Does your child struggle in school? You might need to request a special education evaluation. A “Sample Letter To School District Requesting Evaluation” can help. It’s a formal way to ask the school to assess your child’s needs. Parents use it when they suspect their child has a learning disability.
Writing such a letter can feel daunting. Where do you even start? What information should you include?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! We’ll share sample letters and templates. These examples will make the process much easier for you.
Sample Letter To School District Requesting Evaluation
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[School District Contact Person Name]
[School District Title]
[School District Address]
[School District City, State, Zip Code]
**Subject: Request for Evaluation of [Child’s Full Name]**
Dear [School District Contact Person Name],
I am writing to request a comprehensive educational evaluation for my child, [Child’s Full Name], who is currently in [Grade Level] at [School Name]. [Child’s Full Name]’s date of birth is [Child’s Date of Birth].
I have observed [Child’s Full Name] experiencing difficulties in [Specific Subject(s) or Area(s) of Concern – e.g., reading comprehension, math problem-solving, social interactions]. Specifically, [Provide 2-3 brief, concrete examples of the difficulties – e.g., “he struggles to complete reading assignments within the allotted time,” or “she has difficulty understanding multi-step math problems,” or “he has trouble making friends and often isolates himself during recess.”].
I believe these challenges are impacting [Child’s Full Name]’s academic progress and overall well-being at school. An evaluation would help determine if [Child’s Full Name] is eligible for special education services and what supports might be beneficial.
I understand the evaluation process and look forward to discussing this request further with you. Please contact me at your earliest convenience to discuss the next steps and timeline for the evaluation.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
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How to Write Letter To School District Requesting Evaluation
Subject Line: Clarity is Key
The subject line should be succinct and immediately convey the letter’s purpose. Opt for directness. For instance:
- “Request for Special Education Evaluation – [Child’s Full Name]”
- “Evaluation Request – [Child’s Name], Student ID: [Student ID]”
Avoid ambiguity; make it irrefutably clear.
Salutation: Setting the Tone
Address the letter to the appropriate individual. If known, use their formal title. If unsure, a generic but respectful salutation will suffice.
- “Dear Director of Special Education,”
- “Dear [Principal’s Last Name],”
- “To Whom It May Concern:” (use sparingly, when the recipient is truly unknown)
Maintain a professional and courteous demeanor from the outset.
Introduction: State Your Intent Immediately
In the introductory paragraph, brazenly state your purpose. Leave no room for misinterpretation.
- “I am writing to formally request a comprehensive special education evaluation for my child, [Child’s Full Name], born on [Date of Birth], and currently enrolled in [Grade Level] at [School Name].”
- “This letter serves as a formal request for an evaluation to determine [Child’s Name]’s eligibility for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).”
Be straightforward; equivocation is your enemy.
Body: Substantiate Your Concerns with Specificity
The body of the letter is where you meticulously detail your qualms. Provide concrete examples of academic or behavioral challenges. Be an assiduous observer.
- Document specific instances: “Since the commencement of the academic year, [Child’s Name] has consistently struggled with [Specific Skill], as evidenced by [Specific Example, e.g., failing grades in math quizzes, inability to focus during reading sessions].”
- Mention any interventions already attempted: “We have implemented the following interventions at home: [List Interventions]. However, these endeavors have yielded minimal improvement.”
- Highlight pertinent medical or developmental history: ” [Child’s Name] was diagnosed with [Condition] at age [Age]. We believe this may be impacting their academic performance.”
Specificity lends credence to your request. Vague generalizations are ineffectual.
Desired Outcomes: Articulate Your Expectations
Clearly delineate what you hope to achieve through the evaluation process. Expressing your anticipations preemptively can shape the trajectory of the situation.
- “We are hopeful that this evaluation will illuminate the underlying causes of [Child’s Name]’s academic difficulties and provide insights into appropriate interventions and support services.”
- “Our objective is to ascertain whether [Child’s Name] is eligible for special education services and to develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) tailored to their unique needs.”
Express optimism, but remain grounded in realistic expectations.
Contact Information and Availability: Facilitate Communication
Provide all pertinent contact information and indicate your availability for meetings or further discussions. Streamline communication for all parties involved.
- “You can reach me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address]. I am available to meet to discuss this matter further at your earliest convenience.”
- “Please feel free to contact me with any questions or to schedule an evaluation. I am available on [Days of the Week] after [Time].”
Ease of contact demonstrates your commitment to collaborative problem-solving.
Closing: End on a Cordial Note
Conclude the letter with a professional closing and your signature. A modicum of politeness goes a long way.
- “Sincerely,”
- “Respectfully,”
Followed by:
- Your Typed Full Name
- Your Address
- Your Phone Number
- Your Email Address
A polished closing reinforces your professionalism and respect for the recipient.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Requesting a School Evaluation
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the process of requesting an evaluation from your school district. Understanding your rights and the evaluation procedure is crucial for ensuring your child receives appropriate educational support.
1. Why should I request a school evaluation for my child?
An evaluation can identify if your child has a learning disability or other educational need that requires specialized instruction and support services.
2. What information should be included in the evaluation request letter?
Your letter should include your child’s full name, date of birth, grade level, school, a detailed description of your concerns, and any supporting documentation (e.g., medical records, previous test results).
3. To whom should I address the evaluation request letter?
Address the letter to the school principal, special education director, or the individual responsible for special education services in your school district.
4. What happens after I submit the evaluation request letter?
The school district is required to respond to your request within a specific timeframe, typically providing a plan for evaluation or a reason for denying the request.
5. What if the school district denies my request for an evaluation?
You have the right to appeal the school district’s decision through established dispute resolution processes, which may include mediation or a formal hearing.