• Winter/Holiday Celebration Reminders

    December 2024

    Plano ISD is committed to creating an inclusive and respectful environment for all students, staff and families during the winter holiday season. This document provides guidelines and reminders to ensure that seasonal celebrations are conducted in a manner that respects diverse beliefs, adheres to district policies and complies with state and federal regulations. These guidelines address common questions and support a positive, welcoming atmosphere during holiday celebrations in our schools.

    Food Guidelines

    • The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) requires schools participating in the National School Breakfast and Lunch programs to follow USDA and TDA rules related to foods given and sold.
    • Winter celebrations can be included among three campus parties per year (which occur during the school day), as designated by the school principal. Schools should follow all current health and safety protocols as it relates to hosting celebrations. Parents/guardians must discuss any classroom allergies with the teacher before bringing food to share.

    Distribution

    • Distribution of materials is permitted in the classroom during a designated campus party, such as the winter celebration. Materials must not violate the “Limitations on Content” prohibited by policy (obscene, vulgar, inappropriate for the age, etc.). Policy FNAA (LOCAL)
    • Students may bring cards or gifts to share with the class and classmates. Gifts, goodie bags and items for distribution are limited to student-to-student distribution during winter parties. 
    • Students are expected to comply with all applicable district and/or campus behavior rules, policies and all educational/curricular goals when distributing materials at school. 
    • Students shall be responsible for cleaning up distributed materials left on district property. Policy FNAA (LOCAL)

    Freedom of Expression

    • Students may wear clothing that complies with the district’s dress code.
    • Students may offer traditional greetings regarding winter celebrations, including:  “Merry Christmas,” “Happy Hanukkah” or other related holiday greetings. Policy FNA(Legal)
    • School districts must remain neutral regarding religious beliefs. They may teach about religions and temporarily display religious symbols only if objectively presented and integral to the field of study in which they are presented. . Policy EMI(LOCAL)
    • Students may use terms such as holiday parties and Christmas parties when referring to winter celebrations. However, school district staff will not label the winter holiday parties as “Christmas” parties.
    • District music groups may perform or receive instruction regarding religious music as part of the secular program of instruction. Such inclusion must be academic, not devotional, and reflect religious diversity when appropriate. Policy EMI(LOCAL)

    Volunteering

    During this time of year, the district is reminded that caring for students and families in need has traditionally been a shared responsibility of the entire Plano ISD school community. Sincere appreciation is extended to all who volunteer time and resources in support of Plano ISD students.

    • PTA/room parents at various campuses assist with planning and organizing these parties and are largely responsible for coordinating supplies, themes and related guidelines for the parties. 
    • The district encourages mindfulness of the different religious beliefs represented in our schools. 
    • Adults volunteering at campus parties shall not distribute personal gift items or information to students. 

    Plano ISD wishes all students, staff and families a joyous season of harmony as we strive to create an environment where all children feel included.