Sample Letter to Opt Child Out of State Testing

In California, any parent can opt their child out of state testing by writing a letter to the school and simply stating that they would like to opt their child out of state testing for that academic school year. You can also ask that the school make arrangements for a productive educational experience for their child during the testing period. This request must be in writing and it’s important to retain a copy of the request in your records.

You can use this Google doc as reference for your written request, or review the example text below:

[Date]
[Principal Name]
[School Name]
[Street Address]
[Town/City/Zip]

Dear Principal [Name],

I wanted to let you know that my child, [name], will not take part in the [name of the test] this year. My child will need supervision, so I ask that you make arrangements for them to have a productive educational experience during the testing period.

Thank you for your assistance. Please contact me once you’ve determined the alternate activities my child will engage in during the testing period. Knowing this information beforehand will help me prepare my child for school on these days.

Respectfully,
[parent/guardian]

Cc: [name of student’s teacher]