"I've sat at over 500 IEP tables."
I'm Mary, a Special Education Advocate and the founder of The Advocate Ally. I created this goal bank because I was tired of seeing parents bullied into accepting generic, "cookie-cutter" IEPs.
The goals below aren't just random suggestions—they are the exact same forensically sound goals I fight for in meetings every day. Use them to demand better for your child.
Mary
Founder, The Advocate Ally
⚠️ Before you send anything: Make sure your legal footing is solid. Schools will ignore requests that aren't backed by evidence. Upload your IEP first for a free compliance audit so you know exactly what to dispute.
Legal Basis
34 CFR §300.106 — Schools must provide ESY when needed to provide FAPE, and must consider ESY at each annual review.
The Letter Template
Copy & Customize
Dear [Special Education Director], I am writing to formally request that Extended School Year (ESY) services be considered for my child, [Child's Full Name], at the upcoming IEP meeting. I have observed the following evidence of regression during school breaks: • [Example 1 — e.g., "After winter break, it took 6 weeks to return to pre-break reading levels"] • [Example 2 — e.g., "Communication skills declined significantly during summer, requiring re-teaching of previously mastered content"] • [Example 3 — e.g., "Behavioral progress reversed after extended absences from school"] I request that the IEP team: 1. Review regression and recoupment data from the current school year 2. Consider my observations and documentation 3. Determine the appropriate level of ESY services Please note that ESY eligibility cannot be limited to specific disability categories and must be determined on an individual basis. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Date]
Pro Tips for Using This Letter
Start collecting regression data NOW — don't wait until the spring IEP meeting.
Take videos, keep work samples, and track skills before and after every break.
The school cannot use a formula or checklist as the only basis for ESY decisions.
If denied, request a PWN and consider filing a complaint.
What Happens After You Send This Letter
Save a copy of the letter and the delivery confirmation (email receipt or certified mail tracking). This is your evidence trail.
The school has a limited window to respond. Mark your calendar for 10 business days — if you don't hear back, send a follow-up referencing the original date.
If they schedule a meeting in response, prepare just like you would for any IEP meeting. Bring a support person and don't sign anything at the table.
If they refuse your request, demand a Prior Written Notice (PWN) explaining why. This document is critical — it creates the legal record you need for a dispute.
Upload your IEP to get a free audit before the meeting. We'll identify every compliance gap so you walk in with evidence, not just a letter.
Not Sure Exactly What to Ask For?
A letter is only as strong as the evidence behind it. Let me review your IEP first — I'll show you exactly which problems to reference in your letter and which services to ask for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I email this letter or send it as certified mail?
What if the school doesn't respond to my letter?
Can the school retaliate against my child for sending this letter?
Do I need a lawyer to send this letter?
Audit your IEP before sending this letter
Find every compliance violation first. Then cite the specific issues in your letter.
Start Free Audit