FEMMES (Females Excelling More in Math, Engineering, and Science)

Women have long been underrepresented in the STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields; the disparities between men and women in the sciences underscore the need for outreach programs to engage young women in these fields. Though young girls tend to perform at the same level as boys in these areas, they begin to veer off from these career paths as early as middle-school due to a lack of educational support. Oftentimes, girls lack role models who excel in math and engineering, thus formulating a misconception that they cannot pursue an interest in these paths. Today, although women constitute nearly half of the U.S. work force, they account for only 25 percent of the science, engineering and technology work force, according to Sally Ride Science. Young girls have reported that science classes are "boring" and they desire a more interactive experience with STEM subjects. Existing outreach programs, however, are often geared towards demonstration-based, rather than hands-on learning. It is particularly important not to overlook underserved communities in these outreach programs. Many existing intervention programs cost money and require a chaperone to attend-- potential obstacles for parents who work weekends and evenings, have other children at home, or cannot spare the money. Families in Durham, North Carolina may face these potential obstacles, as Durham is a community where many residents are at a socioeconomic disadvantage. Compiled 2008-2009 data from the Durham area has shown that, starting in the 5th grade, only 48.9% of students performed at or above their grade level on the End-of-Year Science test. This data clearly demonstrates the need that Durham has for educational bolstering in the science areas.