Federal Requirement

USDA regulations require schools to provide meal substitutions or modifications for students whose disabilities restrict their diets, when supported by a signed statement from a licensed physician.

Food Allergies and Disabilities

• In most cases, food allergies or intolerances do not qualify as a disability under Section 504 or IDEA.

• However, if a licensed physician determines that a food allergy could cause a severe, life-threatening (anaphylactic) reaction, the condition is considered a disability.

• In such cases, meal substitutions must be provided as prescribed by the physician.

Non-Disability Special Dietary Needs

• For students with food intolerances or mild allergies that are not life-threatening, meal substitutions may be provided at the school’s discretion.

• These substitutions are considered case-by-case decisions, based on medical certification and availability of suitable alternatives.

Medical Statement for Children with Special Dietary Needs

Each special dietary request must be supported by a statement explaining the requested food substitution and must be signed by a recognized medical authority. The Medical Statement must include:

• An identification of the medical or other special dietary condition which restricts the child’s diet;

• The food or foods to be omitted from the child’s diet; and

• The food or choice of foods to be substituted.

If we do not receive a medical statement from a recognized medical authority, your child will receive a regular lunch tray.  Medical statements completed by parents or guardians will not be accepted.

The following protocols outline the steps taken to provide a safe environment for students with food allergies.

Andover Public Schools Food Allergy Protocol

Andover Public Schools Gluten-Free (GF) Meal Protocol

Our online Menus are interactive and allows parents and guardians to view the 9-major allergens in food items via a pop-up when hovering over menu items.

Parents may also filter menus by specific allergens when viewing and/or placing orders.

Notification of any menu changes resulting from extenuating circumstances will be provided at the earliest opportunity, to the best of our ability.

Alerts: Student's allergy information is entered into our point-of-sale system which will alert our staff to force them to double check their tray for known allergens.