Originally Posted by Minor Third
I think GT identification starts in middle school... I at least always want to know what the options are so we can make an informed decision.
Are you able to access your school and/or district website, to determine whether the policies may be found online?

You may also find this crowd-sourced list helpful... it is a roundup of advocacy tips from parents on this forum, over the years. You may also wish to read about student self-advocacy and consider whether you believe the time may be right to help your child develop these skills and learn these approaches.

Originally Posted by Minor Third
how do you know when a kid is algebra ready
The Iowa Algebra Aptitude Test (IAAT) used to be the tool for measuring whether a child is ready for algebra. Maybe it is still in use? The Iowa Algebra Aptitude Test is mentioned in this link on the Davidson Database: Tips for Parents: Parenting Mathematically Talented Students in 7th Grade and Younger

Originally Posted by Minor Third
... middle school math... how the curriculum is set up, and whether finishing the combined 5th and 6th grade math course this year would be a good enough of a foundation for going straight into algebra.
This link to the Common Core Math Standards may be helpful; it shows the basic progression of skills: http://www.corestandards.org/Math/