BY PATRICIA KELLER
WEST MILFORD — Halloween 2016 will be void of clowns for celebrations in West Milford Township Public Schools, as the district has prohibited clown costumes, masks and face paint to be worn in schools.
This action taken by the district is a direct result of parents and staff members voicing concerns of students in fear of rumors that “scary clowns” intend to do harm at schools. The rumors were circulated via social media platforms and have no validity in West Milford, according to the West Milford Police Department.
Superintendent of Schools Alex Anemone said the following rules for school Halloween celebrations will be implemented this year:
Clown costumes, masks, or face paint shall be prohibited.
Costumes need to be safe. Any costume that prevents a student from moving safely shall not be worn.
Do not bring in toy guns, knives, or weapons of any kind with your costumes.
Anemone said the rules will be in place “as a precaution and to allow our youngest children to feel comfortable,” and he requested that all students, parents, and staff follow the rules “to make our Halloween celebrations as enjoyable as possible for everyone.”
Anemone encouraged parents and caregivers to contact school counselors or social workers for additional support if their children are feeling anxious or fearful.
But it wasn’t only the children who were voicing concerns and fears; some parents as well became very vocal on social media platforms that they would defend themselves, their families and their property if “creepy clowns” came onto their property.
Change into costumes at school
Students will not permitted to wear their costumes on the school bus for safety reasons, and instead are instructed to bring them to school, change into them for class celebrations, and then change back into regular clothing prior to leaving.Far-reaching effects
On Oct. 17, Target Retail Stores responded to the recent creepy clown sightings across the country by pulling all clown masks off the company’s shelves and website. Target was reported as saying they want to be sensitive of the incidents that have led to violence and arrests in several states.Halloween Express, a national costume retailer, reported that their clown costume sales are up 239 percent this year.
People that make a living performing as clowns at children’s parties, circus shows, performance theaters, and other such venues, are reporting a significant loss of income and business due to the scary clown issue.
Be aware
New Jersey State Police released a warning to residents statewide in the last month asking that people be vigilant about their safety, instruct their children to walk in groups, review “stranger danger” and not accept rides from strangers, and to keep emergency contact information handy.