I have a very smart seventh grader who is GATE-identified. She enjoys academic challenges. Her school, however, doesn't offer an appropriate eighth grade math class (geometry). She and 12 other students will have to attend a morning class at the high school, and then get to their middle school's first class in just 14 minutes. The schools don't provide any transportation, paid or otherwise. The middle school says that if these students are late, they'll first receive detention and then be barred from attending the high school class. What can we do?

This middle school is being profoundly obstinate. It can't provide a dozen students with an appropriate math class on campus, and it won't allow them to attend an off-campus class. Unfortunately, GATE students—at least in California—don't have the same rights as special education students. There's no contract parallel to an IEP on which parents can base their arguments.

There are a couple of things you could consider. First, since districts develop GATE programs, you can take your complaint there. Talk with the district's coordinator for gifted programs. You may even want to take your case before the school board. It would help if all the parents involved present a joint demand. Be sure to accompany your presentation with a letter to the board, and, of course, keep a copy for yourself.

Second, you can request that the children be transferred to another middle school that offers an appropriate math class or, at the very least, one that won't penalize them for attending this class in the high school.

You might also consider independent study. The middle school would be responsible for helping you identify an appropriate geometry instructor, and for evaluating your daughter's work. If your middle school doesn't offer independent study, contact the district office.