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Florida Schools mandate allergy Emergency Preparedness for All Staff
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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida schools are now required to be prepared for allergic emergencies, encompassing regular school hours and also before and after-class programs.
A new state law mandates that all K-8 public schools train their staff to recognise the signs of an allergic reaction and administer an EpiPen if necessary.This training requirement extends to staff involved in extended day and after-school programs, which previously lacked such mandates.
Sherry Isler, a parent of a third-grader with severe food allergies, described the law as a significant advancement.
“I had to change my work schedule because my son was kicked out of the before-and-after program on campus,” she stated,explaining that staff were not equipped to handle emergencies.
According to the Florida Department of Health, approximately 76,000 students statewide live with food allergies, some of which can be life-threatening.
Senator Carlos Guillermo Smith, (D), Orlando, sponsored the legislation, noting that training had been voluntary in the past.
“We certainly know there are several triggering allergens,whether in students’ food or something they touch. This training can prevent tragedies,” Smith said.
Isler expressed that the new law provides her with peace of mind and enables her child to participate more fully in school activities.
“Now the kids will be able to participate safely in all these programs, which helps with their self-esteem and inclusion,” she commented.
While the law currently applies only to grades K through 8, Smith indicated plans to advocate for the inclusion of high schools in the future. The complexity of older students’ schedules and activities presented implementation challenges this year.
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Evergreen Insights
Food allergies in children are a growing public health concern.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that food allergies affect millions of children in the united States. Anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction, can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention, frequently enough involving an epinephrine auto-injector like an EpiPen. Schools play a critical role in ensuring the safety of students with allergies by implementing comprehensive policies, providing staff training, and creating allergy-aware environments. This florida law reflects a broader trend towards strengthening school safety protocols for students with severe allergies.
Frequently asked Questions
- What is the new Florida law regarding allergic emergencies in schools?
- The new Florida law requires all K-8 public schools to train staff to recognize allergic reactions and administer EpiPens, including staff in before and after-school programs.
- Which Florida schools are affected by this new allergy preparedness law?
- All K-8 public schools in Florida are affected by this new allergy preparedness law.
- Who is responsible for sponsoring the new Florida law on school allergy preparedness?
- Senator Carlos guillermo Smith, (D), Orlando, sponsored the new Florida law on school allergy preparedness.
- What specific training is mandated for school staff under the new Florida law?
- The mandated training covers recognizing the signs of an allergic reaction and administering an EpiPen if needed.
- Does the new Florida law apply to high school students?
- No, the law currently applies only to grades K through 8, but there are plans to push for high school inclusion in the future.
- How many students in Florida are estimated to have food allergies?
- Approximately 76,000 students statewide are estimated to live with food allergies.
