Special Dietary Needs

School Food Authorities (SFAs) must make reasonable substitutions to meals on a case-by-case basis for children who are considered to have a disability that restricts their diet: School Nutrition Program − 7 CFR 210.10(m). According to the ADA Amendments Act, most physical and mental impairments that substantially limit or affect one or more major life activities or bodily functions will constitute a disability. SFAs are not required to accommodate special dietary requests that do not constitute a disability, including requests related to religious or moral convictions or personal preference. Please refer to the Special Diet Statement. (Note, the exception is lactose intolerance, see below.) 

Contact the food service department for special dietary needs and requests, a signed medical form is required to accommodate special dietary requests, see the Food Services webpage to access the request forms.
  
Banning food items from school will be avoided. Banning an item creates a false sense of security. It is unrealistic to maintain an accurate food label file listing ingredients because manufacturers can change their list of ingredients on a regular basis. Children would be expected to use self-management techniques including knowing:

• Safe and unsafe foods
• Strategies for avoiding exposure to unsafe foods
• Symptoms of allergic reactions
• How and when to tell an adult they may be having an allergy-related problem
• How to read labels (age appropriate)

It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to seek nutrition consultation from a Registered Dietitian for specific information on managing the student’s allergies.  A telephone meeting or other meeting would be scheduled with the school Food Service Director to discuss meal options.  Within the district, a copy of the Student Allergy Form will be sent to the Food Service Director’s office.  The Food Service Director will discuss menu changes with the appropriate kitchens.  The Food Service Director and/or Cook Manager will keep the Health Services Department informed of any meal modifications.