​Dear Families,

While our school district does not have an official policy on Halloween costumes, we must always be guided by our district Respectful Schools and Workplaces Policy as well as any additional guidelines set by your school.

The following two essential guidelines should be considered when selecting costumes that will be worn at school:

• Be kind and consider the school community: costumes that could be offensive or perpetuate the stereotype of someone's gender identity, culture, race, religion, age, or disability must not be worn.
• Be thoughtful and safe: costumes that depict violence, alcohol, or drugs are not appropriate. Similarly, replica weapons (e.g. gun, knives, etc.) must not be brought to school. Good visibility is also a consideration.

Lastly, the BC Centre for Disease Control (BC CDC) has published a number of helpful tips for safe Halloween celebrations. Visit the BC CDC website to learn more about trick-or-treating safely and getting creative about handing out treats.

Thank you for helping us keep our school communities healthy, safe, caring, and socially responsible!

Angus Wilson, Superintendent of Schools