For parents & caregivers
You are her first advocate.
504 plans, IEPs, dyslexia, third-grade reading laws and your rights, in plain words, with the official sources behind them.
Plain-language guides
What to do, step by step
Asking the school to evaluate your child
If you think a disability is getting in the way of learning, you can ask the school to evaluate her. It costs you nothing.
- Put it in writingWrite to the principal or special education office: “I am requesting a full evaluation for special education and related services for my daughter.” Date it and keep a copy.
- Give your consentThe school needs your written consent before it evaluates. Under federal law (IDEA), the evaluation must be done within 60 days of that consent, unless your state sets its own timeline.
- Go to the meetingYou are part of the team that decides whether she qualifies. Bring her work, her report card, and your notes about what you see at home.
- If she qualifiesThe team writes an IEP. If she doesn't qualify for an IEP, ask whether she qualifies for a 504 plan.
General information to help you ask good questions, not legal advice. Your state’s Parent Center can help for free.
The library
Trusted sources
504 plans
Help at school for a child whose disability affects learning, without special education.
IEPs and special education
An Individualized Education Program: specialized instruction and services under IDEA.
Reading at home
Simple, joyful ways to build a reader, from sounds to fluency.
Dyslexia
If reading is unusually hard, it may be dyslexia, and it's very treatable.
Retention and third-grade reading laws
Many states can hold a third grader back for reading. Know your state's rule early.
Your rights as a parent
Your child's records, and how to see them.
The bigger picture
How America's children are reading.