Our Team
Passionate & Certified Educators
Lee Perez
Lead Teacher
Lee is an educator with a background in early childhood education and seven years of experience working in various school settings.
Passionate about supporting children's growth both academically and emotionally, she brings unique perspective to her role. As a mother of three, she embodies patience and empathy in everything does.
Melanie Councell
Lead Teacher
Melanie, a former Lead Teacher at an Early Learning Academy, developed a strong foundation in education, leadership, and child safety. She earned a Master’s degree in Healthcare Administration, further reinforcing her dedication to systems that protect and support others. Her work has always been guided by a passion for the safety and wellbeing of those in her care.
Crystal Contreras
Founder & Director
I am the Founder and Director of Milestones Academy, and I am deeply passionate about early childhood education and the impact it has on a child’s future. I hold a Master’s degree in Education from Stony Brook University and bring over 15 years of teaching experience across public and charter school settings, as well as international teaching experience in Spain. These diverse experiences have shaped my belief in educating the whole child and meeting children where they are.
As a mother of two, my vision for Milestones Academy is personal. While searching for childcare for my own children, I realized the kind of nurturing, values-based, developmentally focused program I envisioned did not exist in our community—so I took a leap of faith and created it. My family and I are proud members of this community, and I believe every child has the potential to make a difference when they are nurtured, supported, and guided with intention. Milestones Academy was created from that belief and is led with heart, purpose, and faith.