NEW YORK (1010 WINS/WCBS 880) – Gov. Phil Murphy criticized a New Jersey school district for killing the Halloween spirit after the district announced it was canceling school-hour celebrations for the sake of equity and inclusion.
The Democratic governor posted on X Tuesday afternoon in response to a local news article by News12 New Jersey covering the development at the South Orange-Maplewood School District in Essex County.
“Seriously? We can’t let kids celebrate Halloween? Give me a break” the post read.
In an Oct. 6 letter to families explaining the decision, Superintendent Ronald Taylor wrote, “The South Orange & Maplewood School District (SOMSD) is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion meaningfully – not just saying the words but also promoting an inclusive school community that creates belonging for all students, families, and staff.”
“Our aim is to build a consistent approach across the District as to how our schools observe and celebrate holidays and special events,” Taylor continued.
The district evaluated a series of DEI questions – including whether or not school-sponsored Halloween activities create financial hardship or offend the culture or religion of some community members.
With these questions in mind, the school conducted internal research and came to a decision: SOMSD would not allow Halloween costumes or celebrations during school hours.
“I know this may make some uncomfortable and elicit some challenges across our community,” Taylor wrote. “However, in the end, I feel these recommendations align with SOMSD’s commitment to building equity, fostering inclusion, and building a sense of belonging throughout our schools.”
The cancellation did come with the stipulation that schools could “partner with PTAs, HSAs, or other outside organizations to do themed events after school hours,” and noted that SOMSD elementary schools are working toward a future Fall/Harvest Festival with themed activities that can be held on Oct. 31.
“Often, working to instill greater equity in our district begins with recognizing that we cannot do what we have always done,” Dr. Kevin Gilbert, Assistant Superintendent of Access and Equity, said in an Oct. 6 press release regarding the change.
“But with this decision, we are taking a step closer to upholding our community’s access and equity values," Gilbert said.
SOMSD declined 1010 WINS/WCBS 880's request for comment.