"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 §300.503 — Schools must provide Prior Written Notice before or after proposing or refusing any change to identification, evaluation, placement, or FAPE.
The Letter Template
Copy & Customize
Dear [Special Education Director], I am writing to formally request a Prior Written Notice (PWN) under 34 CFR §300.503 regarding the following action taken by the school: [Describe the action — e.g., "The school proposed reducing speech therapy from 120 minutes per week to 60 minutes" OR "The school refused my request for an occupational therapy evaluation."] The PWN must include: 1. A description of the action proposed or refused 2. An explanation of why the school is proposing or refusing the action 3. A description of each evaluation procedure, assessment, record, or report used as a basis 4. Other options the team considered and why they were rejected 5. A description of other factors relevant to the decision 6. A statement that parents have protection under IDEA's procedural safeguards If I do not receive this PWN within [5-10 business days], I will file a state complaint for failure to comply with federal procedural requirements. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Date]
Pro Tips for Using This Letter
A PWN is your MOST powerful documentation tool — it forces the school to put their reasoning in writing.
If they refuse verbally, say: 'I'd like that refusal in writing as a Prior Written Notice.'
PWNs create the paper trail needed for due process or state complaints.
Schools often change their position once you request a PWN because they know it becomes a legal document.
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.
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