How to Request a Dyslexia Evaluation from Your School

If you suspect your child has dyslexia, one of the most critical steps you can take is to request a formal evaluation from your public school. This isn’t just a casual conversation; it’s a formal request that triggers legal timelines and obligations under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Getting this step right is crucial.

Here’s a simple guide to making an effective request.

The Golden Rule: Put It in Writing

A verbal request to a teacher or principal is not enough. A formal, written request is a legal document that requires the school to act. An email is good; a certified letter is even better because it gives you proof of receipt. Your letter should be dated, and you should keep a copy for your records.

Who Do You Send It To?

Address your letter to your school’s principal and the director of special education for your district. You can usually find the director’s name and contact information on the school district’s website. Copy your child’s teacher as well.

What Should the Letter Say?

Your letter does not need to be long or complicated, but it should include several key elements:

1. State your purpose clearly: In the first sentence, state that you are requesting a comprehensive evaluation for your child for a suspected learning disability.
2. Name your child and their details: Include your child’s full name, date of birth, and current teacher.
3. Explain your concerns: Briefly list the reasons you are requesting the evaluation. Refer to the specific signs of dyslexia you have observed. For example, “I am concerned about his difficulty with sounding out words, his struggles with spelling, and his avoidance of reading.”
4. Give consent for evaluation: State that you are giving your consent for the school to evaluate your child.
5. Use the magic words: It is helpful to use the phrase “I suspect my child has a disability (specifically, a specific learning disability in the area of reading/dyslexia) and I am requesting an evaluation to determine their eligibility for special education services.”

Sample Letter

Here is a simple template you can adapt:

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[Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email]

[Date]

[Principal’s Name], Principal [School Name] [School Address]

[Director of Special Education’s Name] [School District Name] [District Address]

Subject: Request for Evaluation for [Child’s Full Name]

Dear [Principal’s Name] and [Director’s Name],

I am writing to request a comprehensive evaluation for my child, [Child’s Full Name], who is in [Teacher’s Name]’s [Grade Level] class. His/Her date of birth is [Child’s DOB].

I am concerned that my child may have a learning disability. My reasons for this request are:

• [List your specific concerns, e.g., Difficulty decoding words, poor spelling, trouble with rhyming, etc.]
• [List another concern]
• [List another concern]

I am requesting a full and individual evaluation to determine if my child is eligible for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

I understand that the school must provide me with a consent to evaluate form, and I am ready to provide my consent. I also understand that you must respond to this request within a specific timeframe as required by state law.

Thank you for your time and attention to this important matter. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

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What Happens Next?

Once the school receives your written request, they must, within a specific timeframe (which varies by state), either agree to evaluate your child and provide you with a consent form, or they must deny your request and provide you with that denial in writing (this is called Prior Written Notice or PWN).

Taking this step can feel daunting, but it is your right as a parent. It is the official first step to unlocking the services and supports your child may need to thrive. You are their best advocate, and this letter is your first, most powerful tool.

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Related reading:

• Understanding Your Child's Evaluation Report
• How to Request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)
• A Parent's Guide to Understanding Dyslexia