A Prior Written Notice (PWN) is given to parents of children with disabilities before a school takes or refuses to take an action in the special education process for their child.  

When does a school give a PWN?  

You must be given a PWN when your child’s school proposes or refuses an action related to: 

• Identifying your child’s disability 

• Evaluating your child for special education 

• Developing, reviewing, or revising your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) 

• Changing your child’s educational placement 

• Exiting your child from special education and related services 

The school must send you a PWN no less than 14 calendar days before the action they’re proposing would happen. If the school proposes an IEP or changes to your child’s IEP, they must also provide a copy of the proposed IEP with the PWN. If the PWN is a refusal to a request you made, it must be sent within 14 days of when you made the request. Making your requests to the school in writing will help you monitor this time frame. 

What information is included in a PWN? 

Every PWN must include: 

1. The action the school is proposing or refusing 
2. An explanation of why they are proposing or refusing the action 
3. A description of each evaluation procedure, assessment, record, or report that was considered 
4. A description of other options that were considered and why they were rejected 
5. A description of other factors related to the action the school is proposing or refusing 

Schools are also required to explain the rights that you have as a parent as part of the special education process. Schools must provide the PWN in your native language. 

Why should I respond to a PWN? 

It is important to respond to a PWN whether you agree or disagree with the school’s proposed action. The school will not proceed with an initial evaluation, placement, or services for your child without receiving your consent in writing. If your child already has an IEP, the action the school is proposing will automatically go into effect unless you object in writing within 14 calendar days of the date the school sent you the PWN.  

How do I respond to a PWN? 

Most schools include a response form with the PWN. It usually provides options for parents to indicate their response, including: 

• Consent: I agree. The school district will proceed with the proposed or refused action(s) in the PWN. 

• Objection: I do not agree, and I request a conciliation conference to be held within 10 calendar days from the date the school district receives this request to resolve my concerns. I understand that the school district will not proceed with the proposed or refused action(s) in the PWN. 

• Objection: I do not agree, and I request a meeting with appropriate members of my child’s IEP team to resolve my concerns. I understand that the school district will not proceed with the proposed or refused action(s) in the PWN. If you choose this option, please explain the specific part that you object to. 

After you have indicated your response, it is important to sign, date, and return the form to the contact person listed.