07/14/2026
At Milestones, we believe in being transparent with the families we serve.
Recent events have prompted us to reflect on challenges facing not only our center, but the childcare profession as a whole. While one recent interaction brought these concerns to the forefront, this message is not about one family or one isolated incident. It is about the culture we want to create for our children, our families, and our employees.
Our staff carry an incredible responsibility every day. They maintain ratios, actively supervise children, administer medications, respond to medical emergencies, enforce illness policies, follow safe sleep practices, document injuries, navigate custody disputes and co-parent disagreements, and ensure children are released only to authorized individuals. They also adapt to changing licensing requirements, family schedules, illnesses, behavioral concerns, and the many unexpected situations that arise in childcare. Every decision they make has the potential to impact a child's health, safety, and well-being.
We understand that many of our policies can be frustrating. Being asked to pick up a sick child, follow contracted schedules, or hear "no" because a policy cannot be bent isn't easy. However, these expectations exist to protect every child in our care and ensure we remain compliant with Minnesota licensing requirements.
Unfortunately, interactions like the one that prompted this statement are becoming far too common. Most recently, while simply enforcing center policy, a staff member was called an "as***le," a "dumb bitch," an "idiot," and a "d**k." Respectful disagreement is always welcome. Verbal abuse, intimidation, and hostility toward our employees are not.
We recognize there are always multiple perspectives to every situation. As a licensed childcare center, however, we are legally and ethically obligated to protect the privacy of every child and family we serve. Because of that, we cannot publicly discuss confidential matters or respond to every accusation or rumor online. Our silence should never be mistaken for a lack of integrity—it reflects our commitment to confidentiality and professionalism.
We know there may be discussion on social media regarding recent events. Rather than engage in public debate, we wanted to communicate directly with our Milestones families. This will be our only public statement on the matter.
As part of our continued commitment to a respectful partnership with families, we are implementing a Parent & Guardian Code of Conduct, which will be shared through Brightwheel and added to our Parent Handbook.
To the overwhelming majority of our families who communicate respectfully, support our staff, and partner with us every day—thank you. Your kindness and trust make this work worthwhile. We remain committed to making Milestones a place where children are safe, families are welcomed, and employees are proud to work.
