The purpose of this policy is to create an organized system for preventing and responding to allergic
reactions. This policy is not a guarantee of an allergen-free environment; instead, it is designed to
increase awareness, provide education and training, reduce the chance of exposure and outline
responses to allergic reactions. The best form of prevention for life-threatening allergies is
avoidance of the allergen.
Research shows that allergies can negatively impact student achievement by affecting concentration,
auditory processing and attendance. Further, healthy students are better learners. In addition to
posing health risks, allergies can be potentially deadly for some individuals.
This policy applies to district facilities to which students have access and includes transportation
provided by the district. The Board instructs the superintendent or designee to develop procedures
to implement this policy.
Identification
Each school will attempt to identify students with life-threatening allergies, including food allergies.
An allergic reaction is an immune system response to a substance that itself is not harmful but that
the body interprets as being harmful. Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe and can even
be life threatening. At enrollment, the person enrolling the student will be asked to provide
information on any allergies the student may have.
Prevention
Students with allergies that rise to the level of a disability as defined by law will be accommodated
in accordance with district policies and procedures pertaining to the identification and
accommodation of students with disabilities. An individualized health plan (IHP), including an
emergency action plan (EAP), may be developed for students with allergies that do not rise to the
level of a disability.
All staff members are required to follow any Section 504 plan or IHP/EAP developed for a student
by the district. Staff members who do not follow an existing Section 504 plan or IHP/EAP will be
disciplined, and such discipline may include termination.
The principal may require staff members to refrain from the use of added fragrance items or personal
care items with fragrance under particular circumstances.
The district will not serve any processed foods, including foods sold in vending machines, that are
not labeled with a complete list of ingredients. Vended items must include a list of ingredients on
the individual package. The food service director will create an ingredient list for all foods provided
by the district as part of the district’s nutrition program, including food provided during the school
day and in before- and after-school programs. This list will be available upon request.
Prepackaged items used in concessions, fundraisers and classroom activities must include a list of
ingredients on the package. If the package does not contain a list of ingredients, the list of
ingredients must be available at the location where the package is sold or provided.
Education and Training
All staff members will be regularly trained on the causes and symptoms of and responses to allergic
reactions. Training will include instruction on the use of epinephrine premeasured auto-injection
devices.
In accordance with law, qualified employees will be held harmless and immune from civil liability
for administering epinephrine in good faith and according to standard medical practices. A qualified
employee is one who has been trained to administer medication, including epinephrine, in
accordance with standard medical practice.
Age-appropriate education on allergies and allergic reactions will be provided to students as such
education aligns with state Grade-Level Expectations (GLEs) for health education. Education will
include potential causes, signs and symptoms of allergic reactions; information on avoiding
allergens; and simple steps students can take to keep classmates safe.
Confidentiality
Information about individual students with allergies will be provided to all staff members and others
who need to know the information to provide a safe learning environment for the student.
Information about individual students with allergies will not be shared with students and others who
do not have a legitimate educational interest in the information unless authorized by the
parent/guardian or as otherwise permitted by law, including the Family Educational Rights and
Privacy Act (FERPA).
Response
Response to an allergic reaction shall be in accordance with established procedures, including
application of the student's Section 504 plan or IHP/EAP. Information about known allergies will
be shared in accordance with FERPA.
* * * * * * *
Note: The reader is encouraged to check the index located at the beginning of this section
for other pertinent policies and to review administrative procedures and/or forms for
related information.
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Adopted: 06/28/2011
Cross Refs: AC, Prohibition Against Illegal Discrimination and Harassment
ADF, District Wellness Program
EF, Food Services Management
EFB, Free and Reduced-Cost Food Services
IGBA, Programs for Students with Disabilities
IGD, District-Sponsored Extracurricular Activities and Organizations
IICA, Field Trips and Excursions
Legal Refs: § 167.208, RSMo.
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, 20 U.S.C. §§ 1400 - 1417
34 C.F.R. Part 300
The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Section 504, 29 U.S.C. § 794
34 C.F.R. Part 104
Americans with Disabilities Act, 42 U.S.C. §§ 12101 - 12213
National School Lunch Act, 42 U.S.C. §§ 1751 - 1769h
Child Nutrition Act of 1966, 42 U.S.C. §§ 1771 - 1785
7 C.F.R. Parts 210, 220, 227
Farmington R-7 School District, Farmington, Missouri
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