Dear (Parent’s Name),

This letter is to inform and assist you through the process of (child’s name) being referred
for special education. This process can be overwhelming at first but this letter is to simplify and
help you feel at ease. The reason that (Child’s name) was referred for special education was
because he/she needs specific help in (the area that is needed); this process will assist (child’s
name) in the success of their schooling.

The goal after a child is referred for special education is to complete an IEP for the
student so that they can have what they need to be successful. The IEP is an individualized
education plan which is detailed and specific to your child. The IEP will instruct the teacher what
your child needs to be successful in school.

This is the simplified process that you will take to the point where your child will receive their
IEP:

1. (Child’s name) is being referred to for special education services.

2. After you approve the process of evaluation, (Child’s name) will be studied to see
how he/she needs help and what is needed to help him/her in (the specific area).
3. After evaluation, all paperwork and notes are gathered and a group will meet and
decide if (Child’s name) qualifies for special education help. The group will consist
of you, a special education teacher, (child’s name)’s general education teacher, the
counselor, school administrators and the school psychologist. At this meeting, you
will discuss what (Child’s name) needs to succeed; this is where your child will
receive his/her IEP.

The following websites that will give you more information on the referral process, IEPs and
special education:

 http://kidshealth.org/en/parents/iep.html
 http://www.parentcenterhub.org/iep/
 https://prepparents.org/media_archive/Virginia-Special-Education-Parent-Guide-
FINAL.pdf
 http://www.kidstogether.org/IEP.htm
 https://www.specialeducationguide.com/pre-k-12/tools-and-research/support-and-
resources-for-parents-and-teachers/

Please do not hesitate to contact anyone here at the school for further information and support.
We look forward to assisting you and (child’s name).

Thank you for your cooperation,

Teacher name & School name