AUSTIN, Texas — The Lake Travis football player who has a life-threatening peanut allergy has transferred schools after having his gear stuffed with peanuts.
The mother of offensive lineman Carter Mannon told KVUE’s news partners at the Austin America-Statesman that the move to Vandegrift was made for safety reasons and will be a big step in the healing process.
"We feel like a fresh start for our family is going to be a big step in healing from this situation," Shawna Mannon told The Statesman. "We have three kids, so we are considering how this has impacted the girls as well. Carter has been welcomed by his new school with open arms. It has been a refreshing transition so far."
In October, Lake Travis ISD leaders said that high football players stuffed peanuts into a teammate’s locker knowing he has a life-threatening allergy. But the players responsible received minimal punishments.
The mother has been calling for stricter rules and policy changes ever since. At the last Lake Travis ISD school board meeting, district leaders looked at updating the food allergy policy to train all staff about allergic reactions once a semester instead of once a year. But questions remained about its enforcement.
"What happens when plan is not followed or adhered to? What are the possible repercussions of someone not following the plan purposely not following the plan?" Lake Travis ISD trustee Phillip Davis asked.
There was no immediate answer to that question. Some board members also said they would like to see all staff trained in how to use EpiPens to help treat an allergic reaction fast.
Members will approve policy changes at a future meeting.