If the worry is that their academics are going to suffer, then come up with a plan to make sure that they get academic challenge somewhere else. You can even say, OK, we'll do it your way, but what are you willing to do outside of class to make sure you are continuing to learn? Maybe a language, an academic contest, working independently on a project... It seems like a fair trade and my guess is that the kids will jump at it. They like to learn, after all.
Thanks acs,
I'm actually not worried about the academics at all. As you say, if the public school is rediculously easier, then we can demand to add at home, and I will certianly build this into the deal. Either way he'll be an eigth grader.
Grinity
