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Special Dietary Needs

Fruits and vegetables

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Amendments Act of 2008 clarifies the term “disability” under the ADA, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 states anything that substantially limits a major life activity (most physical and mental impairments) constitutes a disability. This includes conditions that impair immune, digestive, neurological, and bowel functions, and many others. The purpose of this memorandum is to ensure that all schools are appropriately trained and have assigned duties to designated staff when responding to a student who is suspected of having special dietary needs.

 

1.  Notify the school
 
2.  The school will provide 3 forms to the family (also downloadable -->)
- FORM A: Authorization for Use or Disclosure of Protected Health Information (Provider)
- FORM B: Authorization for Use of Disclosure of Protected Health Information (HIDOE)
- FORM D: Accommodating Children with Special Dietary Needs in School Nutrition Programs (Attachment J)
 
3.  A Public Health Nurse will contact the family to process FORMS A and B

 

4.  The family will work with their medical doctor on FORM D and turn it in to the school when complete. 

 

5.  The school will email the form to the School Food Services Branch.

 

6.  A Student Focused Team will meet to discuss FORMS A, B, D

  • Team Composition: Parents, Public Health Nurse, Administrator, Student Services Coordinator, Care Coordinator, Teacher  

 

7.  If applicable, an Eligibility Conference will occur to determine eligibility under section 504

  • Team Composition: Parents, Public Health Nurse, Administrator, Student Services Coordinator, Care Coordinator, Teacher
  • The team will also consider if an Emergency Action Plan is needed