Start with Clear Identification
Begin your letter by clearly identifying your child. Include their full name, date of birth, and current grade level. This information helps the school quickly locate your child's records and understand their current educational environment.
State Your Reason for the Request
Clearly explain why you believe an evaluation is necessary. Mention specific concerns you have about your child's learning or behavior. If applicable, reference any observations from teachers or other professionals that support your concerns.
Provide Relevant Background Information
Include any relevant background information that might help the school understand your child's needs. This could be previous evaluations, medical diagnoses, or significant changes in behavior or performance. The more context you provide, the better.
Request Specific Evaluation Types
If you have an idea of what types of evaluations might be necessary, such as psychological, educational, or speech and language evaluations, mention these in your letter. This can guide the school in assembling the appropriate team for the evaluation.
Mention Your Rights and Timelines
Remind the school of your rights under IDEA or Section 504 to have your child evaluated. You can also mention the timeline for the school to respond to your request, which varies by state. Check your state's procedural safeguards notice for specific timelines.
Close with a Polite Request for Response
End your letter by requesting a written response from the school. This ensures that your request is formally acknowledged and that you are informed of the next steps in the process. Include your contact information and express your willingness to discuss your concerns further.
Practical tips
- Keep a copy of your letter for your records.
- Send the letter via certified mail to ensure it is received.
- Be concise but thorough in explaining your concerns.
- Use bullet points for clarity when listing concerns or observations.
- Follow up with the school if you do not receive a response within the expected timeline.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Failing to include specific concerns or observations.
- Not providing enough background information.
- Omitting your child's identification details.
- Forgetting to request a formal written response from the school.
Frequently asked questions
- How soon should I expect a response from the school?
- Response times vary by state. Check your state's procedural safeguards notice for specific timelines.
- Can I request specific types of evaluations?
- Yes, you can suggest specific evaluations, but the school will determine the appropriate assessments.
- What if the school denies my evaluation request?
- You can ask for a written explanation of the denial and consider requesting a meeting to discuss further options.
- Do I need to provide medical records with my request?
- You don't need to provide them initially, but mentioning relevant diagnoses can be helpful.
- Should I involve my child's teacher in the evaluation request?
- It's beneficial to discuss your concerns with the teacher, as they can provide valuable insights and support your request.