Charlotte and Burlington schools end Halloween celebrations

Charlotte Central School is another area school to cancel Halloween celebrations. This will be the last year for the decades-long tradition of Charlotte's Pumpkin Man and their Halloween parade.

The school administration's newsletter from October 17 explains the reason for the decision. "As we begin developing a shifting vision for future experiences that continue to be anchored in our community resources, aligned to the learning of our students, and capturing our mission at CVSD, this year will be our final year of hosting the Halloween Parade, during which we will bid a fond farewell and heartfelt thanks to Pumpkin Man."

The Charlotte News first reported the announcement the same day. Residents weighed in with their opinion on the Charlotte News Instagram account.

Burlington's Edmunds Elementary School also canceled their Halloween parade because leaders felt Halloween celebrations can divide students. Among the reasons for the change:

• Some kids don't celebrate Halloween.
• Not all families can afford elaborate costumes and those who can't may feel left out.
• Some parents have restrictions on candy consumption.
• Schools have to deal with inappropriate costumes.
• Those who have had experience with violence or death can be triggered by certain themes.
• Religious concerns.

Burlington School Superintendent Yaw Obeng responded to concerned parents in a letter in support of Edmunds School's decision. His full letter and more on the Edmunds School story were reported by Seven Days. 

Many schools have an afterschool or evening Halloween celebration for those who choose to attend. 

Contact April Barton, abarton@freepressmedia.com or 802-338-0642.