: Simon Family wrote:
: >
: > I just assumed I would be packing his snack/lunch.  This sounds
: > like they would try to provide a milk free alternative...I'm thrilled, but I
: > also realize I might be being over optomistic.  Whatever...they're taking
: > this seriously! Yes!
:
: Carmen,
: No offense, but don't count on it.  A classroom teacher is very
: different from the health nurse who is different yet from the food
: service staff.  You may get one to take you seriously, but I doubt all.
: I was a teacher and know all too well how most schools operate in
: confusion and denial in regards to allergies.
: --
: Kathy Wentz                   I'm not politically incorrect,
: [log in to unmask]           I'm euphemistically challenged.
:

I agree with Kathy - chances are this form is the same one I just filled out
for Alyssa's preschool.  It's really just a waiver from the state (or USDA?)
school lunch program, saying that they don't have to offer your kid milk.
There are required servings of various foods, in order for them to get their
subsidies.  Doesn't mean they will really offer alternatives.  The first time
Alyssa's allergies were officially recognized as a "special need"!

In our case, Alyssa's preschool does offer her alternatives, most days.  I
provide safe snacks and frozen foods, which they use 1-2 times a week for
lunch.  More often for breakfast (pancakes, waffles, muffins).  She's been
there since she was an infant, and they have learned along with me.  They
have the ingredients lists for all her allergies (dairy, egg, peanut).  Works
well, for now, but I'm not expecting much from Kindergarten!

Laurie and Alyssa