Spotlight on Victor Torres: Transforming Education Through CEC Membership

Spotlight on Victor Torres: Enhancing Educational Practices 

As educators gear up for the new school year, the value of being a member of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) becomes even more apparent. Today, we highlight the journey and insights of a dedicated CEC member, Victor Torres, Assistant Principal and grades 6-12 Special Education Coordinator at Aurora High School, who has leveraged his involvement to enrich his educational practices and make a significant impact on his school community. 

Journey to CEC Involvement 

Our featured member's path to joining CEC began in an unexpected place—a local airport where he facilitated activities for children with exceptionalities during layovers. This early experience sparked a deeply rooted passion for working with individuals with exceptional needs. After over a decade of classroom teaching and a transition into administrative roles, his commitment to the field continues to grow. Beginning with CEC as a student member and now as the Ohio Unit President, he continues to find inspiration in the organization's national and local impact. He has been instrumental in aligning state education efforts with CEC’s mission, fostering a shared vision of leadership and advocacy. 

Utilizing Membership for Educational Enhancement 

As the new school year begins, Victor is actively applying CEC resources to enhance his district’s educational practices. A notable achievement was the successful implementation of CEC’s core competencies for special education paraeducators, which led to a significant overhaul in evaluation and professional development processes. By aligning these standards with the district's practices, he has streamlined training and evaluation, benefiting both paraeducators and students. The integration of online modules and updated criteria further supports the development of paraeducators, aligning them with the latest best practices. 

Exciting CEC Initiatives 

Looking ahead, Victor is enthusiastic about several CEC initiatives. He plans to carry out the CEC Ohio New Teacher Institute to support new teachers within his district. This initiative, backed by a robust new teacher support system, provides valuable feedback and access to high-leverage practice resources to help new educators acclimate quickly. Additionally, he is excited about the resources available through the CEC exceptional teacher repository, which will aid in implementing evidence-based practices and enhancing teaching strategies. 

Impact on Educators and Students 

The benefits of CEC membership extend to teachers, staff, and students alike. One significant impact has been the improved clarity and effectiveness of the post-secondary transition planning process for students. By incorporating feedback and utilizing CEC resources, the planning process now involves more detailed interviews, family engagement, and ongoing assessments over the course of the year. This comprehensive approach is designed to better address individual strengths and needs, ultimately leading to more successful outcomes for students. 

CEC’s resources also play a crucial role in bridging research and practice. The organization's practical, teacher-friendly approach helps educators translate research into actionable strategies. Victor shares TEACHING Exceptional Children (TEC) articles with teams and says it has become a valuable engagement opportunity, helping educators discuss the article, implement evidence-based practices, and enhance their professional development. 

Volunteer Square: Get Involved Today 

Being a member of CEC has provided invaluable support and resources that have significantly impacted educational practices and student outcomes. By leveraging these resources, our featured member has not only enhanced his district’s approach to special education but also inspired others to embrace and advocate for the benefits of CEC membership. As the school year unfolds, his commitment to utilizing CEC’s offerings will continue to drive positive change and support the growth of both educators and students. 

For more information on how CEC can enhance your educational practices and support your professional journey, visit our website and sign up today for the various volunteer opportunities in our volunteer square.