If you suspect that your child may have a learning disability, it is important to have their school evaluate them. In order to do so, you will need to submit a written request to your child’s school. Getting started with this procedure may be stressful and/or overwhelming, so here are some tips to help you with your request.
Tips for writing the request
California courts do provide an in-depth guide to special education services – and the process for obtaining these services. One section highlights what to include in your request, such as:
- Your child’s name and birthday
- Your contact information
- Your child’s enrollment and class information
- The request for an evaluation
However, there are a few other critical things to consider while writing your request. Do not be afraid to:
- Give specific examples: While you do not have to be overly elaborate regarding your child’s struggles with schoolwork, it is important to be specific. Briefly describe your child’s difficulty with a particular assignment or other specific difficulties they have experienced in school that stood out to you. It is helpful to provide evidence to support your claim.
- Maintain a formal tone: Any matters related to your child’s wellbeing can be emotional. However, it is important to remain calm and professional in this request, even while outlining your concerns and expectations.
- Send your request via email: In the event that the school does not follow up, it is important to have an electronic copy of your request showing the date and time it was sent. There is no way to prove that the school missed a deadline if you submit a written request to the school on a piece of paper.
Keep a copy of your e-mail
This is the beginning of the process to obtain special education services for your child. Right now, you should create a file that includes your child’s school records, potential medical records, professional opinions – and now a copy of your signed and dated request.