How scientists can lead the effort to solve STEM education inequity in America

Education leaders are calling alarm to the lack of diversity in STEM. To address the issue, we need to look at K-12 education. Only 26% of American 8th graders are proficient in math (source); It is worse for students of color in under-resourced communities.

What role can scientists play in solving this crisis?

EnCorps connects STEM professionals with middle and high schoolers to counter the systemic injustice preventing children in under-resourced communities from accessing a high-quality STEM education.

The EnCorps STEM Teachers Program® supports STEM professionals who are committed to closing the equity gap. EnCorps Fellows teach various STEM subjects ranging from physics and math to computer science. Fellows are able to marry theory with practice. More importantly, they serve as STEM role models.

With the EnCorps STEMx Tutors Program, STEM professionals and college students volunteer to tutor middle school math online to increase math skills and confidence prior to high school. The 2022-23 data shows results: 84% of students increased math proficiency.

Our 16 year history shows that STEM professionals can make a real impact on improving the diversity in STEM fields and combat the educational inequity that is prevalent in under-resourced communities.