Spark Academy

10A NCAC 09 .0902 · Violation

Name of Operation: SPARK ACADEMY Facility ID: 65001077 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0326-296L Visit Date: 3/26/2026 Number Present: 70 Completed Date: 3/26/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 60 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 11:30 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 23, 2026. Your letter of compliance has not been received; as agreed, it must be received by before April 6, 2026, or a follow-up visit will be conducted. Limited monitoring of childcare requirements occurred today. Lead Child Care Consultant, Jennifer Garner, assisted with the visit today. The program currently operates with a 5-star license issued December 9, 2024. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and Girls Leadership Academy of Wilmington Foundation was listed as current- active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on September 10, 2025. As of March 25, 2026, your facility has an 18-month compliance history of 84%. 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. Fire Inspection – 08/27/2025 – Approved for day time care only Sanitation – 11/24/2025 – 4 Demerits – Superior Administrator, Tracy Ray, was present and assisted me with the visit today. Today, there were eight (8) classrooms operating, seventy-two (72) 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 12. Safe sleep checks and feeding schedules were also monitored. All preschool children were observed playing indoors and outdoors in their designated areas. Staff actively moved around the spaces adequately supervising children. Lunch scheduled for today consisted of fish nuggets, baked beans, blueberries, oranges, whole wheat rolls, 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, Tracy Ray, Director, reported an all staff meeting was held on March 25, 2026 from 6:00 – 7:00 pm to discuss supervision requirements. Per staff report, this meeting was beneficial. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 532 All children were not held or placed in feeding chairs or other appropriate apparatus to be fed. An infant in space 1 drank a bottle while sitting on the floor. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(b) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. Safe sleep charts were not recorded in real time. 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 April 9, 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 – Today we discussed ensuring infants are held for feedings or placed in appropriate feeding apparatus until they can hold their bottles by themselves. Once a child is able to hold his/her own bottle, it becomes a matter of choice whether the child is held or placed in an appropriate feeding device. Suggestion of appropriate feeding devices are high chair, feeding table, or child-size table and chairs. Appropriate feeding apparatus’ promote the healthy physical development of the child and prevent choking. A cushion on the floor is not designed to ensure the natural progression of the child’s motor skills but would rather encourage head tilting and the trunk leaning to the side and the body slumping. Feeding requires an erect posture to support necessary lung expansion and good breathing which is supportive of proper head alignment and crucial for the development of visual motor skills. Best practice is to check on sleeping infants every 15 minutes. Visual checks must be documented. Various sample sleeping charts are available to you on the DCDEE website, under the “provider documents” tab. Safe sleep checks must be kept for each child and kept on file for a minimum of one month. You currently are using the tablet and paper safe sleep checks. Today it was observed that the times documented in the tablet do not match the times listed on the paper safe sleep charts. If you are going to use two separate forms of tracking, they must match and must be documented in real time. Reminders: 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. Ray. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Licensing Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov or Kim Sherry, Licensing Supervisor, 910-824-0470, kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0606 · Violation

Name of Operation: SPARK ACADEMY Facility ID: 65001077 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0326-296L Visit Date: 3/26/2026 Number Present: 70 Completed Date: 3/26/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 60 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 11:30 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 23, 2026. Your letter of compliance has not been received; as agreed, it must be received by before April 6, 2026, or a follow-up visit will be conducted. Limited monitoring of childcare requirements occurred today. Lead Child Care Consultant, Jennifer Garner, assisted with the visit today. The program currently operates with a 5-star license issued December 9, 2024. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and Girls Leadership Academy of Wilmington Foundation was listed as current- active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on September 10, 2025. As of March 25, 2026, your facility has an 18-month compliance history of 84%. 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. Fire Inspection – 08/27/2025 – Approved for day time care only Sanitation – 11/24/2025 – 4 Demerits – Superior Administrator, Tracy Ray, was present and assisted me with the visit today. Today, there were eight (8) classrooms operating, seventy-two (72) 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 12. Safe sleep checks and feeding schedules were also monitored. All preschool children were observed playing indoors and outdoors in their designated areas. Staff actively moved around the spaces adequately supervising children. Lunch scheduled for today consisted of fish nuggets, baked beans, blueberries, oranges, whole wheat rolls, 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, Tracy Ray, Director, reported an all staff meeting was held on March 25, 2026 from 6:00 – 7:00 pm to discuss supervision requirements. Per staff report, this meeting was beneficial. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 532 All children were not held or placed in feeding chairs or other appropriate apparatus to be fed. An infant in space 1 drank a bottle while sitting on the floor. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(b) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. Safe sleep charts were not recorded in real time. 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 April 9, 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 – Today we discussed ensuring infants are held for feedings or placed in appropriate feeding apparatus until they can hold their bottles by themselves. Once a child is able to hold his/her own bottle, it becomes a matter of choice whether the child is held or placed in an appropriate feeding device. Suggestion of appropriate feeding devices are high chair, feeding table, or child-size table and chairs. Appropriate feeding apparatus’ promote the healthy physical development of the child and prevent choking. A cushion on the floor is not designed to ensure the natural progression of the child’s motor skills but would rather encourage head tilting and the trunk leaning to the side and the body slumping. Feeding requires an erect posture to support necessary lung expansion and good breathing which is supportive of proper head alignment and crucial for the development of visual motor skills. Best practice is to check on sleeping infants every 15 minutes. Visual checks must be documented. Various sample sleeping charts are available to you on the DCDEE website, under the “provider documents” tab. Safe sleep checks must be kept for each child and kept on file for a minimum of one month. You currently are using the tablet and paper safe sleep checks. Today it was observed that the times documented in the tablet do not match the times listed on the paper safe sleep charts. If you are going to use two separate forms of tracking, they must match and must be documented in real time. Reminders: 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. Ray. 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: SPARK ACADEMY Facility ID: 65001077 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0326-296L Visit Date: 3/26/2026 Number Present: 70 Completed Date: 3/26/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 60 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 11:30 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 23, 2026. Your letter of compliance has not been received; as agreed, it must be received by before April 6, 2026, or a follow-up visit will be conducted. Limited monitoring of childcare requirements occurred today. Lead Child Care Consultant, Jennifer Garner, assisted with the visit today. The program currently operates with a 5-star license issued December 9, 2024. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and Girls Leadership Academy of Wilmington Foundation was listed as current- active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on September 10, 2025. As of March 25, 2026, your facility has an 18-month compliance history of 84%. 