Not certain how helpful this will be but here's our experience so far.
We homeschool too and math is extremely self paced. DS8 did Algebra for fun through some workbooks and because his interest is very high, we found a very good one-on-one tutor who uses the Dolciani text. He has been going at break neck pace through the first 4 chapters (in one month) and I feel a little nervous about this. I would like his math education to be as deep as possible, meaning that I would love to see more problem solving and more discussion and more thinking. But his tutor assures me that the acceleration/ pace is ideal at this point. DS seems to understand what's happening so I believe we will slow down if he begins to stumble. We may try AOPS Intro to Algebra next semester to help solidify/ deepen the learning experience.
I don't believe DS would have developed this much confidence towards Algebra in a group setting. He is very likely to spend group time doodling and joking around rather than focusing. However, I am looking into putting him in a small group problem and puzzle-solving class in spring. So I guess it would depend on what kind of math we're talking about. I feel that problem solving is best done in a group setting while acceleration in Algebra works best for him when it's self-paced/ individual.
Hope that makes sense. I looked into CTY's courses but found them (IMHO) extremely overpriced for the materials they are using so I just bought the CryptoClub book and also did a trial of the Thinkwell math on our own. He also loves Life of Fred and various puzzle and logic books.
I would suggest going with your instincts here and adjusting as you think fit. I don't think you are being over-optimistic at all. Our kids seem to just develop this crazy ability to learn...but as long as you're monitoring things and being there for him when he needs you, it will be okay. Keeping fingers crossed that you will encounter flexibility from the school as well.
