November 21, 2024 – Waterford.org, an early education nonprofit, is recognizing twelve years of work and dedication by Jenni Torres, Chief Academic Officer. In January, she will start a new role as the Executive Director of World-Class Instructional Design and Assessment (WIDA), an educational services organization that advances language development and academic achievement for multilingual children.
“Jenni’s work in early learning should be celebrated,” said Kim Fischer, EVP of Marketing & Communications at Waterford.org. “She has contributed significantly to curriculum, family engagement, and learning opportunities for all of the children we serve, including our multilingual learners. We’re so grateful she’ll be able to continue that work at WIDA.”
Torres was introduced to Waterford.org and its curriculum when she was an implementation specialist in Puerto Rico in 2012.
“I saw the power of the program in the 100 schools across the island of Puerto Rico, and I wanted to be a part of the future,” Torres said.
Starting at Waterford as a Special Projects Manager, Torres also had roles as a Professional Development Manager and in curriculum team leadership, serving as both the Vice President of Curriculum and then the Executive Vice President of Curriculum and Instruction. After earning an EdD in Educational Policy and Leadership in 2022, she was promoted to the executive leadership team as the Chief Academic Officer.
Torres said the mission of Waterford.org to help children in their early learning years has inspired her work.
“Both as an educator and mother, I’ve learned firsthand the importance of a solid early start in education,” Torres said. “Too many children do not have the opportunity to access high-quality instruction, and families often feel overwhelmed and uncertain about how to provide this fantastic gift to their children.”
As a thought leader in early childhood education at Waterford.org, Torres has articles published in U.S. News & World Report, Authority Magazine, and The74, among others.
Torres also created the CARES framework, which centers on embracing family-focused approaches to curriculum development.
“Fully embracing authentic partnerships can strengthen communities and schools,” she said. “Strong family engagement approaches can help build relationships and trust.”
Waterford Early Learning meets WIDA’s standards as an effective resource for helping students with English language development skills.
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World-Class Instructional Design and Assessment (WIDA) is an educational services organization within the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s School of Education that advances language development and academic achievement for multilingual children to help ensure equitable, quality education.
Waterford.org is a national early education nonprofit that provides research-backed PreK through 2nd grade reading, math and science programs that children can use wherever they learn. Our tailored programs help children reach critical milestones by third grade, laying the foundation for future success for every child.
Contact: Gretchen Willard, Waterford.org
4246 Riverboat Rd.
Taylorsville, UT 84123
