Hallowe’en is just around the corner and many schools throughout School District No. 83 (North Okanagan-Shuswap) will be hosting activities, costume parades and extra-curricular events for students to enjoy!
While the District does not have an official policy regarding Hallowe’en costumes, we ask that costumes that are worn do not promote sexism, racism, or appropriating culture.
Here are some guidelines to consider when selecting costumes that will be worn at school:
Students need to be identifiable and visible to ensure safety. Face paint is welcome; full face masks should be left at home or only worn during the costume parade.
Costumes that are sexual in nature or employ questionable props are not appropriate for a school setting.
Costumes that depict violence, drugs, or alcohol are not appropriate. Fake weapons should be left at home and saved for Hallowe’en night.
Costumes that could be offensive or perpetuate a stereotype of someone’s culture, gender, heritage, or religion are not permitted. A resource to help better clarify this concern is the #IAmNotACostume Campaign which can be found at: http://www.lspirg.org/costumes.
If there is a chance your child will get uncomfortable in their costume during the day, you may wish to have them bring a change of clothes to put on later in the day.
