Single-Gender Education: Is it right for your child?
I recently had the chance to sit down and discuss single-gender education with Emily Spine, the Director of Network Operations at Public Preparatory Network. She is an alumna of single-gender schools and shared some information about her experience in a single-gender setting, as well as some key facts about Public Prep.
Q: What is Public Prep?
A: Public Prep is the nation’s first non-profit public charter network that exclusively develops exceptional, tuition-free Pre-K and single-gender elementary and middle schools. We have six schools: two in the Lower East Side (both all-girls, grades K-8) and four in the Bronx (three all-girls and one all-boys, grades K-8). We also have three excellent co-ed Pre-K programs, known as PrePrep: two in the Bronx and one in the LES.
Q: What makes Public Prep different from other charter networks?
A: Being single-gender is obviously a huge differentiator. Having Pre-K is a big deal: very few charter networks have Pre-K programs. Once scholars are enrolled with us, they are guaranteed a seat through 8th grade. We also have an approach that places equal emphasis on character development, college knowledge, and academic excellence through our integrated curriculum.
Q: Can you tell us a little bit about your experience in an all-girls school?
A: I loved my time at an all-girls’ school. I attended from 6th grade through 12th grade and seriously considered attending an all women’s college. When I first entered 6th grade, I was extremely shy, quiet, and had very low self-confidence. The comfort of being around all girls really allowed me to blossom in a way that I don’t think I would have been able to in a co-ed environment. I honestly credit who I am and what I have accomplished to my time at the all-girls’ school I attended.
Q: Why should a parent consider single-gender education?
A: As it turns out, research bears out that single-gender education can be beneficial. According to one study, in “single-sex environments, student achievement improves, especially for minority students or students in poverty, as a result of improved behaviors and teacher focus on learning-style differences.” Another study found that single-gender education can have positive benefits and reduce stereotype threat. For me personally, the social pressures of a co-ed environment were no longer present, which enabled me to focus on my academics without traditional gender stereotypes or potential distractions.
Q: If someone is interested in applying for their child to attend a Public Prep school, what should they do?
A: Well, good news! We are currently accepting applications for the 2022-2023 school year in grades Pre-K through 8th . They can visit our website to learn more or submit an application via SchoolMint. They are always welcome to call us at 848-272-0875 or email enroll@publicprep.org with any questions.
For more information, visit www.publicprep.org.
This post is brought to you by Public Prep Network.