Letter to Request an Initial IEP Evaluation

Expert Reviewedby Mary

"I've sat at over 500 IEP tables."

I'm Mary, a Special Education Advocate and the founder of The Advocate Ally. I created this special education resource because too many parents feel pressured to accept generic, "cookie-cutter" IEPs.

The guidance below is grounded in the same practical, document-based questions I raise in IEP meetings every day. Use it to ask for clearer, more individualized support for your child.

Mary

Founder, The Advocate Ally

⚠️ Before you send anything: Ground the request in the written record. Upload your IEP first for a free audit to identify document sections worth referencing.

Legal Basis

34 CFR §300.301 — A parent has the right to request an initial evaluation at any time.

The Letter Template

Copy & Customize

Dear [Principal/Special Education Director],

I am writing to formally request that my child, [Child's Full Name], a student in [Grade] at [School Name], be evaluated for special education eligibility under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

I have concerns about my child's performance in the following areas: [list specific concerns, e.g., reading, behavior, social skills, attention, motor skills].

Specifically, I have observed:
• [Example 1 of concern]
• [Example 2 of concern]
• [Example 3 of concern]

I understand that the school has [X] days to respond to this request with a Prior Written Notice (PWN), either agreeing to evaluate or explaining why the evaluation is being refused.

Please send the consent forms to begin the evaluation process to my home address listed above. I look forward to your timely response.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Date]

Pro Tips for Using This Letter

Always send via email AND certified mail so you have a paper trail.

Be specific about your concerns — don't just say 'my child is struggling.'

Include dates and examples of the struggles you've observed.

Keep a copy of this letter and note the date you sent it.

What Happens After You Send This Letter

Save a copy of the letter and the delivery confirmation (email receipt or certified mail tracking). This is your evidence trail.

Mark your calendar for the response timeline that applies to this request in your state. If you do not hear back, send a written follow-up referencing the original date.

If they schedule a meeting in response, prepare just like you would for any IEP meeting. Bring a support person and ask for time to review anything you do not understand.

If they refuse or propose a change covered by Prior Written Notice, ask for the notice in writing so the decision and reasons are documented.

Upload your IEP for a free audit before the meeting. The review can flag written gaps and weak language worth discussing.

Not Sure What to Ask For?

A letter is stronger when it points to the written record. Upload your IEP to flag document sections worth referencing and questions worth raising.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Should I email this letter or send it as certified mail?

Email creates an instant, timestamped paper trail — use that as your primary method. But for formal requests (evaluations, Prior Written Notice, dispute filings), follow up with certified mail so you have proof of delivery the school can't deny.

What if the school doesn't respond to my letter?

Response requirements depend on the request and your state's rules. Send a written follow-up that references the original request and date, keep the delivery record, and consider contacting your Parent Training and Information Center, an advocate, or an attorney if the delay continues.

Can the school retaliate against my child for sending this letter?

No. Retaliation against parents for exercising their rights under IDEA is illegal. If you notice changes in your child's treatment after sending a letter, document everything and report it. This is a separate complaint you can file.

Do I need a lawyer to send this letter?

No. Parents have every right to advocate for their child without an attorney. These templates are written to be used by parents directly. However, if you're heading toward due process or the school is being uncooperative, consulting with a special education advocate or attorney can strengthen your position.

Free Tool

Audit your IEP before sending this letter

Find documented concerns first, then reference the relevant sections in your letter.

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