[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 157 (Wednesday, September 28, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E981-E982]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           HONORING IRIS PADILLA FOR HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

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                            HON. DARREN SOTO

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 28, 2022

  Mr. SOTO. Madam Speaker, Iris Padilla immigrated to the United States 
from Venezuela at the age of 16. She is passionate about education and 
serving her community. In 2011, she fueled that passion by creating 
Kids Academy Learning Center.
  Iris is the original founder of Kids Academy Learning Center and a 
co-owner of three additional facilities located in Haines City and 
Eagle Lake. The learning academies provide educational services for 
over 500 families and employment opportunities that boost the local 
economy.
  She prides herself on the center's mission, ``staff will strive to 
provide the highest quality childcare and educational service that 
promotes and enhances each child's development while assuring our 
parent's peace of mind in the care and service we render.''
  Iris exemplifies the heart of a servant leader. She provides free 
notary services and is an active member of the Kiwanis Club, the 
Northeast Chamber, and the professional development for the Council for 
Professional Recognition, where she ensures that childcare specialists 
are trained and equipped to provide excellent service to children. She 
is also a member of the Latin Business Expo where she works to spread 
awareness of positivity throughout the community by highlighting, 
promoting, and educating the community about Hispanic culture and 
businesses.
  Iris is honored to have the opportunity to positively impact the 
lives of so many families on a daily basis. She is the mother of 2 
children and has 8 grandchildren.

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