"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 §300.320(b) — Beginning no later than the first IEP to be in effect when the child turns 16, the IEP must include transition services.
The Letter Template
Copy & Customize
Dear [Special Education Director], I am writing to formally request that transition services be included in the IEP for my child, [Child's Full Name], who is currently [Age] years old and in [Grade] at [School Name]. Under IDEA, transition services must be included no later than the first IEP in effect when the child turns 16 (or earlier, per state requirements). I am requesting that the IEP team: 1. Conduct age-appropriate transition assessments in the areas of education/training, employment, and independent living 2. Develop measurable post-secondary goals based on those assessments 3. Identify transition services that will help my child reach their post-secondary goals 4. Invite relevant outside agencies (e.g., vocational rehabilitation) to the next IEP meeting 5. Invite my child to participate in the meeting (as required by IDEA) My child's interests and goals for after high school include: • [Interest/Goal #1] • [Interest/Goal #2] If transition services have not yet been considered, please schedule an IEP meeting to address this immediately. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Date]
Pro Tips for Using This Letter
In some states, transition planning starts at age 14 — check your state's requirement.
Your child MUST be invited to any IEP meeting where transition is discussed.
Transition goals must address 3 areas: post-secondary education/training, employment, and independent living.
If the school hasn't done transition assessments by age 16, they are in violation of IDEA.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I email this letter or send it as certified mail?
What if the school doesn't respond to my letter?
Can the school retaliate against my child for sending this letter?
Do I need a lawyer to send this letter?
Audit your IEP before sending this letter
Find documented concerns first, then reference the relevant sections in your letter.
Start Free Audit