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. Fire Inspection – 08/27/2025 – Approved for day time care only Sanitation – 11/24/2025 – 4 Demerits – Superior Administrator, Tracy Ray, was present and assisted me with the visit today. Today, there were eight (8) classrooms operating, seventy-two (72) 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 12. Safe sleep checks and feeding schedules were also monitored. All preschool children were observed playing indoors and outdoors in their designated areas. Staff actively moved around the spaces adequately supervising children. Lunch scheduled for today consisted of fish nuggets, baked beans, blueberries, oranges, whole wheat rolls, 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, Tracy Ray, Director, reported an all staff meeting was held on March 25, 2026 from 6:00 – 7:00 pm to discuss supervision requirements. Per staff report, this meeting was beneficial. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 532 All children were not held or placed in feeding chairs or other appropriate apparatus to be fed. An infant in space 1 drank a bottle while sitting on the floor. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(b) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. Safe sleep charts were not recorded in real time. 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 April 9, 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 – Today we discussed ensuring infants are held for feedings or placed in appropriate feeding apparatus until they can hold their bottles by themselves. Once a child is able to hold his/her own bottle, it becomes a matter of choice whether the child is held or placed in an appropriate feeding device. Suggestion of appropriate feeding devices are high chair, feeding table, or child-size table and chairs. Appropriate feeding apparatus’ promote the healthy physical development of the child and prevent choking. A cushion on the floor is not designed to ensure the natural progression of the child’s motor skills but would rather encourage head tilting and the trunk leaning to the side and the body slumping. Feeding requires an erect posture to support necessary lung expansion and good breathing which is supportive of proper head alignment and crucial for the development of visual motor skills. Best practice is to check on sleeping infants every 15 minutes. Visual checks must be documented. Various sample sleeping charts are available to you on the DCDEE website, under the “provider documents” tab. Safe sleep checks must be kept for each child and kept on file for a minimum of one month. You currently are using the tablet and paper safe sleep checks. Today it was observed that the times documented in the tablet do not match the times listed on the paper safe sleep charts. If you are going to use two separate forms of tracking, they must match and must be documented in real time. Reminders: 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. Ray. 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: SPARK ACADEMY Facility ID: 65001077 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0326-296L Visit Date: 3/23/2026 Number Present: 72 Completed Date: 3/23/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 130 Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 03:40 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. The program currently operates with a 5-star license issued December 9, 2024. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and Girls Leadership Academy of Wilmington Foundation was listed as current- active. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 85%. In addition to the allegation, supervision, staff/child ratios, adequate/approved space, and permit restrictions were monitored. There have been 0 new staff hired since the last monitoring visit. Tracy Ray, Director, was present and available for consultation. There were one eighty three (83) children enrolled and seventy two (72) 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 rest time or free play with age-appropriate materials and activities. The allegations were reviewed with administration, and various staff members. Everyone was given the opportunity to state their perceptions of the allegation. The facility does have video surveillance. Allegation: There are concerns that children are not being adequately supervised. ***On March 17, 2026, the assistant director walked past the hummingbirds (space 8) and observed a child standing on a chair near the counter. She entered the hummingbird classroom and observed a total of three children, two years of age, left unsupervised in the classroom. Next, she noticed that the exterior door to the playground was propped open with a chair and a fourth child trying to get into the door, she let him in. She used the walkie talkie to ask the teacher in charge where she was and how many children were in her care. The teacher responded by stating they were on the playground and coming inside soon. This information was obtained by written statement submitted on March 17, 2026, at 3:40 pm by the assistant director. The assistant director’s employment was terminated on March 19, 2026. The staff member in charge of the group also wrote a written statement that stated on March 17, 2026, at 3:26 pm she did a name to face and counted all 10 children she was in charge of. She stated at 3:35 pm some children were climbing on the deck railing and she redirected them away. She stated she stands in the middle of the playground so she can the playground area. She thought the door to the classroom was closed. This staff members’ employment was terminated March 18, 2026. I was able to see video surveillance from March 17, 2026. At 3:35 pm three children walk up the stairs to the door of the hummingbirds classroom. A child pulls the door open and three children, 2 years of age, enter the classroom at 3:36 pm. At 3:42 pm you can see the assistant director opening the door to the playground to let a fourth child in. Per the assistant directors’ report to the director, these three children were unsupervised for approximately 3 minutes. All parents were notified of the incident via telephone and/or email. Administration has plans to retrain everyone playground safety, zoning, and supervision requirements on March 24, 2026, during an all staff meeting from 6:00 – 7:00 pm. 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 March 17, 2026, three children 2 years of age, were left unsupervised in space 8 (hummingbirds) for approximately 3 minutes. .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 7, 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. 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. We discussed administration spending more time observing staff responsibilities to ensure all staff are following operational policies. Propping doors is a safety concern and also falls under a sanitation guideline to reduce the risk of vermin/pests from entering the building. Please remind staff that doors should not be propped at any time. 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: SPARK ACADEMY Facility ID: 65001077 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1225-046L Visit Date: 12/9/2025 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 12/9/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 100 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 12:10 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 obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: There are concerns regarding an infant being served the wrong bottle. The program currently operates with a 5-star license issued December 9, 2024. Restrictions on the permit include a capacity of 179 permitted for daytime care only with an approved age range of 0-5 years olds, as well as meeting enhanced ratios and space. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 82%. 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. Tracy Ray, Director, was present and was available for consultation during the visit. Ms. Ray accompanied us on the walkthrough and observations. There were seventy-four (74) children enrolled and sixty-six (66) were present today, ranging in age from infants through 5 years. 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 in free play or having routine care needs met such as toileting/diapering, or preparing for meals. Today’s menu consisted of hamburgers on buns, sweet potato fries, oranges, and milk. The allegations were reviewed with Ms. Ray 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 concerns regarding an infant being served the wrong bottle. ***On December 4, 2025, a child 6 months of age, was served the wrong bottle of formula during the afternoon transition. At approximately 4:00 pm the staff member for space 1 (starlings) was leaving for the day, she began gathering supplies and children to transition them to space 12 (doves). When she transitioned the children over, she told the other staff member that a specific child needed to have her bottle and handed her the bottle. This staff member did not check label on the bottle to ensure the correct child was being served and proceeded to serve an infant 6 months of age 4-ounce bottle of formula that belonged to another infant, 5 months of age. At approximately 4:20 pm the parent of the 6 month old child arrived, and the staff member told the parent that the child had just received a bottle. Due to the online portal the facility uses to notify parents of routine care needs, the parent questioned the staff member because she has already seen where her child had received the two bottles sent in earlier in the day. At that time the staff member realized her error and reported the incident to administration. Both staff were spoken to about their responsibilities to ensure children are served appropriate bottles. Administration is also working on developing an “Infant Feeding Safety Policy” and plans to email it to me as part of the compliance letter. In addition, moving forward, any staff placed in the infant room for any reason and