Business leaders in Texas cannot find the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) talent they need to stay competitive. Students' lagging performance in K-12 is a critical reason why. The good news is that the nation's most effective STEM education programs can help turn the tide. Texas students have made real progress in math since, 2003, though they have given up some of those gains over the past five years. Texas students spend more time than their peers in other states on elementary science, and they participate in more hands-on learning. Yet not all students have access and support to learn challenging content and prepare for success in college and careers. Boosting the knowledge of middle school science and math teachers should be a top state priority.