USDA regulations 7 CFR Part 15b require substitutions or modifications in school meals for children whose disabilities restrict their diets. A child with a disability must be provided substitutions in foods when that need is supported by a statement signed by a licensed physician. The physician’s statement must identify:

• the child’s disability
• an explanation of why the disability restricts the child’s diet
• the major life activity affected by the disability
• the food or foods to be omitted from the child’s diet
• and the food or choice of foods that must be substituted

The Child Nutrition Department will provide meal modifications for students with a disability supported by a Medical Statement for Meal Modification form (links below). Special diet requests may take up to 3 weeks to process. Please plan to provide a meal for your child (until you receive verification that your child's special diet request has been reviewed and the appropriate Child Nutrition team members have been trained on safe procedures for serving your student. If you have questions regarding special diets, please contact Miranda Martin at (602) 257-3742.