Begin the letter with the date. For example: "Aug. 18, 2011." Below that write the name of the principal of the school and then the school's full physical address.
Indicate which child you are referring to on the next line. For example: "Re: John Smith, Mrs. Johnson's class (1st Grade)."
Write the body of the letter next. Tell the principal your child is having difficulty in the school, and provide some examples if you can.
Write in the next paragraph that you are formally requesting for the school to begin a special education evaluation to determine if your child needs special attention. Instruct the school to send you the evaluation plan and consent forms, and to keep you abreast of when the school will schedule an evaluation.
Add a friendly closing thanking the principal for the consideration and note that the principal is welcome to contact you with questions.
Sign your name and provide your phone number and address.
Mail the letter to the principal. According to the federal "Individuals with Disabilities Education Act," the school must respond to the request and complete the evaluation within a specified period of time. Although the time frame varies by state, generally the school must complete the evaluation in 60 days or less.