Perhaps you could write down your key points prior to getting on the phone, and practice a few phrases for redirecting the conversation to your primary action objectives. (Write the redirection phrases down, too, so you can use them as a cue if you get lost.) If you have a trusted friend or family member who can help you refocus and relax, perhaps they may be available to sit with you while you make this call. Sometimes it helps to keep the focus narrow, just on the actual decision or action your son needs the most (e.g., entry to gifted class), and the objective data that most strongly supports it (tester recommends this GAI as qualifying, he would obtain significant educational benefit, as he learns at a faster pace than is accessible in a differentiated classroom, etc.). If you can get her to write a little note to that effect, that would likely help.
