There are fifty-eight (58) children enrolled and thirty-seven (37) children, ages 0-5, were present today. Accurate attendance records are kept and monitored today. Infants and toddlers participated in free play with fine motor and soft toys. Feeding schedules and safe sleep charts were monitored and found in compliance. Children 2-3 years of age participated in group time where they recited words and colors on flash cards. Children 3-4 years of age ate breakfast that consisted of pancakes, oranges, and milk. Children present in NC Pre-K participated in group circle time then transitioned to outdoor play. Each classroom had spaces arranged into activity areas that include art, blocks, science, library, dramatic play, manipulative, music and music. Age-appropriate learning materials were accessible and observed in each classroom. Activity plans and daily schedules were available for each group of children, observed posted in each classroom and aligned with NC Early Childhood Foundations. 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 Early Childhood Screen III (3-5 Years). NC Pre-K requirements were met today. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. The kitchen/laundry room was not locked. .2820(b) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. Albuterol in space 4 was not in the original labeled container. .0803(2)(a) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Leftover albuterol was observed in space 4. .0803(12) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Two new staff members have not received at least 16 hours of orientation. .1101(a) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. Two staff members did not have qualification letters on file. Their qualification was verified through ABCMS. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 4, 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 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: 15A NCAC 18A.2804(d) requires all food and beverage items brought from home must be labeled with the child’s name and the date. If parents fail to complete this task it is the responsibility of the staff member. Today we discussed staff ensuring all items are properly labeled before going into the refrigerators. Technical Assistance: All staff must have a qualification letter on file from our agency. Today you stated some staff are having a hard time logging into their portal to access their letter. I suggest you have them call the CBC unit to see if they can be of assistance. Each employee who is expected to have contact with children shall receive six clock hours of training in required topic areas within the first two weeks of employment and 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. A list of approved orientation topics and a documentation log along with required timelines can be found on the divisions website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ under the provider documents tab Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. The kitchen/laundry room must remain locked at all times. Regarding medication authorizations, I encouraged you today to make lists of medications brought in by parents which include children’s names, types of medications, expiration dates of medications and expiration dates of authorization forms. This will allow staff members to easily see when medications or authorization forms are about to expire so they can return them to parents or get new authorization forms within 72 hours as required. I strongly encourage you to review the child care rules regarding medication and share them with staff. It may be helpful to create a checklist for staff to assist them in making sure requirements regarding permission, storage and administration are met. I also encourage you to check the classroom medicine boxes on a regular basis as an additional monitoring measure. 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 -04/23/21. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint- no results • Asbestos- no hazards 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/ Other Information: Criminal Background Check Information – the required ABCMS training has been completed and the program 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. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) are live. 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. 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. Benson 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 or Kim Sherry, Licensing Supervisor at 910-824-0470 or kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Palmetto Preschool-Myrtle Grove Facility ID: 65001108 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/18/2026 Number Present: 37 Completed Date: 2/18/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 200 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 12:00 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. The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued March 4, 2025, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. As of 02/15/26, this facility has an 18-month compliance history of 96%. 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 Palmetto Preschool & Learning Center LLC was listed as current-active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 08/26/25. XX staff have not been hired since the last monitoring visit. Sanitation Inspection – 12/11/25 – 8 Demerits – Superior Classification Fire Inspection – 12/16/25 – Approved for day time care only There are nine (9) indoor spaces, and four (4) outdoor spaces approved for use. Currently five (5) indoor spaces are being used. There are fifty-eight (58) children enrolled and thirty-seven (37) children, ages 0-5, were present today. Accurate attendance records are kept and monitored today. Infants and toddlers participated in free play with fine motor and soft toys. Feeding schedules and safe sleep charts were monitored and found in compliance. Children 2-3 years of age participated in group time where they recited words and colors on flash cards. Children 3-4 years of age ate breakfast that consisted of pancakes, oranges, and milk. Children present in NC Pre-K participated in group circle time then transitioned to outdoor play. Each classroom had spaces arranged into activity areas that include art, blocks, science, library, dramatic play, manipulative, music and music. Age-appropriate learning materials were accessible and observed in each classroom. Activity plans and daily schedules were available for each group of children, observed posted in each classroom and aligned with NC Early Childhood Foundations. 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 Early Childhood Screen III (3-5 Years). NC Pre-K requirements were met today. