Case
The gifted child

The parent approaches you for a formal meeting about their child. Parent : My child is not challenged—I believe they are gifted and the school should be accelerated. What can you do for my child? How do you handle this situation?

Solution #1
I would gladly set up a time for them to meet with guidance on the issue. I would attend the meeting and provide information that would help the meeting, and all involved, come to a conclusion. If it happens that the student can be tested to see if he/she is gifted, then I would be sure to see that the process goes through and the results be provided to the parent(s). I would advise them to come by and see myself if any other questions or concerns were to arise. I would thank them for staying involved in their child's education, as that will lead to their overall success in their educational career. Likewise, I would express that I want to see the best for their child and will be more than willing to do whatever I can to see their child succeed.

I agree with this solution. Getting involved along side the parent is the best way to ensure communicationa and to help the student succeed.

I think this is a great solution. It addresses the parents concerns and is not unreasonable.

Being tested will most definitely solve the parents curiosity. Great point.

Solution #2
The teacher will gladly set up an appointment face to face and promptly to appease the parents. Before the meeting however, the teacher will have data from test scores and grades and work samples from the student. This will either put the issue to rest or set up a situation for advancement. The teacher will also have possible solutions ready to present to the parents and suggest that they both begin documentation on progress, setting a goal and time to reconvene on the topic.

I like this solution the best. I would want to show the parent all the other student's scores and compare their scores to their child's. This could also help the parent understand why the child is not challenged.

Solution #3
At this point I would ask the school gifted specialist to sit in a meeting with myself and the parents. This would allow us to discuss the possibility of having the student tested. From this meting we would be able to decided whether the student would be right to test for gifted or if we must take another plan of action.
Solution #4
First and foremost, I would stress to the parent that I am committed to meeting the needs of my students. I would ask the parent to provide any information or feedback that he or she could as to how they feel their child is not being challenged. Next, I would contact the gifted-coordinator to discuss the parents request and to discuss the protocol for gifted evaluation. I feel that reviewing previous test scores and performances are important, they are not necessarily an indicator of a child who would be identified as gifted and talented. Next, it would be imperative to speak to teachers in other subject areas, coaches, and possibly guidance counselors to gain information as to the child's behavior academically, socially, and creatively. Lastly, I would talk to the student. The best feedback will come from the child.