How to Request a Special Education Evaluation in NJ

A parent or guardian can ask their school district in writing to evaluate their child for special education. Put the request in writing, date it, keep a copy, and send it to the district's child study team or special services office along with the school principal. Written requests create a record and usually start the district's timeline for responding.

Conversations with teachers matter, but a verbal concern is easy to lose. A dated written request creates a record of when you asked and what you asked for. Keep a copy of everything you send, and note how you sent it.

You do not need a diagnosis to ask for an evaluation, and you do not need to know which category or service your child might need. Your job is to describe what you are seeing and ask the district to evaluate.

1. 1Write down specific examples

   Two or three concrete examples with dates are stronger than general worry: not reading with the class, meltdowns during transitions, homework taking three hours, avoiding school.

2. 2Find out who receives the request

   Ask the school office for the name and email of the child study team or director of special services. Send the request to that person and copy the principal.

3. 3Send a dated written request

   Use the template below. Email is fine, and it creates a timestamp. Keep the sent message.

4. 4Ask what happens next and by when

   Ask the district to confirm receipt, tell you the next step, and tell you the timeline they are following.

5. 5Keep a log

   Record every call, email and meeting with dates and names. If a promised step does not happen, follow up in writing referencing your original request.

• The district usually schedules a meeting to discuss your request and decide whether to evaluate.
• If the district agrees to evaluate, you will be asked to give written consent before testing begins.
• If the district declines, you should receive written notice explaining why, along with information about your rights.
• Evaluations may include several specialists, depending on the concerns.

• Who is the right person to receive an evaluation request in this district?
• Did you receive my written request, and what is the next step?
• What timeline is the district following?
• Which evaluations are being considered, and who performs them?
• What will happen at the meeting, and who will be there?
• If the district decides not to evaluate, how will that decision be explained to me in writing?

• A request is not a decision; the district still determines whether to evaluate.
• Being evaluated is not the same as being found eligible.
• Being found eligible is not the same as receiving a specific service or placement.
• A private diagnosis does not automatically create school services.
• Vicabell does not provide legal advice or represent families.

• Copy the template above, add two or three specific examples, and email it to your district's child study team today. Save the sent message.

• I Think My Child Needs Help at School — Where Do I Start?
• Understanding the Difference Between an IEP and a 504 Plan
• Preparing for an IEP Meeting in New Jersey

• NJ Department of Education, Office of Special Education State information about special education in New Jersey public schools.
• SPAN Parent Advocacy Network New Jersey's Parent Training and Information Center for families of children with disabilities.
• Disability Rights New Jersey New Jersey's designated protection and advocacy organization.