In this special episode of Literacy Elevated: A TALE of Texas, we celebrate International Literacy Day with guest Lara Deloza, Director of Communications at the International Literacy Association (ILA).

International Literacy Day, first proclaimed by UNESCO in 1966, reminds us of each year that literacy is more than a skill, it’s a fundamental human right and the foundation for lifelong learning. Lara shares how ILA has celebrated this day in the past, the exciting 2025 campaign “Every Page Has a Purpose,” and why centering both the joy of reading and the Children’s Rights to Read is essential for building a global movement.

Together, we explore how educators, families, and communities all play a role in fostering a child’s love of reading and how each of us can take part in this month-long celebration.

Resources:

⁠ILA Literacy Month Toolkit ⁠

⁠ILA Every Page Has a Purpose⁠

In this episode of Literacy Elevated: A TALE of Texas, we sit down with Dr. Aileen Hower to explore the power of reading routines and the vital role families play in early literacy development.

Dr. Hower—associate professor of literacy education at Millersville University and past president of the Keystone State Literacy Association—shares her expertise on how simple, consistent reading habits can shape a child’s path toward lifelong literacy. From creating joyful moments at home to building strong connections between schools and families, she highlights practical ways to make reading a meaningful part of everyday life.

As we launch our special series for International Literacy Month, this conversation is a reminder that fostering a love of reading doesn’t require perfection—it starts with intention, joy, and community.

Resources:

ILA Literacy Month Toolkit

ILA Every Page Has a Purpose

In this special Literacy Month conversation, Dr. Sue Corbin—educator, author, and passionate literacy advocate—shares her insights on the power of literacy as a human right and a foundation for lifelong learning. Drawing from her work with the International Literacy Association, Dr. Corbin highlights the importance of equitable access to books, the role of families and schools in fostering joyful reading habits, and how conversations around texts can spark deeper comprehension and connection. Whether you’re an educator, caregiver, or literacy leader, this episode offers both inspiration and practical strategies to advance literacy for all.

Learn more at ILA's Children's Rights to Read and UNESCO International Literacy Day

Check out TALE Advocacy at www.texasreaders.org

Literacy Elevated: A TALE of Texas is a podcast dedicated to amplifying the voices of educators, advocates, and literacy champions across the Lone Star State. Through honest conversations and powerful storytelling, we explored the successes, challenges, and the future of literacy education in Texas—one interview at a time.

In this special series, we’ve heard from classroom teachers, principals, instructional coaches, and policymakers who are shaping the landscape of literacy instruction. From early literacy programs and dyslexia support to the impact of legislative policies like HB 3, HB 3928, and HB 1605, we dive deep into what it takes to build a strong, equitable literacy system that serves every child.

Whether you’re an educator, a parent, a community member, or a policymaker, this podcast is for you. Together, we can elevate literacy, spark new ideas, and inspire collective action that makes a real difference for Texas students.

Join us for a powerful conversation with Principal Avila, an inspiring leader at a bilingual elementary school in Texas. In this episode, Princiapl Avila shares firsthand insights into the unique challenges and incredible successes of fostering literacy in a diverse, multilingual community. She also looks ahead, offering a hopeful vision for the future of literacy education in Texas, grounded in equity, innovation, and community engagement.

In this episode of Literacy Elevated, we sit down with Jason Dalrymple—Dallas Fire-Rescue Captain, longtime Malakoff ISD School Board member, and passionate public education advocate. Jason shares his unique perspective shaped by decades of community service, raising five children through the public school system, and supporting his wife Kristi, a veteran public school teacher.

We discuss what’s working in literacy education today, the challenges educators and school leaders face, and what changes could make the greatest impact. With honesty, heart, and a deep respect for teachers, Jason offers a thoughtful look at how local leadership and strong community ties can support meaningful progress in education.

In this episode of Literacy Elevated: A TALE of Texas, we sit down with Suzanne Watson, a passionate dyslexia teacher with over 14 years of experience in dyslexia intervention and more than 20 years in education. Suzanne shares her perspective on the successes, challenges, and future of dyslexia education in Texas.

With warmth and wisdom, Suzanne highlights what’s working, where gaps still exist, and how educators and families can advocate for lasting change.

Whether you're an educator, parent, or advocate, this episode offers valuable insight into the realities of dyslexia education and the incredible work happening in Texas classrooms.

To learn more about Angela Henderson Smith go to herwebsite, ⁠AngelaHenderson Smith