As part of our commitment to meeting the dietary needs of all students, our school works closely with families and healthcare providers to provide appropriate meal modifications for those with medical or special dietary needs. For certain accommodations, such as those involving food allergies, intolerances, or specific medical conditions like diabetes or celiac disease, we require a physician’s letter to be submitted to the school cafeteria. This documentation helps our staff ensure that all meal modifications are both safe and in line with medical guidance.
When is a Physician’s Letter Needed?
A physician’s letter is required when a student’s dietary needs extend beyond general menu offerings, particularly for medically-necessary accommodations. This includes situations where specific allergens must be avoided, where meals must adhere to a strict diet due to a medical condition, or where dietary needs require special handling procedures in meal preparation. The physician’s letter allows our team to understand the exact dietary requirements, including any foods to avoid, permissible substitutions, and meal preparation guidelines.
How to Provide the Physician’s Letter
To make this process easy for families, we accept letters from licensed physicians, pediatricians, or dietitians detailing the dietary needs of the student. The letter should include the student’s full name, the specific medical condition or dietary need, and any clear instructions for food restrictions, acceptable substitutions, and necessary accommodations. Once the letter is complete, parents or guardians can submit it directly to the school cafeteria manager or the district’s nutrition services office.
We recommend submitting this documentation as early as possible, ideally before the start of the school year or immediately following any diagnosis. This helps ensure our cafeteria staff has time to review the requirements, make necessary menu adjustments, and train staff to meet your child’s needs. Families are also encouraged to meet with the cafeteria team to discuss the letter and address any questions or concerns.
Our goal is to ensure every student has a positive, safe, and supportive dining experience. By providing a physician’s letter when required, families help our school create a tailored meal program that supports student health and well-being. For further questions or assistance, please contact our nutrition services department directly—we’re here to help every step of the way!
