Honestly, I don't think I'd worry too much about retaliation, Jool. After all, if it came to that, you're probably going to pull him out for one of those other options (HSing or private school), right?
So what have you got to lose, really, aside from the time and money you spent on due process? Either there will be no retaliation and you're worrying about nothing, or else there is retaliation and you pull him out as you would have had to anyway if you didn't fight the situation.
I know the threat of retaliation seems horrible and scary, but I don't see it as a real factor in the decision-making process because it doesn't really change your options.
Love,
Spock
