Life-Threatening Food Allergies

Life‑Threatening Food Allergies: Information for Families

At Darien Public Schools (DPS), the health and safety of our students is our highest priority. We are committed to the prevention and careful management of life‑threatening food allergies (LTFA) and work in close partnership with families, health care providers, school nurses, DPS staff, and Dining Services to ensure every student learns in a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment. Below, please find all the information you might need to help us support your child.

My Child Has a Life‑Threatening Food Allergy. What Do I Need to Do?
DPS follows a clear, step‑by‑step process to ensure students with life‑threatening food allergies are safely supported at school.

Step 1. Notify the School Nurse. Please inform the school nurse at your child’s school of your child’s food allergy. For returning students, notification is only required if there has been a change in allergy status.

Step 2. Submit Required Forms and Medications. At the start of each school year, or sooner if indicated, families must submit: Emergency Care Plan for Food Allergy. Medication Authorization Form(s) and All prescribed rescue medications (as listed on the emergency care plan)
NOTE: Before leaving your medical provider’s office, please carefully review forms to ensure that allergens are listed correctly, rescue medications and dosages are accurate and match pharmacy labels, required signatures are completed (healthcare provider and parent/guardian), AND medication orders are dated and cover the school year. All medication must be picked up at the end of the school year.

Step 3. Review and sign your child’s Individualized Health Care Plan (IHCP). Once the required documentation and medications are received, the school nurse will provide parents/guardians with an Individualized Health Care Plan (IHCP) to review and sign. The IHCP outlines the steps the school will take to manage your child’s allergy and support a safe learning environment. Families are asked to review, sign, and return the IHCP.

Step 4. Attend or opt out of your child’s annual Section 504 Meeting. Families receive written notice each school year regarding the annual review. Parents/guardians are invited to participate in the meeting; attendance is encouraged but not required. Following the annual review, the updated 504, along with the IHCP, is uploaded to CT‑SEDS for family review.