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Home › NC › Yanceyville › A Step Forward Early Learning Academy
640 Old Hwy 86, Yanceyville NC 27379 · License #17000084 · Center · Child Care Center
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10A NCAC 09 .1801 · Violation
Name of Operation: A Step Forward Early Learning Academy Facility ID: 17000084 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0526-081L Visit Date: 5/7/2026 Number Present: 43 Completed Date: 5/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 11:00 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 investigate and obtain information regarding non-compliance with the NC Child Care Licensing Requirements received in a self-report by the Administrator on 5-5-26 regarding supervision on the playground. When I arrived at the facility, the Directors/Owners Mr. and Mrs. Word assisted me during today’s visit. Today we discussed the concerns stated in the self-report regarding a child being left alone and unsupervised on the playground from approximately 10:50am- 11:28am on 5/5/26 with Mr. and Mrs. Word. This gave the owners an opportunity to share information regarding the self-report made. Limited monitoring of childcare requirements occurred during today’s visit. I monitored supervision, staff/child ratio, adequate /approved space, license posted and restrictions, staff/child interactions. I conducted an observation of the staff and classroom in the report. I reviewed Ring camera footage when the incident occurred. The teacher of the toddler classroom incident was not present. However, I read her written statement as well as one from another teacher from another class who was also on the playground and coming in from outside during the incident. I reviewed the revised playground transition policy and procedures during today’s visit that was revised on 5/6/26 and put in place after this incident occurred. All staff are required to read and sign this policy. CONCLUSION: Based on information received from the Director, owner, staff statements and video observations, the finding regarding a violation of child care was Substantiated. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. A two year old was not adequately supervised at all times. The two year old was left outside on the playground from approximately 10:50am-11:28am on 5/5/26 according to the Ring camera footage reviewed. .1801(a)(1-5) One violation was cited during today’s visit. The Owner/Director and I discussed the playground transition policy to ensure the facility stays in compliance and technical assistance regarding the violation was given. The Owner has put several protocols in place to ensure this doesn’t happen again. Some of the protocols include teachers must call administration prior to exiting the classroom, no group age two and under may transition without an administrator. Name-to-face checks are to be done as children exit and enter the classroom, and a final sweep must be conducted before coming inside and closing the door. 30-minute head counts must be conducted and if children are picked up from the playground it must be documented. The violation (s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 5-19-26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Also, please provide information regarding how the facility will maintain compliance in the future. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. 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. Before today’s visit the facilities compliance, history is at 92%. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant Gilette.parker@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 on violations cited SECTION .1800 - STAFF/CHILD INTERACTIONS AND BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Children shall be adequately supervised at all times in child care centers. Adequate supervision shall mean that: (1) staff must be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance; (2) staff must interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor area; (3) staff must know where each child is located and be aware of the children's activities at all times; (4) staff must provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs, and capabilities of each child; and (5) staff must be able to see and hear children aged birth to five years old while the children are eating. All of the conditions in this Paragraph shall apply except when emergencies necessitate that adequate supervision is impossible. Documentation of emergencies shall be maintained and available for review by Division representatives upon request. (b) For groups of children aged two years or older, the staff/child ratio during nap time shall comply with the requirements of this Chapter if at least one person remains in the room, all children are visible to that person, and the total number of required staff are on the premises and within calling distance of the rooms occupied by children. Agency Information The North Carolina Child Care Rules and Laws are on the Division’s website. Please visit the Division’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for more information. It is your responsibility to be familiar with and in compliance with these rules and laws. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle.” These training courses are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Childcare programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Additional resource links https://www.fns.usda.gov/cacfp https://www.childcareaware.org/ https://www.naeyc.org/ https://nrckids.org/CFOC https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/new-recognizing-responding-online-course/. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@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
Generated from this facility's specific inspection record
Data synced from North Carolina's child care licensing agency on Jul 9, 2026 · Report an error
