Monica Garcia

Tucson

Kansas born, UTEP alum & Anchor for News 4 Tucson. On a quest to try every Mexican restaurant in Arizona. Story ideas: [email protected]

Articles

Searching 4 Solutions: Tucson's Desert Willow Elementary tackles student absenteeism

1 week ago | kvoa.com | Monica Garcia |Mónica García

TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) - Arizona schools are grappling with record-high chronic absenteeism, with some districts reporting over 30% of students missing at least 10% of the school year. Desert Willow Elementary in Tucson is taking action with an innovative attendance incentive program. At Desert Willow Elementary, students are rewarded for consistent attendance through prizes and recognition. Principal Kendra Forgacs believes this approach is crucial for fostering routine and peer relationships.
Searching 4 Solutions: Real ID deadline nears for Arizonans

2 weeks ago | kvoa.com | Monica Garcia |Mónica García

TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) - With the May 7 deadline for obtaining a Real ID fast approaching, many Arizonans are scrambling to secure this federally compliant driver's license. The Arizona Motor Vehicle Division reported a 35% increase in demand, leading to booked appointments and long lines. People are finding it challenging to get appointments online. However, there's no need to panic.
Devastating fire leaves South Tucson family without home

3 weeks ago | kvoa.com | Monica Garcia |Mónica García

TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) - A South Tucson family of eight is facing a devastating loss after a fire obliterated their home and their entire livelihood. The fire, which occurred near South Campbell Avenue and 36th Street, swept through the Flores family's property last Monday. “Everything burned in three minutes, even the fence on this side caught fire,” Raúl Flores said. His family lost everything in the blaze.
Searching 4 Solutions: Arizona schools plan cell phone ban, impacting Tucson students

3 weeks ago | kvoa.com | Monica Garcia |Mónica García

TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) - Arizona schools are preparing for a change as a new law banning cell phones in classrooms takes effect next school year. Schools across the state are rushing to develop plans to comply with the law. Salpointe High School in Tucson is already taking steps to address this issue. They have launched a pilot program called the Cell Phone Task Force, aiming to eliminate classroom distractions.
Searching 4 Solutions: Neighborhood dogs attack raises safety concerns in Tucson

1 month ago | kvoa.com | Monica Garcia |Mónica García

TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) - A neighborhood in Tucson is on edge after a man's dog was killed by loose neighborhood dogs. The incident occurred when Dwight Irwin was out walking his dog, Jack, in the Rita Ranch area. "I dropped the mail, and I am laying four feet where they attacked my dog," Irwin said. Unfortunately, Jack did not survive the attack. This tragic event echoes a similar incident from 2009 involving Richard and Sally Andrade in Glendale.
4 The Weekend: Home show, sculptures, local market fun

1 month ago | kvoa.com | Monica Garcia |Mónica García

TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) - A variety of events are set to entertain Southern Arizona residents this weekend. Whether you're interested in home improvement, art, or supporting local vendors, there's something for everyone. The Southern Arizona Home Show will take place at the Tucson Convention Center from Friday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Homeowners can explore displays, events, and demonstrations, aiming to inspire and assist with home projects.
4 The Weekend: Tucson events with airshow, street fair, Monster Jam

1 month ago | kvoa.com | Monica Garcia |Mónica García

TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) - There's no shortage of excitement in Tucson this weekend, with a variety of events set to entertain locals and visitors alike. The 2025 Thunder and Lightning Airshow is taking place Saturday and Sunday at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base. This event promises dynamic aerial displays showcasing America's military airpower, both past and present. For those who enjoy a more grounded experience, the Fourth Avenue Street Fair is back in downtown Tucson.
4 The Weekend: A festival full weekend

2 months ago | kvoa.com | Monica Garcia |Mónica García

TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) - This weekend in Tucson is packed with exciting events for the whole family. With three festivals on the calendar, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The Tucson Festival of Books, recognized as one of the nine best literary festivals in the world, is returning to the University of Arizona campus. The festival will take place on Saturday and Sunday, offering over 300 presentations, panels, and workshops. It will run from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and admission is free.
ANCHORED IN TRADITION: Toddler Friendly Christmas Tree treats

Nov 21, 2024 | kvoa.com | Monica Garcia |Mónica García

If you want to get your children involved in this year's holiday baking-- may I suggest this easy holiday treat recipe that only involves 3 ingredients. It's cute and easy and tons of fun for kids. Ingredients:-Large pretzel rods-white chocolate melting wafers with green die or green candy melts-holiday sprinklers-First, line a large baking sheet with parchment or wax paper and align your pretzel sticks (tree trunks) a few inches apart .
Searching 4 Solutions: gun safety

Oct 18, 2024 | kvoa.com | Monica Garcia |Mónica García

TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) — Being a responsible gun owner is crucial to making sure that guns are used safely and stored securely, yet here in southern Arizona every year thousands of guns are still ending up in the wrong hands. according to our local ATF Bureau. On average, 1,000 guns are being stolen from either a vehicle or home in Tucson. What is being done to better educate gun owners about gun safety, and who is being impacted the most when preventive measures are taken?