[Jim Noble]

I think girls have always been favored in the early primary grades.

However, when I went to public school, beginning in about grade 5, we turned our attention increasingly to things of practical significance (math, science, wood and metal shop, etc) in preparation for becoming Masters of the Universe.

When my sons went to public high school, most practical matters seemed to have disappeared from the curriculum. High school juniors are now treated like third-graders, and it is not surprising that girls, who have always "ruled" third grade now rule high school as well (at a time in their lives when they have other advantages over boys).

"Boyness" does not lend itself to "soft" regimentation, which is now the purpose of public education.

[Jim Noble]

Paging Dr. Danger, paging Dr. Danger.

Dr. Danger, please report to the OR...

[MikeAtTheShore]

"When my sons went to public high school, most practical matters seemed to have disappeared from the curriculum. High school juniors are now treated like third-graders, and it is not surprising that girls, who have always "ruled" third grade now rule high school as well (at a time in their lives when they have other advantages over boys).

"Boyness" does not lend itself to "soft" regimentation, which is now the purpose of public education."

Great insight. Neat and concise. How very male of you. You get a "C". LOL