Business leaders in Delaware 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. Delaware students have already made real progress in math over the past decade the state also shows strengths in science. Elementary students spend more time on science than their peers in other states do, and eighth graders are more likely to conduct hands-on investigations. Yet not enough students-least of all minorities-get the chance to learn rich and challenging content that prepares them for college and careers.