Hi Kathy,
Kindergarten is optional in Texas, not required, they just don't advertise it. I signed my daughter up for the 1st grade test prior to her kindergarten year. We opted not to take the test because she was accepted into a Spanish program. Otherwise, she would have taken the test and started public school in 1st grade. Don't let the negative attitudes of the principal discourage you.
Also, here is the link for the Texas State Plan for the Education of Gifted/Talented Students. Once you get into the system, this may help you advocate for your child.
www.professorlamp.com/ed/TEA/Tx_State_Plan.html
