Medical Meal Accommodations

Food Intolerances / Allergies:

School food service may make food substitutions, at their discretion, for individual children who do not have a disability, but who are medically certified as having a special medical or dietary need.  Such determinations are only made on a case-by-case basis.  This provision covers those children who have food intolerances or allergies, but do not have life-threatening reactions (anaphylactic reactions) when exposed to the food(s) to which they have problems.

*Please note food preferences, likes or dislikes are not an appropriate use of the Medical Statement form. 

MEAL SUBSTITUTIONS FOR MEDICAL OR SPECIAL DIETARY REASONS

Generally, children with food allergies or intolerances do not have a disability as defined under either Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act or Part B of IDEA, and the school food service may, but is not required to, make food substitutions for them.  However, when in the licensed physician’s assessment, food allergies may result in severe, life-threatening (anaphylactic) reactions, the child’s condition would meet the definition of “disability”, and the substitutions prescribed by the licensed physician must be made.

USDA Regulation 7 CFR Part 15b requires substitutions or modifications in school meals for children whose disabilities restrict their diets. A child with a disability must be provided substitutions in foods when that need is supported by a signed statement from a licensed physician.

Medical Statement for Children with Special Dietary Needs

If your child requires a special diet, have a licensed medical authority complete the form below, indicating the medical necessity, and send it to the School Nurse or Nutrition Services. All special diet requests must be completed and signed by a U.S. licensed physician, physician’s assistant, or nurse practitioner. Special diets cannot be prescribed by a registered nurse (RN).

If we do not receive a completed 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.

Fillable Form

Medical Statement Form for SNP - USDA Civil Rights (CA Dept of Education)