length of time is to call on Administration for clarification if they question feeding and/or routine care needs for any of the infants. The staff which gave the wrong bottle to the infant was counseled and given a write up. The infant did not have any negative reactions to the formula. Both children are still enrolled in the program. Based on my investigation, staff report, and observations, this allegation is confirmed. The following violation was observed during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 1887 Each infant was not served only bottles labeled with their individual name. On December 4, 2025, an infant 6 months of age, was served a bottle of formula that belonged to another infant 5 months of age. .0902(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 December 23, 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: Concerns with serving a child the wrong bottle vary significantly depending on what was in the bottle (e.g., another child's breast milk, incorrectly mixed formula, or spoiled contents). Another child's breast milk: The primary concern is the potential, though very low, transmission of infectious diseases, including HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. Most infants are already vaccinated against Hepatitis B, and the risk for transmission of other diseases via a single exposure is considered very low. However, this incident is generally treated as a significant exposure event, and parents of both children should be informed and encouraged to consult their pediatricians. There is also the potential for an allergic reaction if the other mother consumed something to which the recipient child is allergic (e.g., dairy). Diluted formula (too much water): Over time, this can lead to poor weight gain, developmental delays, and in severe cases, water intoxication, which is a dangerous disruption of electrolyte balance that can cause seizures in young infants. A single diluted bottle is less likely to cause major problems. Concentrated formula (too much powder): This can cause digestive discomfort, dehydration, and potentially affect a baby's growth. Spoiled or old milk/formula: Consuming spoiled breast milk or old formula can lead to foodborne illness due to bacterial contamination. Symptoms might include vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual fussiness. Medication or contaminants: If the milk source (donor mother) has not been adequately screened, there is a risk of exposure to certain prescription or illegal drugs, or environmental contaminants in the milk. Recommended Actions Monitor the child: Closely observe the child for unusual symptoms like persistent vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea, or fussiness. Seek medical advice: Contact the child's pediatrician immediately to report the incident and determine the appropriate next steps, which may include medical testing. Notify all parties: In a childcare setting, all affected families must be notified promptly. Report the incident: In a childcare setting, a report might need to be filed with the local health department or licensing agency, and the facility should have a protocol for addressing and preventing future mix-ups. Following guidelines for safe handling and labeling can prevent these errors. More information on handling these situations in a care setting is available from the CDC's guidelines. 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: SPARK ACADEMY Facility ID: 65001077 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1025-086L Visit Date: 11/24/2025 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 11/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 10:30 AM 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 November 13, 2025. Amy Peterson, Assistant Director, assisted me with the visit. The program currently operates with a 5-star license issued December 9, 2024, earning 7 points in education, 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. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 86%. Heather Elliott, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on the visit today. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and Girls Leadership Academy of Wilmington Foundation was listed as current- active. Seventy-two (72) children are enrolled and forty-four (44) were present today. Children participated in free play indoors and outdoors or engaged in personal care routines. Activity plans were posted and aligned with NC Early Childhood Foundations. Lunch for today was chicken nuggets, macaroni salad, tropical fruit, whole grain roll, and milk. Adequate supervision and staff/child ratios were monitored and found in compliance. The Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on November 13, 2025. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding discipline. 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 – I had a telephone conversation with Tracy Ray, Director, on November 19, 2025, to discuss the Administrative Action in detail. During this conversation we discussed potential dates/times for the rules review. I had a follow-up conversation with Ms. Ray on Friday, November 21, 2025, discussing who needed to be present. I am waiting for Ms. Ray to email me with potential dates for this training. Stipulation #3 - Ms. Ray contacted Mindy Davis, Early Care and Education Coordinator, New Hanover County Smart Start, on November 18, 2025. A training date is still pending. Stipulation #4 – This stipulation is pending and will be due two (2) weeks after the training required in Stipulation #3 is completed. 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. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 608 Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, before and after water activity play, after outside play, and after handling animals or animal cages. A child in space 6 (hummingbirds) did not have her hands washed after having her diaper changed. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Aerosol disinfectant spray was observed in an unlocked cabinet in space 6 (hummingbirds) and aerosol insect repellant was observed in an unlocked cabinet in space 9 (chickadees). .2820(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 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 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: 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 I suggested administration randomly checking all cabinets for storage of hazardous items routinely. According to Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Clean hands save lives. Handwashing is like a "do-it-yourself" vaccine—it involves five simple and effective steps (Wet, Lather, Scrub, Rinse, Dry) you can take to reduce the spread of diarrheal and respiratory illness so you can stay healthy. Regular handwashing, particularly before and after certain activities, is one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick, and prevent the spread of germs to others. It's quick, it's simple, and it can keep us all from getting sick. Handwashing is a win for everyone, except the germs. Today we discussed reviewing handwashing expectations with all staff. Unannounced visits will continue to occur until the Corrective Action Plan is completed. 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

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: SPARK ACADEMY Facility ID: 65001077 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1025-086L Visit Date: 10/14/2025 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 10/14/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 11:30 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Self Report Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to obtain information related to a self-report received by the Division on October 7, 2025. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. The program currently operates with a 5-star license issued December 9, 2024, earning 7 points in education, 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 on September 10, 2025. As of October 13, 2025, your facility has an 18-month compliance history of 82%. 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 Girls Leadership Academy of Wilmington Foundation. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Fire Inspection – 08/27/2025 – Approved for day time care only - Satisfactory Sanitation – 07/27/2025 – 11 Demerits – Superior Director, Tracy Ray, was present today and available for consultation. There were nine (9) classrooms operating today, fifry-nine (59) children present, ranging in age from infants to 5 years of age. Infants received care based on their individual needs. Infants were observed on the floor exploring their environment safely or receiving routine care needs such as bottle feedings. All preschool children were observed eating lunch that consisted of chicken, salad, fruit cocktail, whole wheat roll, and milk or napping in their assigned space with covered mats and blankets; the lights were dimmed and quiet music played in the background. Staff/child ratios were in compliance in all classrooms. