Gladwyne Montessori School is a “Nut Restricted School”. We ask that students refrain from bringing peanut butter, peanuts or tree nuts of any kind into the school, as well as foods marked “may contain nuts”. To further reduce risk to students who suffer from allergies to these items, and as part of general safety practice, no food is to be eaten by children while riding the bus to and from school. In addition, we expect that the parents/guardians of children with allergies will teach them early, to follow good habits, such as hand washing and never sharing food, in order to keep themselves safe.

The “Nut Restriction Policy” was adopted by the school, as part of its ongoing mission to make this a safe and healthy place for all who learn and work here. However, parents and guardians are cautioned that while we have taken these measures to minimize the risk to adults and children who suffer from the threat of an anaphylactic reaction to these products, it is virtually impossible to guarantee a “nut free” school or classroom.

Traces of nut products can be hidden in an assortment of foods. Furthermore, cross contamination can occur in a variety of ways. For example, a smear of peanut oil left on a desk, chair or door knob by a child who eats a peanut butter sandwich before school, may be enough to cause a severe allergic or life threatening reaction in a person with nut allergies, who unknowingly comes in contact with it. In some instance, even the trace of nuts on a person’s breath can be enough to provoke such an anaphylactic reaction.

While the school believes that the restrictions outlined above are an important step in creating a safer environment for all, it is incumbent upon the community to help. Please remember to read all food labels carefully. A list of ingredients to avoid has been attached for your convenience. For additional information, please call Robyn Stearne at ext. 101.