While middle school is a critical phase for science career development for all students (Maltese & Tai, 2009), this stage presents considerations for females in science, in particular. During middle school, the decline in science interest is greater for females than males and, for most students, the level of science interest developed during this middle school stage will persist throughout their lifetime, thereby influencing science career interests and supported the research study by co-developing and enacting the artsintegrated science unit; Olivia Alexander and Terri Tinnell for their efforts in reviewing literature and data analysis; Dr. Linda Fuselier and Tytianna Smith for guest teaching in the classroom during the unit; the Women Investing in Education foundation who financially supported this research; and earlier reviewers of the manuscript for their thoughtful and thorough feedback. There are no conflicts of interest in the publication of this research.
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