Occasionally, a health concern arises in the school setting that requires enlisting the support of parents, guardians, and classmates to help make the classroom a safe and healthy place for all. School management of allergies is one of those areas.

Schools cannot guarantee an allergy free environment for all students, and in 2007 Princeton Public Schools adopted a “food allergy aware” approach based on recommendations from FARE-Food Allergy Research and Education and the CDC-Managing Food Allergies in Schools, that is reflected in the ISD 477 Policy 596. This does not ban foods from buildings but allows us to take measures to minimize the risk of an exposure through other accommodations. This includes classroom and cafeteria modification as well as education of students, families, and staff.

In order to meet all students’ safety needs and promote inclusivity, we are allowing all foods in classrooms and cafeterias, not specifically banning allergen types. We would strongly recommend however, that parents be mindful of what they are sending with their students and avoid allergen specific ones when possible. This includes classroom snacks and meals. 

Students with noted life threatening allergies, will have the option of utilizing allergy friendly seating arrangements if they choose whether in the classroom or cafeteria. Classroom settings will rely on strategic seat placement and there will continue to be an “Allergy Aware Table” located in the cafeterias of the Family Center, Primary and Intermediate Schools for students who have life threatening allergies and wish to utilize the option to separate themselves. Recommended cleaning protocols and hygiene practices will be enhanced in the classrooms and cafeteria during meal times. 

We ask that you let your child know a little about food allergies. Explain to your child the importance of not sharing food with any other child. Please also let them know that other than eating allergenic food, people with allergies can do everything anyone else can. There is a  pamphlet on the second page that you can go over with your child to help them understand what they can do to help their classmates with food allergies. 

Student safety will always be our top priority. We appreciate your support in making every effort possible to partner with us to ensure that your child's classroom environment is safe for all students.