Unlocking Support: How to Request a Dyslexia Evaluation and Set IEP Goals

Understanding the Evaluation Process

If you suspect your child has dyslexia, requesting an evaluation is an essential step toward securing the support they need. This process can be daunting, but understanding your rights and the legal framework can make it more manageable.

Your Legal Rights to an Evaluation

Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), parents have the right to request an evaluation if they suspect their child has a disability that impacts their learning ability. This includes specific learning disabilities like dyslexia.

"A parent can request an evaluation for special education services at any time."

How to Make an Evaluation Request

To initiate the evaluation process, follow these steps:

1. Write a Formal Request: Address your letter to the Director of Special Education in your child's school district. Clearly state your concerns about dyslexia and request a comprehensive evaluation.
2. Include Key Details: Provide your child's name, date of birth, and any specific observations or concerns you have noted.
3. Submit Your Request: Send the request via certified mail or email to ensure it is received by the school district.

"When you request an evaluation, the school has to respond within 15 school days and provide their response in writing.

Evaluation Timelines

Once your request is submitted, the school must complete the evaluation within 60 days of receiving your consent. It's crucial to keep track of these timelines to ensure the process stays on track.

Setting IEP Goals for Dyslexia

After the evaluation, if your child is found eligible for special education services, the next step is to develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP). This plan will outline specific goals and accommodations tailored to your child's needs.

Developing Effective IEP Goals

When you get an IEP, the IEP goals are of the utmost importance. The goals are what drive the services. They should be SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Here’s how you can ensure your child's IEP goals are effective:

• Specific: Goals should clearly define what your child will achieve.
• Measurable: There should be clear criteria to measure progress.
• Achievable: Goals should be realistic based on your child's current abilities.
• Relevant: They should address the skills impacted by dyslexia.
• Time-bound: Set a timeline for when goals should be achieved.

"The IEP must include measurable annual goals, including academic and functional goals, designed to meet the child's needs."

Examples of IEP Goals for Dyslexia

• Reading Fluency: Improve reading fluency of text at a specific Lexile level to an average of 90 words per minute with an average of 95% accuracy on 3 different tries with 3 different texts by the end of the term. If the goal doesn’t mention any way of measuring the difficulty level of the text, or if they only have to read 1 passage 3 times - then it’s a goal that’s designed to be to loose to be dependable for collection of actual helpful data.
• Comprehension: Demonstrate understanding of texts at (name a specific Lexile Level) by answering comprehension questions with 80% accuracy.

Monitoring Progress

Regular monitoring of your child's progress is critical to ensure the IEP goals are being met.

Tools for Progress Monitoring

• Progress Reports: Request regular updates from teachers on your child's progress towards IEP goals.
• Parent-Teacher Meetings: Schedule regular meetings to discuss your child's progress and any adjustments needed to the IEP.

"Parents must receive regular reports on their child’s progress toward meeting the annual goals." - (A Guide for Parents and Students About Special Education Services (LA))

Actionable Next Steps

1. Request an Evaluation: Draft and send your formal request for a dyslexia evaluation.
2. Prepare for the IEP Meeting: Gather information and resources to help you advocate effectively during the IEP meeting.
3. Establish a Progress Monitoring Plan: Work with the school to set up a plan for regular progress updates.

Taking these steps can help ensure your child receives the support they need to succeed in school.

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About the Author: This guide was created by the team at IEP Advocate.ai, a platform built by parents, for parents, to make special education advocacy accessible to everyone. Our mission is to empower parents with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to secure the services their children deserve—starting with demanding real data, not just empty promises.