Inside the STEM Classroom: Our Kids Have the Curiosity—Do They Have the Access?

Send us Fan Mail Our children are curious. They’re creative.

They’re ready to explore. But do they have access to the STEM experiences that allow that curiosity to grow?

In this episode of the Black Girls Do Engineer Podcast Back-to-School Series , Kara Branch sits down with longtime educator Deirdre Ricketts for a transparent conversation about what STEM education looks like from inside the classroom. They discuss the importance of hands-on STEM learning, what teachers are seeing in students today, barriers to access and opportunity, and why educators need the right resources, training, technology, and community support to prepare students for a rapidly changing future.

Deirdre also shares why she believes “The World is Your Laboratory!” and what happens when children are given opportunities to build, experiment, question, create, and see themselves belonging in STEM. This conversation is also a reminder that teachers cannot—and should not—have to build a child’s entire STEM ecosystem alone.

Parents, schools, nonprofits, industry, and communities all have a role to play. Because our kids don't have a curiosity problem.

The question is: do they have the access? Support the show Thank you for listening to Black Girls Do Engineer: The Podcast .

If this episode resonated with you, share it with a parent, educator, mentor, or young person who needs to hear it. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and review —it helps our stories reach more families and future innovators. 📲 Follow us on social @BlackGirlsDoEngineer for behind-the-scenes moments, upcoming events, and community highlights. 💖 Support the mission : Your donation helps us create access, confidence, and opportunity in STEM for girls nationwide. Donate at Because this was never just a program—it’s a promise.