Wow! I'm shocked as well. I totally agree that a meeting is in order, and YES, a meeting with the principal! Speaking to an 8 year old like that is absolutely unacceptable. Gifted children are hard enough on themselves as it is. The last thing he needs is to hear she's giving up on him. I'm appalled!
I understand your reluctance to place your ds in the regular classroom, but would it be possible for the regular ed teacher to provide a differentiated or accellerated curriculum in his/her class? I know that's unlikely but might be worth a shot if they are willing to try. It seems to me that the gifted teacher has a lot to learn about gifted education. I've been homeschooling for one week (pulled ds6 out of private school), and my ds panics when he sees a worksheet! He was inundated with them in school. It's so wonderful that you have the option of a gifted classroom, and then to run into that situation. I know you must feel very let down.
I'm sorry you're going through this. I don't know why it has to be so hard. I'd definitely recommend meeting with the teacher and the principal to discuss not only the teaching style vs. your son's learning style, but also her comments and how unproductive they are for everyone involved.
Good luck.
