Schools are not allowed to serve any food to students that have not been processed in the school’s cafeteria during school hours. The fees and penalties for not complying with this policy are extremely high. Our school can no longer accept cupcakes, cakes, candies, chips, soda, or any other food that parents bring to celebrate their child’s birthday. Once again, if it was not prepared in our cafeteria, then we cannot give it to our students. The school is allowed to bring outside food for only two events during the school year. Food allergies are a growing food safety and public health concern that affect an estimated 4%–6% of children in the United States. Allergic reactions can be life threatening because the body’s immune system can respond in a severe way, such in cases of anaphylaxis. Eight foods or food groups account for 90% of serious allergic reactions: milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, wheat, soy, peanuts, and tree nuts. We ask you to help us maintain a safe environment in our school by avoiding sending any of these items with your child to our school. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated!
This policy does not apply to students that bring their own lunch from home as long as they don’t share their food with any other student.