Food Allergies.
Food allergies resurfaced as an issue of importance for SHAC to address. Two members of the community provided public comments on this topic at SHAC meetings this school year. The public comments pointed out that FCPS could improve what it does to ensure that students with life-threatening food allergies are not put at risk in the school environment. According to the Annual School Health Report, fifty-one epi pens were administered in the 2009-10 school year. A close review of the contributing factors and circumstances surrounding these incidents indicates some safety measures could be implemented to decrease the risks of exposure.

FCPS has reconvened an Allergy Review Team on food allergies and SHAC looks forward to reviewing the guidelines to make sure that some simple, yet essential steps are implemented. Currently, information regarding food and other allergies is difficult to find on the FCPS website. SHAC recommends that this information be easier to find than it is now, and be part of comprehensive information about chronic health conditions. Online videos could be useful tools in educating the community and staff about food allergies.

SHAC also recommends implementing a comprehensive education program on food allergies for staff, students and parents including the ability to recognize signs and symptoms of a food allergy reaction.

We suggest that the following elements be incorporated into the program:
All parents need to understand the risks of food allergies, that these students are entitled to special accommodations, and that everyone can play a part in making sure these students are not put at risk. Parents of students with food allergies need to understand the importance of a health plan for their child and how to work with school staff and the child’s health care provider to establish an appropriate plan. A system-wide communication effort needs to be utilized to proactively educate parents, employees and students to the safety risks associated with food allergies and to explain the guidelines that schools should follow.

All students need to know the symptoms of a food allergy reaction and steps they should take to help a student who is experiencing a reaction. Bullying students with food allergies, such as by threatening exposure to an allergen, should not be tolerated.
The use of foods as part of the instructional program and for celebrations should be minimized, and should be totally avoided when a student with food allergies is enrolled in the class. Teachers may need guidance in how to substitute lessons that do not involve foods. Prior to implementing such guidelines, discussion with all parents to increase buy-in is recommended to make sure that the needs of all students are considered.

I. Sharing of Foods and Beverages
Schools shall discourage students from sharing their foods or beverages with one another during meal or snack times. Food allergies can result in an allergic reaction in which the student’s life is threatened. Given concerns about allergies and other restrictions in certain children’s diets, food and beverages should not be shared.

K. Fundraising Activities
To support children’s health and school nutrition-education efforts, no school fundraising activity involving food shall occur before or during the school day. Schools shall encourage fundraising activities that promote physical activity. The School Division shall make available a list of suggested fundraising activities.

L. School-Sponsored Events (athletic events, dances, or performances)
Foods and beverages offered or sold at school-sponsored events outside the school day shall make a positive contribution to children’s diets and health.

M. Rewards
School employees shall not use foods or beverages to reward students for good behavior and achievement in the classroom. School staff shall not withhold food or beverages (including food served through school meals) as a punishment.

N. Celebrations
Celebrations, including celebrations of academic performance that involve food, shall make a positive contribution to children’s diets and health. At least one half of the foods and beverages offered at a school celebration shall be fruits and vegetables, grains, meat/meat alternates, and dairy products. The Division shall disseminate a list of healthy ideas for celebrations to parents and teachers. This list will include suggestions for celebrations that do not focus upon food.

Model Expectations
The School Division shall implement strategies for teachers, parents, school administrators, students, food service professionals, and community members to serve as models in practicing healthy eating, being physically active, eliminating use of tobacco products, and not using illegal drugs both in school and at home. Specific examples of behavior that should be modeled: not consuming sodas, snacks, or smoking products in the presence of students. Practice sensitivity to remarks regarding body image, self esteem, and media images.