Where to move for better school district, AAP/GT program?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Thanks for the great advice, 17:13.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:You can also parent refer and a screening file will be prepared for your child, just as for the in-pool children. You don't need to be in-pool to be considered for AAP.

+1

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:so what is wrong with the AAP? Prefer the OP to answer.

OP here. Right, I wasn't very clear. It's not necessarily a specifically AAP thing, it just that's the only experience I'm having (just one kid). First of all, the class seems so disorderly. A lot of talking and goofing around. It seems like 50% of the day is wasted that way. Relatively little actual instruction time. Lots of unproductive group or small group work where kids are not focused. Second, I don't think expectations are very high. When an assignment is given, if DC doesn't follow through, there's little consequence from the teacher. The teachers have been good in other ways, but I wish they pushed a bit more and expected more of the students. More maturity, responsibility. I feel like DS is learning that you don't have to take school very seriously.

I think I'm comparing DS's 3-6th grade with my own elementary school experience. I wasn't even in a GT/AAP program, and I think I got a better education. It was in the midwest. But probably more significantly, it was 30 years ago. Guess I'm hoping that kind of school might still exist somewhere. Lots of schools and districts *sound* great (ahem, FCPS) but the reality is so disappointing. I hoped to hear from people with first-hand, recent experiences of great schools, and DS would like to stay in an AAP type program.

Thanks.

First of all, you are comparing a memory decades old to todays. Our memories have a way of glossing over things and remembering what we want to remember.

Secondly, how do you know what happens everyday all day long? Most parents are not in the classroom that often. Sometimes a classroom that is working smoothly and learning is happening can appear to be slightly chaotic to the casual observer.

[Anonymous]

It would be great to be able to spend a little more time in the classroom. There are so few opportunities at our school.

If you have an older elementary child and you get to volunteer in class, please share what kind of ways the teacher has you help.