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Sample IEP Service Request Letters

When your child needs a specific service the IEP doesn't include, these sample letters give you the legal framing. Covers 1:1 aide, transportation, assistive technology, related services (speech / OT / PT), and out-of-district placement.

1:1 paraprofessional / aide request

When to use: Use when your child needs a dedicated aide to access education. Specific aide minutes, support type (behavioral, academic, medical, communication), and a clear justification matter for the IEP team's decision.

Sample 1:1 paraprofessional / aide request, a specific services letter template by Spectrum Unlocked

[Date]

[Case Manager Name] and [Special Education Director Name]
[School Name]
[School District]
[Address]

Re: Request for 1:1 Paraprofessional Support in IEP, [Child's Name], [Grade]

Dear [Case Manager] and [Director],

I am writing to formally request that [Child's Name]'s IEP team meet to consider adding 1:1 paraprofessional support to the IEP under 34 CFR 300.42 (supplementary aids and services) and 300.114 (least restrictive environment). A 1:1 paraprofessional supporting access to general education is classified as a supplementary aid and service rather than a related service under 300.34, unless the paraprofessional is delivering a specific related service such as nursing or counseling.

Specific need for the aide:
[Describe why a 1:1 is necessary, for example: [Child's Name] requires constant support for [behavioral safety / sensory regulation / communication / medical needs / academic access]. The current support model of [classroom paraprofessional shared with other students / consultative behavior support / etc.] has not been sufficient.]

Evidence supporting this request:
- [Specific incident or pattern, for example: behavioral data showing [number] elopement incidents over the past [time period]]
- [Specific incident or pattern, for example: academic data showing [Child's Name] cannot access grade-level instruction without 1:1 support]
- [Specific incident or pattern, for example: provider recommendations from [Provider Name]]

I am requesting the IEP team consider:
1. A 1:1 paraprofessional for [all instructional time / specific subjects / unstructured time / transitions], with the specific minutes documented in the IEP.
2. The training and qualifications of the paraprofessional, with specifics on any required disability-specific training (autism, behavior support, AAC, medical needs).
3. A plan for fading the support as [Child's Name] develops the skills to participate with less intensive support.
4. Documentation in the IEP of how the support enables [Child's Name] to remain in the least restrictive environment under 34 CFR 300.114, rather than as a step toward a more restrictive placement.

Please confirm the IEP team meeting date in writing within five business days.

Sincerely,

[Parent's Name]
[Phone]
[Email]

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IEP transportation request

When to use: Use when your child needs special transportation as a related service, distinct from regular bus service. Includes door-to-door pickup, smaller bus, harness or aide, or specific accommodations during transit.

Assistive technology evaluation + device request

When to use: Use when you believe your child needs an assistive technology device (AAC, low-vision device, switch access, text-to-speech, etc.) and the school has not yet evaluated for it or provided the device.

Related services request (speech / OT / PT)

When to use: Use when you want to request or increase a specific related service (speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, counseling, etc.). Federal law defines these as services required to help a child benefit from special education.

Out-of-district / private placement request

When to use: Use when the district's current placement options cannot meet your child's needs and you believe an out-of-district public, approved private, or specialized day school is the appropriate placement under FAPE and LRE.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation an IEP service?
Yes, when it's required for the child to benefit from special education. Under 34 CFR 300.34(c)(16), transportation is a related service. This can include door-to-door pickup, a smaller bus, an aide on the bus, or transportation to a specialized program.
Can the school refuse a 1:1 aide?
The school cannot categorically refuse, but the IEP team must consider whether a 1:1 is necessary based on the child's needs. If the team declines, they must issue Prior Written Notice under 34 CFR 300.503 explaining the decision and the data they considered.
What if my child needs assistive technology?
Request an AT evaluation in writing. Under 34 CFR 300.5 and 300.6, AT devices and services are required when needed for FAPE. The team must consider AT at every annual review per 34 CFR 300.324(a)(2)(v).
Can the school place my child out of district?
Only if the IEP team (including parents) decides it's appropriate under the LRE analysis at 34 CFR 300.114. Parents can also request an out-of-district placement, particularly when in-district options have not been able to provide FAPE.
Are related services (speech, OT, PT) optional?
No. Under 34 CFR 300.34, related services are required when needed to help the child benefit from special education. The team must include them in the IEP if the data supports the need.

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