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: A Step Forward Early Learning Academy Facility ID: 17000084 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0526-081L Visit Date: 5/7/2026 Number Present: 43 Completed Date: 5/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 11:00 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 investigate and obtain information regarding non-compliance with the NC Child Care Licensing Requirements received in a self-report by the Administrator on 5-5-26 regarding supervision on the playground. When I arrived at the facility, the Directors/Owners Mr. and Mrs. Word assisted me during today’s visit. Today we discussed the concerns stated in the self-report regarding a child being left alone and unsupervised on the playground from approximately 10:50am- 11:28am on 5/5/26 with Mr. and Mrs. Word. This gave the owners an opportunity to share information regarding the self-report made. Limited monitoring of childcare requirements occurred during today’s visit. I monitored supervision, staff/child ratio, adequate /approved space, license posted and restrictions, staff/child interactions. I conducted an observation of the staff and classroom in the report. I reviewed Ring camera footage when the incident occurred. The teacher of the toddler classroom incident was not present. However, I read her written statement as well as one from another teacher from another class who was also on the playground and coming in from outside during the incident. I reviewed the revised playground transition policy and procedures during today’s visit that was revised on 5/6/26 and put in place after this incident occurred. All staff are required to read and sign this policy. CONCLUSION: Based on information received from the Director, owner, staff statements and video observations, the finding regarding a violation of child care was Substantiated. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. A two year old was not adequately supervised at all times. The two year old was left outside on the playground from approximately 10:50am-11:28am on 5/5/26 according to the Ring camera footage reviewed. .1801(a)(1-5) One violation was cited during today’s visit. The Owner/Director and I discussed the playground transition policy to ensure the facility stays in compliance and technical assistance regarding the violation was given. The Owner has put several protocols in place to ensure this doesn’t happen again. Some of the protocols include teachers must call administration prior to exiting the classroom, no group age two and under may transition without an administrator. Name-to-face checks are to be done as children exit and enter the classroom, and a final sweep must be conducted before coming inside and closing the door. 30-minute head counts must be conducted and if children are picked up from the playground it must be documented. The violation (s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 5-19-26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Also, please provide information regarding how the facility will maintain compliance in the future. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. 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. Before today’s visit the facilities compliance, history is at 92%. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant Gilette.parker@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 on violations cited SECTION .1800 - STAFF/CHILD INTERACTIONS AND BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Children shall be adequately supervised at all times in child care centers. Adequate supervision shall mean that: (1) staff must be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance; (2) staff must interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor area; (3) staff must know where each child is located and be aware of the children's activities at all times; (4) staff must provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs, and capabilities of each child; and (5) staff must be able to see and hear children aged birth to five years old while the children are eating. All of the conditions in this Paragraph shall apply except when emergencies necessitate that adequate supervision is impossible. Documentation of emergencies shall be maintained and available for review by Division representatives upon request. (b) For groups of children aged two years or older, the staff/child ratio during nap time shall comply with the requirements of this Chapter if at least one person remains in the room, all children are visible to that person, and the total number of required staff are on the premises and within calling distance of the rooms occupied by children. Agency Information The North Carolina Child Care Rules and Laws are on the Division’s website. Please visit the Division’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for more information. It is your responsibility to be familiar with and in compliance with these rules and laws. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle.” These training courses are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Childcare programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Additional resource links https://www.fns.usda.gov/cacfp https://www.childcareaware.org/ https://www.naeyc.org/ https://nrckids.org/CFOC https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/new-recognizing-responding-online-course/. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: A Step Forward Early Learning Academy Facility ID: 17000084 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/17/2026 Number Present: 46 Completed Date: 2/17/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 110 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 12:35 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with the applicable childcare requirements for the second temporary visit. I met Mr.& Mrs. Word owner/center director about today’s temp time period visit. They both accompanied me during today's walk-through of the facility. Currently this center operates with a Temporary License, issued on October 31, 2025. The restrictions include daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; age range 0-12 years of age; with a capacity of 60 for first shift only. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed before the visit and A Step Forward Early Learning Academy, LLC, active/current October 17, 2023. