When it comes to your child's education and safety, informal emails and quick chats at school pickup often aren't enough. Whether you are dealing with a bullying situation, requesting an Individualized Education Program (IEP) evaluation, or disputing an unfair disciplinary action, you need a formal written record . Schools are massive bureaucracies. If a request isn't put in writing, legally, it didn't happen. Here is exactly how to write a formal letter to a school that commands respect and forces administration to take action. 1. Keep Emotion Out of It This is the hardest rule to follow. When your child is hurting or struggling, it is entirely natural to feel angry, defensive, or panicked. However, an emotional, aggressive letter will cause administrators to become defensive, and they may write you off as a "difficult parent." A formal letter should read like a business document. Stick strictly to the facts, dates, and observed behaviors. 2.…