Prior Written Notice (PWN): A Parent’s Tool for Clarity and Accountability
What is PWN (and Why Does It Matter)?
If you’ve ever left an IEP meeting feeling unclear about why a decision was made — whether a service was added, changed, or denied — you’re not alone.
That’s where Prior Written Notice (PWN) comes in. PWN is a formal, written explanation from your school district about any decision regarding your child’s identification, evaluation, placement, or services.
It isn’t just paperwork — it’s a tool that ensures:
You understand why a decision was made
You see the data and reasoning behind it
You know what other options were considered
When Should You Request It?
You can (and should) request PWN when:
The school proposes a change to your child’s services or placement
The school refuses something you’ve requested (like additional supports or evaluations)
You simply want a clear, documented explanation for a decision
How to Ask for PWN
Here’s a simple way to make the request (keep it polite and professional):
Subject: Request for Prior Written Notice (PWN)
Dear [Case Manager/Administrator],
I am requesting Prior Written Notice regarding the team’s decision on [specific issue, e.g., denial of additional speech services]. Please include:
A description of the action proposed or refused
The reasons for the decision
The data and assessments used
Other options considered
Thank you for providing this written notice so I can fully understand and support the next steps for my child.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Why PWN Benefits Everyone
PWN isn’t just for parents — it helps schools and families stay aligned by keeping decisions transparent and documented. Clear communication reduces misunderstandings, builds trust, and ensures all parties have the same information moving forward.
Need Guidance?
At The IEP Files™, we help parents:
Understand their procedural safeguards, including PWN
Draft effective requests
Prepare for IEP meetings with clarity and confidence
If you’re unsure how to request PWN or want help reviewing your child’s documents, we’re here to support you.
Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. We partner with families to help them understand their rights and work collaboratively with schools for the best outcomes.