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or anyone from upper management decides to sell the business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location or inherited. Indoor Learning Environment: Upon arrival, the staff/child ratio sheets were observed in all the classrooms. I observed the children in their different classrooms engaged with the caregivers and doing art activities. Outdoor Learning Environment: The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. A fire drill was conducted on 1/7/26. Playground inspection was completed 1/16/26. The lockdown drill and shelter-in place have not been completed at this time but will be conducted in the very near future since the administrative staff will need to complete EPR training and planning. Transportation: This program does not participate in transportation. Records: Ms. Word please email the staff and training worksheets after your staff meeting. During today's observation I discussed with Mr. and Mrs. Word to send the building inspection by the end of March. There was one violation cited during today's visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger. .0606(g) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 3-3-26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Also, please provide information regarding how the facility will maintain compliance in the future. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. 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. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant Gilette.parker@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 Compliance History: The next Temporary Time Period visits will be unannounced. During that visit a full assessment of the center's ability to maintain compliance with all applicable Child Care Requirements will be conducted. Please note that any violations cited today or during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past 18 months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. RESOURCES: Be sure to visit the following websites for helpful information, training, and materials: 1. www.preventchildabusenc.org The required training -Recognizing and Responding to Child Abuse and Maltreatment - is on this website. All staff are required to complete this free online training within ninety (90) days of hire. Be sure to print the certificate for each employee’s file. 2.www.ncchildcare.dhhs.gov DCDEE’s website for WORKS, Moodle, Criminal Background Checks, provider updates, forms, and information. 3. https://ncrlap.org/Resources/Pages/Training/ North Carolina Rated License Assessment Program website offers free training and resources on program quality and the Environment Rating Scales. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
G.S. 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: A Step Forward Early Learning Academy Facility ID: 17000084 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/11/2025 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 12/11/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with the applicable childcare requirements for the first temporary visit. I met Mr. & Mrs. Word owner/center director about today’s temp time period visit. They both accompanied me during today's walk-through of the facility. Currently this center operates with a Temporary License, issued on October 31, 2025. The restrictions include daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; age range 0-12 years of age; with a capacity of 60 for first shift only. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed before the visit and A Step Forward Early Learning Academy, LLC, active/current October 17, 2023. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or anyone from upper management decides to sell the business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location or inherited. Indoor Learning Environment: Upon arrival, the staff/child ratio sheets were observed in all the classrooms. I observed the children in their different classrooms engaged with the caregivers and doing art activities. Outdoor Learning Environment: The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. A fire drill was conducted on November 26, 2025. No playground inspection was completed for November. The lockdown drill and shelter-in place have not been completed at this time but will be conducted in the very near future since the administrative staff will need to complete EPR training and planning. Transportation: This program does not participate in transportation. Records: Two children’s records were reviewed during today’s visit, with no violations found. All lead teacher staff records and administrative staff records were reviewed during today’s visit, with no violations found. I informed Ms. Word that on the next unannounced visit the staff and training worksheets will be reviewed in detail for all staff so to begin working on placing this information on the form and saving as a pdf. During today's observation I discussed with Mr. and Mrs. Word the upcoming inspections. I informed them that she can go ahead and have the building, sanitation inspectors to come out and complete their visits before the end of March. I received the fire inspection during today’s visit. I informed Ms. Word that she will need to email the inspections to Marcia Humphrey, Lead Child Care Consultant at marcia.humphrey@dhhs.nc.gov There were three violations cited during today's visit and all three were corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. Several children's files were not labeled with the names and dates. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. A electrical outlets was not covered in the infant classroom. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. A monthly playground inspection was not completed for the month of November. .0605(q) Rated License: I discussed in detail the three Pathways’ Programs, the Education Standards Sheets, the Family and Community Engagement Standards, the Facility Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plan and the Individual Continuous Quality Improvement/Professional Development Plan. I stated to review the forms again and if they have any additional questions just let me know. In addition, with regards to Pathways the facility may be leaning towards Pathways #2-Classroom & Instructional Quality. I discussed in detail what the facility would need to do to achieve 5 Stars for this Pathway. Compliance History: The next two Temporary Time Period visits will be unannounced. During those visits a full assessment of the center's ability to maintain compliance with all applicable Child Care Requirements will be conducted. Please note that any violations cited today or during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past 18 months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. RESOURCES: Be sure to visit the following websites for helpful information, trainings, and materials: 1. www.preventchildabusenc.org The required training -Recognizing and Responding to Child Abuse and Maltreatment - is on this website. All staff are required to complete this free online training within ninety (90) days of hire. Be sure to print the certificate for each employee’s file. 2.www.ncchildcare.dhhs.gov DCDEE’s website for WORKS, Moodle, Criminal Background Checks, provider updates, forms, and information. 