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. The kitchen/laundry room was not locked. .2820(b) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. Albuterol in space 4 was not in the original labeled container. .0803(2)(a) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Leftover albuterol was observed in space 4. .0803(12) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Two new staff members have not received at least 16 hours of orientation. .1101(a) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. Two staff members did not have qualification letters on file. Their qualification was verified through ABCMS. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 4, 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 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: 15A NCAC 18A.2804(d) requires all food and beverage items brought from home must be labeled with the child’s name and the date. If parents fail to complete this task it is the responsibility of the staff member. Today we discussed staff ensuring all items are properly labeled before going into the refrigerators. Technical Assistance: All staff must have a qualification letter on file from our agency. Today you stated some staff are having a hard time logging into their portal to access their letter. I suggest you have them call the CBC unit to see if they can be of assistance. Each employee who is expected to have contact with children shall receive six clock hours of training in required topic areas within the first two weeks of employment and 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. A list of approved orientation topics and a documentation log along with required timelines can be found on the divisions website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ under the provider documents tab Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. The kitchen/laundry room must remain locked at all times. Regarding medication authorizations, I encouraged you today to make lists of medications brought in by parents which include children’s names, types of medications, expiration dates of medications and expiration dates of authorization forms. This will allow staff members to easily see when medications or authorization forms are about to expire so they can return them to parents or get new authorization forms within 72 hours as required. I strongly encourage you to review the child care rules regarding medication and share them with staff. It may be helpful to create a checklist for staff to assist them in making sure requirements regarding permission, storage and administration are met. I also encourage you to check the classroom medicine boxes on a regular basis as an additional monitoring measure. 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 -04/23/21. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint- no results • Asbestos- no hazards 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/ Other Information: Criminal Background Check Information – the required ABCMS training has been completed and the program 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. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) are live. 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. 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. Benson 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 or Kim Sherry, Licensing Supervisor at 910-824-0470 or kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0605 · Violation

Name of Operation: Palmetto Preschool-Myrtle Grove Facility ID: 65001108 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/26/2025 Number Present: 33 Completed Date: 8/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 09:00 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 visit. India Benson, Director, assisted me with the visit. The program currently operates with a 5-star license issued March 4, 2025, 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. This is the program’s first annual compliance visit. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 100%. The last sanitation inspection occurred May 30, 2025, with a superior rating. The last fire inspection occurred December 13, 2024, and the program was approved for daytime care only. All licensed indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Children were observed in free play with age-appropriate materials and activities both indoors and outdoors. Children arriving to the program adequately washed their hands. All activity plans were current and aligned with NC Early Childhood Foundations. Staff had informal conversations with children and engaged in play a well. Lunch scheduled for today consisted of chicken nuggets, mixed vegetables, applesauce, and milk. All new staff files and 10% of existing staff files were monitored today. The ABCMS portal was reviewed and found to contain the required information. The outdoor playground fencing has been replaced. You also created a new infant/toddler playground inside of playground #2. Today I was able to update the space calculations for space #2 and create a space calculation for the new playground #4. Space #2 now has a capacity of 47 children and Space #4 has a capacity of 12 children. The following violations were observed and corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. The stationary climbing structure on playground #3 was placed over grass rather than over protective surfacing. Administration blocked off the structure with caution tape and instructed the classrooms that use that space to use playground #1 until the structure is removed. .0605(j) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. An aerosol can of air refreshener was located in the unlocked bathroom at the end of the hallway. This was removed and locked away during the visit. .2820(b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Leftover bug spray was observed in space 9 and was discarded during the visit. .0803(12) 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: Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. Today you were able to remove the aerosol spray from the bathroom. I encourage administration to do a walkthrough of all spaces at the start of each day to ensure all hazardous products are stowed appropriately. Nationally, nearly 70% of playground related injuries are from falls. Fall injuries are the result of two things: 1) The height a child falls from and 2) The material/surface the child falls upon. Provide “soft” resilient surfacing under and around stationary playground equipment. Refer to 10A NCAC 09 .0605(h)(i). Today you were ablet to block off the climbing structure on playground #3 and instructed those classrooms that use that space to use playground #1 until the climbing structure is removed. When no longer needed by the child, or when the child withdraws from the program, all medications should be returned to the child’s parent/guardian or disposed of after an attempt to reach parent/guardian within 72 hours of completion of treatment. Today we discussed different ways for administration to help teachers track expiration dates. Reminders: You need to sign up to take Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR). For the health and safety of the children, at least one staff member must be trained in Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR). If the trained staff member leaves the center, someone else must complete the training within four months. The trained staff member must create and/or update the EPR Plan in the NC Risk Management Portal within four months of being trained. