EAST LANSING (WWJ) -- Students at elementary schools in East Lansing will no longer celebrate Halloween or Valentine's Day with costumes or cards.
In a message to parents, school officials say they will not observe those particular holidays in school moving forward due to differing opinions from parents and hurt feelings among students, according to the Lansing State Journal.
Assistant Superintendent Glenn Mitcham says that Halloween celebrations often end with some students in tears "because they don't have the same kind of costumes that other kids have or they didn't bring the same amazing valentines that other kids do."
The school district also noted that costumes sometimes scare and overwhelm younger children.
To replace Halloween celebrations, the students will instead participate activities such as measuring a pumpkin to learn about circumference.
When it comes to Valentine's Day, some parents have said they don't feel "comfortable with the idea of boys and girls exchanging valentines or participating in a celebration that focuses on 'love.'"
Additionally, valentines sometimes prompt "drama and teasing" among students.
"We're striving hard at East Lansing Public Schools to be a district that is equitable and inclusive for all families," Mitcham said.
