If When the teacher tells you that nothing really can be done, you can say, 'I see that you are want what is best for my child, but that it can't be done inside your classroom. Do I have your support to take this challenge concern to the Principal and see if my daughters needs can be met in some other way?'
Go home and write an email, ccing the Principle, saying: I want to thank you for meeting with me, and I was hoping that you could read this email and make sure that I understood correctly what you were trying to communicate to me. First xxxx, then xxxx, then xxxx, finally xxxxx.
Then schedule a visit with the Principal. Bring a written and printed request to have your daughter placed into the first grade classroom ASAP.
Unfortunately this will take 2-3 weeks minimum, so be sure to plan afterschool and weekend learning adventures. Try audio books that are aimed at much older kids, I'm thinking 'Gregor the Overlander' for some reason.
While you are waiting, join your state gifted association (google your state name and gifted association) and call the contact number and see if anyone knows of any private schools that have been useful to families of gifted, and if there are any enrichment programs. Keep us posted,
Grinity
I would still set up a meeting with the teacher and procede as outlined above. It's fine that the teacher says 'oh, I think grade skips are bad' - just be sure that you have a meeting with her and INFORM her that you are going to speak to the principle. When she says: "Oh I don't think you should go to the Principal" - you say: "I appreciate your concern, but this something I just have to do."
Then send the email, then set up the meeting. You would be amazed how people say 180 degrees opposite of what they have been saying, and then act like we misunderstood them all along. Fine, just so long as you DD gets accomidated.
Keep checking out private schools, but be sure to observe. Given your history, a school for 'optimally gifted kids' may just not be enough. Flexibility and the ability to see a childs academic readiness is key.
Best Wishes,
Grinity
