Who was Robert Waterman?

Robert “Bob” Waterman lived his life with a boundless curiosity and a deep belief in the power of learning. Though he loved traveling, the arts, and every creative adventure life offered, his greatest joy was always found in working with kids. As a young teacher, Bob recognized a growing gap in education — especially in reading, writing, and comprehension — and he made it his mission to bridge it through innovation and imagination.

With that vision, he founded The Pied Piper, one of the first educational video programs used in classrooms. What began as a single idea soon became a full catalog of stories and scenes, each brought to life by a dedicated production team. The Pied Piper captured the hearts of students and teachers alike, becoming part of local school curriculums and inspiring new ways to learn through storytelling.

As technology evolved, so did Bob’s drive to connect with the next generation of learners. His later project, E-Writing for Kids, brought writing instruction into the digital age — helping elementary students think critically, use proper grammar, and strengthen their reading comprehension through an interactive online experience. It was one of his most ambitious and impactful endeavors, one he carried forward with enthusiasm and love until his passing on February 12, 2025.

Today, we honor Bob’s legacy by continuing the work he cared for most: empowering young minds, celebrating creativity, and building bridges through education and the arts. His spirit — equal parts teacher, traveler, and artist — lives on in every program and partnership inspired by his vision.