SUPERINTENDENT SUPPORTS SETH BOYDEN HALLOWEEN BAN

Superintendent John Ramos is supporting the decision by Seth Boyden School administrators to ban Halloween costumes and festivities at the school this year.

Ramos issued this statement late Thursday:

The decision to not hold an in-school Halloween celebration this year was made by
Principal Mark Quiles with the support of the Seth Boyden PTA.  Given the large
number of families who opt out of the school-based Halloween celebration there each
year, district administrators agreed that this is an issue that is specific to the
Seth Boyden community.  We respect the decision that has been made at the school
level.  We understand that many families really enjoy the Halloween tradition and of
course are not suggesting that anyone cancel or change how they celebrate Halloween
outside of school.

Dr. John J. Ramos, Sr.
Superintendent

Seth Boyden Principal Mark Quiles sent parents a letter this week stating that such festivities will not take place, citing opposition from some families and noting about 20% of students did not participate in such celebrations last year.

Several parents have expressed anger, saying the concerns of a minority of families should not stop festivities by others. Several also noted celebrations for other holidays, such as Valentine's Day, are allowed.