Food Allergy Information

Food Allergies and Medically Prescribed Special Diets 

If your child has a known food allergy or special nutritional needs for school meals, it is important that you inform the school by completing the required form on an annual basis.  This form is entitled, Medical Statement for Students with Special Nutritional Needs for School Meals. The form requires information from the parent and a licensed physician.  The completed form is then submitted to the school nurse.  Special dietary needs for students without an IEP or 504 Plan are accommodated at the discretion of the School Nutrition Administrator and policies of the school district.

This form is available from the school nurse, cafeteria manager, School Nutrition Director or may be downloaded below in both English and Spanish.

Lactose Intolerance Only – Simplified Form

If lactose intolerance is the only dietary issue a simple form is available from www.daretolearn.org.  No other dietary issues may be addressed on this form, only lactose intolerance.  A parent may complete the form and submit it to the school nurse.  Lactose free milk is offered in place of regular milk.  No other milk substitutes are provided unless the student has an IEP or 504 Plan.

Parent & Student Responsibilities in Managing Students with Food Allergies:

Parent/Guardians

• Notify the school of the child’s allergies by completing and submitting Medical Statement for Students with Special Nutritional Needs for Student Meals.
• Work with the school team to develop a plan that accommodates the child’s needs throughout the school including the classroom, in the cafeteria, in after-school programs, during school-sponsored activities, and on the school bus, including a Food Allergy Action Plan.
• Provide written medical documentation, instructions, and medications as directed by a physician, using the Food Allergy Action Plan as a guide.
• Provide properly labeled medications and replace medications after use or upon expiration.
• Educate the student in the self-management of his or her food allergy including:
  • Safe and unsafe food
  • Strategies for avoiding exposure to unsafe foods
  • Symptoms of allergic reactions
  • How and when to tell an adult if experiencing an allergy-related problem.
  • How to read food labels (age appropriate)
• Review policies/procedures with the school staff, the child’s physician, and the child (if age appropriate) after reaction has occurred.
• Provide emergency contact information.

Students

• Should not trade food with others;
• Should not eat anything with the unknown ingredients or known to contain an allergen;
• Should be proactive in the care and management of their food allergies and reactions based on their developmental level;
• Should notify an adult immediately if they eat something they believe may contain the food to which they are allergic.

Disclaimer for Nutrition and Ingredient Information