Indian Hill Exempted Village School District Food Allergy Policy & Plan PTO Overview 2015

The 8 Most Common Food Allergens At Indian Hill, we have students with one or more of each of these LTFA…

Signs and Symptoms of an Allergic Reaction Skin Hives Warmth, flushing Tingling Itching of the mouth Paleness Signs and Symptoms of an Allergic Reaction Respiratory System Itchy eyes and throat Coughing Shortness of breath Chest tightness Wheezing Cardiac System Low blood pressure Increased heart rate Shock Loss of consciousness Digestive System Cramps Nausea Vomiting Diarrhea Difficulty swallowing Neurological System Lightheadedness Anxiety/ sense of doom Weakness

Policy for Managing Life Threatening Food Allergies (LTFA) in Our Schools Key Components: Establish a safe and inclusive environment for students with food allergies Understand that food allergies can be life threatening Support students and parents regarding food allergy management Support school groups, like the PTO, in providing a safe environment for food allergic students

Expectations for Food Use in Our Schools Snacks: K-grade 5 Students are permitted healthy nut free snacks. Students in grades 6-12 will be permitted to have snacks. Snacks may need to be further restricted to ensure the safety of students with allergens or other chronic health issues (ie: locations for snacks during club events, types of snacks, etc). Parties: Kindergarten-grade 5 holiday parties are limited to 4 parties per year. Room parents are encouraged to bring in non-food items for sharing and to focus on activities and crafts that encourage team building. Food items for parties must be pre-approved by the classroom teacher. Food items brought in are limited to one food and one beverage item. Students in grades 6-12 will not have holiday or birthday parties at school.

Expectations for Food Use in Our Schools Incentives/Rewards: Use of positive reinforcement such as stickers, praise, encouragement, and other creative strategies for incentives or rewards. Instructional and School Sponsored Activity Food Use: Preapproved by the building principal through the use of an Indian Hill Activity Form (see PTO Binder). Lunch in the Classroom: Staff and students may continue to eat lunch in the classroom, taking care to clean areas after use.

What do I need to do to ensure students with LTFA are safe? Become familiar with and follow the Food Expectations found in the District’s Allergy Plan Complete the Activity Approval Forms as appropriate and work with the building principal to develop activities/events Rewards Designated areas for food Individual events may require ongoing discussions As appropriate, work with the District’s administrative team to accommodate specific medical and/or food needs