How can a parent request a special education evaluation?

What to do today

Write to the school or district and clearly say that you are requesting an initial evaluation to determine whether your child is eligible for special education under IDEA. Briefly describe the academic, communication, behavioral, developmental, sensory, physical or functional concerns you are seeing. Include examples and attach records you already have if they are relevant.

Why a written request helps

Federal law does not require parents to use magic words, but a dated written request creates a clear record of what was asked and when. Keep copies of emails, letters, school responses, report cards, intervention data and outside reports. Ask the district how it documents the date parental consent is received because the evaluation timeline is tied to consent, not simply the first conversation.

The federal timeline

IDEA provides that an initial evaluation must be completed within 60 days of receiving parental consent, unless the state has established its own timeframe. There are limited exceptions, including some transfers between districts and situations where a parent repeatedly fails or refuses to produce the child for evaluation.

If the school says no

If the public agency refuses to evaluate, IDEA’s prior-written-notice rules generally require the agency to explain the refusal and the basis for the decision. Parents can review the procedural safeguards notice and their state’s complaint, mediation and due-process options.