Stephen Fales, author and former DoWEA teacher, visits during Read Across America Week

VICENZA, Italy – Former DoWEA teacher turned author, Stephan Fales, visited Vicenza Elementary School during Read Across America week.  He read to students in kindergarten through second grade and then held a surprising 20-minute question and answer session with third, fourth, and fifth graders. Curious students inspired by an author’s visit shifted the lecture to an interactive, two-way dialogue.  

Stephan D. Fales, the author of Welcome Home, Charlie! grew up as a Navy kid and later served a full career in the United States Air Force.  He brings a rich, global perspective to his storytelling. After retiring from the Air Force, he went on to become an elementary school teacher, and now, as a retired teacher turned author, he shares his love of reading, writing, and imagination with students everywhere.

During his visit, students got a behind‑the‑scenes look at how real animals, childhood memories, and life in a military family inspired Charlie, Beagan, Peanut, and the rest of the barnyard crew. With his combined experience as a teacher, a world traveler, and a writer, Mr. Fales showed students how stories grow from everyday moments and how their own experiences can spark meaningful, creative ideas. It was an inspiring and memorable event for the entire school community and left a third grade student with this thought, “When you write never give up, and keep writing.”