Bill Gates Sr., co-chair of the Gates Foundation, and Dean Allen, Washington STEM board president, got a first-hand look at researched-based practices and strategies to improve mathematics in the Renton School District on Thursday.

Washington STEM is a non-profit organization  dedicated to advancing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in education. The two observed work done by the University of Washington College of Education and Lakeridge Elementary staff to improve teaching and learning. They were joined by major funders and educational professionals.

The practices are designed to enhance student mastery and interest in mathematics and also provide teachers with high quality professional development and research-based teaching strategies, a district press release stated.

“Every principal wants to improve learning at his or her school,” said Jessica Granger, Lakeridge principal. “At Lakeridge, we’re doing work together with the UW that simultaneously supports staff growth and student success.”

Teachers at the school have been provided months’ worth of ongoing professional development, training, guidance and support from UW professionals under the guidance of Dr. Tom Stritikus. He is the dean of the UW College of Education. All of the work was funded by a grant from the Gates Foundation and Washington STEM.

Nearly 425 students were involved in the project.