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed in April 2021. Today you stated you will have this testing done ASAP as you were not privy to this requirement. • Lead-Based Paint- no results • Asbestos- testing done June 2024 - no hazards 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/ As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. Be reminded that you have five (5) business days from the date of hire/termination to add/remove staff from the portal. The Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood-PLUS (MCCYN-PLUS) initiative launched in North Carolina to make it easier for military families to access and afford quality child care from community providers. Licensed child care facilities are now able to participate in MCCYN-PLUS based on their star rating. If you are interested in participating in the military fee assistance program, please visit: https://www.childcareaware.org/feeassistancerespite/feeassistancerespiteproviders/feeassistance/ to review the application process. 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. Rated License Information: The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments is ending, and the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are forthcoming. You can find the most current information on our website under the QRIS modernization section QRIS Modernization. If you are interested in the outreach assessments through NCRLAP. I encourage you to go ahead and get those scheduled. Today we discussed Pathway 2 as well. As I mentioned I encourage you to go to the QRIS Modernization tab on our website (https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/) and review all links to help you decide which Pathway will work best for you. 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

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Palmetto Preschool-Myrtle Grove Facility ID: 65001108 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/26/2025 Number Present: 33 Completed Date: 8/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 09:00 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 visit. India Benson, Director, assisted me with the visit. The program currently operates with a 5-star license issued March 4, 2025, 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. This is the program’s first annual compliance visit. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 100%. The last sanitation inspection occurred May 30, 2025, with a superior rating. The last fire inspection occurred December 13, 2024, and the program was approved for daytime care only. All licensed indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Children were observed in free play with age-appropriate materials and activities both indoors and outdoors. Children arriving to the program adequately washed their hands. All activity plans were current and aligned with NC Early Childhood Foundations. Staff had informal conversations with children and engaged in play a well. Lunch scheduled for today consisted of chicken nuggets, mixed vegetables, applesauce, and milk. All new staff files and 10% of existing staff files were monitored today. The ABCMS portal was reviewed and found to contain the required information. The outdoor playground fencing has been replaced. You also created a new infant/toddler playground inside of playground #2. Today I was able to update the space calculations for space #2 and create a space calculation for the new playground #4. Space #2 now has a capacity of 47 children and Space #4 has a capacity of 12 children. The following violations were observed and corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. The stationary climbing structure on playground #3 was placed over grass rather than over protective surfacing. Administration blocked off the structure with caution tape and instructed the classrooms that use that space to use playground #1 until the structure is removed. .0605(j) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. An aerosol can of air refreshener was located in the unlocked bathroom at the end of the hallway. This was removed and locked away during the visit. .2820(b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Leftover bug spray was observed in space 9 and was discarded during the visit. .0803(12) 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: Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. Today you were able to remove the aerosol spray from the bathroom. I encourage administration to do a walkthrough of all spaces at the start of each day to ensure all hazardous products are stowed appropriately. Nationally, nearly 70% of playground related injuries are from falls. Fall injuries are the result of two things: 1) The height a child falls from and 2) The material/surface the child falls upon. Provide “soft” resilient surfacing under and around stationary playground equipment. Refer to 10A NCAC 09 .0605(h)(i). Today you were ablet to block off the climbing structure on playground #3 and instructed those classrooms that use that space to use playground #1 until the climbing structure is removed. When no longer needed by the child, or when the child withdraws from the program, all medications should be returned to the child’s parent/guardian or disposed of after an attempt to reach parent/guardian within 72 hours of completion of treatment. Today we discussed different ways for administration to help teachers track expiration dates. Reminders: You need to sign up to take Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR). For the health and safety of the children, at least one staff member must be trained in Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR). If the trained staff member leaves the center, someone else must complete the training within four months. The trained staff member must create and/or update the EPR Plan in the NC Risk Management Portal within four months of being trained. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed in April 2021. Today you stated you will have this testing done ASAP as you were not privy to this requirement. • Lead-Based Paint- no results • Asbestos- testing done June 2024 - no hazards 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/ As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. Be reminded that you have five (5) business days from the date of hire/termination to add/remove staff from the portal. The Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood-PLUS (MCCYN-PLUS) initiative launched in North Carolina to make it easier for military families to access and afford quality child care from community providers. Licensed child care facilities are now able to participate in MCCYN-PLUS based on their star rating. If you are interested in participating in the military fee assistance program, please visit: https://www.childcareaware.org/feeassistancerespite/feeassistancerespiteproviders/feeassistance/ to review the application process. 