Child Nutrition Services » Special Dietary Accommodations

Special Dietary Accommodations

Federal law and USDA regulation requires nutrition programs to make reasonable modifications to accommodate children with disabilities. Under the law, a disability is an impairment which substantially limits a major life activity or bodily function, which can include allergies and digestive conditions, but does not include personal diet preferences. 

In order to facilitate a student's special dietary need, the school must receive a completed "Request for Special Dietary Accommodations" form. Areas 1, 2, 3, and signature must be completed by a recognized medical authority. Once the completed Special Dietary Request form is returned to the school and it is given to the school nurse, your student will be accommodated immediately. The school nurse will notify kitchen staff and introduce them to the student. Their name will be added to an allergy/intolerance list that is given to the cooks. The Special Dietary Request form will need to be completed at least two more times as your student transitions through school. Once in Elementary, once in Middle School, and once in High School and/ or with any changes. This is because often food allergies/ intolerances change. 

If the Special Dietary Request form is not returned, the school will not accommodate the special dietary need. Your student will still have the option of offer versus serve. They may take other food choices that are served but will not be offered an alternative. Please contact the school nurse at 685-6800 ext. 4015 if you have any questions.