The United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona's Business Leaders are co-hosting their 12th educational breakfast on March 16 to honor a third-grade educator who has excelled in teaching students how to read.

“Children who read proficiently by the end of third grade are more likely to succeed academically and graduate from high school prepared for college and careers,” a United Way Tucson press release said.

The lead sponsor for the breakfast is Women United, which is an affiliate of United Way.

The speaker of the event is Dipesh Navsaria from the University of Wisconsin, who has been involved in “Reach Out and Read Wisconsin,” which offers encouragement for students learning to read.  

“The Inaugural Literacy Champion Award will be presented to an early childhood educator teaching students in preschool through third grade," the release said. "The award will recognize the educator’s achievements in literacy with students.”

 The breakfast will be held at the Tucson Covention Center at 260 S. Church Ave from 7:30-9 a.m. Those interested in submitting a recommendation for an award or providing sponsorship can visit www.unitedwaytucson.org/businessbreakfast or send an email to womenleaders@unitedwaytucson.org.