The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP) require that schools make substitutions to the regular meal for students who are unable to eat the meal because of their disabilities. This need must be certified by a licensed physician.

Substitutions are required for students that have:

• A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities including eating

• Food allergies that may result in severe, life- threatening (anaphylactic) reactions

These conditions meet the definition of “disability” and substitutions prescribed by the licensed physician must be made.

Substitutions for Students without a Disability

Menu substitutions or modifications are only made for medically-documented needs.

Food Allergies or Intolerances

Children with food allergies or intolerances that are not defined as life-threatening (anaphylactic) reactions are not considered to have a disability. It is not required that food substitutions for non-life threatening allergies or intolerances be accommodated.

However, the MISD Child Nutrition Department is happy to work with families on a case-by-case basis to accommodate these needs. Medical documentation is required before any menu substitutions or modifications will be considered.

Religious or Personal Preferences

Menu substitutions or modifications will not be made for personal requests, including religious or personal preferences. Nutrition information is available at School Dish to help students plan their meals in a way that fits their preferences.

A note can be added to your student’s account as a reminder to the cafeteria staff. However, it is the student’s responsibility to choose foods that fit their dietary needs and preferences.

If you would like a note added to your student’s account regarding specific eating preferences (i.e. vegetarian, no pork) please contact dietitian@mckinneyisd.net.

Make a Diet Modification Request

Child Nutrition must receive a signed Food Allergy/Disability Substitution Request form, signed by the student’s treating physician before any menu substitutions or modifications will be considered. A signed statement by the student’s treating physician is also acceptable but may require more time to process if insufficient information is provided.

A new form is not required each year. However, any changes to a student’s health needs must be updated and include a signed statement from the student’s treating physician.

All Food Allergy/Disability Request Forms can be sent directly to dietitian@mckinneyisd.net and can be sent by either the school nurse or the student’s parent or guardian. Please allow at least one week’s time for processing the form, ensuring any needed food product is ordered and received, and staff has been trained on the accommodation. If there are any clarifications or questions, call the school nutrition Dietitian at 469-302-6377. Please click the link below to download the food allergy & disability request form:

• Food Allergy Disability Substitution Request Form