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. The allegations of this report were specific to a classroom for one-year-old children (space 6 – hummingbirds). The allegations were discussed with Ms. Ray and a staff member in the hummingbirds classroom. You were each given the opportunity to state your perceptions of the allegation and to share any pertinent information. Allegation 1: There is a concern that inappropriate discipline was used. A self-report was made to the Division by Ms. Ray on October 7, 2025. Ms. Ray reported that a teacher from the hummingbirds classroom open hand slapped a child on the arm when he went to drink from another child’s bottle. This incident occurred before nap time. The teacher of the hummingbirds classroom witnessed the incident and reported it to Ms. Ray immediately. Ms. Ray called teacher who hit the child into the office and let her explain what happened. The teacher told Ms. Ray that she hit the bottle, not the child. Ms. Ray told the teacher that hitting a child and/or hitting an object out of a child’s hand is inappropriate and that her employment was terminated immediately. Ms. Ray reported that there were no marks on the child’s arm. Ms. Ray notified the parents of the incident and child remains in care. This facility does not have video surveillance. Based on staff interviews, information received, and my investigation, this allegation is confirmed. Allegation 2: There is a concern with nutrition. In the self-report Ms. Ray submitted to the Division, it was mentioned that a child may have drunk from another child’s bottle that contained milk and cereal. Today it could not be determined, based off staff reporting, on whether or not the child drank any liquids from the bottle. However, this allegation was confirmed since a child is being served milk with cereal mixed into the bottle. Cereal was observed in the child’s bottle today during the walkthrough. Child care rules not only prohibit the use of inappropriate discipline but require all children be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner. This can only be achieved when staff members recognize and accept age-appropriate behaviors and respond in ways consistent with what is developmentally appropriate for each child. Children should be spoken to in a calm, respectful voice always. Each child must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child's developmental needs. No form of corporal punishment or rough handling is ever acceptable. No child may be yelled at, threatened, shamed, humiliated, bullied or subjected to sarcastic remarks or profanity. it is important to remember to engage in one-to-one interactions with children, get on the child’s level for face-to-face interactions, use a pleasant, calm voice and simple language, provide warm, responsive physical contact, help children understand classroom expectations, redirect children when they engage in challenging behavior, listen to children and encourage them to listen to others, and acknowledge children for their accomplishments and efforts. Positive interactions between children and the caregiver are fundamental to quality child care. Safety starts in the classroom. Children should feel and be safe everywhere at your facility—in the rest rooms, hallways, on field trips, and on the playground. Feeling safe makes learning possible. Caregivers can help a child feel safe, secure, and supported by acknowledging and responding sensitively to children's cues/signals and supporting children's secure attachment through consistent and warm nurturing relationships. Understanding the stages of children’s development is critical; for example, those that cry may not have the verbal ability to express their needs and/or wants; or, they may not have the skills yet to do so. Recognizing this will minimize staff members’ tendencies to become frustrated and use harsh tones or verbal directives with young children who are simply engaging in age-appropriate behaviors. Once you understand that certain challenging behaviors are “typical,” it should allow you to respond in a nurturing and appropriate manner. You must keep your frustration in check by reminding yourself that children are not born knowing how to control and process their emotions; this is learned through caregiver interactions, guidance, and experience over time. Help toddlers navigate their emotions. Recognize and name feelings, then offer guidance on how to manage them. Suggest jumping up and down or visiting the cozy area. Empathize with their feelings and provide acceptable choices to help them feel in control. Comfort them with warm, physical contact, or give them a safe space to work through their negative emotions. By creating and maintaining a safe environment, you provide children with the security they need to develop. You also provide families with peace of mind they deserve to adequately focus on work or other life needs. The following violations were observed. All violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is always required. Violation Number Comment Rule 904 A child was handled in a rough way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking. On October 7, 2025, a teacher witnessed another staff member open hand slap a child on the arm when he went to drink out of another child's bottle. .1803(a)(1) 1791 The child care provider did not provide the required beverage(s). A child was served her milk with cereal. .0901(e)(1-7) For your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received on or before October 28, 2025, describing how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-0954 or you can email me at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me with your verification or mail it to me at: April Lester, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 12948, Wilmington, NC 28405. 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 always maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules 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. Due to the discipline violation cited, a return visit will be conducted to verify compliance with the violation documented today. 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. Documentation was completed electronically, reviewed, printed and signed by Ms. Ray. Please remember it is your responsibility to always comply with all child care rules and requirements. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact with any further 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 .0514 · Violation

Name of Operation: SPARK ACADEMY Facility ID: 65001077 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/10/2025 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 9/10/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance. Tracy Ray, Director, assisted me with the visit. The program currently operates with a 5-star license issued December 9, 2024, earning 7 points in education, 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. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 86%. Heather Elliott, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on the visit today. The last sanitation inspection completed June 27, 2025, with a superior rating. The last fire inspection was completed August 27, 2025, and the program was approved for daytime care only. All licensed spaces were monitored today. Children were observed in spaces 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 8, and 9. Due to staffing issues, the infant rooms were combined. All required postings were observed. Children were observed in free play in both indoor and outdoor learning environments. All activity plans were current and aligned with NC Early Childhood Foundations. Staff had informal conversations with children and engaged in play as well. Breakfast for today consisted of grilled cheese, corn, oranges, and milk. Today we approved three additional spaces to be used for care. Space 13 (nook) which is just outside of space 6 (hummingbirds). It was approved with a capacity of 4 children. Space 14 (blue floor/common area) was approved for 18 children. Space 15 (therapy room off of the lobby) was approved for 3 children. A new fence has been installed that separates playground #2 into two spaces. Measurements were taken today and the new capacities are as follows: Playground #1 (infant) - 36 children Playground #2 (bike path) - 65 children Playground #3 (large playground) - 107 children 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. Aerosol sprays were not in locked storage in space 6 (hummingbirds) and space 9 (chickadees). .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space 6 (hummingbirds), the diaper changing table was not locked that stored all the prescription and non-prescription medications. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 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 medications were not returned to the parent after the course of the treatment was completed, nor were they discarded in five (5) of the eight (8) classrooms observed. .0803(12) 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. A staff member hired June 2025 did not have an application on file. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Two (2) staff members did not have a current health questionnaire on file. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Two (2) staff members did not have current emergency information form on file. .0701(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired April 2025 has not completed her certification in First Aid. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired April 2025 has not completed her certification in CPR. .1102(d) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Two (2) staff members did not have an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child did not have a health assessment on file. GS110-91(1) 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. Two (2) staff members did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment within 90 days of hire. .1102(g) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Two (2) staff members did not complete the health and safety trainings within one year of employment. .1102(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 September 24, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: 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 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 I suggested you review these rules with all staff. 