Yeah, that's definitely a good way to do it as long as the kid doesn't feel like they're being forced.

It's sorta tough though with them choosing because if I was in 9th grade again and had the option, I don't know if I'd choose a programming curriculum.

It reminds me of the Steve Jobs quote, "People don't know what they want until you show it to them."

My middle kid is enjoying competitive chess and doing math through Art of Problem Solving, so there's places he does work hard and there is intellectual challenge. And his slacking is good enough to be at the top of his class, so I can't quibble too much.

I'm sure there'll be problems eventually, but, we're ready and up until then we're trying...

Your child is miles ahead of where I was. I was borderline failing classes.

It sounds like he has a solid support network around him. I wish you and your child the best