IEP PHASE 2: REQUESTING AN EVALUATION

OVERVIEW

Phase 2 is where you move from concern to action. In this phase, you formally ask the school to evaluate your child to determine whether they need special education support. This step can feel overwhelming, but it is a protected and necessary part of the process.

WHEN TO REQUEST AN EVALUATION

You can request an evaluation when you notice:

  • Ongoing struggles with learning, behavior, speech, attention, or social skills

  • Your child falling behind peers despite extra help

  • Frequent school calls, discipline issues, or emotional distress

  • Your child working much harder than classmates to keep up

  • A diagnosis or outside professional recommendation (not required)

If something feels off, that is enough to request testing.

HOW TO SUBMIT A FORMAL REQUEST

Submit your request in writing. Email is acceptable and creates documentation.

Send your request to:

  • School principal

  • Special education coordinator

  • Classroom teacher (CC)

📋 SAMPLE REQUEST LETTER

(Copy this and personalize it with your child's information)

Subject: Request for Special Education Evaluation

Dear [Principal/Special Education Coordinator Name],

I am requesting a comprehensive educational evaluation to determine whether my child, [Child's Full Name], qualifies for special education services under IDEA. I have concerns about my child's learning and/or development and am requesting that the evaluation process begin as soon as possible.

Please provide written confirmation of next steps and timelines.

Thank you, [Your Name] [Date]

You do not need to explain everything in this first message.

WHAT SCHOOLS MUST DO ONCE YOU REQUEST

After receiving your written request, the school must:

  • Respond within a required timeframe

  • Provide a consent form for evaluation

  • Explain what areas will be evaluated

  • Begin evaluations after consent is given

Schools cannot ignore or indefinitely delay your request.

TIMELINE AND LEGAL DEADLINES

⏱️ What to Expect:

  1. Initial response: within 10–15 school days

  2. Evaluation period: usually within 60 days of signed consent

  3. Eligibility meeting: scheduled after evaluations are completed

Note: Timelines vary by state

Ask for timelines in writing and track them in your records.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE EVALUATION PROCESS

During the evaluation, your child may:

  • Work one-on-one with specialists

  • Complete academic or developmental tasks

  • Be observed in the classroom

  • Be evaluated across multiple days

Testing should be respectful and supportive, not stressful.

TYPES OF ASSESSMENTS THAT MAY BE CONDUCTED

Depending on your concerns, assessments may include:

  • Academic testing (reading, writing, math)

  • Speech and language evaluations

  • Occupational therapy (fine motor, sensory)

  • Psychological or cognitive testing

  • Social-emotional or behavioral assessments

  • Classroom observations

Not every child receives every assessment.

YOUR RIGHTS DURING EVALUATION

You have the right to:

  • Give or withhold consent

  • Receive copies of all evaluation reports

  • Ask questions and request clarification

  • Disagree with results

  • Request additional testing

  • Seek an independent evaluation if needed

You are an equal member of the team.

✅ ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS

Take these steps now:

  1. Submit your written evaluation request

  2. Start a folder for emails, reports, and notes

  3. Track dates and deadlines

  4. Write down your child's strengths and challenges

  5. Prepare questions for the evaluation team

Organization strengthens your advocacy.

COMMON QUESTIONS & CONCERNS

Can the school say no to evaluating my child? Yes, but only in writing. If they refuse, they must explain why, and you can challenge the decision.

Do I need a medical diagnosis first? No. Schools assess educational impact, not medical labels.

Will this label my child? No. Evaluations are tools for access and support, not permanent labels.

What if the school tells me to "wait and see"? You do not have to wait. You can request evaluation at any time.

Can my child qualify if grades are good? Yes. Grades do not reflect effort, stress, or access needs.

Will this follow my child forever? No. Services can change or end as needs change.

What if my child becomes anxious during testing? Tell the school ahead of time. Evaluations should be flexible and child-centered.

Can I bring someone to meetings? Yes. You may bring a support person or advocate.

What if I disagree with the results? You can request clarification, additional testing, or an independent evaluation.

What if I struggle with paperwork or language barriers? You have the right to interpreters, translated documents, and clear explanations.

You are not asking for too much. You are advocating.

When you are ready, Phase 3 will guide you through understanding evaluation results and preparing for the eligibility meeting with confidence.