Yes, it does feel like we're in this together! It's nice to be able to compare notes -- and to have someone understand my ravings!
You're right on the portfolio. It *does* sound like they want three pieces, no more. Hmm. Not sure what to tell you ... if you do that, I'm guessing video is your best bet. But it sounds like you're leaning toward the WISC, which is probably what I'd do, too!
And the WISC -- why on earth is it so expensive? We paid $500 flat for the WPPSI *and* the WIAT, by a private psychologist in our area -- the only one, in fact, listed on the Hoagies website for the entire state of Illinois, including all of Chicago. And that came with complete results, score breakdown, percentiles, grade and age equivalents, and a conference to discuss the results and recommendations. Who is trying to charge you $750 for the WISC alone? Or is that more the norm? I only have this one experience, but I would have thought that the big city would have increased costs ... anyone else wanna chime in?
"But when the gifted expert who tested DS6 on the SB5 said he didn't know any more about where DS6 was operating after the test than he did before, I felt pretty frustrated."
That would have really gotten me irritated. How annoying is that? I'm irritated enough by our ceilings ... should have waited those six months to do the WISC! The "not knowing for sure" was killing me before we had the testing done. I think that's why I'm at peace whether ds is accepted to the YSP or not -- I'm pretty sure that his test results were fairly accurate, so I'll have an idea of what to do. I can't imagine how it'd feel to actually have the testing done -- but no real answers. Ugh, how frustrating for you.
So, hugs, and keep on keeping on. Let us know what you decide to do -- I'm following with interest!
