Math and science are for everyone. But unfortunately, many students, and especially Black and Latino students, don't receive that message or the resources needed to make it a reality. Even early on, many students are told they are not a "math person," or a "science person;" as such, Black and Latino students have long been denied access to advanced coursework, from elementary through high school. In particular, middle school students of color and students from low-income backgrounds are not being given equitable access to rigorous and empowering courses, including advanced Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) courses, which set students on college-ready pathways. In this brief, the author will explain the importance of giving middle schoolers access to STEM coursework as part of their social, emotional, and academic development, as well as give five recommendations to state leaders so that they can ensure that all middle school students have access to high-quality, rigorous, relevant math and science courses, and that all schools have equitable policies in place for enrolling more Black and Latino students in advanced coursework.