The Impact of STEM Schools on High School Success in North Carolina

• In Event: Roundtable Session 11
  In Roundtable Session: Evaluating the Impact of STEM Instructional Programs and Strategies

Abstract

Some states have created Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) schools to foster student interest and proficiency in STEM subjects. We conduct a quasi-experimental evaluation of the influence of a STEM high school reform model on passing elective STEM courses and courses with potential to earn college credit as well as attendance, suspensions, dropping out and graduation outcomes. We examine results overall and by subgroups of students who have traditionally been underrepresented in STEM majors and occupations (females, low-income students, certain ethnic and racial groups). Students in STEM schools perform better on each of these dimensions even controlling for demographic factors and middle school performance. For some of the outcomes, the STEM effect was stronger for those in underrepresented groups.

Authors

• Elizabeth J. Glennie, RTI International

• Marcinda Mason, RTI International

• Benjamin W. Dalton, RTI International