Food Service

Administrators, staff, physicians, children, and families are expected to be aware of the food allergy policy in place and work collaboratively to minimize risks and ensure a safe, allergy-friendly school environment. Each individual must understand their responsibilities within the policy and actively contribute to preventing accidental exposure.

Parents or guardians are responsible for contacting the Dining Services Department before the start of each school year. We also recommend becoming familiar with Nutrislice, the program used by the district to display daily menu items and dietary information, including allergens. Communication with Dining Services can be done via email or phone to confirm the allergy form on file or to submit an updated version. It is strongly recommended that this be completed at least 15 business days prior to the start of school. The Special Dietary Accommodation Form is available here. If a paper copy is needed, please reach out to the Food Service Department.

Once a newly completed accommodation form is received, office staff will have 5 business days to process the form and contact the family to discuss the appropriate course of action. After discussions with the family are complete, the Student Dining Department may require 5 or more business days to procure the necessary item(s) for the student(s). Central Office will communicate the official start date of the accommodation plan with the school nurse, kitchen staff, and the family.

Staff members who interact with students with food allergies must be aware of the allergy and take an active role in minimizing the risk of exposure. Staff are required to recognize symptoms of an allergic reaction and provide proper support to the student as needed.

Students should be made aware of their own responsibilities. These include not sharing food with others, avoiding foods with unknown ingredients, and notifying staff immediately if they suspect they have come into contact with a food allergen.

All department staff must be aware of food allergies present in their building and should be familiar with the building’s allergy binder. All staff must be trained in proper food preparation for students with dietary accommodations. This includes, but is not limited to: safe storage, preparation, cooking, serving, and cleaning practices.