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As a former Member of the Education and Workforce Committee, Fred Upton understands the importance of the education of our young people. He has long been committed to the improvement of the education system in our nation and believes that an educated workforce is a strong workforce, leading to a stronger and more stable economy -- moreover, a proper education is a necessary facet for success in today’s world. One of Upton’s greatest pleasures as Representative is hearing from and speaking to Michigan students. This is the main reason why he is very proud to visit at least one school a week in the Sixth district.
- Head Start
Over his tenure in office, Upton has visited many Head Start centers and has been constantly impressed with the teachers, parents, and especially the children themselves. He has stood by Head Start centers for more funding and was pleased when the House Subcommittee on Education Reform adopted his amendment to the Head Start reauthorization bill to ensure disadvantaged children have the resources available for a first rate education. Upton’s measure amends the School Readiness Act (H.R. 2210), guaranteeing continued funding for all local Head Start centers in states that apply for participation in the pilot project for three years. For this Amendment Upton was awarded the “Special Recognition Award” from the National School Board Association.
- Farm to Cafeteria
In a time where nutritional habits are overlooked, Upton introduced a measure to help children develop healthy eating habits while providing a new, consistent market for local farmers. Upton’s Farm to Cafeteria bill was included in the Child Nutrition Improvement & Integrity Act, which was signed into law by President Bush. This landmark measure puts healthy, farm fresh produce on the plates of our children. By encouraging children to eat healthy foods, they have a better chance of avoiding serious illness later in life, such as heart disease and diabetes. Upton is very proud of this legislation, which is truly a win-win for both our kids and our farmers.
- Supporting Higher Education
Fred Upton cosponsored the Higher Education for Freedom Act of 2003, which establishes a competitive grant program making available funds to institutions of higher education and associated nonprofit foundations. These grants would be used to establish and assist programs focused on the teaching and study of traditional American history and the achievements of Western Civilization at both the graduate and undergraduate level.
In addition, Upton has always believed that one of the best uses of federal funds is to provide financial aid for students eager to attend Post‑secondary School. He was a major supporter to H. Res. 334, which was signed into law by President Bush after being passed by the House with a large bipartisan majority. This resolution will alleviate many of the concerns of students trying to obtain an education and better their lives and also seeks to establish fixed interest rates for student loan borrowers, making college more affordable to millions of Americans.
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