Halloween is a chance to have some fun dressing up in creative costumes. However, this year the North Okanagan – Shuswap School District has told students not come dressed like clowns.
The district sent a letter to parents last week telling them that no clown costumes will be allowed on school property this year.
“We want everyone to have a safe and fun day,” said director of student learning, Dianne Ballance, in a written statement.
“We felt this is how we could best support our schools and families this year.”
The decision is in response to the so-called “creepy clown” trend that has been making international headlines. It’s included online clown related rumors and threats and reports of people dressing as clowns scaring others.
Read More: ‘Creepy Clown’ sightings: Why the epidemic is spreading across Canada and the US
“With some of our school administrators and parents expressing concern and because of the heightened level of anxiety and worry, it was decided that for this year, district-wide, we would ask that students refrain from wearing clown costumes to school,” wrote spokesperson Alice Hucul in a written statement.
Imitation weapons are also not allowed. In its letter to parents, the school district said that anyone who doesn’t comply with the costume policy will be asked to change.