How do you get your child enrolled at a school you're not zoned for?

[ionlife]

Zenn Jenn: I wish I could say that the teachers would fall over in joy for a child that is smart and gifted, but they're just happy they don't have to do much to support them because their attention is focused on the children who need it. They don't have time. It was teach and reteach for my girl in her first school, but we were fine because we supplemented her at home.

To the OP, in addition to supplementing your child, the best thing you can do is take him places that allow him hands on fun. When my gifted child was in a school beset with major issues in DC, we had a ton of time to go and explore the world. We went to all the museums, the harbor, the mansions, the zoo, the library, etc. We were involved in extracurricular and school programs that included language, art, drama, church activities (she performed in two singing fests a year for church). We were involved in Brownies and dance as well. She was able to go to the Emily Post mansion and learn about Faberge, toured Mt. Vernon in the Autumn, participated in all kinds of fun, period events.

This area has a lot of wonderful activities that promote total brain development--not just academic. And there are areas outside of here: Chattanooga for one, that offer a wealth of things for children to do.

Offer to bring a child with you--one that doesn't have the advantages yours does. Increase another child's worldview. This is an opportunity to make a difference, too. I did. I had a neighborhood full of children whose parents didn't have the resources or time to give their children the attention they needed. I had a boatload of kids over all the time. They knew they were safe with me. I always had popsicles and snacks for them. They played indoors and outside together. They did fun learning activities with mine.

I know that as some of these children grew into teens, after our daughter went to a GT magnet school, they still respected us and were very sad when we moved. I hope we made a positive impact in their lives. I know many who remained there are hardworking students who understand the value of a good education.

This is your opportunity.

[Mawoods]

Great post dramamama - very true. What we did with ours too.

[ionlife]

Thanks Mawoods--we believe in putting ourselves out there as positive influences.

[friday13]

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[LCTMadison]

Originally Posted by Mawoods

By the way, did the apartment management tell you what school and their reputation? They didn't have your child's best interest - just wanted to rent. I don't know anything about the school but I do know that unless I see it in writing and talk personally to many I don't trust what they would tell me. Now if they misled you, could you get out of your lease? You might be able to make a case. yell loud enough and get some results?

That would be a violation of Fair Housing. They can direct you to websites to research info, like greatschools.net, but we cannot (even property managers) state, "this school is good" "this school is bad", ect. It could be misconstrued.

[ionlife]

That's why we have forums like this and search engines like Great Schools--and you can compare the test scores from school system to school system.