Yes, this is hard.
I spent a fair amount of time investigating school options over the last 1-2 years, and I had a hard time finding anything else that fit our needs. I wanted something that wasn't JUST academics and acceleration, but focused on the critical thinking. While this program was supposed to be that, it is not going to be what I was really looking for. My case is a bit different, but for us, I don't know another option. At a bare minimum my child is in a class with other similar kids, and I'm hoping we can affect positive change over time.
The 'traditional' schools, I didn't think would be a good fit, and looking at the public classrooms, we would be in serious trouble if we were in there.
Suggestions I have...
- Start with identifying one specific area of issue, and start by getting a specific time frame for resolution. Offer suggestions and solutions for that one particular area. If it is math, for example... suggestions would include...
2nd grade math book, 2nd grade cats pull-out for math, an in-class math project he can work on, ALEKS? has been used by many kids...
- Work it from a different angle. He gets homework... modify the assignment, so that it reflects what he is capable of. Send in books at his level that he wants to read for free reading, with a note saying he is reading this book currently and wants to have it available for silent reading. For computer special, send in suggestions of websites at his level, other than starfall (which is all I've heard about so far). I plan on doing this, since I know this was one area she wanted help on. The site below, for example, I think is a great site for the kids, since it really involves critical thinking, experimenting, scientific approach, etc.
http://fantasticcontraption.com/- Begin a paper trail.
- When she opens it to volunteers, try to get in the classroom. That will give you a clearer idea of what is happening and what isn't. Part of my issue, is the level of communication isn't there, so I can't even make a fair assessment as to what is occuring, where there are issues for my child, etc.
I'm hoping someone that is better at advocating than I am can give you some more advice. I've been giving the teacher time, since we are not in the 'disaster' mode of that first week. I recognize this is a hard situation for everyone involved, including the instructor. (Just being in a roomful of gifted kids with their OE's can be an eyeopening experience) I will be contacting her, though, b/c I need to validate how she has assessed my child versus where I believe my child is at, and I want a paper trail started. The tricky part with gifted kids is they can be very asynchronous and can hide what they know.
