Zombies shuffling down the hallways, yellow minions gossiping in the classroom, M&Ms of all colors teaching the classes, are all things that can only happen this time of year. Students want to feel free and enjoy the friendly and slightly frightening atmosphere in the spookiest month, but NEISD has a strict “no costume” policy.
Costumes should be allowed at school in celebration of Halloween.
Costumes are a way for students to express themselves freely. Whether one’s interest revolves around sports, books, video games, or any other form of entertainment, people can put on an open display, a smaller piece of who they are, similar to a piece of artwork they put together for themselves.
Putting together fun outfits on Halloween is also an amazing way for students to bond with one another. People come up with many creative ideas for group costumes that get people’s attention and make them laugh. This is a way for students to happily socialize with their peers and further develop friendships.
Also, wearing costumes as part of getting in the Halloween spirit at school provides students with the perfect mental break they need from the constant worries and stresses of being a student. This is the reason spirit days with certain themes are done in particular times of the year such as during the week leading up to Hoco each year.
Though some may argue that it is not a good idea to let students dress up at school for Halloween because some may take it too far, or dress inappropriately, this can be solved by more strongly enforcing not just the rules, but the consequences that come with violating the dress code. Punishing the students that know not to take advantage of their privileges is not the only solution to the problem. It is also understandable that people are also concerned about celebrations or “romanticization of evil,” when it comes to this holiday, but rather than that, people can enforce it the right way, by having fun pretending to be something we aren’t, and being able to experience a healthy amount of that rush that comes with all things spooky, as many other holidays celebrate that warm feeling that comes with giving or being comforted by loved ones.
Overall, wearing costumes at school during Halloween should be something that is embraced, not constantly run away from. As long as the situation is handled It gives students something to look forward to when going to school, and when classes get rough, something that still keeps them excited.