If your child is struggling with communication at school—whether it's articulation, understanding directions, or expressing thoughts—you have the right to request an evaluation for an Individualized Education Program (IEP) that includes speech and language services. This guide walks you through the exact steps, from writing your request to understanding what happens next.
What is the first step a parent should take to request an IEP for speech and language services?
Select one answer.
Step 1: Know your rights under IDEA
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) gives parents the right to request an initial evaluation for special education services at no cost. Under IDEA, speech or language impairment is one of the 14 disability categories that can qualify a child for an IEP. The school must respond to your written request within a reasonable timeframe—often within 30 days—and either agree to evaluate or provide a written explanation for refusing.
Step 2: Write a formal request letter
Your request should be in writing and include:
- Your child's full name and grade
- A clear statement: "I am requesting a full and individual evaluation for special education services, including speech and language assessment."
- Specific concerns about your child's communication (e.g., difficulty pronouncing sounds, trouble following instructions, limited vocabulary)
- Any supporting documentation from doctors or private therapists
- Your contact information
Send the letter to the school principal or special education director. Keep a copy for your records. You can find sample letters from trusted sources like the Center for Parent Information and Resources and Disability Rights California.
Step 3: The evaluation process
Once the school agrees to evaluate, they must complete the assessment within 60 days of receiving your written consent. The evaluation will be comprehensive and free of charge. A qualified speech-language pathologist (SLP) will assess your child's speech and language skills using standardized tests, observations, and input from teachers and parents.
Step 4: The IEP team meeting
After the evaluation, the IEP team—which includes you, teachers, the SLP, and a school representative—will meet to determine eligibility. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), the team considers three questions:
- Does the child have a disability?
- Does the disability adversely affect educational performance?
- Does the child need specially designed instruction or related services to make progress in the general curriculum?
If your child qualifies, the team will develop an IEP with specific speech and language goals, service frequency (e.g., "30 minutes, 3 times per week in a group of 3"), and the setting where services will be provided.
Step 5: What to do if the school denies your request
If the school refuses to evaluate, they must provide a written notice explaining why. You have the right to dispute this decision through a due process hearing or by filing a complaint with your state's education agency. You can also seek an independent educational evaluation (IEE) at public expense.
Quick checklist for requesting an IEP for speech services
- Write a formal letter requesting a full evaluation for special education, including speech-language assessment
- Include specific concerns and any supporting documents
- Send the letter to the school principal or special education director
- Follow up within two weeks if you haven't received a response
- Provide written consent for the evaluation once the school agrees
- Attend the IEP team meeting prepared to discuss your child's needs
- Review the proposed IEP goals and services carefully before signing
How the Featured Expert Can Help
Navigating the IEP process can be complex, but you don't have to do it alone. Domino Therapy offers speech therapy services for families and schools in Philadelphia, including evaluations and support for IEP development. Their team can help you understand your child's communication needs and advocate for appropriate services in the school setting.
Quiz: Test your knowledge
What is the first step a parent should take to request an IEP for speech and language services?
- Call the school principal for a meeting
- Write a formal letter requesting a full evaluation
- Hire a private speech therapist
Correct answer: 1