Single-gender classes appeal to students

Limestone-Central Elementary fourth grade students are being taught in single gender classes in a program school officials believe result in improved student achievement. Jonah Patterson has no complaint about the fact there are no girls in his classes. Lexi Hadden is just as satisfied there are no boys in hers.

Limestone-Central Elementary decided this year to have an all-boys and all-girls class in fourth grade. The same students will remain in single gender classes for the fifth grade next year. Hadden has a quick answer when asked about the biggest change in not having boys around her in class.

"Actually learning," Hadden replied.

While it's probably not the answer her principal would like to hear, Hadden's comment speaks to one reason more schools statewide are teaching boys and girls separately.

Single gender classes take into account the different ways that boys and girls learn in the classroom.

Research on nervous systems has shown boys tend to learn better when moving around. Girls can sit at their desk and work on tasks like writing for longer periods of time.

Patterson finds he has an easier time paying attention in an all boys class.

"The girls get us in trouble," Patterson said. "I like the fact that we don't have to learn so much about girl stuff. At recess, we have the whole playground to ourselves. We can have more fun, like playing football."

Limestone-Central Elementary is among 300 schools statewide offering single gender education classes this school year. Mary Bramlett Elementary and Ewing Middle School are other county schools with single gender classes.

Limestone-Central Elementary Principal Clay Fowler became interested in the concept after he attended a state Department of Education training session last year.

"One size doesn't fit all. Traditionally, schools have taken a cookie cutter approach to teaching," Fowler said. "Every child learns differently. We are offering single gender classes this year in an effort to provide an atmosphere and environment that is better suited for some children to excel."

Unlike traditional single gender classes, Limestone- Central Elementary does not have a male teacher to teach the all boys class.

Fourth grade teachers Peggy Baker and Ruby Byers were chosen to teach the single gender classes. Baker is teaching the all boys class while Byers is teaching the all girls class.

Next school year, Shawn Casey will teach all boys in the fifth grade.

"The teachers were chosen because their personality is well suited to teaching this type of class," Fowler said. "During the first four weeks, we have seen a lot of positive improvements. Parents have told me their children's grades are better and show improved self-esteem and confidence."

Limestone-Central Elementary will bring in guest speakers and schedule field trips to provide learning opportunities that fit the different interests of boys and girls. The students stay in their single gender classes for physical education, music and art classes.

Teachers have already done different activities that wouldn't go over as well in mixed company. Baker recently brought her all boys class outside for a lesson on insects.

"We collected critters like centipedes," Baker said. "The boys really liked that."