My daughter (who never went to any pre-school), is currently in grade 2 in a public school. While she is not as smart as tirebob's son, she is gifted. For an example she is currently reading on a grade 4 level and has finished the grade 2 math curriculum. However the downside, as mentioned by Bob, is that her maturity level does not match her intelligence. (I like to describe her as scary smart but socially awkward).
Anyways, my issues with the public system:
If the child doesn't fit into a certain mold, they want to put her a label on her. So far Heidi has been evaluated for autism and Aspergers on the suggestion of teachers.
The resources are limited. Her teacher has admitted that because Heidi is on the opposite end of the spectrum and doesn't have a learning disability that the chances of her getting help in the classroom are slim. That being said, her teacher is amazing and is working with Heidi to improve her social skills. However I am worried what happens next year when she has a different teacher.
The GATE program doesn't start until grade 4. I am worried that she will get bored and not be stimulated. Case in point: On Friday morning during morning lessons the teacher was covering something that Heidi already knew. Heidi's response: to call out "boring..." half way through.
@Tirebob: How much help did your son have in school? Or did you have to do it all on your own?
Originally posted by rage2 in 2002
Shit, there's only 49 users here, I doubt we'll even break 100.