My kids are in public school. I have been pleased with my oldest dd's education this far. She has had some awesome teacher's that have encouraged and empowered her. She is extrememly bright (she is in the gifted program) but prefers social and art activities to academics.
My 7 year old ds on the other hand, enjoys the academic pursuits first then everything else is like icing on a cake for him. The principal had been very open to meeting his academic needs but the teacher is extremely resistant. I have advocated for him but I am embarrased to admit I got lost and hesitant when I have needed to take a stand. I was looking at the big picture instead of what his needs are at this very moment.
I have always advocated for my kids in the school. But with dd it was much more one on one with the teacher's. They were open to her needs and in her instance a grade skip would have been devastating to her. When I advocate for ds it is on a much broader scale because I have to talk with the principal, gate coordinator, his current teacher, future teacher etc. I am a more effective advocate one on one than when I need to coordinate with a large group.
