Here are some things that I'd recommend:
* Blackcat is right, certain people get it and others don't. Fit is more a matter of the right people (teacher / principle / admin) rather than a particular format or pedagogy. Do not bother arguing with people who don't get it unless there's a direct benefit to your child.
* Let go of preconceived notions about what schools will work and won't. And don't let statistics cloud your vision too much. The important thing is not how the school is doing, but how your child will do in the school.
* Hunt down the less well-known options. Charters, magnets, learning centers, religious schools, alternative private options, hippy democratic schools, homeschool educational coops. A lot of these fly under the radar. The district is not going to have the full list. You can't vet them if you don't know about them.
* Tell your parents to butt out. Let them know that you are using all the good knowledge they imparted to you to make the best decision for your child, but that they need to let you go through this process yourself. Fill them in at the end and ask their advice as necessary.
* Remember, nothing is right forever. Sometimes it works for a while and then doesn't. When it doesn't, it doesn't do to wait too long for things to change before taking the leap to something new. Prepare your child emotionally for this eventuality by helping found core non-school-based friendships.
