Peanut allergy affects approximately 1.5 million people in the United States. As the most common cause of life-threatening allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), peanut allergies account for 80 percent of fatal or near-fatal allergic reactions each year. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America estimates that the majority of pediatric and adult food allergy patients have a peanut allergy.
As incidents of peanut allergy have grown it has become increasingly important that schools have policies in place on the issue. Obviously a person's life is of paramount concern, however choices also need to be offered to replace the old standby of peanut butter and jelly.
Resurrection began a phased plan in the 2004 school year. Starting November 1, 2004 we began offering Boar's Head Bologna or oven gold turkey breast sandwiches daily, as well as jelly or cold cheese sandwiches. On March 1, 2005, the Resurrection Cafeterias stopped serving peanut butter and foods containing peanut products.
As part of this policy, specifically for students who bring food from home, we are expecting all parents to closely monitor the lunch products that they are sending their child to school with each day. In addition, we are personally requesting that no student bring peanut butter or any peanut products as part of their lunch or snack. Likewise, anything brought for a classroom function (birthday, holiday party, etc) should be peanut free.
We appreciate the assistance of the Resurrection School community for helping provide a safe environment for all our students.