Al Torres, a native of Brownsville, Texas, served in the U.S. Army for 24 years as a musician. After retiring, he moved to Portland, Oregon, where he worked with Veterans Affairs (VA) in public affairs and health information, while also performing in jazz clubs and musical theater. In 2015, Al transitioned to teaching as an assistant music teacher in Portland Public Schools.
In 2020, Al and his wife Jennifer moved to San Juan Island, where he worked as a school liaison and Spanish teacher at Friday Harbor High School. In 2022, he accepted a position at Lopez Island High School, teaching Spanish and English Language Learners (ELL) for three years.
Al holds a BA in Music Performance, an M.Ed in Education, an MBA, and is currently pursuing an Ed.D. in ELL and School Administration. He is dedicated to creating an inclusive, supportive classroom where students thrive and build meaningful connections. He also believes in forming strong, meaningful relationships with his students, their families, and his colleagues.
Outside of teaching, Al enjoys spending time with Jennifer and their two dogs, Gustavo y Harry. His passions include music, the Spanish language, traveling to Mexico, experimenting with Latin American cuisine, and roasting coffee beans.
