Halloween didn't happen at a Hamilton elementary school this year, a decision that has left many parents and students at St. Therese of Liseux in a ghoulish mood.
“All of the kids are upset,” says mom of twins, Lynda Fraser.
The principal of the school sent home a letter about a month ago advising that “Halloween, as we traditionally know it, would be cancelled this year at our elementary school.”
Students in Grade 6 class were so devastated by the news, they started a petition in the hopes that principal Linda Chittick would change her mind.
“But [Chittwick] isn’t listening to the kids and that’s really sad,” added Fraser.
A week ago, a reminder was sent home, reminding parents of the 'no costume' ban, although kids were permitted to wear "black and orange all day".
I must admit, I was also somewhat taken aback to realize my son's preschool wasn't doing any Halloween themed activities, not even a pumpkin craft. I get that candy shouldn't enter the school premises, but is it fair to rain on the kids' parade? Or should Halloween festivities be saved for evening?
Chittick reasoned that dressing up detracts from “instructional time in the classroom” and creates “safety and security” concerns as parents may take photographs of children without permission.
Fraser claims that in just two years as school principal Chittick has already cancelled three things -- Halloween, talent show and an air band contest.
“The kids are frustrated and they’re wondering what they’ll lose next,” says Fraser, who claims Halloween and other holidays breaks up the "monotony of the school year and gives children something to look forward to".
All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. Indeed, childhood is short enough without school officials curtailing some of its frivolous highlights. What do you think?
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