Local elementary school featured in report about single-sex classrooms

By Jasmine Huda

KSDK -- A local elementary school gets national attention today. This morning, The Today Show will showcase Carman Trails Elementary in the Parkway School District.

The report will present both sides to the debate over single-gender classrooms. Carman Trails offers single-gender classes for first and second grade students, in addition to mixed-gender classes.

"It may not be the norm, at least, not now. But it is something that has worked at other places and we felt like it is something we needed to pursue," Carman Trails Principal Christeen Raeker said.

Raeker said separating boys and girls at a young age is critical to promoting confidence and student achievement.

Critics, however, argue that single-gender settings promote stereotypes and are discriminatory.

The report will air during the second hour of "The Today Show."