Chinese Immersion?

Today at the hospital, I over heard one of the nurses talking about an elementary school, in Centerville, that is having a lottery for the students in its Chinese Immersion Program. Chinese Immersion? Today was the deadline to apply for the lottery. I went straight to the school and made sure Winter was entered into the lottery. Chinese Immersion? Do I want her in Chinese Immersion? I don't really know, but I do know I didn't want to miss my chance to get her in if I do decide it is what I want for her.

I called Cory to ask him what he thought, but he seemed indifferent to the whole thing. He said he "wouldn't be heartbroken if she doesn't get in."

Just a week ago it dawned on me, I might need to sign Winter up for kindergarten if she is going to attend in the fall. Then, this past weekend, my sister-in-laws that already have had their children go through kindergarten, asked me what was our plan for Winter. "Umm, send her to kindergarten with all the other kids in the neighborhood." It was pointed out to me that she is way too advanced to just go to kindergarten and get anything out of it. CRAP! So I thought I was giving her this great foundation and helping her learn lots by sending her to Challenger. Really all I have done is made sure she was challenged in Pre-K and now she is going to go learn nothing during kindergarten? "Yep!" was the resounding confirmation from all the moms in the room.

Winter is bright, there is no question about it. She is so smart I know she is going to be just like Cory, just brilliant. GREAT! But how do I help her succeed? How do I make sure she is learning and being challenged in school so she is not getting in trouble? Cory and I both agree that our schools could have done a better job educating us. Now there is 'no child left behind' and things are catered to children that need more help instead of those that need to be challenged. I personally know that there are a few children likely to be in her class that are going to be holding things up if she goes to the neighborhood elementary. What can I do? I feel like if she was in an immersion program, at least then I know she will be learning something her kindergarten year at school. What if she doesn't get in? Then what shall I teach her at home to make sure she is still learning something. Someone with all the answers please contact me. Tell me what to do. A few weeks ago I had it all figured out. Now I have motherly anxiety to the 10th degree.


Fingers crossed I am making the right choices with the options I have.