California educators will learn at a UC Davis workshop Jan. 5-7 how Russian schools have sustained uniquely high levels of achievement in math and science. This accomplishment is especially remarkable given the country's vast political and economic challenges. Russian mathematicians may reveal some surprising ways to help boost U.S. student achievement, according to workshop organizer Kurt Kreith, a UC Davis mathematics research professor. Sponsored by the William and Mary Greve Foundation, the workshop offers local teachers a chance to borrow the most effective Russian teaching methods and to demonstrate their reforms in math education. Topics will include experimental approaches used in Russian schools, the use of mathematics in encouraging global thinking, and the role of technology for teaching and assessment. An evening session will showcase innovative high school programs in Davis and San Francisco that relate mathematics to environmental studies.