3. https://ncrlap.org/Resources/Pages/Training/ North Carolina Rated License Assessment Program website offers free training and resources on program quality and the Environment Rating Scales. Technical Assistance 10A NCAC 09 .3205 CLASSROOM AND INSTRUCTIONAL QUALITY PATHWAY FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) This Rule shall apply to child care centers that choose to earn two through five star rated license using the classroom and instructional quality licensure pathway. (b) As used in this Rule, "educators" shall mean teachers, group leaders, and administrative staff, including directors, assistant directors, program coordinators, education coordinators, curriculum specialists, and other staff that have responsibility for planning, caregiving, mentoring or training on-site in a child care center. Educators shall meet the education standards of a position as set forth in Rules .3211, .3213, .3214, .3214, .3216 and .3218 of this Section and work full-time. If a program operates less than forty hours per week, full-time shall mean the hours the program is in operation. For a child care center to earn a five-star rated license, the following requirements shall be met: (1) The child care center shall meet the reduced, enhanced ratio requirements set forth in Rule .3209 of this Section. The child care center may choose to meet the enhanced space requirements set forth in Rule .3210 of this Section. (2) At least fifty percent of lead teachers and at least fifty percent of educators shall meet the individual education standards at the five-star level as set forth in Rules .3211, .3212, .3213, .3214, .3215, .3216 and .3218 of this Section, or higher. (3) The child care center shall implement the family and community engagement standards set forth in Rule .3219 of this Section for a five-star rated license. (4) The child care center shall implement the continuous quality improvement standards set forth in Rule .3221 of this Section. (5) The child care center shall implement a curriculum that has been approved by the Commission as defined in Rule .0102(11) of this Chapter for all ages served. A list of curricula that has been approved by the Commission is available at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Curriculum. (6) In curriculum planning, the child care center shall ensure modifications and adaptations are made to involve all children with special health and developmental needs. (7) The child care center shall conduct on-going formative assessments to gather information about each child's growth and skill development based on individual development and learning needs and maintain evidence of each child's on-going assessment. The child care center shall use a formative assessment(s) that has been approved by the Commission, available at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Curriculum. Evidence of formative assessments shall include documentation required or contemplated by the approved formative assessment and may also include: (A) anecdotal notes; (B) portfolio of child's work samples; (C) developmental screenings; or (D) photographs, audio, or video recordings with permission from the child's family. The lead teacher shall share the results of the formative assessment with families at least twice annually. While sharing the results, the lead teacher shall provide an opportunity for families to contribute additional information to the formative assessment. The manner in which the results are shared shall be convenient for the family such as by telephone, email, virtually, or in-person. (9) The administrator and all lead teachers shall complete training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Verification of this training shall be maintained in the individual's' personnel file. (10) The administrator participates in one of the following activities regarding classroom and instructional quality practices: (A) annual completion of five hours of coaching or mentoring by an administrator of another licensed child care center with a star-rating of five stars, or a community resource partner; (B) annual completion of five on-going training hours, in additional to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter and Rules .3211, .3212, .3213, .3214, .3215, .3216 and .3218 of this Section; or (C) annual completion of 0.5 continuing education unit, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter and Rules .3211, .3212, .3213, .3214, .3215, .3216 and .3218 of this Section. (11) All lead teachers participate in one of the following activities regarding classroom and instructional quality practices: (A) annual completion of five hours of coaching or mentoring by the administrator, another lead teacher in the center, a lead teacher in another licensed child care center with a star-rating of five stars, an administrator of another licensed child care center with a star-rating of five stars, or a community resource partner; (B) annual completion of five on-going training hours, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter and Rules .3211, .3212, .3213, .3214, .3215, .3216 and .3218 of this Section; or (C) annual completion of 0.5 continuing education unit, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter and Rules .3211, .3212, .3213, .3214, .3215, .3216 and .3218 of this Section. (g) For any child care center serving pre-school age children, the following shall also apply: (1) Each child care center shall comply with the requirements set forth in Rule .0508 of this Chapter for written activity schedules and plans and Rule .0509 of this Chapter for general activity requirements; (2) Each child care center shall comply with the requirements for activity areas for preschool-age children as set forth in Rule .0510 of this Chapter, except that all five of the activity areas listed in G.S. 110-91(12) shall be available each day and the activities listed in Rule .0510(c) of this Chapter shall be offered for each group of children at least once per week; and (3) The requirements for activities for infants and toddlers set forth in Rule .0511 of this Chapter shall apply for children under three years of age. (h) For centers with