I was in your shoes before. I tried every year to work with the teachers and every year, felt like I was promised that they understood and were aware for the need for more, yet I never saw the curriculum differentiation to the level that we needed it to be. Don't get me wrong, it was an improvement, but it wasn't enough. After 3 years of unsuccessfully getting our child's needs met through the teacher contact directly, we scheduled a meeting with the prinicipal and said "we'd like X, Y, and Z for our child and here is why..." We presented a portfolio with report cards, test scores (though they have all those, it's easier for them to look at right then and there to validate our point) and work and accomplishments outside of school, awards, classes we've taken for enrichment etc.) We had a plan layed out that was all research backed and said "this is what we'd like to see happen for our child" and it payed off! We got exactly what we hoped for. Sometimes I think going in with a plan (like, I'd like my son to be subject accelerated to 5th grade math because he's capable of doing X, Y, Z and be willing to do above level testing to show he's capable if need be.) Explain that it can even be done on a trial basis and if it doesn't work out in his best interest, there is no harm done in going back (though when you make an informed decision about it, you are usually pretty confident it will be fine) but this gives the school a sense that they don't need to make a decision that is permanent if it doesn't work out. Hold your breath, go in with your head held high and remember you are your child's best sdvocate. No one likes to do it, but we do, and you will be relieved if you are able to make a difference. Even if it doesn't pan out, at least you know you tried!!!!
