[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 149 (Tuesday, September 17, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1161]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





 RECOGNIZING THE LAUNCH OF THE 50TH UPWARD ACADEMY AT THE TYSON FOODS 
                          PLANT IN ZEELAND, MI

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                           HON. BILL HUIZENGA

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 17, 2019

  Mr. HUIZENGA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the launch of 
the 50th Upward Academy at the Tyson Foods Plant in Zeeland, Michigan.
  This unique in-plant educational program offers a plethora of 
empowering resources and courses to all workers, from the frontlines to 
the offices, at no-cost. By partnering with local community 
organizations, Upward Academy provides team members the opportunity to 
access important classes that would otherwise be unattainable. Examples 
include English as a Second Language, General Educational Development 
(GED), and United States citizenship, among others. For new immigrants 
to the U.S., Upward Academy helps to assimilate and integrate them into 
American society, thereby creating a bedrock for their future success.
  Moreover, the Upward Academy includes multiple components focused on 
workplace skills and professional training to develop talent, 
especially in rural or marginalized areas. This includes classes in 
driver education, computer technology, financial literacy, and a 
variety of soft skills. Through these programs, Upward Academy brings 
knowledgeable experts directly to workers so they can move beyond 
entry-level jobs, receive valuable qualifications, and perform at high 
levels.
  The 50th launch of Upward Academy will open the door for all team 
members at Tyson's Plant in Zeeland, MI to strive beyond current 
limitations. Tyson Foods and Upward Academy's commitment to cultivating 
a modem workforce that is prepared for the 21st century will help our 
community grow stronger and make West Michigan a better place to live, 
work, and raise a family.
  Madam Speaker, please join me in officially recognizing the launch of 
the 50th Upward Academy at the Tyson Foods Plant in Zeeland, MI.

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