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Special Education Evaluation Request Letter Template for Parents

  • allison1441
  • Aug 11
  • 2 min read

Updated: Aug 28

When you suspect your child needs support, putting your request in writing starts the clock. Use this plain-English letter to formally request a special education evaluation under IDEA, then follow the steps below so timelines begin promptly.



[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Phone Number]


[Today’s Date]


Director of Special Education [School District Name]

[District Office Address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]


Dear Director of Special Education,


I am writing to formally request a comprehensive evaluation of my child, [Your Child’s Full Name], who resides at the address listed above and is currently a [grade]-grader at [School Name].


We have observed that [Child’s First Name] is struggling with [briefly describe areas of concern — e.g., reading comprehension, attention, written expression, behavior, social-emotional regulation, etc.]. Based on these ongoing challenges, we believe it is appropriate to evaluate [him/her/they] for a suspected disability under IDEA, including (but not limited to) [you may include "a specific learning disability," "ADHD," "autism spectrum disorder," or write "any suspected area of disability"].


Please consider this letter a formal written request for a full and individual initial evaluation under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).


We ask that you provide us with the evaluation plan (including the specific assessments to be used) within 7 calendar days of receiving this request and contact us to obtain written parental consent so the evaluation timeline can begin promptly.


Kindly confirm receipt of this request in writing and ensure that a copy of this letter is included in [Child’s Name]’s official education records.


Thank you for your time, attention, and support. We look forward to working together to better understand and support our child’s needs.


Sincerely,

[Your Name]

(Parent/Guardian of [Child’s Name])


What to do after you send it (step-by-step)


  1. Deliver and document. Email + hand-deliver to the district office if possible. Ask for a date/time stamp and keep a copy.


  2. Watch the timelines. In many states, schools must complete the initial evaluation within ~60 calendar days of your signed consent; after eligibility, an IEP meeting typically occurs within ~30 days. (Timelines vary by state.)


  3. Ask for the plan. Request the evaluation plan (which tests, who’s evaluating, and when).


  4. Sign consent quickly. The 60-day clock usually starts after you sign consent.


  5. Prep your data. Start a binder or folder; track concerns and classroom examples. Use the free trackers below.


  6. Request drafts in advance. Before the eligibility/IEP meeting, ask for reports 5+ days in advance so you can review.


Helpful add-ons (free tools)



Next Steps and Resources:

The following websites are incredibly helpful when navigating the Special Education world. · www.wrightslaw.com


Need help personalizing your letter or planning next steps? I offer one-on-one support—virtual anywhere in the U.S. and in-person across NY/NJ. Work with me.


About the Author

Allison Rosenberg Meyerson is a special education advocate with 30+ years in the classroom and as a literacy specialist. She is Orton-Gillingham Certified, a COPAA SEAT 1.0 graduate, and a Dyslexia Advocate. Based in Warwick, NY, she supports families across NY, NJ, and virtually nationwide through The IDEA Ally.


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