What to Do When the School Says 'Let's Wait and See'

"Let's give it a little more time" is one of the most common things parents hear after a dyslexia screening — and one of the most frustrating, especially when you can already see your child struggling at home.

Sometimes waiting is reasonable. Early readers develop at different rates, and a school may recommend additional monitoring before requesting a full evaluation. That is a legitimate clinical judgment when paired with a specific plan and a timeline.

But "wait and see" without documentation is a different thing entirely. If no one can tell you what they are watching for, how they will measure progress, or what would trigger the next step, you are not being given a plan. You are being asked to be patient without any accountability.

Ask these questions directly: What specific skills will you monitor? How often? What outcome would lead to a referral for a full evaluation? Write down the answers, and follow up in writing after the meeting.

You do not have to wait for the school to initiate next steps. You can request a comprehensive evaluation at any time — in writing, addressed to the special education director. Schools are legally required to respond. This right exists under federal law regardless of whether your child has a formal plan in place.

If you believe your child needs support now, you can also pursue a private evaluation independently and share results with the school.

The goal is not to be adversarial. Most teachers and administrators want your child to succeed. But you are your child's strongest advocate, and knowing your options changes the conversation.

Review your state's rights page to understand the specific evaluation timelines and response requirements that apply to your school district.