Thanks everyone. I will type up a letter today to initiate the evaluation. I was afraid a mid year grade skip would be detrimental. Since my son's current 1st grade teacher will be leaving for maternity leave right at holiday break this might be the answer to our concerns. I would also feel reassured if we could take this at a slower pace and observe the grade skip class and teacher.

Side note: The GATE program and teacher seem like a great fit for my 10 year old dd. She is very excited.