DD4.5 is currently in a play-based multi-age school where she is happy but not academically challenged AT ALL. It is a private school. I was planning to keep her there next year for kindergarten. However, all her "friends" are leaving that school next year to go to their respective public schools. There are 5 girls in the 4-6 age group in her class who all do stuff together. One of the girls will go to our public school. DD wants to go to the public school now just to be with her "friend". Again, I am putting friends within quotes because at this age, I am really not sure what that means. I attended the kindergarten info session at our public school and met with the principal briefly after the session. He mentioned that while they are no programs for advanced learners in the elementary school, he and his teachers would be willing to do something for us. Not sure what this means but I have heard from parents that the teachers and principal at the school are very approachable though no one has needed or been provided with any acceleration or enrichment opportunities. So I have my concerns and I am really confused. The pros with switching to public school would be $10k in avoided tuition savings and DD can stay with her "friend". The cons: the school may not work plus we are definitely moving in a year from now to a district that is known for its gifted programs. We can't move this year as they only offer part time k, which is not going to work for us. So is it worth moving the child twice in two years? I appreciate your thoughts and input in helping me get some clarity.
