When does a student qualify for remedial and special education? How do I go about finding out whether they qualify?
Start by making a list of where your child is struggling in school. This can include: not being able to get your child to go to school, struggles with understanding academics, not being able to do their homework, inability to organize their calendar and their work, not following direction, not speaking or understanding verbal requests that others their age seem to pick up, and any number of other possible concerns. This is not intended to be a full list of possible concerns.
Write down your concerns. If you have any way to independently document these concerns, do so. An example “John cannot read grade level material unless we sit and read it to him” or “Emily is unable to do her math homework and does not appear to understand the concepts. She can add single digits, but does not understand subtraction.” It is not required that you provide specifics. However, you are asking the school to start the assessment process and the more convincing your request is, the more likely it is that they will assess your child.
Here is a letter we often send our clients to use when speaking to their school district about remedial and special education.
I am the parent of [your child’s name] who is in the ___ grade at [name of your school]. I am requesting a comprehensive assessment in all areas related to suspected disability to determine whether my child is eligible for special education and/or related services either under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
I am requesting this assessment because __________________(be specific). This is the portion of your letter where you need to spend the most time. List everything your child does that may impact their education.
The following interventions and accommodations have already been tried. (list interventions such as seating assignments, quiet area to take tests, etc.)
However, my student continues to struggle in school with ___________.
If applicable, add: [your child’s name] has been diagnosed with __________ by __________(professional).
It is my understanding that I will hear back from you in writing within 15 days of this request.
I look forward to hearing from you and working with you and your staff.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
It is then the school’s responsibility to respond within 15 days whether they will assess the student, or not. It is much harder for them to deny testing for remedial and special education when the letter thoroughly documents all of your concerns.
For help at your child’s next IEP meeting, more information about our special education advocacy services, or for a FREE 20-minute consultation to see if we are a good fit for you, call or fill out our contact form.
As parents, we understand. As advocates, we can help.