Crisis Navigator
My child is being denied school services
If your district is refusing an evaluation, removing services, or ignoring your IEP, you have specific legal protections under IDEA and Section 504. Move fast — put everything in writing.
In the next hour
- Write down exactly what the school said and who said it (with date).
- Send a written request for the service or evaluation today, even by email. Verbal requests don't count.
This week
- Send a formal written request for evaluation or for a CSE/504 meeting (use our Letter Generator).
- Request your child's complete education record in writing.
- Read your Procedural Safeguards (district must give them to you on request).
- Contact your local Parent Center (INCLUDEnyc, Starbridge, WILC PTIC, or Advocates for Children).
- Decide whether to file a State Complaint, request mediation, or request an Impartial Hearing.
Phone numbers
- Advocates for Children of NY866-427-6033
- INCLUDEnyc Help Line212-677-4660
- NYSED Special Education518-473-2878
What to say (script)
I am the parent of [child name], DOB [date], in [grade] at [school]. I am writing to formally request [specific evaluation / specific service / CSE meeting] under IDEA. Please respond in writing within the timelines required by law. My preferred contact is [email/phone].Browse full scripts library →
Documents to gather
- ✓Current IEP or 504 plan
- ✓Most recent evaluations
- ✓Report cards and progress reports
- ✓Emails and letters from the school
- ✓Medical / diagnostic reports
Red flags — don't accept
- !School refuses to put a denial in writing
- !Verbal 'we don't do that here'
- !Missing IEP services without notice
- !Pressure to sign documents on the spot