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 storage on a regular basis as an additional monitoring measure. Rated License Information: The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments is ending and the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are forthcoming. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment according to the timelines discussed previously; however, you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your staff on the new assessment tools if you are interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. I will share more information as I am able. North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP): As of February 1, 2025, the new and improved Environment Rating Scales – Third Additions will be implemented. Today we discussed the purchase of the new tools, training opportunities, and the NCRLAP website. Please visit www.ncrlap.org for more information and start training your staff now on this new tool! Outreach assessments on the new tools are available now. Upcoming Director Meeting: QRIS – Pathway to the Stars Dear Early Childhood Professionals – The Division of Child Development and Early Education invites you to attend an in-person meeting on: 09/16/2025 10:00 am – 12:00 pm New Hanover County Cooperative Extension 6206 Oleander Drive, Wilmington The meeting will be hosted by Child Care Consultants, April Lester & Shereen Pickett. We will be discussing the new “PATHWAY to STARS”. We strongly encourage you to review the link below in detail to help you be fully prepared for the topics that will be discussed: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization Please RSVP to your individual Child Care Consultant via email no later than 09/15/2025. You are strongly encouraged to attend this meeting. You will receive two (2) hours of on-going training if you attend the entire meeting. We look forward to seeing you at this very informative meeting. If you have any questions or need additional information, please reach out to your consultant. 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

GS110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: SPARK ACADEMY Facility ID: 65001077 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/10/2025 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 9/10/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance. Tracy Ray, Director, assisted me with the visit. The program currently operates with a 5-star license issued December 9, 2024, earning 7 points in education, 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. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 86%. Heather Elliott, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on the visit today. The last sanitation inspection completed June 27, 2025, with a superior rating. The last fire inspection was completed August 27, 2025, and the program was approved for daytime care only. All licensed spaces were monitored today. Children were observed in spaces 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 8, and 9. Due to staffing issues, the infant rooms were combined. All required postings were observed. Children were observed in free play in both indoor and outdoor learning environments. All activity plans were current and aligned with NC Early Childhood Foundations. Staff had informal conversations with children and engaged in play as well. Breakfast for today consisted of grilled cheese, corn, oranges, and milk. Today we approved three additional spaces to be used for care. Space 13 (nook) which is just outside of space 6 (hummingbirds). It was approved with a capacity of 4 children. Space 14 (blue floor/common area) was approved for 18 children. Space 15 (therapy room off of the lobby) was approved for 3 children. A new fence has been installed that separates playground #2 into two spaces. Measurements were taken today and the new capacities are as follows: Playground #1 (infant) - 36 children Playground #2 (bike path) - 65 children Playground #3 (large playground) - 107 children 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. Aerosol sprays were not in locked storage in space 6 (hummingbirds) and space 9 (chickadees). .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space 6 (hummingbirds), the diaper changing table was not locked that stored all the prescription and non-prescription medications. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 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 medications were not returned to the parent after the course of the treatment was completed, nor were they discarded in five (5) of the eight (8) classrooms observed. .0803(12) 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. A staff member hired June 2025 did not have an application on file. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Two (2) staff members did not have a current health questionnaire on file. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Two (2) staff members did not have current emergency information form on file. .0701(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired April 2025 has not completed her certification in First Aid. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired April 2025 has not completed her certification in CPR. .1102(d) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Two (2) staff members did not have an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child did not have a health assessment on file. GS110-91(1) 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. Two (2) staff members did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment within 90 days of hire. .1102(g) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Two (2) staff members did not complete the health and safety trainings within one year of employment. .1102(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 September 24, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: 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 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 I suggested you review these rules with all staff. 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 storage on a regular basis as an additional monitoring measure. Rated License Information: The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments is ending and the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are forthcoming. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment according to the timelines discussed previously; however, you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your staff on the new assessment tools if you are interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. I will share more information as I am able. North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP): As of February 1, 2025, the new and improved Environment Rating Scales – Third Additions will be implemented. Today we discussed the purchase of the new tools, training opportunities, and the NCRLAP website. Please visit www.ncrlap.org for more information and start training your staff now on this new tool! Outreach assessments on the new tools are available now. Upcoming Director Meeting: QRIS – Pathway to the Stars Dear Early Childhood Professionals – The Division of Child Development and Early Education invites you to attend an in-person meeting on: 09/16/2025 10:00 am – 12:00 pm New Hanover County Cooperative Extension 6206 Oleander Drive, Wilmington The meeting will be hosted by Child Care Consultants, April Lester & Shereen Pickett. We will be discussing the new “PATHWAY to STARS”. We strongly encourage you to review the link below in detail to help you be fully prepared for the topics that will be discussed: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization Please RSVP to your individual Child Care Consultant via email no later than 09/15/2025. You are strongly encouraged to attend this meeting. You will receive two (2) hours of on-going training if you attend the entire meeting. We look forward to seeing you at this very informative meeting. If you have any questions or need additional information, please reach out to your consultant. 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: SPARK ACADEMY Facility ID: 65001077 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/10/2025 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 9/10/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance. Tracy Ray, Director, assisted me with the visit. The program currently operates with a 5-star license issued December 9, 2024, earning 7 points in education, 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. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 86%. Heather Elliott, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me on the visit today. The last sanitation inspection completed June 27, 2025, with a superior rating. The last fire inspection was completed August 27, 2025, and the program was approved for daytime care only. All licensed spaces were monitored today. Children were observed in spaces 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 8, and 9. Due to staffing issues, the infant rooms were combined. All required postings were observed. Children were observed in free play in both indoor and outdoor learning environments. All activity plans were current and aligned with NC Early Childhood Foundations. Staff had informal conversations with children and engaged in play as well. Breakfast for today consisted of grilled cheese, corn, oranges, and milk. Today we approved three additional spaces to be used for care. Space 13 (nook) which is just outside of space 6 (hummingbirds). It was approved with a capacity of 4 children. Space 14 (blue floor/common area) was approved for 18 children. Space 15 (therapy room off of the lobby) was approved for 3 children. A new fence has been installed that separates playground #2 into two spaces. Measurements were taken today and the new capacities are as follows: Playground #1 (infant) - 36 children Playground #2 (bike path) - 65 children Playground #3 (large playground) - 107 children 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. Aerosol sprays were not in locked storage in space 6 (hummingbirds) and space 9 (chickadees). .