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 substitutions for students with a disability in support of a diet order form (links below). For students with special dietary needs not deemed a disability will be determined by the Child Nutrition Department if the accommodations can be made. Special diet requests can take 3-4 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 accommodations can be made. If you have questions regarding special diets, please contact the Nutritionist at (602) 257-3759.