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Four ready-to-send letter templates for the most common requests DC families need to make in writing — from special education evaluations to formal appeals.
Use this letter to formally request that your child be evaluated for special education services under IDEA.
Today's Date
Principal's Name
School Name
School Address
Dear Principal's Name and Special Education Team,
I am writing to formally request a comprehensive special education evaluation for my child:
Student Name:
Date of Birth:
Grade:
Teacher's Name:
I am requesting this evaluation because I have concerns about my child's progress in the following areas (e.g. reading, attention and focus, social interactions, behavior, speech and language, writing, math):
I understand that under IDEA, the school must respond to this request within 10 school days. I am requesting evaluation in all areas of suspected disability, which may include:
Cognitive / Intellectual Academic Achievement Speech / Language Social / Emotional / Behavioral Adaptive Behavior Motor Skills Assistive Technology Other:
Please send me the Prior Written Notice regarding the school's decision on my request, along with a copy of my Procedural Safeguards (Parent Rights), and any consent forms if you agree to evaluate.
I look forward to working together to support my child's educational needs. Please contact me to schedule a meeting.
Sincerely,
Parent / Guardian Name
Signature:
Phone:
Email:
Use this letter to request accommodations for a student with a disability that affects a major life activity.
Today's Date
To: Principal's Name, 504 Coordinator
School Name
School Address
Dear Principal's Name and 504 Team,
I am writing to formally request an evaluation under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act for my child:
Student Name:
Date of Birth:
Grade:
My child has been diagnosed with (e.g. ADHD, anxiety disorder, asthma, diabetes, food allergies):
This condition substantially limits my child's ability to (e.g. concentrating, learning, breathing, eating):
I am requesting a 504 Plan with accommodations that may include (e.g. extended time on tests, preferential seating, breaks, calculator use):
Medical diagnosis from doctor / specialist Psychological evaluation Treatment records Previous 504 Plan (if transferring) Other:
Please contact me to schedule a 504 meeting to develop an appropriate plan.
Sincerely,
Parent / Guardian Name
Phone:
Email:
Use this letter to express interest in taking college courses while in high school.
Today's Date
To: School Counselor's Name
School Name
Dear Counselor's Name,
I am writing to express my interest in participating in the Dual Enrollment program. I am currently a student at School Name in grade 9 / 10 / 11.
Student Name:
Student ID:
Current Grade:
Current GPA:
(e.g. want to get ahead on college credits, interested in a specific subject, preparing for a particular major):
English / Writing Mathematics Science Social Sciences World Languages Business Computer Science / IT Other:
I would like to request a meeting to discuss eligibility, available courses and college partners, scheduling, and application deadlines.
Sincerely,
Student:
Parent / Guardian:
Phone:
Email:
Use this template to appeal a school decision you disagree with.
Today's Date
Recipient Name & Title
School / District Office
Address
RE: Appeal of Brief description of decision
Student: Student Name, Grade , School Name
Dear Recipient's Name,
I am writing to formally appeal the decision made on date regarding describe decision.
(Include what procedures or policies were not followed; what facts were overlooked or incorrect; how the decision negatively impacts my child; what outcome I am requesting instead.)
Relevant emails or written communications School records or report cards Medical or psychological evaluations Witness statements Policy or procedural documents Other:
I request a written response to this appeal within 10 / 15 / 30 days. I am available to meet in person to discuss this matter further.
Sincerely,
Parent / Guardian Name
Phone:
Email:
Office of the Ombudsman: 202-741-4692 · Advocates for Justice and Education: 202-678-8060