A Minneapolis day care center, the Quality Learning Center, has become a focal point of controversy following a viral video that alleged fraudulent activities within the facility. The video, created by conservative content producer Nick Shirley, highlighted what he described as questionable practices in the city’s Somali community. His claims have prompted heightened scrutiny and discussions about the integrity of day care operations in Minnesota.
The video, released shortly after Christmas, showcased a sign on the building that misspelled “learning” as “learing.” Shirley emphasized this oversight, stating, “This is Quality ‘Learing’ Center.” His 42-minute exposé quickly gained traction, leading to increased immigration enforcement and a freeze on federal funding for the center. Critics have pointed to the video as indicative of broader systemic issues within the state’s child care programs, particularly under the administration of Governor Tim Walz.
Despite the serious allegations, the Quality Learning Center has not been formally charged with fraud. A man identifying himself as the center’s manager denied any wrongdoing, asserting, “There’s no fraud going on whatsoever.” The center has been under investigation, with Melinda Williams, Assistant U.S. Attorney, reporting that “98 individuals have been charged in our ongoing fraud against the government cases” in Minnesota.
Funding and Oversight Challenges
Financial records indicate that the Quality Learning Center was slated to receive approximately $1.9 million from the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for 2025, and has received nearly $10 million since 2019. These figures, provided by the state House Republican Caucus, underscore the significant federal funding allocated to the center. The caucus has raised concerns regarding the legitimacy of several day care centers, including the Quality Learning Center, during hearings earlier this year.
The CCAP does not accept applications directly from day care centers; instead, eligible caregivers apply for assistance, which is then allocated to the centers. A recent budget forecast suggests that the program is expected to cost the state around $56 million in the 2025 fiscal year, with an additional $101 million anticipated from federal sources.
Recent inspections of the center revealed a history of violations, although none indicated fraud. The most recent unannounced review on June 23, 2025, identified ten violations, including issues related to staffing qualifications and documentation for children’s medication. Tikki Brown, Commissioner of the state Department of Children, Youth, and Families, noted that ongoing investigations into various centers have not uncovered fraud.
Public Response and Current Operations
Despite the controversies, the Quality Learning Center remains operational. Ibrahim Ali, who identified himself as a manager and the son of the owners, claimed that Shirley’s video was misleading, stating it was filmed before the center opened for the day. He added that the facility typically serves between 50 to 80 children daily.
The center has faced scrutiny regarding its licensing status. In May 2022, it was placed on conditional status due to a record of 27 violations, which included overcrowding and insufficient supervision. Although this status raised concerns, the center has yet to face suspension.
On Tuesday, the area outside the center was bustling with activity as children arrived, contradicting earlier statements from state officials suggesting that the center had closed. Observers noted the discrepancy, leading to speculation regarding the center’s operational status. A spokesperson clarified that the center “decided to remain open” despite earlier assertions of closure.
The center’s licensing remains valid until the end of 2026, and recent reports indicate that corrective actions have been taken regarding past violations. Regarding the misspelled sign, Ali attributed it to an error by the graphic designer, stating that efforts to correct the mistake were already underway.
As the investigation continues, the Quality Learning Center finds itself at the intersection of community needs and allegations of misconduct. The unfolding situation raises important questions about oversight and accountability within Minnesota’s child care system, as officials and community members navigate the implications of the viral video and its aftermath.
