How do I request compensatory services because my child’s IEP wasn’t followed?

Before you ask for comp ed, you’ll need to collect evidence to prove that your child was denied FAPE. Dr. Sarah Pelangka recommends starting by requesting data on your child’s progress from your school district. “Parents always have the right to request data on their child’s goals,” she says.

If service logs from the district don’t show that a student met with a provider or the school doesn’t provide data on how they’re working to meet a particular IEP goal, there’s no proof that a student has received FAPE. In that case, the student is entitled to compensatory services.

The process of requesting comp ed is going to look a little different depending on each school district and situation. Education advocate and Undivided Navigator Lisa Carey recommends starting by asking about it at your next IEP meeting. In some cases, it’s extremely clear that a student didn’t receive a service they’re entitled to, and schools will offer additional therapy hours or services to make up for their loss.

In other cases, you’ll want to submit a request for comp ed in writing. When you’re writing that request, keep your letter as direct and concise as possible. Lisa gives an example: "State what you want comp ed for (example: speech); why (example: missed sessions); and leave it at that."

For more information, see our article Compensatory Education 101.