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space 6 (hummingbirds), the diaper changing table was not locked that stored all the prescription and non-prescription medications. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 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 medications were not returned to the parent after the course of the treatment was completed, nor were they discarded in five (5) of the eight (8) classrooms observed. .0803(12) 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. A staff member hired June 2025 did not have an application on file. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Two (2) staff members did not have a current health questionnaire on file. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Two (2) staff members did not have current emergency information form on file. .0701(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired April 2025 has not completed her certification in First Aid. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired April 2025 has not completed her certification in CPR. .1102(d) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Two (2) staff members did not have an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child did not have a health assessment on file. GS110-91(1) 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. Two (2) staff members did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment within 90 days of hire. .1102(g) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Two (2) staff members did not complete the health and safety trainings within one year of employment. .1102(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 September 24, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: 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 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 I suggested you review these rules with all staff. 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 storage on a regular basis as an additional monitoring measure. Rated License Information: The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments is ending and the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are forthcoming. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment according to the timelines discussed previously; however, you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your staff on the new assessment tools if you are interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. I will share more information as I am able. North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP): As of February 1, 2025, the new and improved Environment Rating Scales – Third Additions will be implemented. Today we discussed the purchase of the new tools, training opportunities, and the NCRLAP website. Please visit www.ncrlap.org for more information and start training your staff now on this new tool! Outreach assessments on the new tools are available now. Upcoming Director Meeting: QRIS – Pathway to the Stars Dear Early Childhood Professionals – The Division of Child Development and Early Education invites you to attend an in-person meeting on: 09/16/2025 10:00 am – 12:00 pm New Hanover County Cooperative Extension 6206 Oleander Drive, Wilmington The meeting will be hosted by Child Care Consultants, April Lester & Shereen Pickett. We will be discussing the new “PATHWAY to STARS”. We strongly encourage you to review the link below in detail to help you be fully prepared for the topics that will be discussed: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization Please RSVP to your individual Child Care Consultant via email no later than 09/15/2025. You are strongly encouraged to attend this meeting. You will receive two (2) hours of on-going training if you attend the entire meeting. We look forward to seeing you at this very informative meeting. If you have any questions or need additional information, please reach out to your consultant. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: SPARK ACADEMY Facility ID: 65001077 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0625-162L Visit Date: 6/23/2025 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 6/23/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 140 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 10:50 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 child care requirements. The allegations were: There is a concern that a child was handled roughly. The program currently operates with a 5-star license December 9, 2024, earning 7 points in education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: first shift; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. Prior to today’s visit the compliance history score was 87%. Director, Tracy Ray, was present and available for consultation. 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. Three (3) new staff have been hired since the last monitoring visit and their files were reviewed today. Additionally, I observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. Children were observed participating in free play with age appropriate materials and activities. Staff/child interactions were appropriate and nurturing. Staff child ratios were monitored and found as follows: Space 2, classroom 11 (cardinals) – 3 years olds – 2:12 Space 4, classroom 9 (chickadees) – 4/5 year olds – 2:10 Space 6, classroom 7 (hummingbirds) – 1/2 year olds – 1:5 Space 7, classroom 6 (sparrows) – 1 years olds – 2:7 Space 8, classroom 5 (bluejays) – 2/3 years olds – 2:11 Space 11, classroom 2 (mockingbirds) - infants/one year olds - 2:9 Space 12, classroom 1 (starlings) – infants – 1:5 Allegation 1: There is a concern that a child was handled roughly. **Today I observed all licensed child care spaces that have children enrolled. I did not witness any inappropriate discipline during my visit. Twelve (12) staff members were interviewed today and none of the staff reported any concerns with any staff using inappropriate discipline. Staff reported following the programs discipline policy that includes never hitting children, using redirection, modeling appropriate behaviors, and using positive reinforcement. Staff did report that the chickadees classroom is a difficult classroom to manage with behaviors. The program has hired a Behavior Intervention Specialist that is scheduled to start next week. Based on my investigation, observation, and staff report, this allegation was not confirmed. The following violations were observed and must be corrected immediately. Violation Number Comment Rule 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. Diaper creams stored under the diaper changing table in space 11, classroom 2 (mockingbirds) and space 7, classroom 6 (hummingbirds) were unlocked. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 846 Over-the-counter medicines were not in their original containers or administered as authorized in writing by parent, physician or authorized health professional. Two (2) diaper creams in space 11, classroom 2 (mocking birds) did not have written permission on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. A staff member hired in May 2025 did not have any staff records on file for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 7, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: For licensing, it is required to obtain written parental permission to give prescription and over-the-counter medication. Providers must obtain written permission and instructions for giving OTC and prescription medication from a health care and the child’s parent. Today I suggested administration do monthly checks in the classroom to ensure all medications have current permission forms. 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. Reminder: We have scheduled a technical assistance visit for July 14th at 10:00 am for your administration and I to review general licensing requirements since both you and the new assistant director are new to North Carolina. 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. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: SPARK ACADEMY Facility ID: 65001077 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0625-162L Visit Date: 6/23/2025 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 6/23/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 140 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 10:50 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 child care requirements. The allegations were: There is a concern that a child was handled roughly. The program currently operates with a 5-star license December 9, 2024, earning 7 points in education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: first shift; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. Prior to today’s visit the compliance history score was 87%. Director, Tracy Ray, was present and available for consultation. 