Short version: Write to your child's principal and the division's special education administrator, say you suspect a disability, ask for a full evaluation, and keep a dated copy. In Virginia the 65-business-day clock runs from when the special education administrator or designee receives the referral (8VAC20-81-60).
Who to send it to
Virginia lets you refer to the principal (or designee) of your child's school, or to the special education administrator (8VAC20-81-50 D 3). Sending it to both, by email, gives you a timestamp. Local contacts: Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Suffolk.
What to include
- Your child's name, birth date, school and grade.
- Why you suspect a disability, with examples. Virginia asks the referring party to explain why an evaluation is requested and what has been tried (8VAC20-81-60 A 2).
- The areas you want evaluated (for example academics, speech and language, attention, motor, social-emotional).
- A request for the procedural safeguards notice and the consent form.
- Any outside reports you have.
Sample letter
[Date]
To: [Principal name], [School]
[Special education administrator name], [School division]
Re: Request for a special education evaluation for [Child's full name], DOB [date], Grade [x]
I am the parent of [Child's name]. I suspect [he/she/they] may have a disability and need special education and related services. I am requesting a comprehensive evaluation in all areas of suspected disability under 8VAC20-81-60 and the IDEA.
My concerns:
- [Example: reading is far below grade level despite tutoring since September]
- [Example: frequent meltdowns during transitions; teacher reports the same]
What has been tried: [interventions, tutoring, classroom supports].
Please send me the procedural safeguards notice and the consent form. I understand the evaluation and eligibility decision should be completed within 65 business days of the special education administrator's receipt of this referral.
I have attached [outside reports]. You can reach me at [phone/email].
Thank you,
[Your name]
What happens next
The administrator has 3 business days to start the process, route it to the school-based team, or deny it in writing. If the school-based team gets it, it meets within 10 business days. Full step list: Virginia evaluation timeline. If the request is denied you get prior written notice explaining why and your right to appeal.
Sources
Questions parents ask
Who do I send an IEP evaluation request to in Virginia?
The principal of your child's school or the division's special education administrator. Sending to both in writing gives you a clear record.
Does the request have to be in writing?
No. Virginia accepts oral, written or electronic referrals, but writing gives you proof of the date.
What if the school says no?
The school must give you prior written notice of the denial, including your right to appeal through due process (8VAC20-81-50, -60).
More Virginia guides
All Virginia guides · Evaluation timeline · Request letter · 504 vs IEP · Glossary
Not legal advice. This page shares general information about Virginia and federal special education rules as we read them on November 3, 2026. It is not legal advice. Rules change and school divisions vary. For help with your situation, contact PEATC (Virginia's Parent Training and Information Center), the VDOE Parent Ombudsman for Special Education, or a special education attorney or advocate.