How do you request your child’s educational records?

Contact the school to ask what is needed to see your child’s records — a request form may have to be completed. Keep a copy of the form or ask for a copy once you’ve completed it, and make sure the form has been dated so that the school adheres to the required timeline. It’s a good idea to include a list of the documents you want (assessment reports/plans, progress reports, report cards, IEP documentation, medical records, etc.).

If the district does not have a form, write a letter requesting access to your child’s records. (You can use this sample letter!) Then mail, email, or hand deliver the letter to the district’s director of special education — and get proof that it was delivered. You can share the letter with your child’s principal, special education teacher, school psychologist, and any other employee involved in your child’s education. Once you’ve received the records, you can make copies for your own documentation and personal use (for example, you may want to take notes on them).

For more information, see our article Requesting Your Child’s Educational Records.