a licensed capacity of two hundred or more, there shall be a second administrator on-site for a minimum of twenty hours per week who shall have the Level I North Carolina Early Childhood Administrator Credential or its approved equivalent. (i) For centers providing school-age care with two hundred or more school-aged children enrolled, there shall be two program coordinators on-site, one of whom shall not have concurrent group leader responsibilities. The additional program coordinator shall have completed all the applicable staff requirements in Rule .2510(b) of this Chapter. (j) The above requirements shall apply to centers located in a residence, as describes in Rule .0102 of this Chapter, except that the following shall apply when determining individual staff education standards: (1) If the operator is the only lead teacher, the operator shall meet the individual education standards at the desired star level, as set forth in Rule .3212 of this Section, or higher. (2) If additional lead teachers are employed by the operator, at least fifty percent of all lead teachers, including the operator, shall meet the individual education standard at the desired star level, as set forth in Rule .3212, or higher. CONTACT INFORMATION: If you have any questions or need further assistance, you can reach via email marcia.humphrey@dhhs.nc.gov. You can also contact my Licensing Supervisor, Kaye Adkins by email at kaye.adkins@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation
Name of Operation: A Step Forward Early Learning Academy Facility ID: 17000084 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/11/2025 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 12/11/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with the applicable childcare requirements for the first temporary visit. I met Mr. & Mrs. Word owner/center director about today’s temp time period visit. They both accompanied me during today's walk-through of the facility. Currently this center operates with a Temporary License, issued on October 31, 2025. The restrictions include daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; age range 0-12 years of age; with a capacity of 60 for first shift only. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed before the visit and A Step Forward Early Learning Academy, LLC, active/current October 17, 2023. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or anyone from upper management decides to sell the business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location or inherited. Indoor Learning Environment: Upon arrival, the staff/child ratio sheets were observed in all the classrooms. I observed the children in their different classrooms engaged with the caregivers and doing art activities. Outdoor Learning Environment: The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. A fire drill was conducted on November 26, 2025. No playground inspection was completed for November. The lockdown drill and shelter-in place have not been completed at this time but will be conducted in the very near future since the administrative staff will need to complete EPR training and planning. Transportation: This program does not participate in transportation. Records: Two children’s records were reviewed during today’s visit, with no violations found. All lead teacher staff records and administrative staff records were reviewed during today’s visit, with no violations found. I informed Ms. Word that on the next unannounced visit the staff and training worksheets will be reviewed in detail for all staff so to begin working on placing this information on the form and saving as a pdf. During today's observation I discussed with Mr. and Mrs. Word the upcoming inspections. I informed them that she can go ahead and have the building, sanitation inspectors to come out and complete their visits before the end of March. I received the fire inspection during today’s visit. I informed Ms. Word that she will need to email the inspections to Marcia Humphrey, Lead Child Care Consultant at marcia.humphrey@dhhs.nc.gov There were three violations cited during today's visit and all three were corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. Several children's files were not labeled with the names and dates. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. A electrical outlets was not covered in the infant classroom. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. A monthly playground inspection was not completed for the month of November. .0605(q) Rated License: I discussed in detail the three Pathways’ Programs, the Education Standards Sheets, the Family and Community Engagement Standards, the Facility Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plan and the Individual Continuous Quality Improvement/Professional Development Plan. I stated to review the forms again and if they have any additional questions just let me know. In addition, with regards to Pathways the facility may be leaning towards Pathways #2-Classroom & Instructional Quality. I discussed in detail what the facility would need to do to achieve 5 Stars for this Pathway. Compliance History: The next two Temporary Time Period visits will be unannounced. During those visits a full assessment of the center's ability to maintain compliance with all applicable Child Care Requirements will be conducted. Please note that any violations cited today or during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past 18 months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. RESOURCES: Be sure to visit the following websites for helpful information, trainings, and materials: 1. www.preventchildabusenc.org The required training -Recognizing and Responding to Child Abuse and Maltreatment - is on this website. All staff are required to complete this free online training within ninety (90) days of hire. Be sure to print the certificate for each employee’s file. 2.www.ncchildcare.dhhs.gov DCDEE’s website for WORKS, Moodle, Criminal Background Checks, provider updates, forms, and information. 