First Grade Curriculum Is too Easy

We moved to a new school district because of the great reputation of its schools. To date, I feel that first grade has been a waste of time for our daughter. The teacher has a lot of coloring and dot-to-dot activities. The only work that I think is appropriate is the weekly spelling list and math. They have not done any creative writing and only started writing their own sentences last week. Back in kindergarten, our daughter was writing and editing her own stories.
I have spoken to the teacher and principal a couple of times about the easy curriculum, and nothing changes. I was told that my child was going to be tested again for the advanced program. I feel that this is partly because of my complaints. Should I continue to complain? I know this teacher is not going to change her lesson plans for me.
It's not just me being an overbearing mother. My nieces and friends' children are doing far more difficult work in their first-grade classes. Even my preschooler brings home work that is almost identical to what my daughter is doing.
I have spoken to my daughter many times about moving her to another school. She says she wants to stay and likes her teacher. Should I just keep teaching my child at home and hope that she gets in the advanced class next year? - Indecisive
Answer: Within every classroom, students have a wide range of abilities, even in first grade. Your daughter might be able to handle more challenging work. Why don't you look at the state curriculum for first-graders to see if what your daughter is being taught is in line with state standards? The classroom work might be appropriate for most of the children.
If your daughter can truly do far more advanced work, the teacher should be giving her some assignments that are more challenging, especially in writing. If this doesn't happen, and it might not, continue working with your child at home. But make sure that she is enjoying the work. If you push too hard, you might turn the child away from learning.
The decision about changing schools is yours. Another school could have the academic curriculum you want. Remember, however, that your child is happy at this school. Also, be pleased that the school is willing to test her for the advanced program. If she shows that she is ready to do this work, then she should be closer to having the curriculum that you think is appropriate for her.