In a suburban Chicago district, the Evanston-Skokie schools have decided to forgo the traditional Halloween festivities in classrooms. The school officials communicated to parents that this choice was made with respect for the diverse beliefs of families—recognizing that not everyone celebrates Halloween. Additionally, they highlighted the inequalities often tied to Halloween celebrations, which can inadvertently affect students and their families negatively.
Once the news circulated, responses from parents and community members were varied. After reading through some of the reactions, I believe it’s time to take a step back and relax. It’s not as if they’ve banned you from ordering pumpkin spice lattes or enjoying seasonal treats at your local café.
Evanston-Skokie isn’t isolated in this decision. Many schools across the nation are reevaluating long-held traditions to better serve the entire student body. And honestly, I’m all for it—maybe you should consider this perspective, too.
In my own kids’ public school district, while we still have Halloween classroom parties (costumes and all), there’s a new policy prohibiting food at any of the three holiday celebrations, including birthday treats. The risk of exposing students with allergies to harmful ingredients is simply too significant. Not every parent can afford to contribute special snacks for every birthday celebration, either.
Personally, I welcome this change. With three of my four children having food allergies, I find comfort in knowing that there’s no longer a risk of cross-contamination. There are plenty of fun, engaging activities that don’t involve potentially dangerous allergens—think games, music, and crafts.
Of course, some parents took to social media to voice their frustrations over the food policy. I couldn’t help but respond that they should consider themselves fortunate not to have to carry a hefty EpiPen every day, hoping their child wouldn’t accidentally encounter a food allergen.
Our schools have also established guidelines regarding Halloween costumes—no weapons, masks, or anything excessively gory. (I won’t even start on the student who wore that questionable political costume last year. Seriously?) While I understand the rationale behind these rules, I can’t help but wonder if we should be celebrating Halloween at school in 2019.
Now, before you unleash a flurry of angry tweets at me—let me clarify: I adore holiday celebrations, especially Christmas. My home is filled with decorations, from Black Santas to nativity scenes. We have themed shirts, watch holiday movies non-stop, bake cookies, wrap gifts, and even put up three Christmas trees. I’m that person who starts a countdown on social media two months before, blasting holiday music as soon as Halloween is behind us.
However, just because I revel in holiday cheer at home doesn’t mean my children’s school’s lack of classroom parties ruins the season for us. I’m an adult; I can cope. And my kids? They’re going to be just fine.
For parents upset about their child’s school cancelling holiday parties, don’t worry—there are still numerous ways to celebrate. You can check out a pumpkin patch, visit a local apple orchard, or enjoy hayrides and haunted houses. Alternatively, you could relax at home in your pajamas, sipping hot chocolate, reading Halloween stories, and watching classic films like Hocus Pocus.
Let’s face it: Halloween isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, nor are Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or Thanksgiving. So why do we dedicate hours of the school day to these celebrations?
I was reminded of this perspective during a recent visit to our local library. A woman ahead of me expressed to the librarian, “American holiday traditions are so peculiar to me. Just look at Thanksgiving.” I couldn’t catch all she said, but her comments resonated with me. What feels normal for one may not be enjoyable for another, and imposing these traditions isn’t fair.
In addition, the financial strain some holidays place on struggling families is a crucial reason I support schools eliminating specific celebrations. Growing up in a low-income neighborhood, I remember how our schools went all out for Halloween, with parades, cupcakes, and games.
I vividly recall a moment in fourth grade when a classmate named Lily was left out during costume preparations because her family couldn’t afford a costume. Watching her hide away, I approached her and, after a few moments, we managed to create a makeshift costume from the lost-and-found bin. That moment taught me the importance of inclusivity—no child should feel left out simply because a holiday doesn’t fit their situation.
Fast forward to high school, where my friend Anna, a Jehovah’s Witness, was unable to celebrate any holidays, including her own birthday. Her parents often took her out of school during these times to avoid any ridicule. These experiences, though from years ago, still resonate today. Whether due to finances, beliefs, or cultural differences, no child should feel excluded when it comes to holiday festivities.
And let’s not overlook the relief of avoiding the chaos of organizing holiday parties, managing snacks, and engaging a room full of hyper children for hours. Wouldn’t you prefer to spend your time off with family instead?
If you’re among those who believe Halloween is the ultimate holiday, that’s great! The ingredients for s’mores, candy corn, and costumes are available everywhere. Enjoy your themed family outings and trick-or-treating! But if the whole holiday scene doesn’t resonate with you—whatever the reason—that’s perfectly fine, too.
In summary, as schools choose to modify or eliminate holiday celebrations, there are still countless ways families can create their own traditions. From local festivities to cozy nights at home, the spirit of the season can thrive outside the classroom.