Clown Costumes Not Allowed In Scotch Plains-Fanwood Middle Schools

SCOTCH PLAINS-FANWOOD, NJ — Clown costumes will be allowed at the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Middle School his year due to numerous "creepy clown" sightings in and around Union County.

"Our middle schools have asked that students not wear clown costumes this year because some students have shared with teachers, counselors, and administrators that they have found the recent reports about clown sightings disturbing," Margaret W. Hayes, Superintendent of Scotch Plains-Fanwood Public Schools told Patch. "We want Halloween festivities to be enjoyable and fun for all students."

"Creepy clown" sightings have been reported across New Jersey including Clark, Bound Brook, Roselle Park, North Plainfield, Phillipsburg, Pohatcong, Deptford, East Hanover, Glassboro, Clearview, Kingsway, West Deptford, Vineland and Toms River.

A juvenile was also arrested for posting about 'Creepy Clown' sightings in Roselle Park and Clark Police were investigating a 'Creepy Clown' Instagram Page.

Terrill Middle School and Park Middle School have provided the following guidance for students in planning their costumes:

1. Costumes must not be offensive to any person or group of people
2. Masks are not permitted
3. Students should not have any paraphernalia that resembles a weapon
4. In light of recent news regarding clown sightings, clown costumes are not permitted.

"Generally, any costumes that pose a threat to safety, violate the dress code or do not cover the body in an appropriate way are not permitted," Hayes said.

Clark also has banned clown costumes in the borough this Halloween as well.

As for elementary schools, they are providing guidelines on Halloween costumes for students in Pre-K through grade four similar to what has been provided in the past.

If students or their parents have any questions regarding their costume, they are encouraged to check with their principal.

(Image via Flickr Shawn Campbell)

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