Hi Leah,

The idea of having a fall festival or curriculum related party is a great idea. However, it should not replace Halloween!

What is going on? How is it that we can not celebrate holidays at school anymore, because a handful of people don’t like it?

What is wrong with letting kids dress up for a day and enjoying a sugar rush? That is what Halloween is all about! Its fun, it's innocent and yes it's unhealthy! My opinion is that every once in a while, that’s ok!

I feel badly for the children's families that can’t afford costumes, but I don’t run out and ask CMS to ban Heeley tennis shoes because I cant afford to buy them for my teenager.

In America we are blessed because we are allowed to make our own choices. If you choose to not participate in holidays with your children for religious or personal reasons, that is wonderful. It's your choice; just don't ruin the fun for others who have chosen to celebrate.

I am opposed to schools eliminating the celebration of halloween. The snacks and candy may be unhealthy, but the memories are priceless. My children reveled in the excitement of dressing up, and couldn't wait to put their cosutumes on, even sleeping in them in the days prior to the big day. And you know what.. they still love dressing up even as teenagers. We had the good fortune of hosting 2 costumes parties at our home in the past few months. EVERYONE came in costumes, and the creativity was amazing. What was even more amazing was that these were 17 and 18 year old highschoolers! They planned their costumes, some in group themes, terrific hair and makeup, and the parties were a huge success. Our children of all ages, are being forced to grow up so quickly. Let them be kids on Halloween.