Schools
Montclair Superintendent Says No Clown Costumes At School For Halloween
Montclair's school superintendent says local parents should warn their kids about being a "copycat" in the wake of recent N.J. clown scares.
MONTCLAIR, NJ — Don’t send in the clowns, Montclair.
On Thursday, Montclair Superintendent Ronald Bolandi issued a statement about the increasing reports of “creepy clown” sightings and scares in the area – many of which have been since exposed as hoaxes and some of which have resulted in criminal charges being filed.
“Principals have been receiving phone calls regarding clowns and our procedures,” Bolandi wrote. “Please note we are being diligent and proactive working with the Montclair Police Department to ensure security throughout our buildings and grounds.”
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- See related article: N.J. Cops Urge Against Clown Halloween Costumes After Threats
- See related article: More Creepy Clown Sightings In NJ, And They're Getting Creepier
Bolandi asked local parents to talk to their children about the dangers of “copycat” behavior.
“Any threatening email or post on social media will be investigated by the police, and the person responsible risks legal consequences, regardless if the intent was harmless, a hoax or copycat in nature,” Bolandi emphasized.
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The superintendent added:
“With Halloween just a few weeks away, I am asking for your cooperation in not allowing your children to dress up as clowns at any school event due to the possible disruption and fear it may cause. If anyone shows up with a clown related costume, they will be asked to change or sent home. You can be assured that your children’s safety is our utmost priority. Don’t hesitate to report any suspicious behaviors and if you see anything or hear anything, notify the Montclair Police immediately.”
The New Jersey sightings have been part of a nationwide pattern of recent mysterious clown appearances also reported in South Carolina, Pennsylvania, Maryland and elsewhere. Some reports have led to arrests, including a situation in South Jersey in which a student made clown-related threats against classmates.
- See related article: West Orange Schools, Police Investigate ‘Bobby The Clown’ Instagram Post
Photo: Flickr Commons, Michael Newton
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