10A NCAC 27G .2402. STAFF

(a)  Each developmental day center shall have a designated director who holds a bachelor level degree with specialization in administration, education, social work, nursing, psychology or a related field or have comparable experience and education.

(b)  Each staff member except student trainees and supervised volunteers shall be at least 18 years of age.

(c)  Staff shall provide continuous supervision of each child.

(d)  A minimum of two staff members shall provide direct child care at all times.

(e)  A minimum of one direct child care staff member shall be on duty for every five children.

(f)  If school or preschool aged children are served under contract with the Department of Public Instruction, a preschool handicapped, B-K, or special education certified teacher shall be employed for each 20 children or less.  The type of certification shall be based on the ages of the children served.  When infants and toddlers are served, a professional privileged in accordance with the requirements of Part H of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act shall be employed for each 20 children or less.  This material is incorporated by reference and includes subsequent editions and amendments.

(g)  If infants are served, a minimum of one direct care staff member shall be on duty for every three infants.

(h)  Centers with at least 40% of their enrollment being children without disabilities, and having an inclusion plan approved by DMH/DD/SAS for area-operated programs and by the area program director for contract agency centers, may utilize the following staff/child ratio:

(1)           Infants - 1:4;

(2)           Toddlers and older children - 1:6.

(i)  The disciplines of social work, physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech and language therapy shall be available through center employees, consultants, or agreements with other providers.

 

History Note:        Authority G.S. 143B‑147;

Eff. May 1, 1996.