This is a sample letter used to request an independent evaluation. This should be sent by certified mail with a return receipt to the special education director. Keep a copy for your records.

                                                                      (Date)

(Insert special education director’s name)
(Insert county name) County 
(Insert address)

(Insert your name)
(Insert your address)

RE:  (Insert your child’s full name), a student at (Insert your child’s school’s name) School.

Dear Mr. or Ms. (Insert last name of special education director),

	I am the parent of (Insert child’s full name). I disagree with the school system’s (Insert type of evaluation such as Physical Therapy, Speech Language or psychological) evaluation.  I am requesting an independent evaluation at public expense.  

	Please send a copy of the written criteria under which the independent evaluations must be conducted to meet district criteria.  Also include a written list of independent evaluators I may consider.  

	It is my understanding that the school must pay for the independent evaluation, unless it requests a due process hearing to prove that its evaluation was appropriate.  I will send you a copy of the evaluation.  I understand it must be considered in any future decisions about my child’s education.  

	Please send the requested information, or let me know within five (5) business days, if you intend to request a due process hearing. 

						Respectfully, 
						
						(Sign your name)

						(Type your name)

Note: Payment arrangements between the school district and evaluator must be made prior to you taking your child for an evaluation.  The independent evaluation must be within the reasonable range of cost for the type of evaluation. You do not have to choose an evaluator from the list as long as the evaluator you do choose meets the criteria.