Although it is an old-fashioned technique for private schools, it is a relatively new option for schools public. The National Association for Single-Sex Public Education estimates that “about 400 public schools now offer some form of single-sex education. One of the driving forces behind the movement for single-sex education is recent research showing natural differences in the way men and women learn. However, this has sparked a little debate beyond education. Civil rights concerns also come into play. As the debate heats up, it's helpful to understand all sides of the issue. Those who advocate for single-sex education in public schools argue that: some parents do not want their children in mixed-sex classes because, especially at certain ages, students of the opposite sex can be a distraction; Others agree that simply placing boys in separate classes from girls doesn't do much, but single-sex education improves student achievement when teachers use techniques appropriate for the gender of their students. Some research indicates that girls learn better when the classroom temperature is warm, while boys perform better in cooler classrooms. If this is true, then the temperature in a single-sex classroom could be adjusted to accommodate either male or female students. Supporters say co-ed schools tend to reinforce gender stereotypes, while single-sex schools can break gender.