We've moved to a new district and want to enroll our second-grade son in an alternative school. He's on the waiting list. Until there's room for him, both districts are letting him continue attending his old school in the old district.

We think we should have him tested for dyslexia. But if he tests dyslexic, I hear we'll immediately have to enroll him in a traditional school in our new district. He's always been in alternative programs. I believe that his self-esteem (currently fabulous) would take a serious hit in a traditional setting.

Can the old district really do this if he tests as a special education kid? We can't afford private testing.

If at all possible—meaning if it won't seriously damage your son's self-esteem or won't put him hopelessly behind in his school work—I think the best option would be to postpone the testing until your son enters the new district and his teachers have time to know him as the great kid he is. If all they have are the results from previous testing, then their decision will be based on paper and not on your son, or on his needs and strengths. Write to your current district and say that you are not yet ready to have him tested. You can always change your mind at a later date, after he's already enrolled in the new district. Any other option might really result in his having to leave his present setting.

By the way, are you sure the alternative school you want has appropriate services for dyslexic children, and that it will take your son if he is a special education student? You probably should check that out.

Good luck with this complicated decision.