Teachers play a critical role in motivating students and in identifying barriers to learning. The EdWeek Research Center surveyed middle and high school teachers as well as teenage students to learn more about their perspectives on motivation levels, learning barriers, and the impact of technology on classroom engagement. The survey research focused on challenges and opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as well as English/language arts (ELA). Survey results reveal areas in which the perspectives of educators are aligned with those of students but also highlight important gaps. For instance, while teachers cited digital distractions--such as social media--as the primary barriers to learning, students pointed to lack of interest in the topics they were studying and worries about failing or getting bad grades. Bridging the divide between educator and student perspectives could lead to more effective instructional strategies and improved classroom engagement. [This study was produced with support from the Lemelson Foundation.]