Do you think your child learns differently? Are you worried about their progress in school? You might need to request a Child Study Team (CST) evaluation. This letter formally asks the school to assess your child’s needs. It’s a key step in getting them the support they deserve.
Writing such a letter can feel daunting. Knowing where to start is often the hardest part. We understand that parents have enough on their plates.
That’s why we’re here to help. We will share sample letters for requesting a CST evaluation. These templates make the process easier. Use them as a guide to craft your own effective request.
Sample Letter To Request Child Study Team Evaluation
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[School Principal’s Name]
[School Name]
[School Address]
[School City, State, Zip Code]
Dear [School Principal’s Name],
I am writing to request a Child Study Team (CST) evaluation for my child, [Child’s Full Name], who is currently in [Child’s Grade] grade at [School Name]. [Child’s Name]’s date of birth is [Child’s Date of Birth].
I am concerned about [Child’s Name]’s progress in [Specific Subject(s) or Area(s) of Concern, e.g., reading, math, social skills, etc.]. Specifically, I have observed that [Describe specific examples of your child’s difficulties. Be detailed and provide examples, e.g., “he struggles to focus during reading time,” “she has difficulty completing math assignments on time,” “he has trouble interacting with peers during recess,” etc.].
[Optional: Briefly mention any strategies you have already tried at home to help your child, e.g., “We have been working with [Child’s Name] on reading comprehension at home, but she still seems to struggle.”].
I believe that a CST evaluation would help to determine the reasons for these difficulties and to identify strategies and supports that could help [Child’s Name] succeed in school.
I look forward to discussing this further with you. Please contact me at your earliest convenience to schedule a meeting to discuss this request.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
How to Write Sample Letter To Request Child Study Team Evaluation
1. Crafting an Evocative Subject Line
The subject line is your first, and perhaps only, chance to grab attention. Ensure it explicitly communicates the letter’s purpose. Ambiguity is the enemy here; be perspicacious.
- Specificity is paramount: “Request for Child Study Team Evaluation – [Child’s Full Name]”
- Including the child’s name streamlines administrative processes.
- Avoid vague terms; clarity triumphs.
2. The Salutation: Setting a Respectful Tone
Initiate your letter with a salutation that embodies both respect and formality. Familiarity can breed contempt, especially in official correspondence.
- Address the recipient by their formal title: “Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name],”
- If unsure of the recipient’s gender, use their full name: “Dear [Full Name],”
- Avoid colloquial greetings like “Hi” or “Hello.”
3. The Introductory Paragraph: Articulating Your Purpose
The opening paragraph should succinctly state the reason for your correspondence. Don’t bury the lede; be upfront about your intentions.
- Clearly state your request for a Child Study Team (CST) evaluation.
- Mention your child’s name and grade level.
- Briefly allude to your concerns that warrant the evaluation.
- Example: “I am writing to formally request a Child Study Team evaluation for my child, [Child’s Full Name], who is currently in [Grade] at [School Name]. I have observed several challenges that necessitate further investigation.”
4. Delving into Specific Concerns: Providing Substantiating Evidence
This section requires you to meticulously document your observations and concerns. Specificity is your ally; anecdotal evidence, while compelling, must be accompanied by concrete examples.
- Detail the specific academic, behavioral, or developmental concerns.
- Provide examples of instances when these concerns manifested.
- Include relevant information such as test scores, classroom observations, or medical diagnoses, if applicable.
- Quantify the issues when possible: “Since the beginning of the school year, [Child’s Name] has consistently scored below 70% on math quizzes, despite diligent study habits.”
5. Highlighting Previous Interventions: Demonstrating Proactive Engagement
Outline any interventions or support strategies already implemented to address your child’s challenges. This demonstrates your proactive involvement and the limitations of current approaches.
- Describe any interventions attempted at home or school.
- Explain the duration and intensity of these interventions.
- Assess the efficacy of these interventions; note whether they yielded positive results.
- Example: “We have implemented extra tutoring sessions at home and collaborated with the teacher to provide preferential seating. However, these measures have proven insufficient in ameliorating [Child’s Name]’s academic difficulties.”
6. Expressing Expectations and Availability: Facilitating Collaboration
Convey your expectations for the evaluation process and underscore your willingness to collaborate with the CST. A cooperative stance fosters a productive working relationship.
- State your hope that the evaluation will provide insights into your child’s needs.
- Express your eagerness to participate in the evaluation process.
- Provide your contact information and availability for meetings or discussions.
- Example: “I am hopeful that a comprehensive evaluation will illuminate the underlying causes of [Child’s Name]’s struggles. I am available to meet with the CST at your earliest convenience to discuss this matter further. Please contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address].”
7. The Closing: Formalizing Your Request and Expressing Gratitude
Conclude your letter with a formal closing that reiterates your request and expresses appreciation for their time and consideration. Leave a lasting impression of professionalism and grace.
- Use a formal closing such as “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,”
- Reiterate your request for the CST evaluation.
- Express gratitude for their time and consideration.
- Sign your name legibly.
- Type your full name below your signature.
Frequently Asked Questions: Requesting a Child Study Team Evaluation
Navigating the process of requesting a Child Study Team (CST) evaluation can be complex. This section provides answers to common questions to help you understand the process.
What is a Child Study Team (CST) evaluation?
A Child Study Team evaluation is a comprehensive assessment to determine if a student is eligible for special education and related services due to a suspected disability.
When should I request a CST evaluation?
A CST evaluation should be requested when a student is consistently struggling academically, behaviorally, or socially despite interventions implemented in the general education setting.
How do I request a CST evaluation?
A formal written request should be addressed to the school principal or the special education director. A sample letter can serve as a useful template.
What information should I include in my request letter?
The request letter should include the student’s full name, date of birth, grade, school, and specific concerns about their academic, behavioral, or social-emotional development. Any relevant documentation, such as report cards or previous evaluations, should also be included.
What happens after I submit my request?
The school has a specific timeline (often within 30 days) to respond to your request. They will either agree to conduct an evaluation, deny the request with a written explanation, or propose alternative interventions.
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