3. https://ncrlap.org/Resources/Pages/Training/ North Carolina Rated License Assessment Program website offers free training and resources on program quality and the Environment Rating Scales. Technical Assistance 10A NCAC 09 .3205 CLASSROOM AND INSTRUCTIONAL QUALITY PATHWAY FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) This Rule shall apply to child care centers that choose to earn two through five star rated license using the classroom and instructional quality licensure pathway. (b) As used in this Rule, "educators" shall mean teachers, group leaders, and administrative staff, including directors, assistant directors, program coordinators, education coordinators, curriculum specialists, and other staff that have responsibility for planning, caregiving, mentoring or training on-site in a child care center. Educators shall meet the education standards of a position as set forth in Rules .3211, .3213, .3214, .3214, .3216 and .3218 of this Section and work full-time. If a program operates less than forty hours per week, full-time shall mean the hours the program is in operation. For a child care center to earn a five-star rated license, the following requirements shall be met: (1) The child care center shall meet the reduced, enhanced ratio requirements set forth in Rule .3209 of this Section. The child care center may choose to meet the enhanced space requirements set forth in Rule .3210 of this Section. (2) At least fifty percent of lead teachers and at least fifty percent of educators shall meet the individual education standards at the five-star level as set forth in Rules .3211, .3212, .3213, .3214, .3215, .3216 and .3218 of this Section, or higher. (3) The child care center shall implement the family and community engagement standards set forth in Rule .3219 of this Section for a five-star rated license. (4) The child care center shall implement the continuous quality improvement standards set forth in Rule .3221 of this Section. (5) The child care center shall implement a curriculum that has been approved by the Commission as defined in Rule .0102(11) of this Chapter for all ages served. A list of curricula that has been approved by the Commission is available at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Curriculum. (6) In curriculum planning, the child care center shall ensure modifications and adaptations are made to involve all children with special health and developmental needs. (7) The child care center shall conduct on-going formative assessments to gather information about each child's growth and skill development based on individual development and learning needs and maintain evidence of each child's on-going assessment. The child care center shall use a formative assessment(s) that has been approved by the Commission, available at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Curriculum. Evidence of formative assessments shall include documentation required or contemplated by the approved formative assessment and may also include: (A) anecdotal notes; (B) portfolio of child's work samples; (C) developmental screenings; or (D) photographs, audio, or video recordings with permission from the child's family. The lead teacher shall share the results of the formative assessment with families at least twice annually. While sharing the results, the lead teacher shall provide an opportunity for families to contribute additional information to the formative assessment. The manner in which the results are shared shall be convenient for the family such as by telephone, email, virtually, or in-person. (9) The administrator and all lead teachers shall complete training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Verification of this training shall be maintained in the individual's' personnel file. (10) The administrator participates in one of the following activities regarding classroom and instructional quality practices: (A) annual completion of five hours of coaching or mentoring by an administrator of another licensed child care center with a star-rating of five stars, or a community resource partner; (B) annual completion of five on-going training hours, in additional to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter and Rules .3211, .3212, .3213, .3214, .3215, .3216 and .3218 of this Section; or (C) annual completion of 0.5 continuing education unit, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter and Rules .3211, .3212, .3213, .3214, .3215, .3216 and .3218 of this Section. (11) All lead teachers participate in one of the following activities regarding classroom and instructional quality practices: (A) annual completion of five hours of coaching or mentoring by the administrator, another lead teacher in the center, a lead teacher in another licensed child care center with a star-rating of five stars, an administrator of another licensed child care center with a star-rating of five stars, or a community resource partner; (B) annual completion of five on-going training hours, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter and Rules .3211, .3212, .3213, .3214, .3215, .3216 and .3218 of this Section; or (C) annual completion of 0.5 continuing education unit, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter and Rules .3211, .3212, .3213, .3214, .3215, .3216 and .3218 of this Section. (g) For any child care center serving pre-school age children, the following shall also apply: (1) Each child care center shall comply with the requirements set forth in Rule .0508 of this Chapter for written activity schedules and plans and Rule .0509 of this Chapter for general activity requirements; (2) Each child care center shall comply with the requirements for activity areas for preschool-age children as set forth in Rule .0510 of this Chapter, except that all five of the activity areas listed in G.S. 110-91(12) shall be available each day and the activities listed in Rule .0510(c) of this Chapter shall be offered for each group of children at least once per week; and (3) The requirements for activities for infants and toddlers set forth in Rule .0511 of this Chapter shall apply for children under three years of age. (h) For centers with a licensed capacity of two hundred or more, there shall be a second administrator on-site for a minimum of twenty hours per week who shall have the Level I North Carolina Early Childhood Administrator Credential or its approved equivalent. (i) For centers providing school-age care with two hundred or more school-aged children enrolled, there shall be two program coordinators on-site, one of whom shall not have concurrent group leader responsibilities. The additional program coordinator shall have completed all the applicable staff requirements in Rule .2510(b) of this Chapter. (j) The above requirements shall apply to centers located in a residence, as describes in Rule .0102 of this Chapter, except that the following shall apply when determining individual staff education standards: (1) If the operator is the only lead teacher, the operator shall meet the individual education standards at the desired star level, as set forth in Rule .3212 of this Section, or higher. (2) If additional lead teachers are employed by the operator, at least fifty percent of all lead teachers, including the operator, shall meet the individual education standard at the desired star level, as set forth in Rule .3212, or higher. CONTACT INFORMATION: If you have any questions or need further assistance, you can reach via email marcia.humphrey@dhhs.nc.gov. You can also contact my Licensing Supervisor, Kaye Adkins by email at kaye.adkins@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .3205 · Violation
