This study investigates how STEM academy schools in a western state interpret and implement STEM
education. Across the country, there are various elementary schools which have transformed into STEM academies.
The goal of these STEM academies is largely consistent—to “prepare students to communicate and
compete as global thinkers within the community using Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics”
(Bluford STEM Academy website, 2013, “STEM (2)”, para.1 ) through “STEM learning environments [that]
are fully integrated verses the typical instructional structure of subjects being taught in isolation.” (West Hills
STEM Academy website, 2013, “How is STEM learning environment different from your average elementary
and middle level classroom?” para.1). This study specifically seeks to understand how teachers in STEM schools
interpret what the word “STEM” represents and how they implement STEM in the classroom.