400 signatures gather as Walpole school swaps Halloween parade for spirit day

Elm Street School in Walpole, Massachusetts, replaced its traditional Halloween parade with a black and orange spirit day this year. The change left many parents and students without the costume event they had anticipated. A six-year-old student named Charlie, dressed as Super Mario, was particularly eager to display his outfit to teachers and friends during the canceled procession.

Principal’s notes informed families that costumes were prohibited, though the specific cancellation of the parade spread primarily through children. Parent Liz Campbell noted that the principal included the costume ban in a newsletter. However, the decision to stop the parade itself circulated via word of mouth among the student body. This approach left many families with limited time to organize alternative events for their children to show off their outfits.

Parents expressed concern over the short notice, which hindered their ability to plan trunk-or-treat activities or other outside-school gatherings. In response, an online petition launched on Monday has collected nearly 400 signatures. The petition includes current and former Walpole parents who wish to preserve the local tradition.

Students also voiced disappointment about losing the experience. Ryann, currently in middle school, recalled that kindergarteners no longer get the same opportunity her generation enjoyed. She described the loss as kind of sad, calling the parade one of the best aspects of Halloween at school. Avery, also in middle school, added that high-fiving friends in costumes during the parade was the best moment of the day for them.

The school district faced a similar situation almost a decade ago when it also implemented a black and orange spirit day. Since that time, parent committees have organized alternative events to allow students to participate in costume-related activities. Despite these historical precedents, the current cancellation has prompted a renewed push to maintain the parade format. Families view the upcoming Saturday night trick-or-treating as a positive, but they want to protect the specific school-based tradition for as long as possible.