Problem

African-American students are oriented towards occupations within the science industry at a higher rate than their white counterparts. Nevertheless,  only 66% actually feel welcome in science. African-American children are "significantly less likely to live in two-parent families (46% below the national average)." Household stability is a proven factor influencing whether a child finishes high school or goes to college — necessities for STEM jobs.

Poverty also plays a part in keeping nonwhite kids out of STEM. Beyond limiting a child's options at home, poverty influences a child's quality of education. A state's public schools' funding is primarily based on residents' taxes; more impoverished areas have less money to contribute to their local schools. Disparities in funding plus life lived in high poverty creates a "double disadvantage" for students.