This Halloween will bring some changes for students in the Evanston-Skokie school district, located in the suburbs of Chicago. School officials recently announced the cancellation of traditional Halloween celebrations in classrooms. Their message to parents was clear: not everyone observes Halloween, and they aim to respect that diversity. They also highlighted that Halloween festivities often come with various inequalities that can unintentionally affect students, families, and staff negatively.
Once the news was shared, reactions from parents and community members ranged from supportive to outraged. After reading several opinions—including letters to the editor—my take is simple: everyone needs to take a step back. It’s not as if schools are banning your favorite seasonal treats or drinks from Starbucks, like the Pumpkin Spice Latte.
This decision isn’t isolated. Many schools across the country are reevaluating long-standing traditions to promote inclusivity and well-being for all students. And honestly, I’m all for it. You might want to consider this perspective, too.
In my own children’s school district, although we are maintaining Halloween classroom parties complete with costume parades, there’s a new rule: no food at any holiday parties, including birthday celebrations. The reason? The potential risk of allergy exposure is simply too high for vulnerable children. Plus, many families cannot afford to provide treats for an entire class.
As a parent of children with food allergies, I appreciate this new policy. While I’ve previously sent in alternative snacks, it’s a relief knowing there’s no longer a risk of cross-contamination. There are numerous ways to enjoy celebrations, like games, music, and crafts, without the worry of allergens.
Of course, some parents expressed their frustrations regarding the food policy in online forums. I responded by reminding them how fortunate they are not to have to carry around an expensive EpiPen, hoping their child wouldn’t come into contact with a dangerous allergen.
Our schools also issued guidelines for Halloween costumes: no weapons, no masks, no gore, and no offensive themes. (I won’t even start on that kid who wore a politically charged costume last year—why?). While I understand the reasoning behind these rules, I question why we continue to celebrate Halloween in schools at all.
Before you send me angry tweets, let me clarify: I adore holiday celebrations, especially Christmas. Our home is overflowing with decorations, from Black Santas to nativity scenes. We have themed shirts, watch holiday classics like Home Alone and Elf, bake cookies, and decorate not one, but three Christmas trees! I’m that parent who counts down to Christmas months in advance and blasts festive music as soon as Halloween is over.
However, just because I love celebrating at home doesn’t mean that my children’s schools must host holiday parties. I’m an adult—I can handle it. And so can my kids.
For those upset about the cancellation of school holiday parties, don’t despair. There are countless ways families can celebrate holidays, if they wish. You can visit a pumpkin patch, enjoy haunted houses, host bonfires, or simply stay in your pajamas with hot chocolate, reading Halloween stories and watching Hocus Pocus.
The reality is, holidays like Halloween, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and Thanksgiving don’t resonate with everyone. Why should schools dedicate hours of instructional time to these celebrations?
I was reminded of this when I overheard a patron at our local library discussing American holiday customs with the librarian. She mentioned how strange traditions like Thanksgiving appear to her. Her words struck me: what’s normal for some is not necessarily enjoyable for others, and that’s perfectly fine.
The financial strain that holidays can impose on struggling families is another reason I support schools moving away from certain celebrations. Growing up, I attended a school that went all out for Halloween, complete with costume parades and treats. I’ll never forget a classmate who couldn’t afford a costume and felt humiliated in a room full of dressed-up kids. She was often left out of celebrations, which only highlighted her family’s struggles.
Fast forward to high school, where a friend from a different background wasn’t allowed to celebrate holidays at all. Her family took her out of school during festivities to spare her the embarrassment of being different. These experiences remind us that whether a child feels excluded due to financial reasons, cultural beliefs, or personal preferences, no child should ever feel marginalized.
And let’s be honest—who wouldn’t prefer to avoid the headache of organizing snacks and activities for a room full of energetic kids? Wouldn’t you rather spend your days off with your family instead of managing a sugar-fueled classroom?
If you believe Halloween is the ultimate holiday, enjoy it! Stock up on candy, costumes, and decorations, and make the most of the season. But for those who aren’t fans of holiday festivities for any reason, that’s perfectly acceptable too.
In summary, while some schools are rethinking their holiday celebrations, it’s a positive step toward inclusivity. Parents can still create their own fun family traditions and enjoy the season in their own way.
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