There are several proponents of single-sex classrooms and their arguments are impressive. In a recent report published by the Republican Policy Committee, those favoring the amendment declared that offering every parent, regardless of income, a choice between single-sex and coeducational schools should be allowed. In an effort to provide a quality educational experience, some schools have elected offering same-sex classes only to be denied federal funding. This can be a frustrating experience for those parents who do not have the money to send their children to private schools that may o

• When elements of a good education are present, girls and boys succeed. Elements include small classes and schools, equitable teaching practices, and focused academic curriculum.

It seems, that for the time being at least, more information needs to be studied before a solid determination can be made. While many of the studies seem to provide evidence in favor of supporting single-sex classrooms, there seems to be just as much evidence disputing its effectiveness. As the new legislation allows more schools to experiment and create opportunities for parents to choose, further data will reveal whether single-sex education is a worthwhile pursuit or not. Until then, parental involvement seems to be the best way to help children succeed.

John Fairhurst, a teacher at Shenfield High School in Brentwood, Essex thinks boys and girls different learning styles make single-sex classrooms work. Instead of trying to teach their different learning styles in the same class, single-sex classes have allowed the school "to develop a range of 'girl-friendly' and 'boy-friendly' strategies that staff deploy in single gender groups" (Dickinson & Fairhurst, 2002). In the girls-only classes, the teachers try to encourage a sense of worth and confidence and select teaching methods that promise active involvement. They teach the girls responsibility, leadership and to challenge "received wisdom." In the boys-only classes, the teachers maintain strong leadership skills and are quick to deal with disruptive, and challenging behavior. They teach the boys in ways that motivate, and address their shorter attention spans (Dickinson & Fairhurst, 2002).

• There is no evidence in general that single-sex education works or is better for girls than coeducation.

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