Special Diets

  • Federal regulations require schools and institutions to serve meals at no extra charge to those children whose disability restricts their diet in such a way that they cannot fully participate in the food service program without some modification to the foods offered on the scheduled menu. Parents must request the special meals from the school and provide the school with medical certification from a medical doctor. This medical certification must contain the following:

    • Verification that special meals are needed due to the student's disability.
    • Recommendation/prescription for alternate foods and forms of food needed to meet the student's special dietary needs.

    Allergies

    Though the School Lunch Department is not required to offer supplemental foods or monitor students' diets, we like to make every effort to ensure the safety and well-being of your child. If your child has a severe food allergy, please send the following information to your building's nurse.

    • Parent Letter requesting special meals with certification from a Medical Authority stating the foods that are potentially dangerous or life threatening.
    • Lactose Intolerance: If your child is lactose intolerant, a signed medical note from your physician (this is a USDA requirement) must be on file in order for an alternative drink choice to be offered in place of milk.
    • We currently offer Lactaid at all schools!

    Special Note: Our department is unable to cook or re-heat any meals sent from home due to cross contamination concerns and Health Department regulations.