Sample Refusal (Opt Out) Letters. This page has links to opt out letters for the tests New York STATE gives to 3rd-8th graders every spring.We refuse to allow any data to be used for purposes other than the individual teacher's own formative or cumulative assessment. Write a letter or email to your principal letting them know that you intend to "refuse" the tests on behalf of your child. Q: How do I opt-out my child from testing? The state ELA testing window has opened. You have the right to refuse, which incurs no consequences for your child or their teacher. Opting-out is the process of refusing to participate in state and district testing programs for grades 3-8. Parents can write and submit a refusal letter. When I give the principle letters for opt out I ask for them to contact and let me know what they plan for my child to do on test day.