I second rednecktiger regarding some time off. This depends on the kid as some kids with similar scores want to be learning formally at a high level, but for those with a lot of independence and self-motivation, some time away from formal requirements (or minimal formal requirements) can give time to pursue passions, loves, and other work. Similarly, I know very smart kids who manage in a regular school because their real energy is spent elsewhere – music, sports, programming, or theater.
@2PrepMom – I hope there are lots of kids like this in boarding schools. I expected that after reading on CC, but in visits and interviews, multiple AOs were concerned about meeting academic needs. It certainly helped to narrow the applications to schools without that reaction. Will most schools offer 3 years of independent study when math curriculum has been exhausted? For an 8th grader done with calculus, there aren’t that many schools that seem to have enough. And subjects other than math seem harder to find challenge, not easier.
Regarding challenge outside of school, I’m a big fan, but it’s still a lot to ask a kid to spend hours and hours a day doing work that isn’t appropriate level attending a local school and trying to fit in real learning around the work and time of regular school. One poster above said he/she was studying 3+ years ahead and kids like that run out of anything vaguely appropriate in a local high school. Not sure if boarding school can meet those needs academically. Maybe. It seems that some boarding schools can offer a college level learning experience with a social peer group.