Yes, my previous response was directed to JaneSmith. I can understand your hesitancy because the teacher may feel insulted and I've been in a similar predicament. I've also seen both sides with my children where the oldest did in class differentiation, I sent in a more challenging workbook, and then did math afterschooling until she entered a gifted magnet program this year.
She's in 3rd grade and they've started off with a 4th grade math book like the NC charter school. If I hadn't kept her challenged she would have had a large discrepancy between her math and reading skills. She would have still been accepted based on her reading scores but she'd be having a much tougher transition right now with the math.
With my youngest I was more prepared, had her privately tested and met with the principal in the spring before K. I asked for subject acceleration for reading and math which she did by joining the 1st grade class part time. Everything went well and she really thrived last year. At the spring conference the 1st grade teacher recommended having her do in class differentiation instead of another year of subject acceleration.
I was torn about going against the teacher's recommendation but didn't want to be in that position again where, even though the teacher has good intentions, it's just not enough. I put it in writing that we wanted to continue with subject acceleration again this year and it's been going beautifully.
I would say something like "his younger brother is attending a charter school and it is working well in meeting his needs for accelerated work. In 3rd grade his brother is doing 4th grade work. We think it would also be a good fit for DS but are concerned he won't be prepared without subject acceleration this year. I would hate to see him repeating work he's already mastered this year and falling behind the students at the charter school. Subject acceleration to 5th grade math would help him keep pace and be prepared."
Keep in mind my state doesn't even allow charter schools so I don't know the politics and whether there'd be a backlash so I understand your hesitancy. Maybe someone else can help massage a better approach.
