Science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) oriented schools are being formed to provide 21st century learning opportunities for students. After going through an exhaustive evaluation period schools are being recognized as STEM schools. The number of these schools is increasing every year. Education agencies provide professional development and support for the schools which are recognized as a STEM school. These schools are particularly focused on transforming schools into academies which engage teachers and students in STEM with the goal of improving schools and the college readiness of students. This dissertation investigated if students who enrolled in STEM schools scored better on the state standardized algebra test. The researcher utilized quantitative data analysis processes including propensity score matching and ANOVA. The results revealed that STEM school students scored better in state standardized algebra test than their counterparts who were not enrolled at a STEM school but the effect size was relatively small. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]