Editor:

I’ve heard that if individual citizens don’t speak up for their rights, they will soon lose them. Now, I’m seeing this happen at Woods Cross Elementary School. The issue was celebrating Halloween and whether to allow children to wear costumes for a short Halloween party, which has always been allowed in the past.

Unfortunately, the issue was decided this year in secret by teachers at the last minute, leaving no time for parents to let their voices be heard. I left a message for the principal but didn’t hear back. My child shared with me the audible “Aaaw” by students when her teacher shared the grim news of no costumes this year.

At first, I thought it was just my child’s upper-grade. Then I found out grades three - six were banned and only grades K-two could wear costumes. Then, I heard that grade two teachers reversed their decision and banned costumes too, just a few days before the Halloween class parties.

Children are only children for a brief time. Wearing Halloween costumes at school is fun and memorable.

Why should this be taken away from children, too? It’s sad that the convenience of a few teachers for a one hour party is more important than childhood memories or what the parents want.

If it’s safety, I’m sure other safeguards could be put in place for this tradition to continue. Parents of Wood Cross Elementary students, unite! Each of your voices counts. Leave a message for the principal; it’s that simple. If he doesn’t change his stance for the Halloween class parties, then we will make sure he doesn’t take away our children’s rights to wear Halloween costumes at school next year.

Casandra Ricks

Woods Cross