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. Three (3) new staff have been hired since the last monitoring visit and their files were reviewed today. Additionally, I observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. Children were observed participating in free play with age appropriate materials and activities. Staff/child interactions were appropriate and nurturing. Staff child ratios were monitored and found as follows: Space 2, classroom 11 (cardinals) – 3 years olds – 2:12 Space 4, classroom 9 (chickadees) – 4/5 year olds – 2:10 Space 6, classroom 7 (hummingbirds) – 1/2 year olds – 1:5 Space 7, classroom 6 (sparrows) – 1 years olds – 2:7 Space 8, classroom 5 (bluejays) – 2/3 years olds – 2:11 Space 11, classroom 2 (mockingbirds) - infants/one year olds - 2:9 Space 12, classroom 1 (starlings) – infants – 1:5 Allegation 1: There is a concern that a child was handled roughly. **Today I observed all licensed child care spaces that have children enrolled. I did not witness any inappropriate discipline during my visit. Twelve (12) staff members were interviewed today and none of the staff reported any concerns with any staff using inappropriate discipline. Staff reported following the programs discipline policy that includes never hitting children, using redirection, modeling appropriate behaviors, and using positive reinforcement. Staff did report that the chickadees classroom is a difficult classroom to manage with behaviors. The program has hired a Behavior Intervention Specialist that is scheduled to start next week. Based on my investigation, observation, and staff report, this allegation was not confirmed. The following violations were observed and must be corrected immediately. Violation Number Comment Rule 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. Diaper creams stored under the diaper changing table in space 11, classroom 2 (mockingbirds) and space 7, classroom 6 (hummingbirds) were unlocked. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 846 Over-the-counter medicines were not in their original containers or administered as authorized in writing by parent, physician or authorized health professional. Two (2) diaper creams in space 11, classroom 2 (mocking birds) did not have written permission on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. A staff member hired in May 2025 did not have any staff records on file for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 7, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: For licensing, it is required to obtain written parental permission to give prescription and over-the-counter medication. Providers must obtain written permission and instructions for giving OTC and prescription medication from a health care and the child’s parent. Today I suggested administration do monthly checks in the classroom to ensure all medications have current permission forms. 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. Reminder: We have scheduled a technical assistance visit for July 14th at 10:00 am for your administration and I to review general licensing requirements since both you and the new assistant director are new to North Carolina. 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: SPARK ACADEMY Facility ID: 65001077 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0625-162L Visit Date: 6/23/2025 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 6/23/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 140 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 10:50 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 child care requirements. The allegations were: There is a concern that a child was handled roughly. The program currently operates with a 5-star license December 9, 2024, earning 7 points in education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: first shift; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. Prior to today’s visit the compliance history score was 87%. Director, Tracy Ray, was present and available for consultation. 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. Three (3) new staff have been hired since the last monitoring visit and their files were reviewed today. Additionally, I observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. Children were observed participating in free play with age appropriate materials and activities. Staff/child interactions were appropriate and nurturing. Staff child ratios were monitored and found as follows: Space 2, classroom 11 (cardinals) – 3 years olds – 2:12 Space 4, classroom 9 (chickadees) – 4/5 year olds – 2:10 Space 6, classroom 7 (hummingbirds) – 1/2 year olds – 1:5 Space 7, classroom 6 (sparrows) – 1 years olds – 2:7 Space 8, classroom 5 (bluejays) – 2/3 years olds – 2:11 Space 11, classroom 2 (mockingbirds) - infants/one year olds - 2:9 Space 12, classroom 1 (starlings) – infants – 1:5 Allegation 1: There is a concern that a child was handled roughly. **Today I observed all licensed child care spaces that have children enrolled. I did not witness any inappropriate discipline during my visit. Twelve (12) staff members were interviewed today and none of the staff reported any concerns with any staff using inappropriate discipline. Staff reported following the programs discipline policy that includes never hitting children, using redirection, modeling appropriate behaviors, and using positive reinforcement. Staff did report that the chickadees classroom is a difficult classroom to manage with behaviors. The program has hired a Behavior Intervention Specialist that is scheduled to start next week. Based on my investigation, observation, and staff report, this allegation was not confirmed. The following violations were observed and must be corrected immediately. Violation Number Comment Rule 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. Diaper creams stored under the diaper changing table in space 11, classroom 2 (mockingbirds) and space 7, classroom 6 (hummingbirds) were unlocked. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 846 Over-the-counter medicines were not in their original containers or administered as authorized in writing by parent, physician or authorized health professional. Two (2) diaper creams in space 11, classroom 2 (mocking birds) did not have written permission on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. A staff member hired in May 2025 did not have any staff records on file for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 7, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: For licensing, it is required to obtain written parental permission to give prescription and over-the-counter medication. Providers must obtain written permission and instructions for giving OTC and prescription medication from a health care and the child’s parent. Today I suggested administration do monthly checks in the classroom to ensure all medications have current permission forms. 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. Reminder: We have scheduled a technical assistance visit for July 14th at 10:00 am for your administration and I to review general licensing requirements since both you and the new assistant director are new to North Carolina. 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: SPARK ACADEMY Facility ID: 65001077 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0425-030L Visit Date: 4/14/2025 Number Present: 63 Completed Date: 4/14/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 90 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to verify correction of violations documented during my April 7, 2025, compliant visit. The program currently operates with a 5-star license December 9, 2024, earning 7 points in education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: first shift; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. Prior to today’s visit the compliance history score was 91%. Interim Director, Hannah Durham, was present and available for consultation. Children were observed in spaces 2, 4, 6, and 8-12. All children were observed indoors or outdoors in free play with age-appropriate materials and activities or having personal care routines such as meals or toileting/diapering. Adequate handwashing was observed. Staff/child interactions were positive and nurturing. The following violation was documented during the April 7, 2025, visit and monitored for compliance during this visit: 904 – Child was handled roughly. On April 2, 2025, a staff member (floater) in space 6 (orioles) witnessed a child 22 months of age, playing in the sink. The other staff member (teacher) approached the child, told the child not to play in the sink, and moved the child away from the sink. At that time the child went behind the teacher and the floater heard the teacher tell the child not to hit her. At that time the teacher took the child into the bathroom. The floater heard multiple sounds of the child being hit and the child began to cry. The teacher and child exited the bathroom, and the teacher told the floater that she didn’t need any witnesses. **The compliance letter is still pending; however, the staff member was terminated immediately. Today, Ms. Durham stated all staff have been required to complete the following tasks: -Review the program discipline policy and sign a statement of receipt -Review a handout on positive discipline and guidance then answer 3 questions -Review a video on positive guidance for children then answer 3 questions -Complete an on-line course offered by Michigan State University titled “Positive Discipline for Professional Caregivers and Educational Professionals” All four tasks must be completed by 5:00 pm today, Monday April 14, 2025. Also, the program has an all staff meeting scheduled for Tuesday, April 15, 2025, from 5:30 – 6:30 pm to review the programs guidance policy. The following violations were observed and corrected during the visit. 