THE ELIZABETH SCHOOL DISTRICT PRACTICES AN ALLERGY AWARE APPROACH TO POTENTIAL ALLERGIES IN OUR SCHOOLS

Allergy Aware

 

It is unrealistic to expect an allergen free environment.  A ban of certain foods would be difficult to enforce and could create a false sense of security for students with food allergies.  Schools can however, create an allergy aware environment.  Allergy aware measures can reduce the risk of accidental exposure.  Avoidance and education about food allergies is the key to minimizing risk of allergic reations in schools.  The prevention and managment of allergies is a shared responsibility of parents/guardians, allergic students and the school community. 

MOST COMMON ALLERGIES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO: peanuts, tree nuts, latex, eggs, fish, shellfish, milk, soy, wheat

School/staff responsibilities include:

  • placement of allergy aware signs in classrooms and in halls at the elementary level and around the schools at the secondary level
  • allergy free tables in the cafeterias
  • students encouraged not to share food or utensils
  • students/staff expected to wash hands before and after eating
  • teachers should be aware of which students in their classrooms have allergies and to what
  • designated, trained staff members available to recognize allergic reactions and respond appropriately

Parent/student responsibilites:

  • parents to supply a "Severe Allergy Action Plan" signed by their child's physician so that staff can respond during a reaction
  • parents to supply emergency medication to treat a severe reaction at school
  • parents to supply their accurate contact and emergency contact numbers
  • parent and students if appropriate to collaborate with health aid or district nurse to implement an allergy action plan or 504 accommodations
  • parents to supply safe food/snack alternatives for their child during special occasions/parties if there is concern of allergen exposure
  • parents to teach and encourge their student to use avoidance practices, to recognize signs of an allergic reaction and communicate this clearly to an adult
  • secondary students, if capable, are encouraged to be responsible for managing their allergies and to self carry their epi-pens