As we approach Halloween we anticipate the joy of those who will wish to celebrate this time with great joy, and also those who would offer caution and consideration. It is important to note that we must discourage cultural misappropriation in costumes, and the appropriateness of costumes to be worn in our school.
Some suggestions to bring to your attention include:
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- Culture is NOT Costume: Refrain from using costumes that represent a cultural group or ethnicity.
- Masks are Discouraged (Except for PPE): Wearing masks during the school day can compromise the safety of the community. We should always be identifiable in our community so we can avoid having unwelcome guests.
- Awareness of Costume Appropriateness is Important: Costumes that are not appropriate to the moral tone of our school is discouraged.
- Awareness of Fear and Evil: Be aware that Ghoulish costumes can terrify younger students, students with special needs, or students with phobias.
- We Must Be Trauma-Sensitive: There may be members of our community who have traumas that can be triggered by certain costumes.
- When in Doubt, Think Saint: Hallowe’en precedes All Soul’s and All Saint’s Days. Encourage students to dress as saints and religious figures.
- If you prefer not to dress up in a costume, feel free to dress in orange and/or black.
- No distribution of food items or other treats at school.
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SJRH is pleased to resume a Halloween Dance Party for students in Kindergarten to Grade 8. This year’s Halloween Dance Party will take place on Monday, October 31st. Although parents/guardians with children in grades K- 3 are invited to attend, we would like to remind all visitors that photos of children other than your own are not permitted. Thank you for adhering to this expectation.
As always, we thank you for your understanding and consideration. Have a wonderful spooky few days.
Your friends at SJRH
