Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Recognizes Eight Washington State School Districts as High-Achievement Models

SEATTLE -- The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation today recognized eight Washington state school districts for their work to help all students achieve with the announcement of $42 million in grants. The grants will allow districts to accelerate their efforts to become model districts through improved teaching and learning, increased access to technology, and stronger home and community partnerships. These grants are part of the Foundation's commitment to recognize and encourage high achievement models and develop strong leadership in education.

The districts selected were Bellingham School District ($4,492,800), Evergreen School District (Clark County - $9,304,416), Hockinson School District (Clark County - $918,432), Kennewick School District ($7,300,800), Mabton School District (Yakima County - $486,000), Nooksack Valley School District (Whatcom County - $972,000), Spokane School District ($16,470,000), and Enumclaw School District (King County - $2,289,600). Grant amounts are based on the district's student population and whether it is a high need district.

"We have spent months getting to know and studying the work of these districts," said Tom Vander Ark, Executive Director, Education for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. "The decisions were not easy because of the strong commitment that so many districts have to helping all students achieve. These eight are true models for their work and dedication."

Districts were chosen based on their demonstrated commitment to using research-based models, emphasizing quality professional development, improving access to technology, and building community and home partnerships. The grants require ongoing evaluation to help districts learn and adapt their practices according to what is working best. The Foundation will use these grants and the work of these Washington districts to expand this grant program nationally.

"We're thrilled to have our efforts recognized by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation," said Nooksack Valley Superintendent Mark Johnson. "Our staff has been working hard to strengthen their skills and help all students excel in the classroom. This grant reaffirms that we're on the right track, and gives us the resources to accelerate our work."

Nooksack Valley School District has been working toward district-wide improvements for seven years. Among its successes, is a school-based family resource center that serves as a statewide model for collaboration and family support. It is one of five Washington districts selected to create a model post-certificate of mastery high school. The Foundation's grant will allow the district to continue and expand these and other improvement efforts.

Kennewick School District has made similar strides because of strong community partnerships and investments. The founder of the National Reading Foundation, Kennewick has built its success around involving the whole community in the learning process. Like the other districts recognized today, it stands out for its successful programs in professional development, technology, and partnerships, which prepare students and teachers for the state's new standards.

"These grants are a first step," explained William H. Gates, Sr., Co-Chair & CEO of the Foundation, "Washington is Bill and Melinda's backyard, and this is the beginning of a long-term commitment to Washington students and schools."

Encouraging high achievement models and developing quality leadership are the cornerstones of the Foundation's education giving. Within Washington state, future grants will support outstanding schools and technology training for teachers; nationwide, grants will support model school districts and statewide coalitions that have strong leadership programs underway. More information on the grant process is available in the Education Section.