New nut-allergy policy adopted by public schools

Dec 22, 2016

Food service director Robert Sheehan presented the School Committee with a new peanut/tree-nut allergy policy that has already been implemented in the Minot Forest and John W. Decas elementary schools.

Under the policy, tables at the elementary schools have been designated as "peanut and tree-nut free."

"We have tables at the elementary schools," said Sheehan. "The emphasis is really on the elementary schools. Those kids don't understand or know how severe allergies can be."

The policy will eventually be carried over to the middle school and high school.

"We're not looking to isolate students," said Sheehan. "It's basically upon the parent to inform us how they would like us to handle the situation."

A draft of the policy was presented to the committee on Dec. 22, but was turned away since the policy has not been reviewed and approved by nurses.