We recognize the importance of celebrating accomplishments and milestones and that there are a variety of ways to celebrate, often with the use of food.

In an effort to promote good nutritional practices and provide the safest environment for all students, we have developed the following Procedures For Food in Classrooms.

Revised September, 2007

1. We have several students in the building with multiple food allergies (many are life threatening). These students may experience reactions with ingestion and/or contact with food residue.
2. Recent reports indicate some 9 million children in the United States older than age 6 are obese, leading to an increasing incidence of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
3. Recent legislation initiative mandate that school districts develop mission statements and policies regarding diet and nutrition which provide that foods served or available to students be of high nutritional value and low in fat, sodium and added sugar.

Snack – foods eaten between meals having nutritional value, (pizza, cheese, crackers, fruit vegetables, yogurt)

Treat – foods with no nutritional value (candy, cake, cupcakes)

1. We strongly recommend that special events be celebrated with either nutritious "snacks" or non-edible remembrances such as: School supplies; pencils; stickers; note pads; donation of a book in your child’s name for his/her classroom or school library; a parent or family member reading to his/her class in honor of the event; donation of a game or activity to his/her classroom for use during outdoor recess.
2. Any food or drinks brought in to school for instructional purposes or celebrations will be authorized at least 2 days in advance by both classroom teacher and school nurse. This will ensure that students with food allergies (e.g., soy, red dye, milk, wheat, egg, yeast, chocolate, cheese, etc.) will be met.  Peanut/tree nut products or items processed in facilities that process peanuts will not be allowed.
3. If food is brought into the classroom, parents and staff are asked to supply edible items that are commercially prepared, individually wrapped or prepared by a licenses food vendor. Pre-packaged foods should list all ingredients on the labels.  No food or drinks will be permitted without prior authorization.
4. "Treat" food will be avoided in classroom celebrations. Nutritious "snacks" as alternatives to non-nutritious "treats" are encouraged in school and at home. In addition, non-edible items help children to remember the special event long after they have eaten the last bite of a snack.

#1 Students will understand concepts related to health promotion as a foundation for a healthy life.

#2 Students will demonstrate the ability to practice health-enhancing behaviors and reduce health risks.

#3 Students will advocate for personal, family and community health.