Name of Operation: A Step Forward Early Learning Academy Facility ID: 17000084 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/11/2025 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 12/11/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with the applicable childcare requirements for the first temporary visit. I met Mr. & Mrs. Word owner/center director about today’s temp time period visit. They both accompanied me during today's walk-through of the facility. Currently this center operates with a Temporary License, issued on October 31, 2025. The restrictions include daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; age range 0-12 years of age; with a capacity of 60 for first shift only. The NC Secretary of State website was viewed before the visit and A Step Forward Early Learning Academy, LLC, active/current October 17, 2023. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or anyone from upper management decides to sell the business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location or inherited. Indoor Learning Environment: Upon arrival, the staff/child ratio sheets were observed in all the classrooms. I observed the children in their different classrooms engaged with the caregivers and doing art activities. Outdoor Learning Environment: The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. A fire drill was conducted on November 26, 2025. No playground inspection was completed for November. The lockdown drill and shelter-in place have not been completed at this time but will be conducted in the very near future since the administrative staff will need to complete EPR training and planning. Transportation: This program does not participate in transportation. Records: Two children’s records were reviewed during today’s visit, with no violations found. All lead teacher staff records and administrative staff records were reviewed during today’s visit, with no violations found. I informed Ms. Word that on the next unannounced visit the staff and training worksheets will be reviewed in detail for all staff so to begin working on placing this information on the form and saving as a pdf. During today's observation I discussed with Mr. and Mrs. Word the upcoming inspections. I informed them that she can go ahead and have the building, sanitation inspectors to come out and complete their visits before the end of March. I received the fire inspection during today’s visit. I informed Ms. Word that she will need to email the inspections to Marcia Humphrey, Lead Child Care Consultant at marcia.humphrey@dhhs.nc.gov There were three violations cited during today's visit and all three were corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. Several children's files were not labeled with the names and dates. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. A electrical outlets was not covered in the infant classroom. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. A monthly playground inspection was not completed for the month of November. .0605(q) Rated License: I discussed in detail the three Pathways’ Programs, the Education Standards Sheets, the Family and Community Engagement Standards, the Facility Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plan and the Individual Continuous Quality Improvement/Professional Development Plan. I stated to review the forms again and if they have any additional questions just let me know. In addition, with regards to Pathways the facility may be leaning towards Pathways #2-Classroom & Instructional Quality. I discussed in detail what the facility would need to do to achieve 5 Stars for this Pathway. Compliance History: The next two Temporary Time Period visits will be unannounced. During those visits a full assessment of the center's ability to maintain compliance with all applicable Child Care Requirements will be conducted. Please note that any violations cited today or during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past 18 months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. RESOURCES: Be sure to visit the following websites for helpful information, trainings, and materials: 1. www.preventchildabusenc.org The required training -Recognizing and Responding to Child Abuse and Maltreatment - is on this website. All staff are required to complete this free online training within ninety (90) days of hire. Be sure to print the certificate for each employee’s file. 2.www.ncchildcare.dhhs.gov DCDEE’s website for WORKS, Moodle, Criminal Background Checks, provider updates, forms, and information. 3. https://ncrlap.org/Resources/Pages/Training/ North Carolina Rated License Assessment Program website offers free training and resources on program quality and the Environment Rating Scales. Technical Assistance 10A NCAC 09 .3205 CLASSROOM AND INSTRUCTIONAL QUALITY PATHWAY FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) This Rule shall apply to child care centers that choose to earn two through five star rated license using the classroom and instructional quality licensure pathway. (b) As used in this Rule, "educators" shall mean teachers, group leaders, and administrative staff, including directors, assistant directors, program coordinators, education coordinators, curriculum specialists, and other staff that have responsibility for planning, caregiving, mentoring or training on-site in a child care center. Educators shall meet the education standards of a position as set forth in Rules .3211, .3213, .3214, .3214, .3216 and .3218 of this Section and work full-time. If a program operates less than forty hours per week, full-time shall mean the hours the program is in operation. For a child care center to earn a five-star rated license, the following requirements