MORRISTOWN -- An elementary school in Morristown has canceled its annual Halloween parade due to the large number of children who don't celebrate the holiday, the principal announced.

Principal Cristina Frazzano said in a letter to parents students at Thomas Jefferson Elementary School will instead work together to escape their classrooms by solving puzzles for an activity known as "The Classroom Escape."

After students solve puzzles and escape their classrooms, they'll meet up in the gymnasium for a school-wide Bingo game.

Frazzano said this new activity would allow students who typically wouldn't be able to walk in the parade because they don't dress up to participate in the event.

"This more inclusive activity will foster team building, critical thinking, and fun," Frazzano said.

Students can still wear costumes to school on Halloween, and those who don't are encouraged to wear school colors.

A call placed to Frazzano Wednesday hasn't yet been returned.

For the past two years, an elementary school in Maplewood has banned Halloween costumes and any celebrations, citing its diverse student population.

Justin Zaremba may be reached at jzaremba@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JustinZarembaNJ. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

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