I've been a little MIA from the boards this week as we've had some decisions to make. As I told on another thread, DD was hit and pushed at school. This follows a year of nasty notes hidden in her book bag and generally a negative atmosphere among her classmates. DD9 is youngest in her class by almost a year and she has quite a few kids turning (or turned) 11 soon. The age difference and the fact that there are maybe 1-2 other gifted identified in her class makes it a lonely existence for her.
I've been in touch with her teacher and the administration and it seems that at first they did nothing about this physical altercation. Then after a few more e-mails and phone calls, they are putting the blame on ME for not being more clear about the force used on her (like there should be a difference btw. small and big hits???) and this caused the school not to follow their OWN policies. I finally told the principal that if they can't keep DD safe, I will homeschool rest of the year. Only then did they start communicating, as they would like her achievement scores to be counted, I'm sure (we test in a couple of weeks).
So after discussions with DD, DH and I, we are removing DD from this school after next week. I will drive her to school next week and she will spend recess with the librarian (not a punishment for her, more like a reward, LOL). I spoke with one private school in the area and they would love to have her for the rest of the year (and next year, if we choose). The gifted specialist wanted copies of all her scores (Explore scores and achievement from last year) and she was willing to work with us. Over the phone she already said with DDs scores, she should be accelerated and even grade skipped, but she would work with her more closely to look at her strengths/weaknesses.
I'm still leaning towards homeschooling next year, but I am glad we will get a short trial run with this new school. This school is expensive though and we would need to move to afford it for several years to come. So there is so much to consider. DD is so excited for this change, but also nervous for any changes (even positive).
Sorry to make this so long, but there has been so much going on. DDs safety is #1, but hopefully we found a GT friendly place at the same time.
Jen
