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Anchin Center, Gates Foundation, and Manatee Schools Partner to Improve K-4 Math Intervention

The Anchin Center and the College of Education at the University of South Florida (USF) have launched an impactful partnership with the Gates Foundation and Manatee County Schools to strengthen math intervention practices across kindergarten through fourth grade classrooms throughout the county. 

This collaborative initiative is designed to support teachers in improving math outcomes for students by focusing on research-based instructional strategies tailored to early learners. At the core of the work are three essential pillars of effective math intervention: manipulatives with meaning, student discourse, and formative assessment. 

USF faculty and staff planned and facilitated a series of professional development sessions centered on these pillars, providing educators with practical tools and strategies they could immediately implement in their classrooms. The sessions emphasized hands-on learning, meaningful mathematical conversations among students, and the use of ongoing assessment to inform instruction and intervention. 

Following the successful professional development, the partnership extended beyond initial training. The USF team has continued to meet periodically with Manatee County teachers to check in on their progress, reflect on classroom implementation, and provide targeted support based on teacher needs. This ongoing collaboration has helped ensure that math intervention practices remain responsive, sustainable, and impactful. 

Together, USF, the Gates Foundation, and Manatee County Schools are building a strong foundation for early mathematics success, supporting teachers, and creating meaningful learning experiences that help all students grow as confident and capable mathematicians.