This report considers the state of science and mathematics achievement in the United States, with a focus on the lower average achievement of minority students and on the relatively high proportion of minority students who achieve at high levels in mathematics and science. The data and analyses available from many sources suggest that meeting the need for highly skilled workers over the next decade and beyond will be problematic unless focused efforts are made to improve achievement. Sections of this report examine supply and demand projections for various occupations, the barriers to meeting emerging shortages, and the status of minority representation in science and engineering. Also reviewed are achievement in elementary and high school, the prospects for progress, and the extensive work that needs to be done. The report is intended to inform efforts in these crucial areas: (1) starting early; (2) better teaching; (3) raising minority achievement; (4) identifying the sources of low achievement; (5) assistance; and (6) persistence. An appendix contains information on job outlooks for various occupations. (Contains 30 references.) (SLD)