Drawing on a larger study, this qualitative investigation explored the factors that African American and Latino high school students perceived as barriers to positive educational opportunities. Eighteen African American and Latino urban high school students comprised the sample. The findings indicated that perceived barriers to positive educational experiences included relationships with teachers, school counselors, and peers as well as school policies and a lack of safety in their communities. Implications for educators (i.e., administrators, teachers, and school counselors) and policymakers are discussed.