From Principal Lin in the 10/21 West Valley Newsletter:

As you and your child decide on a Halloween costume, please keep in mind that a costume needs to be comfortable and safe for walking.  A child should not have his/her vision hampered in any way.  In accordance with the CUSD’s Zero Tolerance policy, students may not bring any toy weapons as part of their costumes.  Plastic swords, toy guns, and other weapons are not allowed.  Please help your child choose a costume that supports our efforts to promote a positive and enjoyable celebration.

Some basic guidelines to remember:

• Costumes may not have parts that interfere with learning or interfere with the ability of a student to go to the bathroom by themselves.  This means no masks or costumes that restrict movement or vision, prevent sitting at desks, or prevent participation in physical education class. Costumes must not obstruct movement inside and outside of the classrooms.  

• Costumes may not promote violence or have accessories or props that could be used as a weapon.

• Costume masks or full face painting are not permitted.  Students can have “limited” makeup. 

• Costumes must not be too scary or inappropriate for the school environment. 

• For safety reasons, skateboards, rollerblades or roller skates may not be part of a costume.

• No cultural appropriation. Bottom line: cultures are not costumes. 

• Appropriate shoes must be worn.

• All school rules will be enforced (i.e., no bikes, skateboards, roller blades, etc.)

• Students may come to school dressed in costume or students can dress in their regular clothes if they choose not to dress in costume.

The Halloween Parade and Thriller Dance will be on Monday, Oct. 31 and begin around 8:15am.  Parents and families are welcome.