OPINION: My daughters found success in single-gender classrooms

As a military veteran and someone who has been pursuing a computer science degree, I’ve always been drawn to fields where women are often underrepresented. That experience taught me firsthand how challenging it can be to carve out space and succeed in male-dominated environments.

I’ve never shied away from a challenge, but as a mom of four daughters, I don’t want them to have to fight quite so hard just to prove they belong or to achieve their goals. I want them to grow up in an environment that nurtures their confidence, supports their curiosity and empowers them to thrive in any field they choose. Because of that desire for my children, a strong education is one of the most important foundations to establish. As a result, I started by homeschooling my oldest two children, and when it came time to transition to public school, I did my research. I wanted a smaller school for them, to make the transition easier, and in my searching, I found Coral Community Charter School (CCCS).

CCCS offers single-gender classrooms, which research shows help girls to engage more freely and readily in STEM subjects. With reduced pressure or stereotypes, girls are able to build more confidence in these subjects, and that’s exactly what I wanted for my daughters. I enrolled my oldest girls at CCCS in first and third grade, and since then, we’ve been a Coral Community family. I currently have three daughters at the school, all of whom are soaring in academics and loving their classes. My oldest has graduated and now attends Albuquerque Academy and is excelling, largely in part due to the foundation of her elementary education.

This success isn’t limited to my children. It’s seen and celebrated throughout the school, thanks to the incredible atmosphere at CCCS, where they cultivate a passion for learning every day. While my focus is on my girls, the benefit of single-gender education expands to both male and female students, with boys showing more engagement in classrooms that are focused on male learning styles — including movement, timed activities and keeping learning at a quick pace. This style allows every student to engage and take pride in their education. It’s not just the single-gender classes or small class sizes, but a difference in approach entirely that creates an environment dedicated to thriving.

At CCCS, it’s small enough for everyone to know you and your child, but also large enough to individualize learning for each child. Whether my children needed an extra challenge or time to slow down and ensure they’re mastering a concept, CCCS has always risen to the occasion. As a result, my children are high achievers, focused and engaged in their education, and passionate about what they’re learning. For any parents who are looking to challenge their children and give them more out of their education, I highly recommend looking into CCCS. As a busy mom who goes out of her way to drive my kids to and from school (living in Rio Rancho), I can promise you, it’s worth it.