We believe that birthdays, particularly for younger children, are special and important days in the year. Teachers will recognize student birthdays at school as appropriate for the age, and special arrangements made by parents for parties at school are discouraged. In order to maximize the use of the finite instructional time available during a school year, recognize the importance that ASA places on healthy food choices, and provide guidance to families, ASA has put in place the following birthday party policy for elementary school students.
ASA Elementary Birthday Party Policy:
Students from other classes cannot be invited.
The celebration must be limited to a cake or cupcakes, and no soda or similar sugary beverages are permitted.
Plates, cups, napkins, etc. must be brought by the parent (or designated adult), as the school does not provide these items.
The parent (or designated adult) is asked to stay to help serve the treat as well as clean up after the celebration.
No gifts or treat bags may be distributed.
Invitations for an outside party will be distributed at school only if an invitation is provided for every student in the class (or every student of one gender).
If parents do wish to organize a celebration at school, it must be arranged at least two days in advance with the classroom teacher and can last no longer than 15 minutes.