Mathematics is life.
The STEM workforce only has 6% combined African Americans, Native Americans, and Latinos.
While there are circumstances amongst all demographics that prevent them from studying STEM disciplines, Rainey et al. (2018) state that students from underrepresented demographics tend to feel the most disconnected from STEM. Since Black and Latino students are more likely to come from low-income families, they might not have access to the academic resources that traditionally help support students through STEM programs.
Math Speaks’ mission is to engage, empower, and expose middle school students of color from economically disadvantaged communities to STEM experiences and careers through the exploration of math topics.
Math Speaks will help students find exceptional career paths and ensure that all students can see themselves in STEM. The President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology wrote in their 2012 report Engage to Excel that "closing the mathematics-preparation gap would enable many more students interested in STEM fields to attain STEM college degrees." Math Speaks believes that students won't stay on paths to STEM careers unless they love it, this organization will enable students to see the beauty of math and experience the joy of solving great problems.
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Shaundranetta Wood
Executive Director, Mentor