Incogneato, I hope that you don't think I was devaluing your ability to negotiate. I simply wanted to hear opinions from the people who have gone out there and attempted to advocate. It's been a long time since I had a child in school, and I wanted to get some feedback on that rumor. It seems that at least some people here feel that having a Dad present at meetings did make a difference. Of course there are too many variables to make any real conclusion, but it is interesting to hear everyone's perceptions.

Bianca, I find it very surprising that your ex denies any level of giftedness in a child so clearly advanced. It makes me feel sad for dd, as her Dad doesn't seem to know her. frown