NUT AWARE POLICY

At Christ Lutheran Ministry Center, the safety and well-being of every student is our top priority. Because nut allergies can cause severe and potentially life-threatening reactions, we are a nut-aware school community.

Purpose

This policy is intended to reduce the risk of accidental exposure to peanuts and tree nuts, while fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all students.

Expectations for School Families & Students during school days

  • Do not send foods containing peanuts, tree nuts, or items produced in a facility that handles nuts (including peanut butter, Nutella, mixed nuts, or foods with nuts as ingredients) in lunches, snacks, or classroom treats.

  • Check ingredient labels carefully before sending food to school. Many granola bars, baked goods, and candies may contain hidden nut ingredients or traces of nuts.

  • Homemade items should be avoided for classroom sharing.

  • Hand washing before and after eating is encouraged to minimize allergen transfer.

Expectations for Staff

  • Staff will monitor food brought into the classroom and fellowship hall during school days and remind students of allergy-aware practices.

  • Staff will post signage at their own office/classroom as needed indicating allergies within the classroom and notify anyone entering the room that food containing certain ingredients should NOT be brought in.

  • Special events involving food will be reviewed in advance to ensure safety for all students.

  • Staff will be trained annually on recognizing allergic reactions and on the use of emergency medication (such as epinephrine).Staff will also keep all students educated on the policies and risks of all allergies within their classrooms as needed.

Fellowship Hall Guidelines

The fellowship hall is used daily by students for meals and regularly for church and community events.

  • During school days, all food in the fellowship hall should be nut-free, including items produced in a facility that handles nuts.

  • When refreshments are served during times outside of the normal school day, items containing nuts are allowed but should be clearly marked.

  • Any refreshments containing nuts that are not consumed during an after-school event must be taken out of the building after the event. Food containing nuts is not to be stored in the fellowship hall or the serving/kitchen area.

  • Tables and serving areas must be wiped thoroughly after each use to reduce the risk of cross-contact.

  • Signage will be posted in the fellowship hall reminding all groups that this is a nut-aware space with basic guidelines as needed.

Emergency Procedures

  • Emergency action plans will be on file for students with allergies.

  • Staff will act immediately if a student shows signs of an allergic reaction, following the child’s medical plan and contacting emergency services as needed.

Community Commitment

This policy relies on the cooperation of our entire school and church community. By working together, we can protect students with allergies and ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all.

[ Effective 11/18/2025 ]