My daughter just entered middle school and her classes are tracked. She has always been an outstanding student and I was surprised when she was tracked into all average classes. I spoke with her guidance counselor and she told me that since she had never been identified as Academically Gifted, she was scheduled in average level classes. How do I go about getting an assessment to see if she can be labeled Academically Gifted and join more challenging classes? 

If my child had special arrangements in their previous school due to special needs or because they were particularly gifted, how can I aid the successful transition to a new school where the teachers and administration are as yet unfamiliar with my child's circumstances? 

My 8 year old daughter is very bright and has many special abilities. I think she may be gifted, though she has never been tested. My problem is that I have a hard time getting her to obey me and cooperate with what I ask her to do. She seems to have a mind of her own. She doesn't misbehave; she just doesn't obey! The things I have done with my other two children don't seem to work. What can I do?