I'm sorry to hear this. I'm a teacher too - currently not working though, but that's another story.

I'm also a perfectionist and I'm extremely sensitive to criticism. I either get so sad I cry or so mad I get angry.

I've had Situations of "parent concerns" - but there are usually two sides to every story, isn't there.

Gifted children can also be extremely sensitive - especially when they feel that they are not meeting standards they have set for themselves or standards imposed on them by others. They want to be perfect. I don't think your comment was inaccurate. For this gifted child they may have felt that by "rushing" their work they have let themselves down. I do believe that the gifted child likely does not want to go to school, for a multitude of reasons, but not because you are insensitive. Gifted children have their own needs which can be difficult to reach if they're in a main stream class. Whilst some may like to downplay their talents and not want to be seen as the centre of attention for their differences, which is easily picked up by their peers making them become a subject of feeling different, others don't mind. And then there's the gifted child who has low EQ.

Sorry but I'm insure of what the term GT Class is - not a term that is used here.

I'm glad you went home. You sound like you need time out.

Try not let this whole situation let you down. I know how difficult this is for you. I have no doubt that you have been doing everything you know how to best accomodate this students needs. And you have clearly pointed out circumstances where the child has gone home and told the mother something that isn't entirely true. You know the truth.

Don't be so hard on yourself please. Take this time to get well.