Food Allergies

CCS Food Allergy Policy

Keeping our students safe is of paramount importance to Columbus City Schools. The Columbus Board of Education has adopted a policy [Policy 5161.3] for accommodating students with known food allergies that reduces the likelihood of students being exposed to food items that could cause an allergic reaction at school.

PLEASE NOTE: No food shall be distributed by means other than the school breakfast/snack/lunch/vending program without prior approval by the building principal or principal designee. Parents and staff are encouraged to provide non-food items such as pencils, erasers, stickers, games or bookmarks for classroom celebrations.

The prevalence of food allergies is on the rise in the U.S., now affecting 6 to 8 percent of all children and nearly 1 in 25 school-age children. For some people, an allergic reaction to a particular food may be uncomfortable but not severe. For others, an allergic food reaction can be frightening and even life-threatening. If your child has a diagnosed food allergy, please make your school aware or contact CCS Health, Family & Community Services Department at 614-365-5824.

Additional Resources About Food Allergies
FDA: Food Allergens
The Mayo Clinic: Food Allergies
Taking Food Allergies Back to School
The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network
Ohio Department of Education: Food Allergy Policy Requirements