An elementary school in Maplewood, New Jersey has canceled in-school Halloween celebrations because of “diversity.”
Seth Boyden Elementary School Principal Mark Quiles sent home a letter on Oct. 12, stating, “As we all know, one of the strengths of Seth Boyden is that we are such a diverse community with many cultures represented, and that we truly value each one. In the past, in-school celebrations of Halloween have made many of our students feel left out – last year 120 students did not participate in the in-school Halloween celebrations, and many families kept their children home on that day. In total, 20% of our students did not participate.”
“As a result, after careful consultation and deliberation, we have decided not to hold in-school Halloween activities on Friday, October 30,” he added.
Quiles stated, “The children who enjoy this holiday will still have ample opportunities to celebrate, including the annual Maplewood event on Baker Street on Maplewood Avenue on Friday after school, and the usual trick-or-treating activities on Saturday, October 31st, the actual day of Halloween, throughout our towns.”
Quiles tried to cancel in-school Halloween celebrations last year. He allegedly stated he could “not in good conscience continue to sanction this type of segregation.” Quiles was overruled by acting superintendant James Memoli.