In March 2012, the Metro Board of Education dropped the "Comprehensive" title from all its zoned schools to reflect the district's new emphases on smaller learning communities and thematic career academies.

Stratford STEM Magnet High School has two academies, each with distinct pathways.

(Changed in the 2020–21 school year, The NSST Academy was formally the Academy of National Security and Safety Technologies which included Criminal Justice/Forensic Science and Computer Simulation/Game Programming Pathways.

The Computer Simulation/Game Programming Pathways were cut due to funding issues) Stratford STEM is designated as a International Cambridge School.

In addition, Stratford STEM offers numerous Advanced Placement (AP) courses and dual credit options.