Is your child struggling in school? Do you think they might need extra support? A “Sample Letter To Request Testing For Special Education” can help. Parents use this letter to formally ask the school to evaluate their child. This evaluation can determine if the child qualifies for special education services.
Writing this letter can feel daunting. Where do you even start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
This article provides sample letters. These samples make the process easier. Use our templates to craft your own request. Get your child the support they deserve.
Sample Letter To Request Testing For Special Education
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[School Principal’s Name]
[School Name]
[School Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
**Subject: Request for Special Education Testing for [Child’s Full Name]**
Dear [School Principal’s Name],
I am writing to request that my child, [Child’s Full Name], be evaluated for special education services. [He/She] is currently in [Child’s Grade] grade at [School Name].
I have observed that [Child’s Name] is experiencing difficulties in [Specific Subject(s) or Area(s), e.g., reading, math, attention, social skills]. For example, [Give 1-2 specific examples of the difficulties, e.g., “he struggles to read simple sentences” or “she has a hard time staying focused in class”].
I believe these challenges are impacting [Child’s Name]’s academic progress and overall well-being at school. I am concerned that [he/she] may require additional support to succeed.
I would appreciate it if the school could conduct a comprehensive evaluation to determine if [Child’s Name] is eligible for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Please let me know what steps are necessary to initiate this process. I am available to meet with you and the school’s special education team to discuss my concerns further.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
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How to Write Letter To Request Testing For Special Education
Subject Line: Be Crystal Clear
The subject line is your opening gambit. Don’t be cryptic. Instead, opt for something direct and unambiguous. For example:
- Request for Special Education Evaluation – [Child’s Full Name]
- Evaluation Request: [Child’s Name] – Student ID [If Applicable]
- Formal Request: Special Education Testing for [Child’s Name]
Salutation: Start Respectfully
Begin with a salutation that exudes respect and formality. Default to addressing the recipient by their formal title and last name. Think:
- Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name],
- To Whom It May Concern: (Only if you absolutely cannot identify the appropriate recipient)
Steer clear of overly casual greetings.
Introduction: State Your Purpose Emphatically
In the introductory paragraph, articulate your purpose with alacrity. Leave no room for misinterpretation. Include:
- Your child’s full name and grade level.
- A clear statement requesting a formal evaluation for special education services.
- A concise explanation of your concerns regarding your child’s academic or behavioral performance.
- Example: “I am writing to formally request a special education evaluation for my child, [Child’s Full Name], who is currently in [Grade Level] at [School Name]. I have noticed persistent challenges with [Specific Area of Concern], which I believe warrant further investigation.”
Body Paragraphs: Detail Your Observations Meticulously
This section is where you substantiate your request. Provide concrete examples. Consider:
- Specific instances of academic struggles (e.g., difficulty with reading comprehension, consistent failure to complete assignments).
- Observed behavioral issues that impede learning (e.g., excessive fidgeting, difficulty focusing, disruptive behavior).
- Any interventions already attempted, along with their outcomes (or lack thereof).
- Relevant medical or developmental history that may contribute to your concerns.
- Teacher feedback or report card excerpts that support your observations.
- Be factual and avoid emotional hyperbole. Use objective language.
Request for Specific Evaluations (If Known)
While not always possible, if you have specific assessments in mind, explicitly request them. This demonstrates proactive engagement. Examples:
- “I would appreciate it if [Child’s Name] could be evaluated for a potential learning disability, including assessments for reading fluency and comprehension.”
- “I am particularly interested in an evaluation to assess [Child’s Name]’s attention and focus, potentially including assessments for ADHD.”
- “If appropriate, I would also like to request an evaluation of [Child’s Name]’s speech and language skills.”
Closing: Express Gratitude and Offer Collaboration
End on a positive and collaborative note. Convey your appreciation and willingness to participate in the evaluation process. Incorporate:
- A statement expressing your gratitude for their time and consideration.
- An offer to provide additional information or documentation.
- Your contact information (phone number and email address).
- A polite closing, such as “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,”.
- Example: “Thank you for considering my request. I am available to provide any further information or documentation that may be helpful. Please feel free to contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address]. Sincerely, [Your Full Name]”
Proofread: Ensure Impeccable Grammar and Clarity
Before sending, meticulously proofread your letter. Errors can undermine your credibility. Check for:
- Grammatical errors and typos.
- Clarity and conciseness.
- Proper formatting and punctuation.
- Have someone else review it for an objective perspective.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Requesting Special Education Testing
Understanding the process of requesting special education testing can be complex. This FAQ section provides answers to common questions parents and guardians have when initiating this process.
1. Why should I write a letter to request special education testing?
A formal letter creates a written record of your request, ensuring that the school district acknowledges and addresses your concerns about your child’s educational needs.
2. What information should I include in my letter?
Include your child’s full name, date of birth, grade level, teacher’s name, your contact information, a clear statement requesting an evaluation, and a brief description of your specific concerns.
3. To whom should I address the letter?
Address the letter to the school principal, the special education director, or the school psychologist. Contact the school to confirm the appropriate recipient.
4. What happens after I submit the letter?
The school district is legally obligated to respond to your request within a specified timeframe, typically to discuss the evaluation process and obtain your consent for testing.
5. What if the school refuses to test my child?
If the school refuses to evaluate your child, you have the right to request mediation, file a complaint with the state education agency, or pursue legal action.