Mitchell Elementary Calls Off Halloween Party

NEEDHAM, MA — Don't expect much trick or treating at Mitchell Elementary School this year. In fact, don't expect many Halloween activities at all.

In a letter sent to parents, Principal Gregory Bayse announced that the school's annual Halloween events have been canceled.

"After much discussion, the faculty is near-unanimous in believing that we should no longer host Halloween events in school. Many of us attended elementary schools at a time when schools still hosted Christmas concerts and plays. These were important and longstanding traditions. Of course, there were always students whose families did not celebrate Christmas, but schools and society were less aware of the impact on students who were not included in these activities. One of the key activities in the School Improvement Plan is to actively create, maintain, and build upon an environment in which students diverse backgrounds, identities, and strengths, and challenges are acknowledged and respected," the letter, in part, read.

Past parties at the school have included a parade of costumed students and classroom parties. One Needham parent, Jon Cohan, told WBZ that it's simply a fun event that is more cultural than religious. Another parent, Matthew Roy, said the event wasn't related to learning and kids who want to celebrate can do it on their own.

Instead of Halloween, the school will celebrate the school pride and the fall season at first annual William Mitchell Day on Nov. 9.

Image: File Photo