Hi Prissy -
Here in sunny FL as well. I read the entire thread and just wanted to comment. First, your initial statement summed up the state to a tee - each county is responsible for having a gifted program in place. There are generalized rules, and districts are savvy about manipulating them to accomodate at the bare minimum. Hello - one hour or one day a week is NOT gifted programming. There are a few districts who really do back up the program description and are gifted friendly. (sigh)
What amazes me most is the shsh attitude when talking about the needs of our kids. Even with gifted-endorsed teachers I still get the eye rolls and deep breaths, along with you-have-Medusa's-head stare. Otherwise, it can be a lot of nodding, yessing and "oh, we know, we are certified, we differentiate for every child" answers that honestly, make me seethe.
Good luck with your private testing. I hope you find a tester with experience and understanding of gifted kids. DS was tested by the school/district and at his 1st EP mtg, the psych had trouble explaining the test results and then proceeded to ask us what goals to place on his EP. There's a whole 'nother post on that -
Despite the positives and the struggles we've experienced, I take each school year and 'start over' by meeting with the teacher, bringing my paperwork, and expressing my willingness to work with her to help my child. It is an ongoing process, to be sure his needs are met, until he is able to do so.
I wish you all the best~
