Navigating School Lunch

Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, School districts are required under federal law to provide allergen free foods at no extra charge to children whose disability restricts their diet as defined in the USDA’s nondiscrimination regulations. The child’s dietary needs must be clearly written into the IEP (Individual Education Plan) and include a statement signed by a licensed physician. Click on the links below for more information.

The USDA Food and Nutrition Service’s guide for accommodating children with special dietary needs in the school and nutrition programs.
http://www.fns.usda.gov/cnd/guidance/special_dietary_needs.pdf

TACA’s guide to requesting casein and gluten free foods in school lunch, including a link to a sample physician’s statement.
http://gfcf-diet.talkaboutcuringautism.org/gfcf-school-provided.htm

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act – Non discrimination Under Federal Grants and Programs
http://www.section508.gov/index.cfm?FuseAction=Content&ID=15