Dear Trelawny Families Wednesday October 25, 2017

I wanted to take a few minutes to talk about how we will celebrate Halloween at our school this year.

With October 31st fast approaching, we plan to ensure that it is a day in which everyone feels part of the festivities, those children who celebrate Halloween and those who do not. Our goal is to provide inclusive options and build school spirit for all as follows:

 Celebrate Fall Day – wear bright colours of red, yellow, orange and green  Orange and Black Day – wear orange and black clothing and/or accessories  Halloween Costumes - wear costumes in the morning

When attendance is completed and the classes organized, we plan to start the day with an indoor parade of colours and costumes through the hallways. At 9:10 AM, parents are invited to gather in the foyer and along the perimeter of the office corridors to enjoy this much-anticipated tradition at Trelawny. The parade route will end in the gym where the children will hear a “scary” story read by our very own Teacher-Librarian, Mrs. Lucic who may transform into “Mrs. Gruesic” on this day.

Once back in the classroom, the students will be treated to a choice of low-key, themed activities that focus on Fall or Halloween and will include components of music, crafts, games, language and numeracy. At first Nutrition Break, the celebration ends and costumes will be packed away to take home at dismissal. The regular learning schedule will resume when the children re-enter from outdoor play. Since the goal of the day is inclusion and creative expression, we respectfully ask that families not send in candy or food treats for the classes. Many of our students have multiple, serious food allergies and could be vulnerable to an anaphylactic reaction and/or feel left out of the celebration. Many thanks!

One last note. In order to promote fun for everyone and communicate the values of Peel District School Board, please follow these board-wide guidelines when choosing costumes and your level of participation;

 Refrain from including face masks, replica weapons or violent costumes with fake blood. We also ask that costumes do not mimic the traditional attire of an ethnic, racial, gender or identity group. For example no depictions of Indigenous People of Canada are allowed as this practice may be offensive to those for whom traditional, ceremonial regalia is sacred.  All activities are completely voluntary and students will be able to opt out of any type of celebration and choose alternative tasks.

Should you have questions, please contact me at school 905-824-0360. Sincere thanks for your support,

J. Fraser, Principal