Schools
Birthday Treats Banned Due To Allergies, Food Sanitation At PA School District
Students were once able to bring food to share. The district said it updated the policy because of allergies, and ensuring food sanitation.
BUTLER, PA — A new Butler Area School District policy stops students from bringing food treats to class for their birthday. The district passed the new policy, leaders said, because of severe allergies and sanitation policies.
The district suggested students can bring in a craft or souvenir to share with the class on their birthday instead.
The policy reads, in full:
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"On their birthdays, children often want to share a treat with their classmates. Due to severe life threatening allergies and ensuring food sanitation, food treats/beverages are not permitted. If parents/guardians would like to send in a nonedible item (pencil, eraser, stickers, etc.), please contact your child’s teacher."
The school board passed this new policy on Monday after some teachers brought up concerns about allergies, the Butler Eagle reported.
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The district was considering another policy that would have asked parents to pay for allergen-free treats beginning at $1 per student, according to Butler Radio.
Other districts around the country have similar policies in place.
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