PHX Reporter

A festival emphasizing early literacy and reading is set to occur at Paradise Valley Community College’s (PVCC) Union Hills Campus. Scheduled for April 26, the Festival of Tales is a collaboration with Southwest Human Development and the Phoenix-based law firm Engelman Berger, aiming to engage families with free books, storytelling sessions, live performances, and hands-on activities. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and is free to the public.

PVCC President Dr. Jana Schwartz highlighted the significance of early literacy by stating, “The Festival of Tales is one of my favorite events because it provides families with the tools to foster a love of reading. Early literacy is key to lifelong success, and this festival embodies PVCC’s mission to create lasting community impact.”

The festival is designed to address literacy gaps, which are more prevalent in low-income families. By offering these events, PVCC’s literacy initiatives align with its bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Special Education, promoting equitable access to reading resources and experiences.

Meggin Kirk, director of PVCC’s Education Program, commented on the festival’s broader educational impact by saying, “As future educators, every literacy event we host is a step toward inspiring a lifelong love of learning.”

For those interested in attending or seeking more information, a full event schedule is available on the Festival of Tales website.