As Halloween approaches, Sacred Heart students are once again preparing for costumes, decorations, and of course, the annual costume parade. However, all this excitement is accompanied with the school’s rules and guidelines for Halloween, leading many people to ask: what is considered appropriate, and what crosses the line?
The school’s costume guidelines are aimed at keeping school a safe and respectful space. However, they have caused issues in the past due to their subjectivity. The rules on what you are allowed to wear are listed in the SHP student handbook, in section 27.6a. In summary, these rules state that the costume has to allow free and comfortable movement, not have wheels (ex. Roller skates), not promote violence or substance use, not include weapons, and not portray an ethnic or cultural identity.
When read these guidelines and asked about her thoughts, Sofia Maranucci ‘27 said “I find some of the rules to be pretty vague. They could be made clearer.” Many students agree on this point because some guidelines are left up to students’ interpretation. For instance: what the costumes are meant to portray. This can cause issues and confusion when it comes to enforcing these rules. Penalties for breaking these guidelines often result in being banned from walking in the parade or being asked to change.
That being said, when Halloween gets close the school sends out a reminder of the rules via email, in which they offer reflective questions to help further guide the students. The questions ask things like: “Does this feel appropriate?” or, “Am I ready to engage respectfully with anyone who may have concerns?” On top of this, the email invites students to ask if they have any questions or concerns about their costume. Tools like these allow students to confirm that their costumes are allowed and avoid issues.
On top of interpreting the guidelines students also need to be made aware of them. The guidelines are initially listed in the handbook that Sacred Heart students sign before the school year begins, but that’s a long way away from Halloween season. Understanding that some students may forget, the guidelines are re-sent out in late October, on October 28th the past two years.
There is a mix of opinions revolving around these reminders, Nava Amari ‘26 says, “I think the reminder emails are helpful and give more than enough notice.” Sofia Maranucci ‘27 says, “I think October 28th is cutting it a little close for people who plan out their costumes.” Although the email might be late, there is year-round access to the guidelines in the student handbook. So despite not getting enough notice of the guidelines it is the students responsibility to ask questions and look up rules if they are concerned about their costumes.
Don’t let all these rules worry you for this upcoming spooky season. Most Sacred Heart students have no trouble finding a costume well within the guidelines. Past school costumes range from onesies, to trolls, to even whoopee cushions. If you do find yourself nervous about your costume, it never hurts to ask. Good luck costume planning Gators!
