Yes Robin, I see how heterogeneous classes can work. I still argue that it could never happen with this team of teachers. Now, if he had you for a teacher, we wouldn't be having this conversation.
My only point here is that it's important to know what is going on in our children's classes. If I had listened to the administration, my son is making straight a's in all advanced classes. I am shocked at the speed things are happening at this school and it makes me hopeful for the future. Still, Will my son be there next year? Doubtful.
Triskel, I"m not sure how you took this wild leap that I chose to buy a bike instead of educate my son. I own the bike because I can afford it. My son is not in private school because I wanted him in a magnet school. We toured many schools and based our decision on our experiences. We were assured, incorrectly, that we would be enrolled at our first choice school. The school we are attending was highly recommended by the two teachers I most respect. Had things not changed at the last minute, my situation would be different. Many things happened at the school to put us in this situation. Transferring to a private school is not an option because the best schools are full this time of year especially for 6th grade. Sure there are openings at other schools. However, I don't believe they are better than the options I presented. Private does not necessarily mean better.
Will I plan differently next year? You bet. We'll apply for the magnet again because we really like the programs offered there. You can bet I"ll have a deposit down at an appropriate private school as well.
The interest in whether I work full time, part time or at all is just strange. Whether I work at all is irrelevant and has no effect on where my son goes to school unless I choose the homeschooling option which is why I mentioned my part time job I believe. Your smugness that because you choose to work makes you a better mother, harder worker, and more organized in your personal finances, make me laugh. Thanks for the levity. Stacie