A Port Colborne elementary school is getting mixed reaction from parents about a decision to eliminate costumes on Halloween, opting instead for orange-and-black coloured clothing.

The decision at McKay Public School, which means there are no super heroes, wizards, princesses or scary creatures allowed, is meant to achieve a more inclusive “Spirit Day,” according to a message from principal Rhonda Grenier in the school’s newsletter.

Brett Sweeney, spokesman for the District School Board of Niagara, said the principal found that not all students liked dressing up at school, and that some didn’t come with a costume, perhaps for economic reasons.

“We heard that some students were feeling left out of these events, so the principal wanted to create a more inclusive atmosphere,” Sweeney told the Toronto Star.

The principal had many one-on-one conversations with parents before making the decision, according to Sweeney.

Some parents have expressed disappointment and say they will organize a costume parade outside of school and will encourage parents to take their children out of school early to participate. Others are supportive of the school’s new direction.

“The principal also heard from parents who heard this is not a huge deal,” Sweeney said. “For them the biggest part is taking their kids after school and going door to door for trick or treating.”

McKay is a French immersion school that has 480 students between kindergarten and Grade 8. Some students come from Fort Erie and other locations outside Port Colborne.

There is no board-wide policy on dressing up at school for Halloween.

“The principal makes the best decision for their school,” said Sweeney.

McKay will still offer Halloween-themed educational activities including mask making and story readings.

Loading... Loading... Loading... Loading... Loading... Loading...

Read more about: