How to Write an Effective Parent Concern Letter

One of the most powerful advocacy tools is a well-written concern letter.

Why Write It Down?

Writing creates:

• A permanent record
• Clear documentation
• Legal protection under IDEA timelines
• Accountability for the school's response

Types of Concern Letters

• Request Letters: Evaluations, meetings, records
• Concern Letters: Implementation problems, disagreements
• Follow-Up Letters: Meeting summaries, confirmations

Anatomy of an Effective Letter

Header

Date, your contact info, recipient info, RE: child's name

Opening

State your purpose clearly in the first sentence.

Body

• Be specific about the issue
• Include dates, names, and facts
• Reference relevant laws or IEP provisions
• State what you want to happen

Closing

• Request a response by a specific date
• Offer to meet
• Sign and date

Dos and Don'ts

Do:

• Keep a professional tone
• Be specific and factual
• Set deadlines for response
• Keep copies

Don't:

• Write when angry
• Make accusations without evidence
• Use vague language
• Threaten legal action (yet)

Key Takeaways

• Written concerns create essential documentation
• Be specific, factual, and professional
• Set deadlines and follow up

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Related reading:

• Writing a Powerful Parent Concerns Letter
• What to Do When You Disagree with the School
• Your Voice Matters: How to Prepare for an IEP or 504 Meeting