What Does WIDA Stand For?

In 2002 an EAG grant provided initial funding for the organization that would become WIDA. Three states were involved in the grant: Wisconsin (WI), Delaware (D), and Arkansas (A), so the acronym WIDA was chosen for the name. At the last minute, however, Arkansas dropped out, and World-class Instructional Design and Assessment was created to fit the acronym. As WIDA grew, however, the original name no longer adequately described its mission. Recently WIDA decided to stop using the acronym definition. Now WIDA just means WIDA, but as to what it stands for, see the Mission, Vision, and Values listed below.

 

Mission

WIDA advances academic language development and academic achievement for linguistically diverse students through high quality standards, assessments, research, and professional development for educators.

 

Vision

To be the most trusted resource in the education of PreKindergarten through Grade 12 language learners.

 

Values

WIDA's Can Do Philosophy: believing in the assets, contributions, and potential of linguistically diverse students

 

Collaboration: facilitating interaction among educators, state and local educational agencies, researchers, policy-makers, and experts worldwide

 

Innovation: drawing from research and practice to find the best solutions for students and educators

 

Service: exceeding expectations with friendly and knowledgeable support of our customers and stakeholders

 

credit to:  https://www.wida.us/aboutUs/mission.aspx