Not much local data is available regarding student performance in one model vs the other. My kids have been doing great, but are only in second and fifth grade. I wonder when to expect all of the difficulties. There is no grade that is the signal for difficulty that I know of. Consistent, loving supportive parenting is the best thing you can do.
Initial wiring is to be done over the next year or so.
New NSI schools will be similarly designed. Please keep in mind that similar programs to ours have been losing court challanges in recent years. Our own legislature is less than enthusiastic about the continuing costs of our program. It will be an uphill battle. All MPS schools took a budget cut last year due to revenue caps law.