COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) _ A new survey shows students, parents and
teachers believe single-gender programs increase students'
confidence, class participation and success in school.

The state Education Department released results Thursday of a
survey taken by more than 2,200 students, 181 parents and 178
teachers in 41 schools statewide.

More than 65 percent of students who answered the on-line questionnaire said single-gender classes helped them in school; 75
percent of parents and 80 percent of teachers agreed.

The results expand on a student-only survey released in January.

South Carolina has become a national leader in offering single-gender programs in public school. Nearly 250 schools statewide are expected to offer the choice in the coming school year, up from 70 schools last fall.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)