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Allergies in the School Setting

ISD 728 is an Allergy-Aware District

ISD 728 recognizes the increasing number of students enrolled in our schools with potentially life-threatening allergies. As public educators and health professionals, we are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students by:

  • Developing individualized health plans that outline emergency procedures

  • Proactively preventing exposure to known allergens

  • Educating staff and promoting awareness throughout the school community

We believe a collaborative partnership between families and school personnel is essential in managing allergies safely and effectively.

Best Practice Guidelines

ISD 728 follows the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN) School Food Allergy Program guidelines. Our Health Services team works closely with Southwest Foodservice Excellence (SFE) and District Nutrition Services to meet the dietary and medical needs of students with food allergies.

Parents/guardians should contact their child’s Health Office to begin the planning process. The Licensed School Nurse will coordinate with relevant school staff to develop an individualized care plan.

Roles and Responsibilities

➤ Parents/Guardians

  • Notify the school health office of your child’s allergies and meet with the school nurse

  • Work with the LSN and/or 504 Coordinator to develop an Emergency Care Plan and/or Section 504 Plan

  • Provide medical documentation and authorization for emergency medications

  • Supply the school with labeled, up-to-date medications, replacing them as needed

  • Teach your child about their allergy and how to recognize and respond to symptoms

  • Provide safe food alternatives when needed

    Note: School staff or other families cannot determine food safety or read food labels on behalf of a student.

  • Contact ISD 728 District Food Services directly for any food-related accommodations or dietary restrictions

  • Submit a signed Special Diet Statement to ISD 728 Food Services staff from your child's healthcare provider if your child requires modifications to school meals

➤ Health Services Staff

  • Work with parents/guardians to obtain allergy action plans and emergency medications

  • Teach students how and when to seek help for an allergic reaction

  • Follow district policies for medication authorization, self-carry, and emergency care

➤ Licensed School Nurse (LSN)

  • Coordinate allergy care with teachers, administrators, custodians, and Nutrition Services

  • Collaborate with the building’s Section 504 Coordinator as appropriate

  • Provide or coordinate annual staff training on allergy recognition and emergency response

Environmental Allergy Considerations

  • Latex-Free Schools
    ISD 728 prohibits latex balloons in all school buildings due to the increased risk of allergic reactions. Latex particles can become airborne and pose serious risks. Alternatives such as Mylar or vinyl balloons are encouraged. All school sites use latex-free gloves and bandages.

  • Scent Sensitivities
    Please help protect students and staff with fragrance sensitivities by avoiding the use of strongly scented products, including perfumes, colognes, body sprays, and heavily scented deodorants.

Questions or Need to Report a Student Allergy?

Please notify your child’s school as soon as possible if they have an allergy requiring a health plan or meal accommodations.

Visit www.isd728.org/HealthServices

For meal-related questions or to submit a Special Diet Statement, please contact ISD 728 Nutrition Services

Together, we can help create a safe, inclusive, and healthy school environment for all students.