shall be met: (1) The child care center shall meet the reduced, enhanced ratio requirements set forth in Rule .3209 of this Section. The child care center may choose to meet the enhanced space requirements set forth in Rule .3210 of this Section. (2) At least fifty percent of lead teachers and at least fifty percent of educators shall meet the individual education standards at the five-star level as set forth in Rules .3211, .3212, .3213, .3214, .3215, .3216 and .3218 of this Section, or higher. (3) The child care center shall implement the family and community engagement standards set forth in Rule .3219 of this Section for a five-star rated license. (4) The child care center shall implement the continuous quality improvement standards set forth in Rule .3221 of this Section. (5) The child care center shall implement a curriculum that has been approved by the Commission as defined in Rule .0102(11) of this Chapter for all ages served. A list of curricula that has been approved by the Commission is available at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Curriculum. (6) In curriculum planning, the child care center shall ensure modifications and adaptations are made to involve all children with special health and developmental needs. (7) The child care center shall conduct on-going formative assessments to gather information about each child's growth and skill development based on individual development and learning needs and maintain evidence of each child's on-going assessment. The child care center shall use a formative assessment(s) that has been approved by the Commission, available at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Curriculum. Evidence of formative assessments shall include documentation required or contemplated by the approved formative assessment and may also include: (A) anecdotal notes; (B) portfolio of child's work samples; (C) developmental screenings; or (D) photographs, audio, or video recordings with permission from the child's family. The lead teacher shall share the results of the formative assessment with families at least twice annually. While sharing the results, the lead teacher shall provide an opportunity for families to contribute additional information to the formative assessment. The manner in which the results are shared shall be convenient for the family such as by telephone, email, virtually, or in-person. (9) The administrator and all lead teachers shall complete training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter. Verification of this training shall be maintained in the individual's' personnel file. (10) The administrator participates in one of the following activities regarding classroom and instructional quality practices: (A) annual completion of five hours of coaching or mentoring by an administrator of another licensed child care center with a star-rating of five stars, or a community resource partner; (B) annual completion of five on-going training hours, in additional to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter and Rules .3211, .3212, .3213, .3214, .3215, .3216 and .3218 of this Section; or (C) annual completion of 0.5 continuing education unit, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter and Rules .3211, .3212, .3213, .3214, .3215, .3216 and .3218 of this Section. (11) All lead teachers participate in one of the following activities regarding classroom and instructional quality practices: (A) annual completion of five hours of coaching or mentoring by the administrator, another lead teacher in the center, a lead teacher in another licensed child care center with a star-rating of five stars, an administrator of another licensed child care center with a star-rating of five stars, or a community resource partner; (B) annual completion of five on-going training hours, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter and Rules .3211, .3212, .3213, .3214, .3215, .3216 and .3218 of this Section; or (C) annual completion of 0.5 continuing education unit, in addition to applicable requirements in Rule .1103 of this Chapter and Rules .3211, .3212, .3213, .3214, .3215, .3216 and .3218 of this Section. (g) For any child care center serving pre-school age children, the following shall also apply: (1) Each child care center shall comply with the requirements set forth in Rule .0508 of this Chapter for written activity schedules and plans and Rule .0509 of this Chapter for general activity requirements; (2) Each child care center shall comply with the requirements for activity areas for preschool-age children as set forth in Rule .0510 of this Chapter, except that all five of the activity areas listed in G.S. 110-91(12) shall be available each day and the activities listed in Rule .0510(c) of this Chapter shall be offered for each group of children at least once per week; and (3) The requirements for activities for infants and toddlers set forth in Rule .0511 of this Chapter shall apply for children under three years of age. (h) For centers with a licensed capacity of two hundred or more, there shall be a second administrator on-site for a minimum of twenty hours per week who shall have the Level I North Carolina Early Childhood Administrator Credential or its approved equivalent. (i) For centers providing school-age care with two hundred or more school-aged children enrolled, there shall be two program coordinators on-site, one of whom shall not have concurrent group leader responsibilities. The additional program coordinator shall have completed all the applicable staff requirements in Rule .2510(b) of this Chapter. (j) The above requirements shall apply to centers located in a residence, as describes in Rule .0102 of this Chapter, except that the following shall apply when determining individual staff education standards: (1) If the operator is the only lead teacher, the operator shall meet the individual education standards at the desired star level, as set forth in Rule .3212 of this Section, or higher. (2) If additional lead teachers are employed by the operator, at least fifty percent of all lead teachers, including the operator, shall meet the individual education standard at the desired star level, as set forth in Rule .3212, or higher. CONTACT INFORMATION: If you have any questions or need further assistance, you can reach via email marcia.humphrey@dhhs.nc.gov. You can also contact my Licensing Supervisor, Kaye Adkins by email at kaye.adkins@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.