Carter Mannon, a 16-year-old high school student, faces not only the challenges of adolescence but also the serious threat of a severe peanut allergy.
Despite disclosing this potentially life-threatening condition to his Varsity football teammates at Lake Travis High School in Texas, Carter experienced a distressing incident that has now sparked controversy and concerns about the school district's response.
The Peanut Episode: Allergy Disclosure Leads to Hazards
In October, prior to a Varsity game, Carter discovered his locker filled with peanuts, including the inside of his jersey.
Despite informing his teammates about the life-threatening nature of his allergy, the distressing incident unfolded, causing Carter to break out in hives.
The severity of his allergy meant that even the slightest exposure to peanut dust or oils could lead to a critical reaction.
Mother's Frustration: Minimal Consequences Ignite Outrage
Shawna Mannon, Carter's mother, expressed her frustration with the school district's handling of the situation.
Not only did the incident put Carter's life at risk, but Shawna argues that the subsequent consequences for the responsible boys were insufficient.
Despite being benched for two games, Shawna contends that more substantial measures should have been taken to address the gravity of the situation.
A Mother's Perspective: The Brotherhood of Football Betrayed
Shawna Mannon, who discovered Carter's severe allergies when he was just nine months old, emphasizes the betrayal felt when a teammate jeopardized her son's life.
The camaraderie expected in the brotherhood of football was shattered, leaving Shawna disappointed and furious.
She likened the act to loading a gun and putting it to her child's head, emphasizing the potentially fatal consequences of the allergic reaction.
Inadequate Response: Backlash and Retaliation Unaddressed
Shawna asserted that her son faced ongoing backlash and retaliation following the incident.
Instances like finding a peanut granola bar in Carter's coat pocket heightened concerns about the safety of her child.
Despite Shawna's pleas for more significant action, the boys responsible faced minimal consequences, leading her to question the effectiveness of the school district's disciplinary measures.
District's Response: A Controversial Decision Sparks Further Action
The school district's response came under scrutiny when it was revealed that a bullying investigation was initiated only after Shawna addressed the school board.
However, school officials ultimately determined that the incident did not qualify as bullying under the Texas Education Code, as the legal elements were not met.
This decision prompted Shawna to file a complaint with the U.
S.
Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights and initiate a grievance with Lake Travis ISD.
Conclusion: Advocating for Accountability and Policy Adherence
As Shawna Mannon continues her fight for justice, she contends that the school district neglected its policies by allowing the athletic department to dictate disciplinary measures.
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the responsibility of educational institutions in ensuring the safety and well-being of students with severe allergies, prompting a reevaluation of existing policies and practices.
