Food-allergy policy wins approval

Tahoma School District schools will become safer places for students with severe or life-threatening allergies under a new policy approved Oct. 13 by the Tahoma School Board.

Policy 3420 is a response to changes in state law regarding protection of students with severe or life-threatening allergies. The policy states that the school district recognizes “that the risk of accidental exposure to allergens can be reduced in the school setting. We are committed to working with students, parents, and physicians to minimize risks and provide a safe educational environment for all students. The focus of the District Wide Allergy Management Plan shall be prevention, education, awareness, communication and emergency response.”

The school district is developing specific plans that will guide how the policy will be implemented. Bruce Zahradnik, assistant superintendent, outlined the procedures that are being considered. He noted that the district has received comments from some parents who are concerned that the new policy and procedures would result in severe restrictions or elimination of food in the classroom. Zahradnik said the changes being considered are aimed at reducing the use of food as rewards and as part of celebrations but not eliminating food from the classroom. When food is brought into classrooms the intent would be to pre-arrange its use in celebrations or class projects to ensure that all students may safely participate.

The policy and procedures also outline expectations for teachers and other staff members, parents and students in how to reduce the risk of accidental exposure to allergens in schools.