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. An aerosol can was observed in space 2 (wrens) in an unlocked cabinet. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. Over the counter cold medication was stored in an open bag on a shelving unit in space 4 (chickadees). 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. A bottle of Coca Cola was observed on the counter in space 6 (hummingbirds) .0901(i) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Technical Assistance: Each child should be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child’s developmental needs. Staff should protect children from threats, give them opportunities for early learning, through interactions that are emotionally supportive and responsive. Some examples of nurturing behavior are: being fully present in your interactions with children (verbally and non-verbally), validating their feelings, providing physical affection and comfort when sought, laughing and playing games, providing safe mental, physical and social challenges that promote healthy growth and development. Children who are adequately nurtured feel more secure, which leads to the healthy development of self-esteem. Nurturing care is essential for child development and lays the foundation for life-long health and well-being and builds human capital in the child today, the adolescent and adult tomorrow, and in the next generation in the future. Reminders: Your compliance letter is due by April 21, 2025; however, you can submit the compliance letter before then if it is complete. Due to the nature and severity of the violation cited during the April 7, 2025, visit 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 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: SPARK ACADEMY Facility ID: 65001077 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0425-030L Visit Date: 4/7/2025 Number Present: 75 Completed Date: 4/7/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 110 Time In: 11:10 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 child care requirements. The allegations were: There is a concern that a child was handled roughly. The program currently operates with a 5-star license December 9, 2024, earning 7 points in education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the permit include: first shift; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. Prior to today’s visit the compliance history score was 91%. Interim Director, Hannah Durham, was present and available for consultation. 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. Two (2) new staff have been hired since the last monitoring visit and their files were reviewed today. Additionally, I observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. Children were observed eating lunch that consisted of chicken, rice, corn, banana, and milk or they were napping on individualized mats with the lights off and quiet music playing in the background. Staff/child interactions were appropriate and nurturing. Staff child ratios were monitored and found as follows: Space 1, classroom 12 (doves) – infants – 1:5 Space 2, classroom 11 (wrens) – 3/4 years olds – 1:10 Space 4, classroom 9 (chickadees) – 3/4/5 year olds – 2:9 Space 6, classroom 7 (hummingbirds) – 1/2 year olds – 1:6 Space 7, classroom 6 (orioles) – 2 years olds – 2:9 Space 8, classroom 5 (bluejays) – 2/3 years olds – 2:11 Space 9, classroom 4 (cardinals) – 3 years olds – 1:9 Space 10, classroom 3 (sparrows) – 1 year olds – 1:6 Space 12, classroom 1 (starlings) – infants/1 year olds – 2:10 Allegation 1: There is a concern that a child was handled roughly. **On April 2, 2025, a staff member (floater) in space 6 (orioles) witnessed a child playing in the sink. The other staff member (teacher) approached the child, told the child not to play in the sink, and moved the child away from the sink. At that time the child went behind the teacher and the floater heard the teacher tell the child not to hit her. At that time the teacher took the child into the bathroom. The floater heard multiple sounds of the child being hit and the child began to cry. The teacher and child exited the bathroom, and the teacher told the floater that she didn’t need any witnesses. The teacher told the administration what she witnessed when she went on her lunch break. The teacher was interviewed by administration that afternoon; however, she did not confirm or deny hitting the child. She was terminated immediately. The parent of the child was notified the following morning because another family member picked the child up that day. The child has been withdrawn from care. Based on my investigation and staff report, this allegation was substantiated. The following violation was observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 904 Child was handled roughly. On April 2, 2025, a staff member (floater) in space 6 (orioles) witnessed a child 22 months of age, playing in the sink. The other staff member (teacher) approached the child, told the child not to play in the sink, and moved the child away from the sink. At that time the child went behind the teacher and the floater heard the teacher tell the child not to hit her. At that time the teacher took the child into the bathroom. The floater heard multiple sounds of the child being hit and the child began to cry. The teacher and child exited the bathroom, and the teacher told the floater that she didn’t need any witnesses. .1803(a)(1) 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 21, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: The word discipline means to teach and guide. Discipline is not punishment. The discipline standard should reflect an approach that prevents behavior problems by supporting children in learning appropriate social skills and emotional responses. Those that work with young children should care for children without ever resorting to physical punishment or abusive language. When a child needs assistance, needs to express feelings, needs, and wants, the adult should help the child learn strategies for dealing with any situation. Guidance is about building an encouraging setting for every person in the group. It means helping young children understand they can learn from their mistakes, and it starts with showing them how. To give this help successfully, we need to build relationships with every child—especially with the children we find difficult to connect with and understand. We build these relationships from day one, outside of conflict situations. It is only when children know and trust us in day-to-day interactions that they will listen to us when conflicts happen (after we have helped everyone calm down). At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care 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: SPARK ACADEMY Facility ID: 65001077 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/19/2025 Number Present: 68 Completed Date: 3/19/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 11:00 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements during a Routine Unannounced Visit. Hannah Durham, Interim Director, assisted me with the visit. The program currently operates with a 4-star license issued April 10, 2024, earning 6 points in program standards, 4 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. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 93%. The last sanitation inspection completed July 18, 2024, with a superior rating. The last fire inspection was completed October 10, 2024, and the program was approved for daytime care only. All licensed spaces were monitored today. Of the twelve (12) licensed indoor spaces, eight (8) are being used. All required postings were observed. Children were observed in free play in both indoor and outdoor learning environments. All activity plans were current and aligned with NC Early Childhood Foundations. Staff had informal conversations with children and engaged in play as well. Breakfast for today consisted of croissants, fruit cocktail, eggs, and milk. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. A staff members nasal spray was on the counter in space 2 and the diaper creams under the diaper changing table was not locked in space 3. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired October 2024 has not completed her First Aid certification. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired October 2024 has not completed her CPR certification. .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 April 2, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: April Lester, Child Care Consultant 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: 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. 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 Reminders: Today we reviewed the volunteer checklist that can be found on our website under the provider documents tab. If students are coming to observe classrooms they are not permitted to assist in routine care needs, they can only observe. Today I observed a sink hole on the older preschool playground. You have the area marked off with caution tape and are not permitting children to use that area. You stated filler dirt has been ordered for the sink hole; however, we discussed it being a continuous issue if the drainage problem isn’t corrected. I strongly encourage you to install a drain to reduce the risk of the sink hole occurring again. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed, signed, and 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