What is the CRB? I haven't heard of that before - any chance you're referring to ERBs?
I haven't heard of private options for taking the CogAT - I think that's in part because it's perhaps not that reliable of a measure
Most tests that are measuring ability (and some achievement tests) are also not supposed to be repeated for at least 12 months to avoid inflated scores due to repeat testing - so you'd need to be careful in considering retaking it - even if your ds did retake it, the school might not accept the scores.
If you were here in our district, you're best route to appeal would be through advocacy with other scores. Information is key, so the first thing I'd do is request a copy of your ds' CogAT report from the school district (make the request in writing, and give them 10 business days to reply). Also find the written policy for admission to the science program (if it exists). It might not be any different than what you've been told, but it's important that you know what you are being told is correct.
I would ask your ds what it is he sees as different and desirable about the gifted science program - look for cues that let you know - does he want in there because it sounds more interesting than the regular program, or is he wanting in because he's needing faster pace / etc. Try to re-think the question of where he should be next year not from what he *wants* to do, but where he *needs* to be. If the indications are that he needs faster-pace, higher level discussion etc - then include that in your advocacy approach. Also look for examples of deeper-than-typical thinking in his previous years' science work.
Is there any chance his science teacher this year is supportive of him going into the program? If you had a recommendation from a teacher I'd suspect that would go a long way.
Good luck!
polarbear
