Of the over 4500 students in the Cheney School District, approximately 200 have potentially life-threatening health conditions including diabetes, asthma and allergies to beestings, nuts and milk products. As a result, our nutrition services department has been vigilant to ensure that our school breakfast and lunch menus are free of foods that might cause harmful reactions for these students.

There is a culture in most schools, however, that encourages birthday, 100th day of school, Halloween, Valentine’s Day, and St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Traditionally, these celebrations have been accompanied by treats provided by well-intentioned families. With the above health issues so numerous in our district, we must be careful to determine that foods are safe for all students. The following clarifies the procedures that must be followed when food and beverages are brought on campus for group consumption:

1. All food and/or beverages intended for group consumption during the school day will be screened by school personnel in the school office before distribution in the classroom.
2. Food designated for group consumption by students during the school day shall be free of nuts, nut products, and shall not be manufactured in a plant that processes nuts.
3. All food brought into the school for group consumption by students during the school day will be commercially prepared and clearly labeled with ingredients.

Please be assured we are not against celebrations. We simply need to ensure our students remain safe at school. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.