Family
Requesting additional support from a public school
Schools have formal routes for additional help, and a written request is what starts the clock on them.
Two formal processes exist in public schools. One provides special education services for a disability that affects learning and requires an evaluation and an individualised programme. The other provides accommodations for a disability that substantially limits a major life activity, under a broader civil rights statute.
Both begin with a written request for evaluation from a parent. Writing it matters: a verbal conversation does not start the statutory timeline, and a dated written request does. Keep a copy.
Schools must respond within defined periods, and if the school declines to evaluate it must say so in writing with reasons, which can be challenged. Parents have the right to take part in meetings, to see records, and to disagree formally with the outcome.
Every state funds a parent training and information centre, free, specifically to help parents through these processes. They are under-used and they know the local system.
What to do next. Put any request for evaluation in writing and keep a dated copy, then contact your state's parent training and information centre.
studentaid.gov outranks this page. Rules, figures and dates change
between academic years. This is written to help you read the official sources, not to
stand in front of them. Start there.
Nothing here is a determination. We cannot tell you what you qualify
for, and no website can. The programme and the office that runs it decide that, after
you apply.
Still have a question?
Describe what you are trying to work out and a member of the team will answer, or direct you to the office that makes the decision.