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. Rated License Information: The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments is ending, and the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are forthcoming. You can find the most current information on our website under the QRIS modernization section QRIS Modernization. If you are interested in the outreach assessments through NCRLAP. I encourage you to go ahead and get those scheduled. Today we discussed Pathway 2 as well. As I mentioned I encourage you to go to the QRIS Modernization tab on our website (https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/) and review all links to help you decide which Pathway will work best for you. 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: Palmetto Preschool-Myrtle Grove Facility ID: 65001108 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/26/2025 Number Present: 33 Completed Date: 8/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 09:00 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 visit. India Benson, Director, assisted me with the visit. The program currently operates with a 5-star license issued March 4, 2025, 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. This is the program’s first annual compliance visit. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 100%. The last sanitation inspection occurred May 30, 2025, with a superior rating. The last fire inspection occurred December 13, 2024, and the program was approved for daytime care only. All licensed indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Children were observed in free play with age-appropriate materials and activities both indoors and outdoors. Children arriving to the program adequately washed their hands. All activity plans were current and aligned with NC Early Childhood Foundations. Staff had informal conversations with children and engaged in play a well. Lunch scheduled for today consisted of chicken nuggets, mixed vegetables, applesauce, and milk. All new staff files and 10% of existing staff files were monitored today. The ABCMS portal was reviewed and found to contain the required information. The outdoor playground fencing has been replaced. You also created a new infant/toddler playground inside of playground #2. Today I was able to update the space calculations for space #2 and create a space calculation for the new playground #4. Space #2 now has a capacity of 47 children and Space #4 has a capacity of 12 children. The following violations were observed and corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. The stationary climbing structure on playground #3 was placed over grass rather than over protective surfacing. Administration blocked off the structure with caution tape and instructed the classrooms that use that space to use playground #1 until the structure is removed. .0605(j) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. An aerosol can of air refreshener was located in the unlocked bathroom at the end of the hallway. This was removed and locked away during the visit. .2820(b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Leftover bug spray was observed in space 9 and was discarded during the visit. .0803(12) 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: Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. Today you were able to remove the aerosol spray from the bathroom. I encourage administration to do a walkthrough of all spaces at the start of each day to ensure all hazardous products are stowed appropriately. Nationally, nearly 70% of playground related injuries are from falls. Fall injuries are the result of two things: 1) The height a child falls from and 2) The material/surface the child falls upon. Provide “soft” resilient surfacing under and around stationary playground equipment. Refer to 10A NCAC 09 .0605(h)(i). Today you were ablet to block off the climbing structure on playground #3 and instructed those classrooms that use that space to use playground #1 until the climbing structure is removed. When no longer needed by the child, or when the child withdraws from the program, all medications should be returned to the child’s parent/guardian or disposed of after an attempt to reach parent/guardian within 72 hours of completion of treatment. Today we discussed different ways for administration to help teachers track expiration dates. Reminders: You need to sign up to take Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR). For the health and safety of the children, at least one staff member must be trained in Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR). If the trained staff member leaves the center, someone else must complete the training within four months. The trained staff member must create and/or update the EPR Plan in the NC Risk Management Portal within four months of being trained. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed in April 2021. Today you stated you will have this testing done ASAP as you were not privy to this requirement. • Lead-Based Paint- no results • Asbestos- testing done June 2024 - no hazards 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/ As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. Be reminded that you have five (5) business days from the date of hire/termination to add/remove staff from the portal. The Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood-PLUS (MCCYN-PLUS) initiative launched in North Carolina to make it easier for military families to access and afford quality child care from community providers. Licensed child care facilities are now able to participate in MCCYN-PLUS based on their star rating. If you are interested in participating in the military fee assistance program, please visit: https://www.childcareaware.org/feeassistancerespite/feeassistancerespiteproviders/feeassistance/ to review the application process. 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. Rated License Information: The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments is ending, and the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are forthcoming. You can find the most current information on our website under the QRIS modernization section QRIS Modernization. If you are interested in the outreach assessments through NCRLAP. I encourage you to go ahead and get those scheduled. Today we discussed Pathway 2 as well. As I mentioned I encourage you to go to the QRIS Modernization tab on our website (https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/) and review all links to help you decide which Pathway will work best for you. 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