"Placement" means the type of setting where your child's Individualized Education Program (IEP) is carried out. Depending on your child's needs, his or her placement may be in the general education classroom, in a special education classroom, in a special school, in your home, in a hospital or institution, or in another setting. Placement is based on the IEP. Therefore, when you request a change in placement, you are actually requesting an IEP review to discuss your child's needs and where those needs are met.
Why might I ask for a change in my child's placement?
Placement means how much time your child spends being educated with children who do not have disabilities. It does not mean the school building or location of services.
You might want to request a change in your child's placement if you feel that your child's needs are not being met appropriately. For example, you may become concerned about your child's placement after reviewing your child's progress reports; reviewing the results of any state, district-wide, or alternate assessments your child has been given; talking with your child's teacher or other service providers; or talking with your child. You might want to request more time in a regular education classroom so that your child can improve language skills or social behavior. Or, your child might need a more restrictive placement because a smaller class size helps your child's problems with attention.
Sample Letter
Date (include month, day, and year)
Name of Principal or Special Education Administrator
Name of School
Street Address
City, State, Zip Code
Dear (Principal's or Administrator's name),
I am writing to request a meeting to discuss a change in placement for my (son/daughter), (child's name). He/she is currently in the (number of grade) grade in (teacher's name) class. I feel (he/she) needs to be in (name of alternative, if you know; otherwise describe the type of placement you feel is more appropriate for your child, such as your neighborhood school, a center-based program, general education class, or special class).
I am most concerned about (keep this paragraph brief and mention your child's unmet needs, not problems with individual people).
I would also like to have (name of teachers and/or any specialists you would like from the current and/or requested placement) attend this meeting.
I can arrange to meet with the rest of the IEP team on (list days you are available to meet) between (give a range of time, such as between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.). Please let me know what time would be best.
I look forward to hearing from you within five school days of the date you receive this letter. My daytime telephone number is (give your phone number). Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Your Name
Street Address
City, State, Zip Code
Daytime telephone number
cc: your child's principal (if letter is addressed to an administrator);
your child's teacher(s);
specialists or other staff