October 23rd, 2018

October 24, 2018

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

Halloween is coming up and this event is a good reminder for us to continue to promote safe, caring and inclusive school communities. Like many annual traditions, this day can be filled with excitement; however it is important for us to reflect on the inclusivity of activities and celebrations. October 31 is a school day like any other, so you can send your children to school without too much disruption.  While some children may choose to wear costumes to school, there is no expectation for you to dress your children in costumes.

Wednesday, October 31, 2018 will be our Black and Orange School Spirit Day! Spirit Days at ARK allow staff and students to have a little bit of fun dressing up as twins, having crazy hair styles, or wearing clothes from their home country in an inclusive manner.

This Spirit Day, students can wear a simple, age- appropriate Halloween costume or wear something orange and black. Costumes should not be disrespectful of others.  If something is representative of a person’s culture or religious beliefs, then it should not be worn as another person’s costume. Costumes should not be scary. Any types of masks or weapons are not permitted. Weapons, real or fake, are not to be brought to school on any day, so Halloween should not be an exception.

As during previous years, we will observe a regular instructional program during the day. Children who do not wish to dress up in Halloween costumes are welcome to wear black and orange clothing as part of our school Spirit Day celebrations.

Depending on individual arrangements, some classes will be having parties. All parents and students are reminded of our commitment to the environment by reducing waste and leading a heathy lifestyle. To that end, if you are sending a snack, please send it in a non-disposable plastic container that can be returned home. Also, we ask you to give consideration to healthy food choices such as chopped fruit, cheese and crackers. Please DO NOT send peanut and tree nut products due to allergy concerns of some students.

If your child receives individual candy/treats from classmates, they will be told to save it until they can bring it home and show it to you.

On Halloween, and every day, let’s continue to create an environment where every child feels included, valued and treated with dignity.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the school at 519-745-7312.

Sincerely,

Pam Kaur

Principal