ATLANTA — A single-gender learning experiment is being tested at a number of schools across metro Atlanta.
The Genesis Innovation Academy in southeast Atlanta, a charter school, is in its first year.
Dr. Gavin Samms, who heads the school, told Channel 2's Audrey Washington that without boys in the classroom, girls feel more confident asking questions. He also told Washington that the boys tend to behave better without girls around.
The school has just under 400 students from Kindergarten through 6th grade. Boys are in one building, girls are in another.
“Girls do better when they are away from boys and that’s just pretty clear. And it’s because boys are disruptive,” Samms said.
Samms is the head of the charter school, that focuses on single-gender learning.
He believes, academic achievement is possible by teaching the same lessons, but separating the boys from the girls.
This is the school’s first year and so far, he has not seen any major gains in student grades, particularly in math or reading, but he says this type of learning is not just about the score.
“We're not focusing on the test. We’re on practical, real learning,” Samms said.
Parent Andrea Harris agrees.
“She loves it. She’s a social butterfly, “ Harris said.
Harris used to home-school her daughter, but as soon as she learned about the concept and the school’s e-five model with economics, ethics, expression, engineering and entrepreneurship, she said she and her daughter were all in.
“I love how they apply everything to real life. It’s not just ‘Here is a workbook, worksheet, do it and let’s get it done,’” Harris said.
Single-gender learning has been tested before and has had some success.
Both the Coretta Scott King Young Women’s Leadership Academy and the Best Academy practice single-gender learning.
Both schools boast academic achievement and character development.
It is something Samms expects of all his students.
“People realize that our expectations are high and we’re going to get there,” Samms said.
Cox Media Group
