DS8 finally started the advanced LA and Math this year (the gifted program starts in 3rd grade in our school district). The advanced program is a pull out program that happens every school day. Because DS is in both ALA and AMA, he spends his whole morning with the advanced teacher and other advanced kids.
We had curriculum night just last week and I am very happy to learn that the teacher has advanced degrees and extensive training in gifted education. She was in gifted programs all her early school life and she's now been in the program in our school district for over 20 years (ever since the program started). She also has a gifted son of her own.
Overall, I feel pretty optimistic with this school year for DS8, in terms of challenging school work and social aspect. I hope DS8 will enjoy school more this year.