As a positive result of our meeting last week (thanks again for all the good thoughts sent our way- they worked), the school has decided that it is a good idea to move DS(5) into first. At first we thought to do this after the holidays in January, but the school thinks no need for waiting and wants to do it as soon as possible. We are meeting this week to work out the details of the actual transfer.
I and the school have absolutely no experience with how this is done. (It is for the first time ever, that they are doing this. Our school district is actually very much against grade skipping, but finally in DS's case they gave our school the autonomy to decide.)
I am looking for ideas when and how to implement the skip. What are your experiences? Looking back would you do or ask for anything different?
The first grade classroom is almost across the K classroom, in the same hallway. DS has many friends (is quite popular) in his K classroom, so we need to explain it to the children why he is moving to first (they will see each other all the time, not so big school). And to introduce him in the new classroom in a good way, that does not prejudge him in any way.
I am also excited that there are other gifted children in this particular first grade, so DS will have some children that will challenge him in a positive way (he gets fueled by a good competition). On top of his base grade acceleration there will be some additional subject acceleration for math and science into 3rd grade.
I would very much appreciate any ideas, as this is approaching fast, and we really don't know how to implement it. Thanks.
