What is an exceptable way to approach the school principle (for the 3rd time) to advocate for my son's severe peanut allergy? I don't feel the school prioritizes food allergies or even nutrition in general! Help! How can I encourage change?

Hi,
I am new to this board and don't know what has already been said to you. But, I am a teacher. :)

When you go in to speak with the principal, make sure you have as many facts as you can. Principals (from what I have experienced) are data driven. They have to do a bajillion reports based on data to send to the superintendent and the school board. So, if you go in speaking their language, you are more likely to be heard. I would also recommend a follow up appointment so that you could tell them all the changes that you see both good and bad. (Make sure to mention the good too!)

Trust me on this, you need to be vigilant, but you also do not want to earn the title of "that crazy parent." When you earn that title, you are not paid much attention too.

I hope this helps and by the way, I agree that at least in my state, the school lunch program is HORRIBLE regarding nutrition.

Leah

Leah74 had some really great advice for you and it's great to hear a point of view from a teacher.

I just went through what you are going through this last year enrolling my food allergic son in Kindergarten. It was a long and uphill battle, but we made it.

One suggestion I would make is that if you have not already-put all your requests in writing. It's hard to deny or ignore a paper trail and all too often school admin people will try to put you off.

If you've put requests in writing, put in your letters that you would like a response by a certain date or that you will need to move up the line of command. (If you feel comfortable with this tactic).

If you don't hear back take your issues to the superintendent or to the sped director as life threatening food allergies are considered a disability under law.

You may also want to talk to the nurse and find out what her stance is as your child will need a health care plan at minimum.

Following is a link to my site to a list of resources, blog posts, etc. regarding what I did. I hope it's helpful.

Best of luck and any other questions-feel free to ask!
Ruth

http://www.bestallergysites.com/category/allergy101/resources/