For Families

ADVOCACY GUIDE FOR IEP/504 MEETINGS

Templates and talking points to help families request appropriate reading intervention services and advocate confidently for their child.

Meeting Checklist

Before the Meeting

Request the meeting in writing (email is fine) and keep a copy.
Gather report cards, reading assessments, work samples, and any outside evaluations.
List your child’s strengths, challenges, and specific examples of reading struggles.
Review your rights under IDEA (IEP) or Section 504.
Invite someone you trust to take notes or support you.

During the Meeting

Start by sharing what your child does well and what you hope the team will accomplish.
Ask for specific data: reading level, fluency scores, phonics mastery, and progress over time.
Request specific services: structured literacy, Orton-Gillingham, Take Flight, Wilson, etc.
Clarify who will provide the service, how often, and in what setting.
Ask how progress will be measured and how often you will receive updates.
Do not sign anything you do not understand. Request time to review if needed.

After the Meeting

Request a copy of the finalized IEP or 504 plan within the timeframe your state requires.
Review the document carefully to ensure it matches what was discussed.
Put the next meeting date on your calendar immediately.
Track your child’s progress and keep communication in writing.

Helpful Talking Points

If the team says your child is not far enough behind:

“Early intervention is most effective. Can we put supports in place now and monitor progress closely so we do not wait for a bigger gap?”

If the team says there are no resources:

“I understand resources are limited. Let’s discuss what is available and document any services we agree to, even if they are interim.”

If you disagree with the evaluation:

“I would like an independent educational evaluation (IEE) at public expense. Please provide the district’s criteria and procedures.”

If the plan lacks specific reading goals:

“Can we add measurable goals for decoding, fluency, and comprehension with clear baselines and timelines?”

Request Email Template

Subject: Request for IEP/504 Evaluation and Meeting

Dear [Teacher/Special Education Coordinator],

I am writing to request an evaluation for my child, [Child’s Name], in the area of reading. [He/She/They] is in [grade] at [school name].

I have noticed the following concerns:
- [Example: difficulty sounding out new words]
- [Example: slow, laborious reading]
- [Example: spelling that does not match instruction]
- [Example: frustration or avoidance around reading]

I would like to schedule a meeting to discuss whether an IEP or 504 plan is appropriate and what reading intervention services are available.

Please let me know the next steps and what documentation you need from me.

Thank you,
[Your Name]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]

You are not alone in this process.

If you need help preparing for a meeting or understanding your options, reach out. We can connect you with resources and next steps.